Coral Gables Drug Possession & Trafficking Attorney
Most people associate the offense of drug trafficking with large drug cartels and operations, however, federal trafficking charges may be issued in many other types of situations. Trafficking laws prohibit possessing, manufacturing, transporting, selling, or purchasing any type of controlled substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act. Both possession and trafficking charges can be very serious and facing allegations of these offenses in criminal court is often frightening. For this reason and more, you should always be represented by a Coral Gables drug crime attorney who has experience handling federal drug cases.
Having an attorney on your side is imperative in federal drug cases
If you were arrested because an officer alleged finding drugs, there are many ways to defend against any charges that follow. If a prosecutor believes you possessed the drugs with the intent to sell or deliver them, you may be facing more serious trafficking charges. Some circumstances that may lead to increased charges include:
- Having a large quantity of drugs;
- Having other tools or paraphernalia commonly used to package or weigh drugs; or
- Having a large amount of money with you.
All too often, federal prosecutors will aggressively charge individuals with trafficking when they really only possessed the controlled substance for their own personal use. An attorney can attack a prosecutor’s claim that you intended to sell or distribute the controlled substance to have your charges reduced. An attorney can also present evidence that the controlled substance belonged to someone else, and that finding the controlled substance was the product of an unlawful search in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights.
Effects of possession and trafficking convictions
Federal law sets out harsh penalties for anyone convicted of possessing or trafficking a controlled substance. For example, even if you are only charged with simple possession of a small amount of a substance, you could be facing up to a year in federal prison and a minimum fine of $1,000. These consequences increase with each subsequent offense. Penalties for trafficking charges are extremely serious and can mean years or even life in federal prison and fines reaching into the millions of dollars.
In addition, having a felony conviction on your criminal record can have many long-term consequences. You may lose out on educational or employment opportunities, you may face immigration consequences such as deportation, and more. Avoiding a conviction is key to minimizing the long-term consequences you may face.
Contact a Coral Gables drug crime attorney for help today
Both drug possession and trafficking charges can have a severe effect on your life, including your employment, your finances, your freedom, and more. If you get arrested, you should immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the law firm of Alfredo A. Izaguirre for assistance. Mr. Izaguirre is a highly skilled drug crime attorney who is familiar with federal criminal laws and can stand up for your rights, communicate with law enforcement officers, negotiate with prosecutors, represent you at trial, and more. Call today at 305-442-0425 to discuss how we can help you.
