Drug trafficking or distribution charges carry significant penalties in the event of a conviction. When you are charged with drug trafficking, either as a state or federal offense, you should connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney who could protect your rights.
A Manhattan drug trafficking lawyer understands how much is at stake and could work tirelessly to mitigate the consequences of your charges. Whether through negotiating a deal with the prosecutor’s office, seeking a dismissal, or providing evidence that leads to charges being dropped or reduced, a seasoned drug attorney could build the most effective defense around your specific case.
A person could face drug trafficking charges in many scenarios. If law enforcement reasonably suspects the individual is selling or distributing any type of controlled substance, this could lead to an arrest and formal charges. These charges could occur regardless of whether the individual allegedly distributed the drugs for money.
Drug trafficking charges could also arise if someone is found to be in possession of a certain type of controlled substance in illegal quantities. If an individual is caught with a certain amount of a drug, they would be presumed to have intent to distribute.
A person in this situation could be slapped with drug trafficking charges regardless of whether they were selling the substance in practice. For example, someone possessing more than one gram of heroin is presumed to have intent to distribute the illegal drug.
The same is true if someone is caught in possession of more than one gram of methamphetamine. Individuals who are arrested and charged for cultivating drugs, manufacturing drugs, or operating a drug lab may also face accompanying drug trafficking charges and need immediate help from a Manhattan attorney.
The penalties associated with drug trafficking will depend on various factors, including the type of substance in question, the quantity, the events surrounding the arrest, and the person’s criminal record. State law classifies felony drug charges into their own separate category, with drug distribution or trafficking crimes ranging from a level-four drug felony to a level-one drug felony. Penalties could include incarceration, fines, and a criminal record.
A level-four drug conviction can carry up to approximately four years in prison, while a level-one drug conviction can result in up to 17 years. For example, trafficking less than 25 grams of marijuana is typically a level-four drug felony, while trafficking more than 30 kilograms is a level-one drug felony.
Someone convicted of distributing or intending to distribute one to 3.5 grams of methamphetamine or heroin would face a level-three drug felony offense. Penalties could include fines of up to $300,000 and up to seven years in jail. A person convicted of distributing either of these drugs but in quantities ranging from 3.5 to 100 grams faces level-two drug felony penalties, which include up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.
A Manhattan lawyer could help someone navigate the overwhelming burden of the legal defense process from the earliest moments of the drug trafficking case. The attorney could also devise a proper defense strategy and plea bargain negotiation and handle all necessary paperwork.
When you are charged with federal or state drug trafficking or informed that you are under investigation for these alleged actions, you need to speak with a Manhattan drug trafficking lawyer immediately. Experienced legal assistance can make all the difference in your case.
Our attorneys are experienced in working with prosecutors and conducting lengthy investigations, as well as understanding the breadth of the complex legal process involved. We could identify any procedural missteps in your case and all options to mitigate your charge.
A drug trafficking conviction can have lifelong repercussions. Do not hesitate to contact our office today to speak with an attorney about your case and the next steps for your defense.
