Florida Drug Offenders Serving More Time

According to a study conducted by the Pew Center on the States, inmates in all states are serving an average of nine more months of incarceration for all types of criminal offenses now than they did in 1990. This is an increase of 36 percent. Florida was the leading state in increased custody time for inmates at a 166 percent increase. The study stated that the increased incarceration times were costing most states an estimated $60 billion annually. Due to longer stays in prisons across the nation, the U.S. prison population increased more than 700 percent between the years of 1970 and 2005.

In Florida, it was found that a drug offender's average sentence is now 2.3 years in prison, a huge increase over an average of nine months prison time in 1990. Because of its proximity to drug-producing countries and its waterway borders, Florida has in recent years become known for drug trafficking. According to the White House, Florida's rate of drug-induced fatalities is higher than the national average. The White House also reports that the seizure of meth labs in the state increased 148 percent in 2009 from previous levels.

Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer

Drug possession is one of the more common criminal offenses heard in courts in Miami, in Florida, and throughout the country. Those facing such crimes, whether they involve controlled substances or illegally obtained prescription medicines, will benefit from representation by an experienced criminal defense attorney. Only with dedicated and aggressive legal help can you ensure that your legal rights are protected and your best interests advanced in any drug-related criminal case.

At Seltzer Law, PA, you can work with a former prosecutor from the Miami-Dade State Attorney's office. This experience has given Mr. Seltzer a wealth of experience, knowledge, and sharpened negotiation skills that can be crucial in creating a defense strategy on your behalf. Because of his legal proficiency, he has received the Avvo Client's Choice award in criminal defense for 2012 as well as a Superb rating by Avvo. Contact his firm for a case consultation 24/7 following any criminal arrest in the Miami area. The firm serves clients in both English and Spanish.