Drug Trafficking

Drug Trafficking Attorneys Representing Clients Charged with Drug Trafficking in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Throughout Michigan

Unlike some other criminal charges involving drugs, trafficking is a felony, which subjects the individual to severe penalties if convicted. Even trafficking a seemingly minor substance such as marijuana can mean four years in prison. At Grabel & Associates, our Michigan drug trafficking attorneys are skilled, capable and dedicated to reaching the best possible outcome for our clients. Whether you have been charged with intent to deliver or distribution of marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines, ecstasy or other illegal drugs, it is critical that you have a competent and effective lawyer to protect your legal rights.

Even those who are being investigated by state or federal authorities for drug trafficking should consult with an attorney immediately. Prosecutors and police typically reserve accusations of selling or distributing drugs for those they consider to be the worst offenders. Criminal charges relating to the delivery or distribution of illegal narcotic drugs other than marijuana can leave an individual imprisoned for 20 years to life, depending on the quantity of the drug involved.

Drug Possession in Michigan Incurs Severe Penalties

While drug possession and drug trafficking are two different things, law enforcement and investigators frequently associate large amounts of illegal narcotics with an intention to sell or distribute those drugs. In Michigan, possession of substantial amounts of illegal drugs or narcotics results in extremely harsh punishment. Possession of as little as 25 grams of cocaine, LSD, ecstasy or peyote could leave you facing a fine of $25,000 and up to 4 years behind bars if convicted. The larger the amount of an illicit substance, the larger the fines and prison term you will face.

Unlike the sentences typically handed out for a first-time drug possession offense, criminal court judges often punish those who traffic drugs with penalties, which approach the maximum sentence, allowed. In addition, individuals who have been convicted previously for possession, delivery or trafficking of drugs will result in a lifetime prison sentence with no chance of parole, probation or suspended sentencing according to Michigan Penal Code (333.7413). Our Michigan drug trafficking defense lawyers work vigorously to protect clients from these extremely harsh penalties.

How Michigan Laws View Drug Trafficking

Michigan law assumes that individuals do not generally carry or possess large amounts of drugs or illegal narcotics for personal use; therefore, police and prosecutors believe that those who possess a large amount of a drug intend to sell, distribute or deliver that drug. Essentially, the intentions of the individual caught in possession of drugs and the quantity he or she is holding are determining factors in being charged with drug trafficking. No money has to change hands; in fact, money is not a factor. Simply handing a large quantity of illegal drugs or narcotics over to another individual can leave you facing serious consequences.

Defense Against Drug Trafficking Charges

Federal and state prosecutors pursue individuals who are suspected of trafficking drugs aggressively. It is imperative that you contact a skilled and aggressive attorney whether you have already been arrested, or are the target of an investigation. Our team will explore every possible defense option, and work to determine whether missteps were taken by law enforcement in the course of the investigation and/or arrest. We know how crucial it is to analyze every detail of the client's case in order to secure a positive outcome.

There are many questions that should be asked when an individual is arrested for drug trafficking. For example, how did police locate the drugs, and where were they found? Was the search legal, and were the defendant's constitutional rights violated? When evidence is seized in the course of an illegal search, evidence must be thrown out.

Early intervention is often the best way to protect your legal rights, freedom and future. Our Michigan criminal defense attorneys understand how prosecutors work, and that they are often overzealous in their efforts to put anyone they believe to be involved with drugs on any level behind bars.

Charges of drug trafficking often bring about suspicion of other crimes including weapons, conspiracy or money laundering. Because of the enormous devastation those accused often face in regards to their freedom, future and very lives, obtaining the services of an attorney with extensive experience is an absolute necessity.

At Grabel & Associates, we are a team of Michigan drug crime lawyers recognized as one of the best in the state. Having the charges against our clients dismissed or reduced is our ultimate goal; we explore all alternatives such as drug programs and sentencing options in order to secure our clients' freedom, careers and reputations. Contact us today at 1-800-342-7896.