Being arrested and charged with drug trafficking can be overwhelming, especially in Louisiana. Those who get convicted of drug trafficking in Louisiana face serious penalties. Knowing how to defend yourself in court against drug trafficking charges can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. It’s best to get the help of an experienced Louisiana defense attorney with a good track record.
Being charged with drug trafficking in Louisiana can be a serious offense, resulting in significant legal penalties. If you are facing a drug trafficking charge, it is crucial to understand the defense strategies that may be available to you. Here are some of the top defense strategies our skilled defense lawyers at John D. & Eric. G Johnson Law Firm may use to defend you against drug trafficking cases in Louisiana.
Defense Strategies Against Drug Trafficking Charges
Some of the best drug trafficking defense strategies include:
1. Challenge the Search and Seizure
In many drug trafficking cases, evidence is obtained through a search and seizure of property or a vehicle. If the search was conducted without a valid warrant or probable cause, the evidence obtained might be deemed inadmissible in court. If true, it may significantly weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
2. Challenge the Chain of Custody
The chain of custody refers to the process of collecting, storing, and analyzing evidence. In drug trafficking cases, the prosecution must prove that the evidence was not tampered with or contaminated at any point during the chain of custody. If there are any issues with the chain of custody, such as missing or mishandled evidence, it can raise doubts about the reliability of the evidence presented in court.
3. Challenge the Intent to Distribute
Drug trafficking charges often rely on evidence that suggests the defendant intended to distribute the drugs. There is a big difference between possession and possession with intent to distribute. A skilled defense attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding the possession of the drugs and build a case that challenges the prosecution’s claims of intent to distribute.
4. Challenge the Informant’s Reliability
Many drug trafficking cases rely on information obtained from informants who provide information about drug transactions. However, the reliability of these informants may be called into question, particularly if they have a history of drug use or criminal activity. A defense lawyer can investigate the informant’s background and challenge their reliability in court.
5. Challenge the Prosecutor’s Evidence
The prosecution must present evidence that proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime of drug trafficking. A skilled defense attorney can review the prosecution’s evidence to identify any weaknesses or inconsistencies that can be used to build a solid defense. This may involve analyzing the results of drug tests, reviewing witness statements, and examining physical evidence.
6. Negotiate a Plea Bargain
In some cases, a plea bargain may be a viable defense strategy. A plea bargain involves negotiating a reduced sentence or charges in exchange for a guilty plea. This strategy can be effective in cases where the evidence against the defendant is strong, and a conviction is likely. A skilled defense attorney can help negotiate a favorable plea bargain that minimizes the legal penalties you may face.
7. Show the Drugs Are Not Yours
The prosecution must prove that the drugs belonged to you. However, it is possible that the drugs did not belong to you and that you were unaware of their presence. For example, if you had friends over at your house or let a friend borrow your car, you may be unaware of any drugs they left there. Such scenarios make it difficult for the prosecution to convict you of the crime.
Contact an Experienced Louisiana Defense Attorney
We understand that drug trafficking charges can be scary. However, you have the right to a fair trial and an attorney. A skilled defense attorney will listen to your case, investigate the circumstances around your arrest, and fight for the truth. We will do everything we can to help you.
If you are facing a drug trafficking charge in Louisiana, having an experienced and knowledgeable defense attorney by your side is crucial. John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm is a team of skilled criminal defense attorneys dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and achieving the best possible outcome in their cases. Contact us today at (318) 377-1555 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options.