Defending Your Legal Rights When Charged With Drug Trafficking And Distribution
Big Valley Law is strong in defense against drug crimes such as trafficking and distribution. We are skilled trial attorneys who will defend your constitutional rights and seek to obtain a dismissal, acquittal, reduction in charges, deferred disposition or probation.
We Use Our Vast Insight To Combat Complex Charges
We have the background, connections and knowledge. Our lawyers know how to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case because they have unique perspectives, insights and courtroom connections as former prosecutors in Virginia. We have substantial experience defending drug crimes.
Our staff investigator has been invaluable to our clients who are facing drug charges because he has an extensive background as a veteran of the commonwealth supervising high-risk drug offenders. With his training in courtroom procedures, drug testing and substance abuse, he provides invaluable counsel to our clients.
Equipped To Take On A Variety Of Cases
If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking, don’t become a victim.
Get legal help from a lawyer who has helped defend against drug trafficking charges.
More than $500 billion. That’s the dollar value of criminal proceeds every year. That’s more than the gross national product of most nations. There is no doubt that drug trafficking is a big business. But are the laws getting the big-business drug dealers or hurting those who are less able to defend themselves in the legal system? If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking and distribution, don’t be a victim of the system.
A growing number of groups and individuals, including the American Bar Association and welfare rights organizations, claim that the legal system has become double jeopardy for drug offenders who are trying to become productive members of society and that minorities and single women are charged and punished disproportionately.
Drug trafficking can lead to federal charges if the trafficking went across state lines or if prescription drugs or narcotics were involved. We have experience defending drug charges involving marijuana, methamphetamine (crystal meth), heroin, ecstasy, cocaine and OxyContin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Drug Trafficking And Distribution Charges
It is incredibly intimidating to have the full weight of the criminal justice system poised against you. We help even the odds. Here are some of the most important questions our clients have:
What should I do immediately after being charged with drug trafficking or distribution?
Stay calm and invoke your right to remain silent. Once law enforcement has decided to charge you with a crime, nothing you say will change the path you are on – and you could seriously hurt your defense by saying the wrong thing. As soon as possible, contact an experienced drug trafficking and distribution defense attorney to help you understand your defense options.
What are the potential penalties for drug trafficking and distribution charges in Virginia?
The penalties vary based on the type of drug you are charged with trafficking or distributing, the quantity involved, your prior convictions and several other factors. In general, these are considered felony offenses, which means you automatically face a year in prison or more.
Some offenses come with mandatory minimum prison sentences, while others can lead to life imprisonment upon conviction. In addition, you may face thousands in fines, asset forfeiture, the loss of certain civil rights and other long-term consequences.
What are my rights if I have been charged with drug trafficking or distribution?
Broadly speaking, you have the Fifth Amendment right to refuse to answer questions by law enforcement and the right to attorney representation. In addition, you have the right to review the evidence against you, and you are protected from the use of evidence that was obtained in violation of your Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable searches and seizures. You are also entitled to a presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and a trial by a jury of your peers.
At Big Valley Law, we will aggressively defend your constitutional rights at every stage of the process, challenging the prosecution’s case whenever possible.
What are the differences between federal drug trafficking charges and state charges?
Typically, state charges apply if the alleged offense occurs solely within Virginia’s borders. Federal drug trafficking charges generally involve larger operations, drug manufacturing and offenses that cross state lines. While state-level charges are severe, sentences can be more flexible than those associated with federal charges. It is important to note, however, that state and federal authorities often collaborate in drug trafficking cases.
Today Is The Day To Take Action. Connect With Our Experienced Harrisonburg Attorneys.
Big Valley Law knows how to handle state and federal charges involving illegal drugs. We built a strong reputation on criminal defense. Contact us through our website or call 540-904-0243.