Federal Heroin Distribution Lawyer

Federal Heroin Distribution Lawyer

Heroin distribution is a very serious federal crime that carries steep penalties and mandatory minimum sentences. If you have been charged with heroin distribution, it is critical that you retain an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer to represent you.

Federal Heroin Distribution Laws

The main federal law governing heroin distribution is 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), which makes it illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance like heroin. Heroin is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

Federal heroin distribution charges are categorized based on drug quantity. The more heroin involved, the stiffer the penalty. For example:

• 100-999 grams of heroin mixture – 5 year mandatory minimum prison sentence
• 1 kilogram or more of heroin mixture – 10 year mandatory minimum prison sentence

If death or serious bodily injury results from the heroin use, there is a 20 year mandatory minimum sentence. Prior felony drug convictions can also enhance penalties.

Penalties for Federal Heroin Distribution

Below are the typical penalties for federal heroin distribution convictions:

• Less than 100 grams – Up to 20 years in prison
• 100-999 grams – 5 year mandatory minimum to 40 years maximum
• 1 kilogram or more – 10 year mandatory minimum to life in prison
• Death/serious injury – 20 year mandatory minimum to life maximum

Fines up to $10 million may also be imposed for heroin trafficking offenses. There is no parole in the federal system. Defendants must serve at least 85% of their prison sentence.

Defenses to Federal Heroin Charges

There are several possible defenses in federal heroin distribution cases:

Lack of Intent to Distribute – Mere possession of heroin is not enough. The government must prove you intended to distribute it to others. Evidence of personal use rather than distribution can defeat the charges.

Entrapment – This occurs when the government induces you to commit a crime you otherwise would not have. An entrapment defense argues you did not have criminal intent until law enforcement manipulated you.

Duress – This argues you only committed the crime under immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm against you or loved ones. However, the threat cannot come from an accomplice.

Misidentification – If the government has the wrong person, identity should be challenged. Fingerprints, surveillance footage, and eyewitnesses may be scrutinized.

Illegal Search – If the heroin was discovered through an unconstitutional search, the evidence may be suppressed. However, strict procedural rules apply.

An experienced federal drug crimes lawyer can analyze the facts and determine if any viable defenses exist. The stakes are high, so competent legal counsel is critical.

The Benefits of Hiring a Federal Heroin Lawyer

Facing federal heroin charges without a lawyer is extremely unwise. An experienced federal drug crimes attorney can:

• Analyze the strength of the government’s case and possible defenses
• Negotiate for reduced charges or sentencing leniency
• Challenge issues like illegal searches and seizures
• Advise you throughout the process so you avoid missteps
• Present evidence and arguments to contradict the government’s version
• Identify procedural problems and Constitutional violations
• Represent your best interests in interactions with prosecutors

If you or a loved one face federal heroin charges, do not delay in contacting a criminal defense lawyer. The earlier in the process you engage representation, the more effectively they can build a defense on your behalf. Time is of the essence, so call today.