If you’re facing charges in Orlando, and you’ve been looking for an oxycodone trafficking lawyer in Orlando, FL, you’ve landed on the right page. Understanding the legal difference between trafficking and simple possession in Florida can make or break your case—and knowing what counts in the eyes of the law gives you a real advantage.
Understanding the Legal Difference
Florida law draws a firm line between simple possession and trafficking based on how much oxycodone you have—not whether you intended to sell. Under Florida Statute 893.135(1)(c)(3), possessing 7 grams or more of oxycodone (measured by pill weight, not dosage) automatically triggers a trafficking charge—even if you only planned to self-medicate or had a prescription.
If you have less than 7 grams without a valid prescription, it’s treated as simple possession, typically a third‑degree felony—usually punishable by smaller fines, probation, or shorter prison time.
Penalties Based on Weight
Trafficking charges come with mandatory minimum sentences and hefty fines:
- 7–14 g: minimum 3 years in prison and $50,000 fine
- 14–25 g: minimum 7 years and $100,000 fine
- 25–100 g: minimum 15 years and $500,000 fine
- 100 g–30 kg: minimum 25 years and $750,000 fine
Crucially, these sentences are non‑negotiable—unless you provide substantial assistance to authorities. Judges have no flex to reduce these minimums
Actual vs. Constructive Possession
The state can charge trafficking even if the pills weren’t found directly on you—if they were in your car, bag, or home and you had knowledge and control. That’s called constructive possession. Proving someone else controlled the pills can be a strong defense.
Hyper-Local Insight for Orlando Clients
If you’re meeting with an oxycodone trafficking lawyer in Orlando, FL, you’ll likely be interacting with legal processes at local venues. Our firm is near the Orange County Courthouse in downtown Orlando. We’ve represented clients at state court close to Lake Eola Park and City Hall, and we regularly handle cases tied to the Orange County Booking & Release Center. Mentioning these familiar reference points helps build trust and shows local expertise.
What It Means for You
- Simple possession: under 7 grams, no valid prescription → third‑degree felony with lighter sentencing (sometimes probation).
- Trafficking: 7 grams or more, no legal prescription → first‑degree felony with mandatory minimum prison time and major fines.
- Even valid prescriptions don’t override the weight rule—unless you can conclusively prove the pills were legally prescribed.
- Constructive possession cases require detailed legal analysis—did you control the pills or just happen to be near them?
What to Do Next
If you’re dealing with charges, a few steps upfront can help:
- Contact a skilled attorney early—someone who handles oxycodone trafficking cases in Orlando courts.
- Act fast on prescription documentation—especially if you had a valid prescription.
- Gather context—cell phone records, witness statements, or evidence that someone else had control.
Final Thoughts
Trafficking charges—even for a few pills—can lead to years in prison and huge fines. The law doesn’t care about your intention—it cares about the weight. If you’re unsure where your case stands, don’t wait. Get help from someone who knows how the system works in Orlando cases—from state courts near Lake Eola to bond hearings tied to the booking center. The right oxycodone trafficking lawyer in Orlando, FL can help turn things around.
Remember: knowing the difference between trafficking and possession—and acting quickly—can be the key to protecting your future.
