If you have been charged with drug distribution, you might face substantial consequences if you’re convicted. A drug distribution conviction may lead to long prison terms, expensive fines, and probation. This is in addition to the impact a criminal record can have on your employment, education, and even housing prospects.
If you have been charged with the intent to distribute drugs, you should not hesitate to contact a qualified attorney who specializes in drug distribution charges defense to help you examine your legal options. The facts about drug distribution charges are important to understand, and the help of an experienced attorney is essential.
How Serious Are Drug Distribution Charges?
Drug distribution offenses usually carry harsher punishments because of the idea that those who distribute drugs promote harmful drug use in others for their own self-interest. Therefore, a person convicted of drug distribution may face lengthy prison sentences and thousands of dollars in fines, among other penalties. Because of the seriousness of these charges, having a criminal defense attorney who specializes in drug distribution charges is essential.
The Burden of Proof
Remember that being charged with drug distribution does not mean that you will be convicted. The prosecution must establish beyond a reasonable doubt that you:
- Had an illicit drug or controlled substance; and
- You had this substance with the intent to distribute it illegally.
If these factors cannot be proven, the prosecution doesn’t have a case.
Drug Distribution Charges Defenses
- Lack of intent. Again, the prosecution must be able to prove express intent to distribute the drug to another party. However, the defendant may argue that the substance was for personal use, which carries less severe penalties.
- This occurs when law enforcement officials provide an individual with an opportunity to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. An experienced attorney will be able to recognize when an official was the actual source of the crime and will argue that their client should be acquitted on this basis.
- Unlawful search and seizure. In some situations, police officers may have violated the defendant’s constitutional rights by conducting an improper search and seizure. For example, if police searched the defendant’s property without a warrant, a lawyer might argue that any evidence retrieved from that search is invalid.
Contact an Experienced Drug Distribution Defense Attorney in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Could one of the above defenses apply in your case? These and other defenses may be appropriate depending on the unique details of the case. Only an experienced criminal defense attorney will have the expertise necessary to analyze your case extensively to establish whether the authorities have violated your rights or any mistakes have been made.
The Brookman Law Group understands the seriousness of a drug distribution charge, and we’re committed to carefully investigating your case and protecting your rights. For a risk-free initial consultation, call (267) 566-5598.
We target Philadelphia, PA; Camden, NJ; Gloucester City, NJ; Chester, PA; Darby, PA: and the other surrounding communities.