In the state of New Jersey, drug trafficking is one of the most serious criminal offenses you can be charged with. Essentially drug trafficking is the act of selling, transporting, or importing illegal substances such as marijuana, opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and any other controlled substances. Depending on the number of narcotics and the classification of the drugs you intend to distribute, your penalties for drug trafficking will vary in severity. Nevertheless, drug trafficking is a federal offense that warrants a felony charge. Those convicted of this serious offense will be subject to harsh penalties such as significant fines and imprisonment for several years. As such as a serious charge, you must understand your rights and potential defenses so you can fight it. Please continue reading and contact a qualified Middlesex County Drug Crime Attorney to learn more about how to fight drug trafficking charges and the potential defenses that could help you beat the charges brought against you.
What is drug trafficking?
Drug trafficking is a serious crime that involves the cultivation, manufacturing, distributing, and selling of controlled substances. Under federal law, it is illegal for any person to knowingly or intentionally “manufacture, distribute, or dispense, or possess with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense, a controlled substance.” All states in the U.S. prohibit the manufacturing, distribution, and possession of controlled substances. In New Jersey, certain classifications of drugs carry harsher penalties. For instance, if you are caught with one ounce and five pounds of marijuana you will face a third-degree felony. However, if you are found with more than five ounces of cocaine or heroin you will face a first-degree felony. Certain classifications of drugs are considered to be more dangerous than others which is why some charges are more severe than others.
Are there any possible defenses?
The most effective way to fight and possibly beat drug trafficking charges is to retain the legal services of an experienced attorney. An attorney with years of dealing with drug trafficking cases understands how to protect their clients’ rights and devise a defense strategy. An attorney will evaluate all aspects of your case to determine the best course of action. Several defenses could be used in court to fight the charges brought against you. For starters, many clients are often factually innocent. When this is the case an attorney can demonstrate that you lacked knowledge of the drugs. In some cases, an attorney can use the defense of entrapment if you were induced by authorities to traffic drugs. Another possible defense is that there was inaccurate lab testing. Drug trafficking charges are based on the number of narcotics. If lab results show less than the statutory amount, an attorney can argue you should receive a reduced sentence. Ultimately, there are several defenses but the best way to fight drug trafficking charges is by hiring a qualified attorney.
It is in your best interest to reach out to a Middlesex County drug crime attorney to discuss the best course of action to achieve favorable results. Although there are no guarantees, you can rely on our skilled attorneys to defend your rights to seek dismissal or reduced charges.
