Drug Trafficking – What to do if charged

Drug Trafficking Attorney in Birmingham, AL

If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking and other associated crimes, then you’re facing a serious situation that could lead to prison time, significant fines, and loss of your property and livelihood. If you find yourself in this position, then you need to contact Stoves Law Firm, P.C. to connect with a Birmingham drug trafficking defense attorney who can guide you through the complex process of coping with criminal drug charges, assist you through a trial if necessary, and help you avoid a conviction if at all possible.

The Impact of a Drug Trafficking Conviction

A drug trafficking conviction can have a devastating impact on your life. Along with the potential penalties you’ll face, you may struggle to find a job, qualify for a loan, or participate in various schools or organizations because of your conviction. The effects extend to your relationships, too, as you strive to regain the trust of your family and friends. A conviction can quickly turn your life upside down and inside out.

Potential Drug Trafficking Penalties

If you’re convicted of drug trafficking in Alabama, you can expect to face a set of unpleasant penalties. You’ll almost certainly have a minimum sentence of 3 years in prison, but depending on the level of your conviction, you could spend the rest of your life behind bars. Further, you may have to pay more than $50,000 in fines, with mandatory minimums based on the type of illegal drugs you’ve been convicted of selling and/or transporting. To pay your fines, your personal assets and possessions may be confiscated.

Even when, or if, you complete your prison sentence, you may have to serve time on probation or parole, which can lead to restrictions in living conditions, movement, and employment. You’ll also have a permanent criminal record, and future employers will see this. It could affect your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, buy a home or car, or transact other basic business. In other words, a drug trafficking conviction can negatively affect you for the rest of your life.

Remember that penalties vary with the amount and types of drugs you’re caught trafficking. Your sentence may also be more severe if you’re convicted of crossing international borders, carrying a firearm, manufacturing drugs, or participating in a conspiracy.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help in a Drug Trafficking Case

The first thing you need to do if you find yourself facing drug trafficking charges is to contact an experienced attorney who can guide you through your defense to drug trafficking, whether that means a plea deal or a trial. At an initial consultation, your lawyer will explain the process for your defense. This begins with a thorough investigation of the criminal charges against you, including a review of documents from law enforcement officers, the search and arrest procedures, and the evidence against you. Your attorney will also want to speak with witnesses. The case could be dismissed at this point if rules have not been properly followed.

If there is no dismissal of your case, your attorney will prepare to challenge the charge directly through a series of defense measures. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will work out a plan against the prosecution program, countering prosecutors at every step as necessary. Please remember, though, that the facts will ultimately decide the case. If you’re convicted, working out a lighter sentence may be possible.

Count On The Stoves Law Firm

The Stoves Law Firm, P.C. can offer you a thorough Birmingham drug trafficking defense by a diligent attorney with experience in such cases. We’ll see you through the whole process and help you cope with the results of your case. Contact our firm today for a free initial consultation.