Arrested For Drug Possession?
Tampa, Brandon, Carrollwood, Northdale, Temple Terrace, Riverview, Lutz, Ruskin, Temple Terrace and Surrounding Areas
Call Now if You Have Been Arrested for Drug Possession
Arrested for drug possession? If so, contact the experts at Bazarte Bail Bonds. Drug possession is a common charge. It’s among the leading causes of arrest in our state. Traffic stops for other offenses, such as speeding or a non-working taillight, often result in a drug arrest. When sufficient evidence results in a search of the vehicle and drugs are found, the result is an arrest. Arrests for drug offenses in Florida can result in extensive fines and potentially lengthy prison sentences.
It’s important to know how to best protect your rights prior to facing your charges. This starts with contacting and utilizing the services of an experienced and competent bail bondsman. Bazarte Bail Bonds suggests that those posting bail themselves or through a family member follow the guidelines below to protect their rights under the law. When you need a bondsman after being arrested for drug possession, contact the experts at Bazarte Bail Bonds.
Types of Bail Bonds We Handle
Surety Bonds
Cash Bonds
Citation Release
Immigration
Recognizance Release
Follow These Steps if you are Arrested for Drug Possession
Secure the Services of an Attorney
After securing a bond from a reputable bondsman like Bazarte Bail Bonds, you should immediately employ the services of an attorney experienced in defending clients for drug possession offenses. We can’t stress this enough.
Don’t talk to Law Enforcement
It’s your constitutional right not to talk to the police unless your attorney is present. Doing so can severely harm your chances of limiting your sentence, and any information you provide can be used against you in court. It’s also important to be polite but stand fast to the idea that you will not discuss your arrest without your attorney present.
If Possible, Consider a “Plea Bargain”
Depending on your arrest history, a plea bargain may not be an option. But if this is your first arrest and the charges are not heinous, a plea bargain could be the best opportunity to limit your charges.
Never Agree to “Make a Deal”
You may be offered to make a deal. It’s common practice for law enforcement to offer deals to a person arrested on drug charges. Follow rule # 1. Never discuss any deals without the presence of your attorney.
Stay off Social Media
It’s amazing how many times we’ve seen arrested people post what they may believe to be harmless messages on social media sites. Everything and anything you post to social media can be used to harm your case.
Protecting your rights when you’ve been arrested for drug possession is critical. It starts with posting bail so that you can begin arranging for your legal defense. That’s where the experienced bail bondsman at Bazarte Bail Bonds comes into play. But it’s just as important to follow these steps above to ensure your best chance of limiting your liabilities and possibly avoiding jail time.
What Are the Most Common Types of Bail Bonds?
When it comes to bail bonds, there may be several options available for friends and family members, and the type of bond you may need will depend on a few factors. Things such as the offense for which the defendant is being charged, what the total amount for bail is, and your current financial situation can all have an effect on the kind of bond you may need. The following types of bail bonds are the most common forms of posting bail.
Surety Bonds
By far the most common state bond, a surety bond, is governed by Florida regulations and stipulates that the bondsman will be paid 10%. The bondsman then provides the remainder of the bond to the court. This is the law. There is NEVER an instance where a bondsman can offer you a deal or charge more than the stipulated 10%. The only exception to this 10% rule is when bail is set under $1,000. Regardless of the amount below $1,000, the cost is $100, not 10%. Since the law is specific, the only difference that separates the multitude of bail bonds companies is the service you will be provided.
Federal Bail Bonds
A federal bail bond comes into play when the alleged crime is of a federal nature or involves interstate criminal activity. Examples of this would be crimes that cross state lines or any crime investigated by a federal agency like the FBI, Post Office, IRS, or Immigration Services. The types of crimes that would require a federal bail bond include tax evasion, drug trafficking, fraud, and kidnapping. As well as any crime that takes place on federal property.
Federal bonds are most often many times higher than a state bond. The premium rate in Florida for a federal bail bond is 15%. Often, a judge will add a “Nebbia” requirement. This means that whoever is paying the bond must provide proof that any collateral or money used is from a legitimate source. The professionals at Bazarte Bail Bonds are experienced in dealing with federal bail bonds and can be instrumental in helping the arrestee deal with these intricacies. We can also help with signature and immigration bonds.
Self-Arrest Bonds
When a person believes there may be an outstanding warrant for their arrest, it is possible for the offender’s bail to be paid without going through the process of being detained in jail. The reason for this is simple. Jails are overcrowded. If someone believes a warrant exists against them, the best course of action is to contact Bazarte Bail Bonds. We can verify the record, explain the process, and accompany you to a facility that accepts self-arrests. We will explain what identification is required and the proper dress code.
Contact Bazarte Bail Bonds if you have been Arrested for Drug Possession in the Tampa Bay Area
When you or a loved one is arrested for drug possession and need bail, call Bazarte Bail Bonds. Our bondsman will get to work when we’re contacted about an arrest. We’ll deal with all the necessary paperwork and work to secure your release or the release of your loved one. Regardless of the type of bond you need, the bondsmen at Bazarte Bail Bonds will ensure that court dates are met and that additional fees or fines do not come into play. Sometimes, bad things happen to good people. Don’t let the ones you care about spend another minute in jail. Call or contact Bazarte Bail Bonds and let us help you get a speedy release. We’ve been doing it right since 1977.
They were very quick and efficient in bailing out nephew. Have used them twice now and they are also very considerate and went out of their way to make the process as smooth as possible since I live over 2 hours away. Saved me time and gas. Definitely recommend. Thanks so much for bringing sunshine to this otherwise dreary situation.
Why Choose Bazarte Bail Bonds for DUI Bail, Felony Bail or Bail for Drug Charges?
40+ years in business
Located centrally in downtown Tampa
We work diligently to get bonds posted quickly to minimize the waiting time for the defendant’s release
A proven reputation of excellent service
Eight on-staff Licensed Surety Agents (Bondsman) located in Tampa and the surrounding area
24 Hour Nationwide Service, 7 Days a Week
We analyze each case and provide concise answers to all your questions and concerns throughout the bonding process
The entire bonding process can be done electronically or via telephone
We accept cash, checks, money orders, Western Union, wire transfer, ATM and debit cards as well as VISA, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
FAQ
How much is bail for drug possession in Tampa, Florida?
Bail amounts for drug possession in Tampa depend primarily on the substance involved and quantity found. Misdemeanor marijuana possession (under 20 grams) typically carries bail between $500 and $2,000. Felony possession of controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine usually ranges from $5,000 to $25,000. Fentanyl charges often fall on the higher end due to the substance’s lethality. Possession with intent to sell charges see bail from $15,000 to $75,000, while trafficking charges can range from $50,000 to $500,000 or more depending on quantity. Prior convictions substantially increase these figures. Through Bazarte Bail Bonds, you pay the standard 10% premium mandated by Florida law.
Can I get bail for a drug trafficking charge in Hillsborough County?
Drug trafficking charges are serious, but bail is typically still available in Hillsborough County. The amounts are substantially higher than simple possession—often ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 or more depending on the substance, quantity, and circumstances of the arrest. Judges consider flight risk carefully given the severe mandatory minimum sentences trafficking convictions carry. Having strong community ties, steady employment, family in the area, and no prior failures to appear all help. Bazarte Bail Bonds has over 45 years of experience handling high-value bonds including trafficking cases. We can work with you on collateral arrangements for larger bail amounts.
What should I do immediately after being arrested for drug possession?
Your actions immediately following arrest significantly impact your case. First, exercise your constitutional right to remain silent—tell officers you won’t answer questions without an attorney present, then stop talking. Do not consent to additional searches of your phone, vehicle, or residence. Have someone contact Bazarte Bail Bonds at (813) 221-1180 to begin the release process. Once out, immediately hire a criminal defense attorney experienced in drug cases. Write down everything you remember about the arrest: what you were doing, what officers said, whether you consented to anything, and who else was present. Stay completely off social media—prosecutors regularly use posts as evidence.
Is marijuana possession still illegal in Tampa, Florida?
Recreational marijuana remains illegal throughout Florida, including Tampa. Possession of 20 grams or less is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines. Possession exceeding 20 grams escalates to a third-degree felony with penalties up to 5 years imprisonment and $5,000 in fines. However, Hillsborough County operates a civil citation program that may allow first-time offenders caught with small amounts to receive a citation rather than arrest. Medical marijuana is legal for qualifying patients with a valid Florida-issued medical marijuana card, though strict regulations govern where and how it can be possessed and consumed.
Our Mission & Our Promise to You
Facing time in jail is one of the most stressful things that could happen to anyone. Our goal since our inception has always been to provide the very best service to our clients in a confidential and courteous manner. We hope you never need our services but if you do, call Bazarte Bail Bonds and allow us to use our experience to work for you. Serving West Florida since 1977.
Bazarte Bail Bonds Proudly Serves the Following Areas
Apollo Beach
Ballast Point
Bayshore Beautiful
Bayshore Pointe
Brandon
Cheval
Citrus Park
Davis Islands
Egypt Lake -Leto
Fish Hawk
Gibsonton
Greater Carrollwood
Greater Northdale
Harbour Island
Hyde Park
Lake Magdalene
Lutz
New Tampa
Palma Ceia
Palmetto Beach
Pebble Creek
Plant City
Riverview
Ruskin
Seffner
South Tampa
Sun City
Sun City Center
Tampa
Tampa Palms
Temple Terrace
Town n Country
Westchase
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