Have you been charged with drug trafficking in Lanham, Maryland? If so, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys at (301) 262-7005 for a free consultation. Our attorneys have 125 years of combined experience handling all types of criminal cases, and we can help you protect your future.
Facing accusations of drug-related offenses requires immediate, decisive action. The legal landscape in Lanham can be complex, and securing knowledgeable counsel is paramount. Our team is prepared to analyze the specifics of your situation, meticulously examining the evidence against you.
Our Lanham drug trafficking lawyers understand the severity of these charges and are committed to building a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Why Choose Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help if You’re Arrested for Drug Trafficking in Lanham, MD?
Maryland takes drug crimes very seriously, and the penalties associated with a conviction can be stiff. At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, we have represented many clients facing all types of drug charges, including drug trafficking. With the right defense, our Lanham drug crime attorneys can help you fight your trafficking charges.
Clients in Lanham, MD, trust us because:
- We have extensive experience in Maryland criminal law, including drug crime law
- Our founding attorney has experience as a prosecutor, so we know the tactics used by the prosecution
- We are committed to providing personalized representation and will tailor your defense to your specific situation
- Our team will aggressively negotiate to get you a plea deal or reduced charges
If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Lanham, contact the experienced team at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys. Your freedom could be at stake, so let our Lanham drug trafficking attorneys get started protecting your rights today.
What Is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking typically deals with the distribution or manufacturing of large quantities of a controlled dangerous substance. There is no single statute in Maryland that specifically addresses drug trafficking charges. Trafficking typically involves moving large quantities of drugs across county or state lines, or it can also include participation in distribution networks.
Drug trafficking offenses can involve drugs such as:
In addition to state charges, drug trafficking may also come along with federal charges. Our Lanham criminal defense lawyers can review the specific charges filed in your case to determine the best defense strategy. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation to get started.
What Are the Penalties for a Drug Trafficking Conviction in Lanham, Maryland?
Drug trafficking charges carry some of the most severe penalties of any drug charges. The penalties can be quite severe, and the specific penalties you may face depend on the specific type and quantity of substance involved in your case.
A conviction on trafficking charges carries penalties depending on the charge, including:
- Possession with intent to distribute: Fines of up to $15,000 and jail time of up to 40 years for subsequent offenses
- Volume dealer: Fines of up to $100,000 and mandatory jail time of 5 years
- Importing controlled substances: Fines of up to $50,000 and jail time of up to 25 years
- Drug kingpin: Fines of up to $1 million and a mandatory jail sentence of 20 years without parole (up to 40 years)
Drug trafficking charges are usually serious felonies in most cases. In some limited circumstances (usually with certain amounts of marijuana), the charges may only be a misdemeanor.
Federal drug trafficking charges also carry severe penalties. Fines for these federal charges can rise to tens of millions of dollars, and a conviction can also result in substantial prison time.
Aggravating Factors for Penalties
There are certain aggravating factors that can increase the severity of the penalties that you may face.
Some of the aggravating factors that may be associated with drug trafficking charges include:
- Involving a minor
- Possessing a firearm
- Participating in drug crimes in certain locations, such as within close proximity to a school
An experienced Lanham criminal defense attorney can help you build a defense to avoid jail time or obtain a total acquittal. Drug court is one option in Maryland that may help you avoid jail time when facing drug charges.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Drug Trafficking?
There are several defenses you may be able to assert if you are facing drug trafficking charges. One of the most common defenses is an illegal search and seizure. Police need sufficient legal grounds, such as probable cause or a search warrant, to search your belongings. If they did not have the proper legal grounds when they found or took the drugs, you may be able to get your charges dismissed.
Other potential defenses include:
- Chain of custody: You may be able to challenge the chain of custody once the drugs are taken into police custody.
- Lack of evidence: If the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, they may not be able to secure a conviction.
- Constructive possession: The drugs were not found in your personal possession, but rather in a shared area, such as a house, car, or other area shared with another person.
Our Lanham drug crime attorneys can help identify all potential defenses that may be available in your case. We’ll help you develop a defense strategy that gives you the best odds of success.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Lanham Drug Trafficking Attorneys Today
If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Lanham, MD, contact the team at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys today. We’ll get right to work, looking into your arrest and charges to create the best defense.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Lanham drug trafficking lawyer.