Drug Distribution in Birmingham

One of the most serious drug crimes an individual can face is drug distribution, also referred to as drug trafficking. Penalties for drug distribution in Alabama can come with a 10 to 66-year prison sentence and up to $60,000 in fines. Given the grave punishments that are in place, if you are being investigated or have already been charged, consider contacting a professional Birmingham drug distribution lawyer today to learn your rights. Read on to learn more about how an experienced narcotics attorney could make a difference in your case.

Federal Prosecution

A drug distribution charge in Alabama is classified as a felony. If the charges involve allegations of crossing state lines or country borders, the case will likely fall under the jurisdiction of a federal prosecutor rather than a state prosecutor. Federal charges bring with them involvement from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and/or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Reach out to a skilled defense lawyer in order to gain legal protection in these circumstances.

Penalties for Drug Distribution

The distribution of each specific drug is penalized differently under the law. One can be charged for drug distribution of cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamines if they possess a certain amount.

Cocaine

Under Alabama law, an individual in possession of 28 grams or more of cocaine (or any cocaine mixture) can be charged with drug distribution. Penalties for conviction include:

• Possession of between 28 and less than 500 grams: Mandatory minimum of three years in prison and $50,000 fine
• Possession of between 500 grams and less than one kilo: Mandatory minimum of five years in prison and $100,000 fine
• Possession of one kilo and less than 10 kilo: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and $250,000 fine
• Possession of 10 or more kilos: Mandatory life in prison without parole

Marijuana

An individual in possession of more than one kilo or 2.2 pounds of marijuana can be charged with drug distribution. Penalties for conviction are:

• Possession of between one kilo or 2.2 pounds of marijuana and less than 100 pounds: Mandatory minimum of three years in prison and $25,000 fine
• Possession of between 100 pounds and less than 500 pounds: Mandatory minimum of five years in prison and $50,000 fine
• Possession of 500 pounds and less than 1,000 pounds: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and $200,000 fine
• Possession of more than 1,000 pounds: Mandatory life in prison without parole

Methamphetamines

Someone in possession of 28 grams or more of methamphetamines (or any methamphetamine mixture) can be charged with drug distribution. Penalties can include:

• Possession of between 28 grams and less than 500 grams: Mandatory minimum of three years in prison and $50,000 fine
• Possession of between 500 grams and less than one kilo: Mandatory minimum of five years in prison and $100,000 fine
• Possession of one kilo and less than 10 kilo: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and $250,000 fine
• Possession of 10 or more kilos: Mandatory life in prison without parole

Under certain circumstances, penalties for a conviction can be even harsher than those listed above, such as selling to a minor or selling within so many miles of a public housing development or school.

Reaching Out to a Birmingham Drug Distribution Lawyer

If you are facing drug trafficking or distribution charges, you need a skilled Birmingham drug distribution lawyer who is knowledgeable about drug laws in Birmingham. An dedicated Birmingham drug distribution lawyer can examine all evidence and determine if there are any weak points, such as an illegal search and seizure or improperly seized evidence, and how those issues may help to resolve your case. Reach out to an experienced Birmingham drug distribution lawyer to discuss your case today.

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