If you’re facing drug charges in Orlando or Seminole County, the legal consequences can be very serious. A conviction could lead to jail, probation, heavy fines, or the loss of educational and job opportunities. At Rentz Law, we know how overwhelming this feels, and we’re ready to help you fight back. With more than 20 years of experience, Attorney Carrie L. Rentz has defended clients in cases ranging from misdemeanor possession to serious trafficking charges. Carrie delivers the aggressive courtroom advocacy you need and the personal attention you deserve through every phase of your defense.
How Rentz Law Can Help After a Drug-Related Arrest in Orlando
Local expertise – We have decades of experience in the Orange County Courthouse and Seminole County Criminal Justice Center.
Personal attention – As a boutique, woman-led firm, we craft individualized strategies and give clients direct access to their attorney.
Communication your way – We stay accessible by text, phone, or email, so you’re never left in the dark.
Meet Your Criminal Defense Attorney
Carrie L. Rentz has spent more than two decades defending clients accused of drug-related offenses in Central Florida. Carrie is admitted to practice throughout Florida and has built a reputation for standing up to prosecutors and protecting her clients’ rights. From possession cases to trafficking charges, Carrie personally handles each matter with dedication and skill.
20+ Years of Experience Serving Orange and Seminole Counties
How We Defend Drug Charges
Every case is different, but our approach is always hands-on and assertive.
- Initial Case Review – We examine arrest reports, evidence, and charging documents to identify weaknesses.
- Investigation & Strategy – We analyze search and seizure procedures, lab testing, and witness credibility. Illegal stops or faulty testing often create opportunities for dismissal.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation – We challenge unconstitutional searches, fight to suppress evidence, and negotiate reduced charges where appropriate.
- Trial Representation – If necessary, we prepare fully for trial to ensure your defense is heard.
- Possible Outcomes – Dismissal, acquittal, diversion programs, probation, or reduced charges.
- Communication & Support – You’ll always work directly with Carrie and receive regular updates.
Your Right to Fair Representation
Being arrested for a drug crime does not mean you are guilty. Florida law requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt—and many cases involve unlawful searches, unreliable witnesses, or errors in lab testing. At Rentz Law, we protect your constitutional rights at every step, from the moment of arrest through trial.
How Common Are Drug Crime Arrests in Central Florida?
Drug offenses are one of the most common reasons that people are arrested in Central Florida. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, thousands of drug arrests occur in Orange and Seminole Counties each year.
- 2020: Orange County reported over 7,200 drug-related arrests.
- 2020: Seminole County reported more than 1,400 drug-related arrests.
Local law enforcement devotes substantial resources to drug enforcement, ranging from traffic stops on I-4 to neighborhood sweeps in Orlando and Sanford. These arrests often cover everything from small amounts of marijuana to allegations of trafficking harder substances like cocaine or methamphetamine.
But the numbers don’t tell the full story. Not every arrest results in a conviction. Many people charged with drug crimes were stopped without proper legal grounds, searched unlawfully, or accused based on questionable evidence such as unreliable field tests. A drug charge can be frightening, but it does not automatically mean you are guilty. At Rentz Law, our goal is to ensure that every client is treated fairly by the justice system and not judged solely by statistics.
Types of Drug Charges in Florida
Florida’s drug laws are some of the toughest in the country, outlined in Florida Statute §893.13. Drug cases can involve very different allegations, each with unique penalties and defenses:
- Possession of Controlled Substances: Charges can involve small amounts of marijuana (over 20 grams), cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Even simple possession can carry serious consequences.
- Possession with Intent to Sell or Deliver: If the amount, packaging, or surrounding circumstances suggest distribution, prosecutors may escalate charges beyond simple possession.
- Drug Trafficking: Serious felony charges tied to larger quantities. Florida law imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences that can range from 3 years to 25 years depending on the substance and weight involved (Florida Statutes §893.135).
- Prescription Drug Crimes: Includes possession of medications without a prescription, “doctor shopping,” and prescription fraud. Florida has cracked down heavily on opioid-related offenses in recent years.
- Drug Paraphernalia: Items such as pipes, baggies, or syringes can lead to additional misdemeanor charges.
Because the scope of “drug crimes” is so broad, an arrest for possession doesn’t carry the same risks as a trafficking indictment. Having a lawyer who understands these differences—and how to challenge the evidence—is critical.
What are the Consequences of Drug Charges in Florida?
The consequences of a drug charge vary widely depending on the substance, quantity, and prior record.
- Misdemeanor Possession may carry up to one year in county jail, probation, fines, and a driver’s license suspension.
- Felony Possession or Sale can mean years in state prison, large fines, probation, and court-ordered treatment programs.
- Trafficking Offenses involve mandatory minimum prison sentences under Florida law (sometimes decades) with no flexibility from judges.
- Collateral Consequences include loss of federal student aid, difficulties in housing applications, restrictions on professional licensing, and the stigma of a permanent criminal record.
The human cost often extends further than the courtroom. A single mistake or misunderstanding can close doors to education, careers, and even family stability. That’s why it’s vital to have an attorney who not only defends you in court but also understands the broader impact these charges can have on your life.
What to Do (and Avoid) After a Drug Arrest
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a drug offense, the choices you make in the hours and days that follow are crucial:
- Do not answer police questions without your lawyer present. Even casual comments can be twisted into evidence.
- Do not consent to searches of your car, home, or phone without a valid warrant. Under the Fourth Amendment, it is your constitutional right to live free of “unreasonable searches and seizures.” Unlawful searches are a leading defense issue in drug cases.
- Keep all paperwork including arrest reports, bond paperwork, and hearing notices. These documents help your attorney track deadlines and spot procedural errors.
- Stay off social media. Prosecutors may review posts, photos, or messages for anything they can use against you.
- Contact a defense attorney quickly. The sooner an attorney begins reviewing your case, the stronger your defense will be. Rentz Law has decades of experience in local courts and knows how to protect your rights from the very beginning.
Navigating the Legal System in Central Florida
Drug cases move through the Orange County Courthouse in Orlando and the Seminole County Criminal Justice Center in Sanford. Rentz Law knows the prosecutors and judges in both counties, and we use this insight to negotiate effectively, file strong motions, and pursue favorable outcomes such as diversion programs when available.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Carrie was extremely helpful in a difficult situation. She was detailed, easy to communicate with and provided a favorable result in the end. If your looking for a great attorney pick up the phone and call Carrie today!
Carrie is everything as advertised. She actually puts in time and effort to get to know you and shows true sympathy toward her clients. Great people skills and even better knowledge of the law. Highly recommended!
When I initially called Carrie I was hesitant, scared, and didn't know what to expect. I can tell you first hand, Carrie and her assistant are AMAZING. I would recommend to anyone and everyone. Good luck Carrie on your future endeavors, all the best.
I hired Mrs. Rentz for a legal issue I had in the Orlando area. Being from out of town, I use some references as a guide. Mrs. Rentz looked to be the right attorney. She is very caring and takes your issue very seriously.
This was by far the best experience i have had with a lawyer she always let me know what was going on with my case and always stayed positive while fighting for me in the courtroom. Just want to say i appreciate everything you have done for me and will definitely recommend you to anyone. If i could it would be 10 stars, thank you again
Carrie was wonderful to work with. She made the entire process so smooth for me and was always easy to get in touch with whenever I had any questions.
Carrie Rentz is an amazing lawyer. She is very informed and ready to answer any questions I have. She and her assistant reply to emails in a timely fashion and are both very friendly and knowledgeable. If you are looking for a lawyer I 100% recommend her.
Drug Crimes FAQs
What is the difference between drug possession and trafficking?
Possession involves having a controlled substance for personal use. Trafficking is based on quantity and intent, and often carries mandatory minimum prison sentences.
Can drug charges be dismissed in Orlando?
Yes. Charges may be dropped if evidence is suppressed, the search was unlawful, or the prosecution cannot prove intent.
Will I lose my driver’s license if convicted of a drug crime in Florida?
In Florida, drug convictions often trigger an automatic driver’s license suspension, even if the offense did not involve a vehicle.
What happens if I’m caught with prescription medication without proof?
Possessing prescription drugs without a valid prescription can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the substance and quantity.
Can a drug conviction be expunged?
Convictions generally cannot be sealed or expunged in Florida, but if charges are dropped, dismissed, or you complete diversion, you may be eligible.
