Despite the loud and clear call for decriminalization, if not legalization, of marijuana, drug crimes remain law enforcement’s number one priority. Prosecutors, both state and federal have almost unlimited resources to prosecute people suspected of committing drug offenses. Every drug distribution offense also brings with it the possibility of the seizure of a person’s assets under state or federal forfeiture laws. For over 30 years, our attorneys have represented parties in the some of the largest drug cases in the country. Charges of narcotics trafficking, importation or distribution carry severe penalties in both state and federal court, if convicted.
Drug distribution cases can take many forms and appear in multiple forums. The cases range from diversion of controlled substances from pharmacies or wholesalers to multi-kilo shipments of cocaine and marijuana from Mexico, Columbia, Peru and other South American countries. Both the federal government and the state government have jurisdiction over these cases. The determination in whether it will be federal or state lies with the prosecuting agencies. In general, the larger multifaceted conspiracies are tried in federal court. The smaller street corner drug sales are tried in state court. There is a myriad of statutes concerning sentencing, as it applies to drug distribution cases. In the state court, we consult the advisory sentencing guidelines promulgated by the sentencing commission. Similarly in federal court, there is a complex formula for determining where the court should begin its analysis for sentencing. There is an ever changing document called the United States Sentencing Guidelines that covers federal cases throughout the country. Whether it be a state case or federal case, these reference materials will be consulted before a sentence is imposed. The sentences can be substantial. In federal court they could amount to decades in prison. In the state court system, they are not as harsh but, none the less, serious. It is imperative that you engage an experienced, skilled criminal defense attorney to deal with these charges. Whether it be preparing the case for trial or negotiating a plea agreement, the experience and reputation of your counsel will impact the plea offers that you receive. Only from a position of strength can one negotiate. Sometimes, the case must go to trial.
The Government spends enormous amounts of money in an effort to fight “the war on drugs”. If you believe that you are being investigated for drug distribution, or if you already have been arrested and charged, you owe it to yourself to find experienced criminal defense counsel.
Confidential Consultation
If you believe that you are under investigation, have been subpoenaed before a grand jury or arrested and charged with a crime, contact Neff & Sedacca, PC for a confidential consultation by phone at (215) 563-9800 or email at info@NeffSedacca.com.