After being arrested for possessing drugs, you may be surprised and alarmed to discover that you face drug trafficking charges. In Louisiana, possessing specific amounts of illegal substances could escalate the charges you face. Drug trafficking is a felony, and convicted individuals often face heavy fines, lengthy prison sentences, and life-long consequences that make it difficult to live a normal life.
Drug trafficking cases can be complex, meaning you need a legal expert on your side even if you are innocent. A skilled defense attorney will conduct an independent investigation into your case so you understand the charges you face and your options moving forward. Your attorney will work with you to go over every detail of your case and develop a top-notch defense to the charges against you.
What Is Drug Trafficking in Louisiana?
Drug trafficking charges are different and more severe than a simple possession charge. Drug trafficking is possessing an illegal substance with the intent to sell, manufacture, or transport it.
The penalties for drug trafficking are grave, and convicted individuals could face tens of thousands of dollars in fines and decades behind bars. If you are charged with drug trafficking at the federal level, the consequences could be even harsher. If you have been charged with drug trafficking, it is essential to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible to potentially have your charges dismissed.
3 Possible Strategies for Getting Your Drug Trafficking Charges Dropped
While drug trafficking charges are severe, you may be able to get your charges dropped with the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Some strategies your attorney may use to get your charges dropped include:
Prove You Had No Intent to Sell the Substance
One of the critical elements of a drug trafficking charge is the intent to manufacture, sell, or distribute the illegal substance. Your lawyer may press the prosecutor for evidence of your intentions. If the prosecutor cannot prove that you intended to sell the drugs beyond a reasonable doubt, your charges may be lessened or dropped.
Prove the Drugs Were Not Yours
The prosecution must establish that the drugs belonged to you for the charges to stick. If the substance came into your possession unknowingly, there is no way you could have intended to distribute it. Even if you were aware of the substance but did not own it, the prosecutor may have a difficult time getting your charges to stick.
Prove Your Rights Were Violated
To be charged with drug trafficking lawfully, the police must not have made any critical mistakes. If the arresting officers engaged in misconduct or entrapped you into committing a crime, your charges may not hold up in court. Additionally, the corruption of evidence or the failure to read your Miranda Rights could result in dropped charges.
These are only a few of the many strategies your attorney may use to get your charges dismissed. Your lawyer will work with you to understand every detail of your case so they can prepare the best defense possible for the charges you face.
Consult With a Highly-Qualified Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney
If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Louisiana, the stakes are too high to go without an unparalleled criminal defense. Eric G. Johnson of the John D. and Eric G. Johnson Law Firm is committed to defending the accused and achieving favorable outcomes for their cases. When you partner with our legal team, you can rest assured that your case is in the caring hands of seasoned legal experts. Reach out to our team today by calling (318) 377-1555 or filling out our contact form.