NYC Drug Trafficking Lawyer

NYC Drug Trafficking Attorney

Drug trafficking is a serious offense in New York City and is prosecuted as such. Whether you or a person you know has been accused of this serious crime, it is key that you contact an NYC drug trafficking lawyer to address your case and help you avoid the grave consequences of a drug conviction.

The Law Office of Jonathan Savella provides comprehensive legal support to clients facing drug trafficking charges. With more than a decade of legal practice handling various types of crimes, we bring extensive knowledge and skills to every case, providing dedicated representation.

Defining Drug Trafficking in New York City

The New York penal code outlines the various drug-related activities that constitute a legal offense. Among these is the crime of drug trafficking. NY Penal Law § 220.77 explains that the crime of operating as a major trafficker occurs when a person leads a drug organization or, profits from the sale of a controlled substance or has been found to possess narcotics with the intent to sell. The amount of profit or potential profit should be at least $75,000 as per the statute.

A controlled substance is defined by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) drug schedule, with Schedule I drugs being the most serious and likely to be abused, and Schedule V substances being less likely to be abused though they still have small quantities of narcotics.

Penalties for Drug Trafficking in NYC

A person convicted of operating as a major trafficker is guilty of a Class A-I felony. Class A felonies are the most serious of crimes and carry hefty consequences. The maximum penalty for a drug trafficking crime in NYC is up to life in prison.

The severity of a drug trafficking conviction is dependent on multiple factors related to the case.

The Drug Involved: A person found guilty of drug trafficking for highly addictive or harmful drugs like heroin or fentanyl may face severe sentencing.

Drug Quantity: The amount of drugs seized may also play a role in the sentence a convicted drug trafficker may face.

Location of the Crime: Trafficking drugs near places where children frequent, like schools or parks, can lead to enhanced penalties following a drug conviction.

Criminal History: An offender’s criminal history may be taken into consideration during sentencing. A history of drug crimes may lead to a lengthier sentence.

In addition to facing long prison time, a drug trafficking conviction may require an accused person to pay large fines. A charge and conviction may also lead authorities to seize any assets they believe are related to the illicit activity.

Working With an NYC Drug Trafficking Lawyer

New York authorities work diligently to investigate and prosecute drug trafficking crimes. It is crucial that anyone charged with the crime of drug trafficking in New York City contacts a skilled criminal defense attorney with a history of defending clients with this type of charge.

An NYC drug trafficking lawyer can be an invaluable asset for you. They can assist with the following:

Evaluating Your Case

A knowledgeable attorney can review all aspects of your case, including assessing the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence authorities have against you. They can explain the most optimal defense strategy in your case or whether it is beneficial to attempt to negotiate a plea.

Presenting a Strong Defense

If your case proceeds to court, a criminal defense lawyer can build a strong defense case and represent you in court. They can work to challenge the evidence and help prove reasonable doubt in your case.

Some potential defense strategies can include:

• Proving that any search or stop by officials was unlawful
• Highlighting procedural errors in the investigation
• Demonstrating that the drugs found did not belong to the defendant
• Arguing entrapment
• Establishing there was a lack of intent or knowledge of any illegal activity

Negotiating a Plea Deal

Authorities have the burden of proof in a drug trafficking case. Prosecutors may be open to negotiating a plea deal with a defendant. A seasoned attorney may assist in securing a favorable plea in a drug case, including negotiating a lighter sentence through reduced charges or having certain charges dismissed.

A strong defense team can make the difference between a conviction with a significant prison sentence and a lighter sentence or dismissal of charges.

FAQs

Q: What Classifies as Drug Trafficking in NYC?

A: Drug trafficking in NYC is defined as either leading a drug organization or selling or having the intent to sell a controlled substance above the amount of $75,000. The law also prohibits the sale of controlled substances at lower quantities, which carry their own potential sentences.  

An NYC drug trafficking lawyer can shed light on any potential charges you may face.

Q: What Is the Sentence for Drug Trafficking in NY?

A: The sentence for a drug trafficking conviction in New York can be up to life in prison. The length of a sentence may be determined by the type and quantity of the controlled substance seized, if the substance was sold to minor children, or if the trafficking happened in an area near a school, a park, or another restricted area.

Q: Should I Hire a Lawyer for My Drug Trafficking Case?

A: You are advised to hire a lawyer for your drug trafficking case. Once you are arrested for a drug-related crime, you have the right to contact an attorney. It is ideal that you communicate with an attorney before speaking with law enforcement. An attorney can provide legal counsel and represent you in court during your drug trafficking case.

Q: Can You Beat a Drug Trafficking Charge?

A: It is possible to beat a drug trafficking charge with the support of a diligent and skilled criminal defense attorney. They may be able to help prove that you were wrongfully associated with a drug organization or that you had no knowledge of the illicit activity. It may also be possible to argue that the search or arrest was unlawful.

Contact Our Office Today to Discuss Your Case

The Law Office of Jonathan Savella is available to assist you if you or a loved one has been charged with a drug trafficking charge. NYC law enforcement is aggressive in investigating drug crimes. You should also ensure that you have aggressive representation. Our skilled team is knowledgeable about New York City drug trafficking laws and can work with you to fight these charges or get them dismissed. Schedule a consultation today.