California laws are meant to be punitive for drug traffickers. This means, in many cases, that prosecutors will do whatever is necessary to get a conviction. The penalties for a conviction are serious and often include jail or prison time.
This is why it is always advisable to work with an established California criminal defense attorney when facing any type of drug trafficking charge in California.
Serious, Long-Term Penalties For Drug Trafficking Convictions
Penalties for a federal drug trafficking conviction are on a case-by-case basis and involve several factors. You may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances in your case. A conviction can result in five years to life in prison and from $5 million to $20 million in fines.
How you are charged will depend on several factors, including:
- The type of drug and the amount you have: There are stiffer penalties for dangerous controlled substances.
- Whether it's for personal use or mass sale: Drugs that are for your personal use may be charged at a lesser degree. Typically, those charged with drug trafficking have more than a small amount of the drug in their possession. However, even having a small amount of some drugs can result in a trafficking charge.
- Other circumstances: Each case is different, and the prosecutor may decide to include aggravating circumstances as one of the factors. If someone was seriously harmed or died as a result of the drug transaction, this can increase the potential charges. Other circumstances that can affect the charge include those in which a child or minor is involved, a firearm is used or the sale or exchange happens in a “drug-free zone.”
Most felony drug crime convictions result in prison time. It is important to note that first-time offenders and those with otherwise “clean” records may have an easier time getting their charges reduced (or dismissed) and serving probation instead of prison or jail time. As attorneys seasoned in drug crime defense, we have years of experience fighting for our clients in both state and federal courts. At Bulldog Law, we leave no stone unturned and will not yield when your future is on the line.
An Individualized Course Of Action Now And In The Future
We know that you are person with a past, present and future. We know that you and your case deserve the focused time and attention required to produce an effective and deliberate defense.
We can also help you if you are seeking an expungement of your felony drug record. Many cases that resulted in probation are eligible for expungement. “Wobblers,” or cases that began as felonies and were reduced to misdemeanors, are also eligible for expungement. Some cases are able to be reduced to misdemeanors after the fact, even years after the fact.
Get Confidential, Respectful And Proven Defense
At the Bulldog Law, we stand up for the rights and freedom of people accused of drug crimes. No matter what your prior record is, no matter what it is that you are facing, no matter what your immigration status is, you deserve tough, confident and effective drug charge defense representation that protects your life today and your future freedom. Call (888) 928-1609 or connect with the firm via the online contact form. Free case evaluation. Several California office locations.