Disproportionate Penalties in the Federal Court for Drug Crimes
It is a legal maxim that criminal penalties should have a proportionate relationship to the crime that caused these penalties to be incurred: The penalty should fit the crime. Everyone has heard this principle and it has an inherent sense of justice to it.
One area of criminal law in which it is difficult to find this proportionality is drug crimes. The penalties that the federal government levies against those convicted of drug crimes — especially drug crimes involving large quantities — can be shockingly severe.
If you are facing large-quantity drug charges, our Orlando federal drug crimes defense attorneys can help. With more than 30 years of experience in Florida and Federal criminal defense, the Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, P.A. stand willing to represent clients throughout Florida who are facing federal drug crime charges. The potential penalties can be severe. Some examples include:
- Cocaine base mixture: With a small to medium size quantity, the maximum penalty is 20 years and $5 million in fines, for a first offense. Over 280 grams is punishable under the law by a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with $10 million in fines.
- LSD: More than 10 grams, with two or more prior convictions carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
- Marijuana: Even this less harmful drug, if possessed in large enough quantities, carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
These are the maximum possible penalties, but even the federal minimum mandatory sentences for large-quantity drug crimes can be severe. These cases are prosecuted vigorously by the federal government.
In many ways, it is more difficult to defend against criminal charges in federal court than in state court. Our law firm has been defending clients in Florida and other states against drug-related charges for more than 30 years, in state and federal court.
Florida Drug Distribution Defense Attorney ∙ 866-784-0023
Because the potential penalties are so severe, large-quantity federal drug charges can be terrifying. The best thing you can do is talk with an experienced Florida criminal defense lawyer to get an honest assessment of your situation. Either call our Florida law firm office or contact us online to schedule a consultation with an attorney.
