Federal drug crimes were essentially established to avoid the abuse and circulation of controlled substances. Each region has its own set of drug regulations and the federal government has its own longstanding technique. There are, however, several crucial variation differentiating the two, that being that while most local and state drug apprehensions are made on property charges (over half for marijuana), the lion’s share of federal drug convictions is for trafficking. Federal penalties can also be generally harsher in terms of penalties, with much longer sentencing. State apprehensions tend to be more lenient, with charges usually involving the option of probation, a short detention in a local jail, or a fine. This, of course, depends on the nature of the crime and on the criminal history and age of the particular person being accused.
Federal Drug Crimes Penalties
Federal drug crimes penalties and punishments are separated into categories, just like states. Each criminal offense has its own specific guidelines:
Distribution and trafficking is the accusation of selling, delivering, or providing illegal drugs illegally. The charge generally becomes a federal issue, not because it crosses state lines, but because of the amount of drugs involved. Sentences for distribution and trafficking may be compelling and can carry a lengthy prison term, depending on the bulk involved.
Manufacturing can be charged if an individual plays a role in cultivating or manufacturing an illegal drug. Cultivation pertains to utilizing the naturally occurring processes of illegal drugs, like cultivating marijuana. An individual can also be accused of manufacturing, producing or creating more synthetic illegal drugs through a chemical process or in a laboratory, including cocaine. Drug manufacturing sentences can result in a prison sentence that can carry 5 or 10-year mandatory minimums as well, depending upon the amount.
Possession is one of the most usual form of a drug charge, including the possession of an abused substance. If the amount of the substance found in the defendant’s possession is of a bigger amount, it can be used to suggest felony possession with an intent to distribute. Drug possession penalties on a federal level can differ depending upon many elements, including the kind of dangerous drug sequestered by authorities.
All these convictions result in a forfeiture of property, like vehicles used in the transport or concealment of an abused substance. This is in addition to the loss of federal benefits including student financings or loans, grants, contracts, and professional and commercial licenses.
Defense of Federal Drug Crimes
The risks are really high in federal drug crimes cases, and must be met with a threatening and strong defense. Each case is inherently a complex one and the approach for winning will have to be tailored to the particular circumstances. One of the most common defenses used in a drug charge (especially a drug possessions charge) is the case that a policeman overstepped search and seizure laws in detaining a person and acquiring evidence. If a defendant in a criminal case (usually through a criminal defense attorney) can prove that the cops violate the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights in finding and seizing drug evidence, that evidence may not be admissible in a criminal case against the defendant.
Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer in Arizona
At this point, a lot must be going through your mind. With the charges of federal drug crimes accumulating, it can be a very daunting and disheartening ordeal. Don’t strike a deal with the cops before you see a skilled attorney. Although they may seem willing to help, a law enforcement officer’s primary goal is to gather evidence that can and will be used against you. Find the best Arizona drug defense lawyer to help you with your charges.
