The state’s drug laws are the toughest in the nation. Charges can range from misdemeanor simple possession to felony trafficking and even murder. The state maintains strict mandatory minimums for drug trafficking that can result in life imprisonment.
If you face drug charges in Fort Pierce, you need an aggressive drug attorney fighting for your rights. At JJK/LLC, we have extensive experience in defending our clients who face charges of possession, distribution, or trafficking. When your freedom is at risk, contact our office for a free consultation on your case.
The state implemented significant changes to existing drug laws in 2025. These changes primarily addressed the dangerous opioid fentanyl. Similar to oxycodone, fentanyl might be legal under certain narrow circumstances, but the average person does not have lawful authority to possess or sell it.
As of July 1, 2025, courts may charge juvenile defendants with third-degree felony murder if they provide fentanyl to another person and that person dies. Hospitals must conduct a fentanyl urine test when they suspect an overdose or poisoning, and a follow-up test must verify any positive result.
Beginning in July, the state will immediately revoke a medical marijuana card if the cardholder is convicted of, or pleads guilty or no contest to, drug offenses involving distribution, delivery, sale, or other trafficking activity.
In October 2025, an appellate court held that the smell of marijuana was not sufficient probable cause for a vehicle search. Police must have other grounds to search a vehicle for controlled substances.
Recent changes in the laws have focused on trafficking offenses. In Fort Pierce and throughout the state, illegal substance charges such as minor possession carry severe penalties. However, the highest mandatory minimum penalties apply to trafficking.
Drug trafficking involves the sale, purchase, or possession of a controlled substance above a specific threshold amount. Unlike other criminal charges in Fort Pierce, controlled substance trafficking does not require proof of an intent to sell, distribute, or transport the narcotic. If a defendant possesses the required amount, a court could charge the individual with trafficking.
The amount of a narcotic required for a trafficking charge depends on the specific drug. For example, a trafficking charge requires at least 28 grams of cocaine but only 4 grams of fentanyl. The mandatory minimum penalty for these offenses is three years of imprisonment and a $50,000 fine.
In our state, when a controlled substance is weighed by the government, they include not only the controlled substance itself, BUT THE INERT, HARMLESS ingredients as well. E.g., If you possess seven (7) “Lorcet 10/650” pills, the 650 milligrams of aspirin or acetaminophen is ADDED to the 10 milligrams of the controlled substance Hydrocodone. In that case, you could be convicted of trafficking in Hydrocodone.
In general, Fort Pierce offenses involving controlled substances are serious crimes. The state enforces some of the toughest drug possession laws in the nation. Only simple possession of marijuana results in a misdemeanor sentence, and even a tiny amount of marijuana may be enhanced to a felony charge if the government can show you “intended” to sell it.
However, first-time offenders may have options if they retain strong legal representation. Depending on the circumstances, a first-time or minor offender may qualify for drug court, diversion, or other rehabilitative alternatives. Factors that influence the charges include the amount of the substance, the presence of paraphernalia, and any prior criminal history.
If you face drug charges in Fort Pierce, the offenses might include trafficking, even when you had no intention of selling the substance that law enforcement found. You need prompt legal advice on how to respond and a criminal defense attorney who could argue your case.
At JJK/LLC, we can give you the advice you need. Our representation could protect your rights and give you the best chance of a favorable legal outcome.
Contact our office today for a free legal consultation.
