Gilbert Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Gilbert Drug Trafficking Attorney

A Gilbert drug trafficking lawyer can be a necessary ally to have on your side. Prosecutors bring drug trafficking charges against people they suspect of handling or managing the distribution of significant quantities of drugs. This is an extremely serious charge that carries a lengthy mandatory prison sentence.

If you face drug trafficking charges, reach out to a seasoned attorney with an extensive track record defending these cases. At Grand Canyon Law Group, a Gilbert criminal defense lawyers will use every tool at our disposal to achieve a favorable outcome.

TRAFFICKING IS A LAW ENFORCEMENT PRIORITY

The state’s location on the border means that drugs often move through the area from Mexico to distribution points throughout the US. Law enforcement prioritizes shutting down drug transport routes in the state and invests considerable resources in identifying, arresting, and imprisoning suspected drug traffickers.

Sometimes, an innocent person gets caught up in a law enforcement operation targeting someone else. In other cases, a person might have possessed illegal drugs but had no intention of selling them. Whatever the specific situation, a Gilbert drug trafficking attorney could ensure that the system treats the defendant fairly.

LAW ENFORCEMENT OVERREACH IN DRUG TRAFFICKING CASES

The Constitution provides everyone with specific rights, and law enforcement must respect them. Failing to adhere to correct procedures could result in a judge dismissing charges or suppressing evidence.

Because drug trafficking is a priority for local law enforcement, they sometimes overstep their bounds or neglect to observe legal requirements when investigating these crimes. Our diligent drug trafficking lawyers will look for evidence that the involved officers:

• Failed to administer the Miranda warnings before questioning a suspect
• Made a stop without a reasonable suspicion
• Searched without probable cause
• Conducted an illegal wiretap
• Executed a false or faulty search warrant
• Relied on an untruthful witness
• Engaged in entrapment

Any of these law enforcement failures could result in the dismissal of the charges.

Even if the judge does not dismiss charges, an aggressive stance regarding police conduct could spur the prosecution to reduce or drop charges. The prosecution knows that the lawyers at our firm could cross-examine the police officers at a trial and focus on their failure to respect a suspect’s rights. Planting that seed in the juror’s minds could lead to a not-guilty verdict.

TYPE AND QUANTITY OF DRUGS IN GILBERT TRAFFICKING CASES

Trafficking charges depend on evidence that a person possessed a substantial quantity of drugs they allegedly intended to distribute. Arizona Revised Statutes §13-3401(36) describes the quantities of various drugs a person must possess to face a trafficking charge. A skilled drug trafficking attorney at our firm could challenge the quality of the prosecution’s evidence regarding identification and weight.

Physical evidence, like a drug, requires careful handling to maintain a chain of custody. The chain of custody is a paper trail that shows who had access to the evidence and how it was stored. Police departments often make mistakes in documenting the chain of custody, which could provide a potential defense.

Without a clear chain of custody, someone could have tampered with the evidence. A judge might not allow the prosecution to use the drug evidence in their case. Without physical evidence, the prosecution usually declines to proceed.

How to Prepare for a Drug Trafficking Case

In 2023, there were 18,939 reported drug trafficking cases handled by the United States Sentencing Commission, showing how serious these charges can be. If you’re facing a drug trafficking case, preparation is key. Start by gathering all relevant documents, such as arrest reports, search warrants, and police records. Review these materials carefully, noting any discrepancies or errors that could help your defense.

Make sure to write down a detailed timeline of events leading up to the arrest. Try to be open and honest with your attorney, providing them with every detail you remember. If there are witnesses who can support your story, make sure to identify them early on.

Also, take time to collect any evidence that could be beneficial, such as phone records or video footage. Your lawyer can guide you through the legal process, but your active involvement and preparation can make a big difference in your defense strategy.

FAQs

Q: What Evidence Is Needed for Drug Trafficking?

A: To charge someone for drug trafficking, authorities usually need strong evidence. This can include large amounts of drugs, packaging materials, scales, or large sums of money. Text messages, phone calls, or surveillance can also be used to show intent to sell or transport drugs. Witness statements or undercover operations can support the case. The goal is to prove the drugs weren’t just for personal use.

Q: What Is the Sentence for Drug Trafficking in Arizona?

A: In Arizona, drug trafficking is a serious crime with harsh penalties. The sentence depends on the type and amount of drugs involved. Trafficking larger quantities or more dangerous substances can lead to lengthy prison sentences. In general, sentences can range from several years to decades in prison, with no eligibility for probation in some cases. Fines and other penalties may also apply.

Q: Is It Hard to Beat a Drug Trafficking Charge?

A: Beating a drug trafficking charge can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. The strength of the evidence plays a major role in the outcome. If there’s a lack of solid evidence or if the search and seizure were illegal, your defense lawyer may challenge the charges. However, trafficking charges often come with serious evidence, such as large quantities of drugs or surveillance.

Q: How Impactful Is Working With a Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney?

A: Working with a drug trafficking defense attorney can have a significant impact on your case. They know the law and can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. A skilled attorney can examine the details of the arrest, challenge illegal searches, and negotiate for reduced charges or penalties. They can also help you understand your rights and explore all possible defense strategies.

Q: How Expensive Is a Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer?

A: The cost of a drug trafficking defense lawyer can vary widely depending on the case’s complexity and the lawyer’s experience. Serious charges usually mean higher fees, as these cases often require more time and resources. Some lawyers charge a flat fee, while others bill hourly. Additional costs for investigations may also apply. Though there is an expense associated with their support, investing in a skilled lawyer can improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

CALL A GILBERT ATTORNEY TO DEFEND AGAINST DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGES

Conviction on drug trafficking charges could lead to many years in prison, even for a first offender. People with prior convictions could be in prison for decades.

Trust your defense to the savvy attorneys at Grand Canyon Law Group. We have a location locally in Gilbert on South Gilbert Road. Our former prosecutors have significant experience working with people accused of serious drug crimes. Contact a Gilbert drug trafficking lawyer as soon as you are arrested to protect yourself and your rights.

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480-400-5555

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