What Is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking refers to the illegal sale of prohibited narcotic substances within a city, country, or globally. This underground industry ranks among the most lucrative. Participants include organized criminal groups engaged in the distribution of drugs and the search for customers for retail and/or wholesale transactions.
However, it’s important to distinguish between narcotic substances and substances that are classified as medicines. All medicinal products, substances, and individual chemicals used in the manufacture of medicines are typically categorized according to various factors such as their accepted medical use, potential for abuse, and potential for dependence.
Under illegal drug trafficking, the following list of actions is commonly considered:
- transportation of illegal drugs for sale in other cities and countries.
- the importation of illegal drugs into California;
- sale of illegal substances like heroin, marijuana and other narcotics;
- supplying drug paraphernalia illegally;
- the use of illegal drugs;
- Distribution of a controlled substance illegally.
Our drug charge attorneys specializing in drug trafficking court cases have extensive experience in this field. Our portfolio includes a wide range of cases involving the illegal trade of narcotics, as well as other offences related to drug crimes. We deal with such cases regularly, meaning we know exactly how to find a solution quickly, even in the most complex situations.
Penalties for Drug Crimes
For drug trafficking, a variety of punishments can be applied, the choice of which depends on numerous factors. The primary punishment for drug-related offenses is imprisonment for a certain number of years. However, several factors will influence the exact jail time for drug charges, including:
- the exact drug charges
- the role of the suspect in the drug crime;
- class of drugs
- quantity of drugs;
- duration of trade;
- The presence or absence of additional offences, besides drug trafficking.
- The suspect’s criminal record
To mitigate the terms of the sentence or even to achieve complete exoneration for the suspect, it is necessary to consult an experienced drug crimes lawyer, who can provide criminal defence for each of their clients.
In this context, a distinction is made between the minimum and maximum terms of punishment. The minimum term depends on the type of narcotics involved, with which a specific individual or group of individuals is suspected of being involved. The minimum term often refers to a certain number of hours of community service. However, this will only be possible if the crime in question falls under Class C, where the offender played a limited, minor role.
In all other circumstances, the suspect faces the maximum sentence. The definition of “maximum sentence” can vary from country to country, ranging from imprisonment for a set term to life imprisonment. For this reason, it’s impossible to navigate all the legal nuances on one’s own, meaning that to defend one’s interests, rights, and freedoms, it’s crucial to secure the support of an experienced drug offences solicitor.
Drug Trafficking Laws
In every country, the laws governing drug possession and trafficking are quite stringent. The severity of such an issue can be fully appreciated by the National Crime Agency (NCA). As a result, the NCA and other regional criminal agencies employ extensive, sophisticated surveillance tactics in their operations: they organise various covert operations aimed at combating the illegal distribution of narcotics.
One of the main offences is directly related to breaching the ban on conducting export-import operations concerning controlled substances. This list is established by Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Such a prohibition pertains to significant offences, which are stipulated in Section 170 of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979.
Interpol is doing everything in its power to strengthen cooperation among member countries regarding the fight against the illegal drug trade. After all, the majority of criminals completely disregard national borders, making the timely exchange of information between different countries particularly crucial for conducting effective operations to apprehend suspects. Given the seriousness of these operations, it’s impossible to proceed without the protection offered by a drug trafficking defense attorney who is familiar with all the nuances and specific details of the case, depending on the laws of the particular country involved.
Defences against Drug Trafficking
Today, a vast array of different protective measures are known, which can be rationally applied in various situations. Expert criminal defence solicitors can advise on when exactly and which measures it would be sensible to use. Our international lawyers are familiar with the nuances of investigating such crimes in specific countries.
During the investigation, the accused may prove the following:
- He had no suspicion, nor any reason to suspect, that he was in possession of certain narcotics or controlled substances listed as prohibited for distribution or use.
- He had no suspicion, no reason to suspect, that a specific narcotic substance could be deemed dangerous and prohibited.
- He was certain that the substance in question was a medicinal product. Otherwise, the sale and consumption of this controlled drug would have been impossible.
All other defensive measures can be utilised, based on who played what specific role in the criminal drug charges, as well as when and how they were involved. Additionally, all gathered evidence of potential coercion or pressure to act against another person’s will is considered.
Our criminal defense attorneys, specializing in drug trafficking cases, can assist with various offences related to drugs. Our experts possess the experience and necessary knowledge to select the most compelling arguments in favor of their client. All of this can help to reduce the sentence and possibly have the felony drug charges completely dropped, depending on the circumstances of the specific case.
Contact Drug Trafficking Defence Lawyers
If you urgently need qualified assistance or advice, it’s essential to get in touch with our drug offense solicitors. Expert representation at the early stages of the proceedings can help prevent negative consequences for your reputation, freedom, and even your life.
It’s particularly crucial for those who have faced pressure against drug charges, and you have every right to hire a drug crimes attorney for legal support. We’re aware that a huge number of people globally find themselves embroiled in various schemes related to narcotics possession and distribution, due to their vulnerability. Write to us or give us a call right now to share your story that demands immediate and fair resolution.
