How Lawyers Handle Federal Drug Charges in Philadelphia

How Lawyers Handle Federal Drug Charges in Philadelphia

Dealing with federal drug charges in Philadelphia can be scary. The penalties are harsh, and the federal prosecutors have lots of resources to come after you. But having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll walk through how the typical federal drug case goes down in Philly, and how a good lawyer can defend you. We’ll look at the common charges, the defense strategies that work, and what kind of penalties you might be facing. We’ll also share some tips on how to choose the right lawyer for your situation.

The Most Common Federal Drug Charges in Philadelphia

There are a few federal drug crimes that Philadelphia prosecutors go after again and again. These include:

• Possession with intent to distribute – This means having a large quantity of drugs on you that suggests you planned to sell them. Even if you didn’t actually sell anything, just having a distribution-level amount can trigger the charge.
• Conspiracy – If prosecutors think you were working with others to traffic drugs, you can be charged with conspiracy. This is common in large drug rings.
• Drug trafficking – Bringing drugs across state lines or national borders is considered trafficking. This charge often comes with long mandatory minimum sentences.
• Manufacturing drugs – Making illegal drugs like methamphetamine can lead to federal manufacturing charges.
• Prescription fraud – Altering prescriptions to get controlled medications illegally is prescription fraud.

The specific charges brought depend on the details of your case. But in general, federal prosecutors in Philadelphia go after major distribution operations. Simple possession charges are more often handled at the state level.

How Lawyers Defend Federal Drug Cases

An experienced federal drug crimes lawyer has many tools to get charges reduced or dismissed. Here are some of the most common defense strategies:

• Illegal searches – If the police didn’t have probable cause for a search, or conducted one without a warrant, the results may be suppressed. This can destroy the prosecution’s case.
• Entrapment – Undercover agents sometimes cross the line and entrap people into committing crimes. A lawyer can argue you were illegally trapped.
• Lack of evidence – Without enough solid evidence, the charges may be dismissed before trial.
• Misidentification – Eyewitnesses make mistakes. If you were misidentified, the case against you is weak.
• Chain of custody issues – If there are gaps in the handling of evidence, its integrity can be challenged.
• Plea bargains – Many cases end in a negotiated plea deal for lesser charges. A good lawyer negotiates aggressively.

These are just a few examples – there are many ways for an experienced lawyer to pick apart a drug case and get charges reduced or dismissed. The earlier you get them involved, the better.

Federal Drug Crime Penalties in Philadelphia

Make no mistake – federal drug convictions come with harsh penalties. Here’s a quick overview:

• Even simple possession can mean 1+ year in federal prison.
• Trafficking and distribution charges often carry 10+ year mandatory minimums.
• Manufacturing meth and other drugs can lead to 20+ year sentences.
• Heavy fines up to $10 million are possible.
• You may also face asset forfeiture, losing property connected to the crime.
• Supervised release and probation last for years after prison time.

The exact sentencing depends on the charges, your criminal history, and other case factors. But federal drug crimes are always taken very seriously. The penalties can destroy lives if you don’t have an excellent defense.

Finding the Right Lawyer for Your Federal Case

Not just any criminal lawyer will do when facing federal drug prosecution. Here are some tips on finding the right attorney:

• Look for someone with specific federal drug defense experience. The federal system is very different.
• Find a lawyer familiar with the local federal prosecutors and judges.
• Consider a former federal prosecutor – they have inside expertise.
• Select someone who will carefully examine the evidence and build a strong defense.
• Make sure they have resources to take the case to trial if needed.
• Personality and communication matter – find a lawyer you trust.

Don’t leave your fate in the hands of just anyone. Vet drug crimes lawyers thoroughly, and find someone who makes you feel confident. This is your future on the line.

Talk to a Philadelphia Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer Today

Facing federal drug prosecution is scary. But with an experienced lawyer guiding you, it’s possible to get charges reduced or dismissed, and avoid the worst penalties. Don’t go it alone against the power of the federal government – get professional help. Consult with a qualified drug defense attorney in Philadelphia right away to start building your best defense. There’s no time to lose.