A criminal offense, regardless of its nature, is serious and carries significant penalties. However, drug trafficking is one of the more serious crimes an individual could commit in New York as it is a felony offense. If you are caught with a sizeable amount of narcotics, you will be subject to distribution or possession with intent to distribute charges. As this felony offense is so serious it often results in harsh penalties such as significant fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record that will negatively impact your life. Keep reading to learn the most effective way to fight drug trafficking charges and how our skilled Garden City, NY Drug Crime Attorneys can help you understand your rights and options moving forward.
What is drug trafficking?
Drug trafficking is a federal offense. Under federal law, it is unlawful for any person to knowingly or intentionally “manufacture, distribute, or dispense, or possess with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense, a controlled substance.” Essentially, drug trafficking is the act of selling, transporting, or unlawfully importing illegal drugs. Controlled substances that are most commonly drug trafficked are marijuana, cocaine, opioids, methamphetamines, and heroin.
What are the possible defenses?
Facing drug trafficking charges can be extremely overwhelming and you may believe it is impossible to avoid the harsh penalties associated with this serious offense. However, there may be several defenses available to help you fight the charges being brought against you. The most effective way you can fight drug trafficking charges and even potentially beat them is by hiring the right legal representation. Having an experienced attorney fight on your behalf could make all the difference in your case. When charged with this type of drug crime, a qualified attorney may use several different defenses if they are applicable. For instance, the law enforcement agents that arrested you may have violated your Fourth Amendment Rights by conducting an illegal search and seizure. Any evidence illegally obtained against you is inadmissible in trial. An attorney could also file a motion to suppress certain evidence, which could benefit your case. In addition, you may be factually innocent, which means an attorney can use the defense that you lacked knowledge of the drugs. Another common defense that may be applicable is entrapment. This is only applicable if you were forced or induced to participate in drug trafficking by a law enforcement agent. Moreover, another common defense an attorney can use in court is inaccurate lab testing. As mentioned above, drug trafficking charges are based on the number of narcotics. Essentially, if the amount of narcotics is less than the statutory amount, the lab results can be challenged to seek reduced charges. Ultimately, to effectively fight drug trafficking charges you must obtain the right legal representation.
In the unfortunate event that you are charged with drug trafficking, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our adept and determined attorneys. Our firm is committed to defending our clients’ rights. Allow our firm to represent your interests in court to seek reduced or dismissed charges.
