Federal Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney

Understanding Federal Drug Trafficking Laws

Under 21 U.S.C. § 841, it is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. The quantity of the drugs, the type of substance, and prior criminal history all play a role in determining sentencing.

The federal government does not require proof that a sale took place to pursue drug trafficking charges. If prosecutors can demonstrate that you possessed large quantities of a controlled substance or drug-packaging materials, that alone may be enough to charge you.

At Brandon White Law, we have counsel with over twenty years of experience both prosecuting and defending drug trafficking cases in State and Federal Courts across the United States. Few firms in Arizona offer attorneys with insight from both sides of the courtroom.

Common Drug Trafficking Charges Include:

• Possession with intent to distribute
• Manufacturing a controlled substance
• Conspiracy to distribute drugs
• Importation of drugs across state or international borders
• Operating or owning property used for drug manufacturing or trafficking

Even first-time offenders face mandatory minimum sentences if convicted under federal drug laws.

Federal Drug Trafficking Penalties

Federal sentencing for drug trafficking is harsh, with mandatory minimums based on the typeand quantity of drugs involved.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences For Federal Drug Trafficking

Additional Consequences of a Federal Drug Trafficking Conviction

• Fines of up to $10 million (for individuals) or $50 million (for organizations
• Forfeiture of assets linked to drug activity
• Loss of professional licenses and future employment opportunities
• Ineligibility for federal benefits, including student loans
• Deportation for non-U.S. citizens
• If death or serious bodily injury results from the drug trafficking offense, a life sentence ismandatory under federal law.

Arizona Drug Trafficking Laws

In Arizona, drug trafficking offenses are treated with utmost severity, reflecting the state'scommitment to combating drug-related crimes. The Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) outlinespecific provisions and penalties associated with these offenses.

Definition of Drug Trafficking

Under A.R.S. § 13-3408(A)(7), an individual can be charged with drug trafficking if theyknowingly:

• Transport for sale
• Import into Arizona
• Offer to transport for sale or import into Arizona
• Sell or offer to sell
• Transfer or offer to transfer a narcotic drug

Classification and Penalties in Arizona

Threshold Amounts in Arizona

Arizona law specifies threshold amounts for certain drugs, above which enhanced penaltiesapply. Possessing more than these amounts can lead to mandatory prison sentences withoutthe possibility of probation or parole:

• Heroin: 1 gram
• Cocaine: 9 grams
• Methamphetamine: 9 grams
• Marijuana: 2 pounds

Defending Against Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

Federal prosecutors have vast resources and aggressively pursue drug cases. However, a skilled federal defense attorney can help you build a defense against the state's case. Some defenses include:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: Evidence could be suppressed if law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the investigation.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement coerced or pressured you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed, your case may be dismissed.
• Chain of Custody Issues: If the prosecution cannot prove the drugs belonged to you due to mishandling of evidence, the case may be weakened.
• Coerced Confession: If law enforcement violated your Miranda rights or used coercion to force a confession, that statement may be inadmissible in court.

Why You Need an Experienced Federal Drug Trafficking Attorney

A federal drug conviction can destroy your future, but with the right defense strategy, you may be able to reduce or even dismiss the charges against you.

At The Law Offices of Brandon White, we provide:

• Aggressive Defense: We challenge every piece of evidence against you.
• Federal Court Experience: We understand federal drug laws, sentencing guidelines, and how to negotiate with prosecutors.
• Personalized Legal Strategy: Every case differs, and we tailor our defense to fit your situation.
• Trial-Ready Representation: We fight to win if your case goes to trial.

If you or a loved one are facing federal drug trafficking charges, don't wait. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us start building your defense