Drug Trafficking in Birmingham

Facing drug trafficking charges can present some of the most difficult challenges in a person’s life. Charges can create stress and anxiety from the moment the police arrest the person. They challenge the lives of the accused along with the accused’s family, friends, and career.

Drug trafficking charges pose serious challenges for individuals because they are usually one charge amongst a variety of accusations. If you are facing charges for drug trafficking, contact a Birmingham drug trafficking lawyer for more information. An adept criminal defense lawyer could advocate for you.

Under Alabama Code Title 13A. Criminal Code § 13A-12-231, the sale, manufacture, delivery, and import of narcotics is illegal. The weight and type of drug drastically can influence the severity of the offense and the penalty that an individual may face.

For instance, possessing between one kilo and 100 pounds of marijuana can lead to a mandatory minimum sentence of three years and a fine of $25,000. In more serious cases, the possession of 1,000 pounds or more requires a mandatory minimum penalty of life without parole.

For cocaine, possession of between 28 and 500 grams may result in a mandatory minimum sentence of three years imprisonment and a fine of $50,000, while possession of ten kilos or more requires a sentence of life without parole.

The first step to fight the charge is to investigate the claim. This involves speaking with witnesses and learning about the evidence against the accused.The second step is to examine how the prosecution will make its case. This involves examining the search warrant in detail, along with the arresting officer’s reports, any confessions, and the legality of any search or seizure. Under the constitution, the prosecution must follow certain steps to secure evidence and arrest the accused person. Failure to follow these rules could result in the dismissal of a case.

The final step is to fight the charge itself. This is largely fact dependent and varies greatly from case to case. In some instances, an individual may be able to challenge possession. Showing that the accused was not in actual physical possession or even constructive possession could lead to a more favorable outcome.

In addition to these defenses, a Birmingham drug trafficking lawyer may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable sentence. This could include a reduced sentence of incarceration, deferred prosecution programs, or alternatives to prison like community service. If the drug charges include possession and usage accusations, then the person may be able to enroll in a rehabilitation program in lieu of prison. Again, these outcomes all depend upon the facts of the case and the seriousness of the charges against the individual.

If you are facing drug trafficking charges, you are facing the harsh penalties that could come with them. This means it is important to thoroughly prepare a defense that could help you reach the best possible outcome for your case.

If you have questions about the charges you face and how they affect your future, contact an experienced Birmingham drug trafficking attorney today. A Birmingham drug trafficking lawyer could work with you to create a defense that represents your interests in a court of law. Call now for a free initial consultation.