Chesterfield Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Experienced & Aggressive Legal Representation in Chesterfield, MO

When you are facing drug trafficking charges in Missouri, your future is at stake. The penalties for a conviction can be severe, including significant prison time and hefty fines. If you or a loved one has been charged with drug trafficking, you need an experienced and aggressive Chesterfield drug trafficking defense attorney on your side. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we are dedicated to defending our clients and fighting for the best possible outcome.

Contact us at (314) 334-3807 today for a free consultation and take the first step towards securing your future. 

What is Drug Trafficking?

Drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense that involves the manufacture, distribution, transportation, or sale of illegal drugs. Unlike simple possession, which may be classified as a misdemeanor in some cases, trafficking is typically a felony offense. The severity of the charge depends on factors such as the type and quantity of drugs involved, whether weapons were used, and whether minors were targeted.

In Missouri, drug trafficking can involve substances such as:

• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Methamphetamine
• Fentanyl
• Prescription drugs (such as oxycodone and hydrocodone)
• Marijuana (in large quantities)

Being charged with drug trafficking does not automatically mean a conviction. With the right legal strategy, it may be possible to have charges reduced or even dismissed.

Missouri Drug Trafficking Laws & Penalties

Missouri has some of the strictest drug laws in the country. Drug trafficking charges are categorized into degrees based on the severity of the offense:

• First-Degree Drug Trafficking: This charge applies when a person knowingly distributes, manufactures, or attempts to distribute large quantities of controlled substances. Penalties for first-degree drug trafficking include a minimum of 10 years to life in prison, with no possibility of parole for certain offenses.
• Second-Degree Drug Trafficking: This charge applies to individuals caught with lesser, but still significant, quantities of controlled substances. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.

Aggravating factors, such as trafficking near a school or involving minors, can lead to enhanced penalties. Given the serious consequences, you need a skilled Chesterfield drug trafficking defense lawyer to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Federal Drug Trafficking Laws & Penalties

Drug trafficking charges can also be prosecuted at the federal level, particularly if the offense involves large quantities, crosses state lines, or involves organized crime. Federal drug trafficking laws are enforced by agencies such as the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation).

Federal penalties depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved, as well as any prior criminal history. For example:

• Cocaine (500+ grams) – Minimum 5 years to 40 years in prison, fines up to $5 million.
• Methamphetamine (50+ grams) – Minimum 10 years to life in prison, fines up to $10 million.
• Heroin (100+ grams) – Minimum 5 years to life in prison, fines up to $5 million.
• Marijuana (1,000+ kg or 1,000+ plants) – Minimum 10 years to life in prison, fines up to $10 million.

Federal drug trafficking convictions often come with mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges have little discretion in sentencing. This makes it crucial to have an experienced defense attorney who understands federal law and can work to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.

Legal Defenses to Drug Trafficking Charges

A drug trafficking charge does not necessarily mean a conviction. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we aggressively defend our clients using a variety of legal strategies. Some potential defenses to drug trafficking charges include:

• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an illegal search, evidence obtained may be suppressed in court.
• Lack of Knowledge or Intent: If you were unaware that drugs were in your possession or vehicle, we may be able to argue lack of intent.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement officers coerced you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
• Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified or falsely accused, we can present evidence to clear your name.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were knowingly involved in drug trafficking. If there is insufficient evidence, the case may be dismissed.

Every case is unique, and our legal team will analyze the details of your situation to develop the best defense strategy.

Take Action: Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC Today

If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Chesterfield, it’s crucial to have a dedicated legal team on your side. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to providing unparalleled legal representation with a personal touch. Don’t navigate these challenging waters alone. With our experienced attorneys by your side, you can rest assured that we will advocate vigorously for your rights. Act now and empower yourself with the knowledge and defense strategy you deserve.

Call (314) 334-3807 or contact us online today to let us start building your defense.