Drug trafficking and drug distribution charges are serious criminal charges. It is important for accused individuals to understand what they are facing and be prepared to defend themselves against drug trafficking or drug distribution charges.
Drug trafficking and distribution charges
Drug trafficking or drug distribution charges are serious criminal charges which can result in significant penalties and consequences. Drug trafficking charges are felony criminal charges that can lead to incarceration and steep fines. Accused individuals should understand:
Drug trafficking and distribution charges prohibit the selling, transportation and the illegal import of unlawful controlled substances. Unlawful controlled substances can include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and other illegal drugs.
Punishments and sentencings
Punishments for drug trafficking and distribution depends on factors including the type and quantity of drugs involved; where they were distributed, including the geographic area of distribution; and if children were targeted by the drug trafficking or distribution behavior.
Sentences for drug trafficking and distribution can range from 3 to 5 years in prison but can include life in prison if larger quantities of drugs were involved. Mitigating and aggravating circumstances can have a significant impact on accused individuals charged with drug trafficking or distribution.
Defense options for an accused
Because so much is on the line for anyone facing drug trafficking and distribution charges, it is essential for accused individuals to be familiar with criminal defense options and protections available to them. The situation and circumstances can have a significant impact on the charges and sentencing in drug trafficking situations just as they have an impact on the best criminal defense strategy for the accused individual.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
