In Louisiana, it is a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) to distribute or sell it. So drug trafficking is a serious offense.
If you are facing a drug trafficking charge for an event within Louisiana, you will face conviction at the state level. However, if your drug trafficking charge involves crossing state lines, it will likely be a federal case.
Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your drug trafficking charge, if you or a loved one are facing charges related to drug trafficking in Alexandria or anywhere within Louisiana, our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Jones Law Partners are here to help you defend your rights.
What is drug trafficking, and why is it punished so harshly in Louisiana?
In the eyes of the law, when you face a drug trafficking charge, that means you intended to sell or distribute a controlled substance without authorization.
Because of this, drug trafficking is much more severe than drug possession.
Believe it or not, charges are placed for reasons beyond just seeing someone distribute an illegal substance.
Most of the time, a person is charged with drug trafficking because of the amount of a controlled substance found in their possession, as well as equipment used to distribute (such as multiple bags or containers, scales used to weigh substances, and ingredients used to cut or mix drugs).
This is why it is so important to hire an experienced Louisiana drug trafficking attorney immediately. Many times, there are missteps within this process. A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the entire process – so that the errors do not fall on you.
Common substances that lead to drug trafficking charges in Louisiana include:
- Heroin
- LSD
- Ecstasy
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Adderall
What charges can you face with a drug trafficking conviction in Louisiana?
If you are caught with a controlled substance without authorization, penalties in Louisiana are severe.
Depending on the substance in question, you could face up to 30 years or more in prison and fines up to $250,000. This is especially true if you have a previous drug conviction or criminal conviction.
Plus, if a firearm is involved with the drug trafficking charge, you can expect the penalties to be harsher.
Your property and assets could be taken as well.
Depending on the specifics of your case, a qualified Louisiana criminal defense attorney can create a defense strategy to combat your drug trafficking charge. This can help lessen penalties or even result in the charge being dropped.
Charged with drug trafficking? The Jones Law Partners can help
A drug trafficking charge is serious business, but no matter the reasons for your drug trafficking charge, you have the right to a fair trial. Our Jones Law Partners take the time to understand the circumstances surrounding your case. Then, after analyzing all of the details, we create a solid defense strategy.
Our goal is to provide you with the best defense possible so that you can move forward with your life. To discuss your case in more detail, contact us to schedule a confidential consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.
