Drug Trafficking Lawyer

In Pennsylvania, all drug crimes are taken very seriously. However, some offenses go beyond simple possession. Drug trafficking, for example, is punished severely, with penalties including up to 20 years in state or federal prison. This crime is almost always labeled as a felony, even for those who are first-time offenders.

Philadelphia drug lawyer Michael Fienman of Fienman Defense understands that people are often falsely or unfairly accused of drug crimes. With years of experience navigating the legal system, attorney Fienman will use his working relationships, knowledge, and extensive courtroom skills to help you achieve the best possible resolution.

To see how you can avoid the harsh penalties of a drug trafficking charge, call (215) 839-9529 today.

Drug Trafficking

Specifically, drug trafficking is defined as cultivating, manufacturing, distributing, and selling controlled substances, such as heroin, LSD, and cocaine. However, Pennsylvania handles this crime a bit differently. In many cases, there is very little distinction between trafficking and “possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance” (PWID). For example, if the prosecution is unable to prove that the substance was delivered or sold, they may simply try to prove that the accused had the intention to do so. While this may sound like a lesser crime, the penalties for both crimes are often identical.

Drug Trafficking Consequences

Unfortunately, the trafficking of illegal drugs or PWID is one of the most varied and harshly punished crimes in Pennsylvania. While mandatory minimum sentences are no longer implemented in drug cases, prosecutors and judges still have a wide range of options in deciding your fate, based on several elements. The factors that will chiefly determine your sentence if you are convicted will be based on your prior criminal history, the type of drug in question, the amount in your possession, and the classification of the drugs. If convicted, a drug trafficking charge can carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

In addition, being charged with PWID can result in being tried in both Pennsylvania and federal courts, which can result in even more criminal penalties.

Beyond the consequences that are assigned in the courtroom, a drug trafficking conviction can impact you in ways that you could never have imagined. For example, trying to gain employment after being released from prison can be extremely difficult. This is especially true for those with felonies on their records. Another area you may struggle in is continuing your education. Most colleges screen for past convictions, and the majority of scholarships are off-limits to those with criminal records.

How Fienman Defense Can Protect Your Rights

When it comes to drug charges, there a number of defenses that can be used to help you avoid spending time behind bars. For example, an effective defense strategy often involves proving that the drugs did not belong to you. You might have been framed by a friend, or simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. A skilled Philadelphia criminal defense attorney can use their experience and understanding of how the system works to craft a strong plan of action.

At Fienman Defense, we believe that trust is critical. That’s why we strive to be as open as possible. Attorney Michael Fienman will do everything in his power to guide you through each step of the legal process, from devising a legal strategy to considering plea bargains, and fighting passionately for you in court, if necessary.

At Fienman Defense, we also know that being charged with a drug crime can be a terrifying experience. He understands how badly you want your freedom and he will work tirelessly to help you regain it.

If you would like to find out how Michael Fienman can help you, call (215) 839-9529 for a free consultation.