Columbia Federal Drug Lawyer

Drug offenses are regarded quite seriously, especially if they occur on the federal level. Drug crimes are often taken so seriously because of how detrimental they can be to local communities. Federal drug offenses include conspiracy, distribution, and trafficking and are also felonies. The consequences of a felony conviction can be life-altering, which is why it is important to consult a Columbia federal drug lawyer. A qualified drug lawyer could work tirelessly to build a solid defense for you.

Different Types of Federal Drug Offenses

The different types of federal drug offenses are outlined in Title 21 of the United States Code Section 841 control. It is when the person is charged with manufacturing or distribution, possession with intent to distribute, or conspiracy. These are the most common drug offenses in Section 841. It is the Controlled Substances Act.

Essentially, one is looking at the control and enforcement of drugs. In listing out the federal drug offenses, it is the same in state cases, except there are federal statutes that have different laws and requirements governing them, but they are the same types. Drug possession, drug distribution, manufacturing, controlled and counterfeit substances, as well as conspiracy, are very similar to state cases.

Sentencing Guidelines for Federal Drug Offenses

Offenses have different levels. The federal sentencing guidelines make the biggest issue as far as whether the type of offense is given a certain weight, the circumstances, prior criminal record, whether they cooperated and provided substantial assistance, and whether they will be able to get a 5k-1 departure to reduce their sentencing levels. The penalties are determined based on a bunch of different factors, which is why the lawyers present pre-sentencing reports. Columbia federal drug lawyers try to convince the judge that they have the right argument and that their requested sentence is appropriate.

Fortunately, the sentencing guidelines are no longer mandatory and the judges have some discretion, but they still follow them fairly closely. The mandatory minimum sentences can be devastating in some drug cases, especially when a firearm is involved or someone has a record of prior drug convictions. Also, it is more serious because of the law enforcement involved. Generally, the FBI, DEA, or Homeland Security is investigating the case. They are much more thorough and make fewer mistakes in building their cases and investigation.

Penalties in a Federal Drug Case

Potential penalties for federal drug offenses can range from federal probation to federal prison to a split sentence, where a person has prison time and then gets out on federal parole or probation. It is the same except the person is in the federal system and not the state system. They have a different set of prisons in the state system. It is totally separate from the state because it has its own set of rules and probation office as well as prisons.

One of the long-term implications of a federal drug conviction is that if convicted, an individual will have a felony on their record. Felonies are all federal crimes that carry over one year in prison. Without a pardon, it is a modern-day scarlet letter. The likelihood of getting a good job or even gainful employment decreases and the likelihood of securing good housing is very low. It puts the person in a very tough spot in terms of having gainful employment, moving on, and having a successful career. A Columbia federal drug lawyer could mitigate the severity of the penalties that a person may face.

Qualities to Look For When Hiring a Columbia Federal Drug Attorney

When hiring a Columbia federal drug lawyer, it is important to look for someone that is experienced and is not afraid to stand up to the government and make your case. You may also want an attorney who has had experience in successfully negotiating these cases. No lawyer can make a guarantee of the outcome, but seeing the cases they have worked on could help confirm that they are the right person for the job, had that training, put in the hours, put in the work, and had success.These are the things that are important to determine whether you have found the right attorney with experience in federal court because there are many attorneys who do not have a lot of federal experience. Work with an experienced drug lawyer that could devote the time and resources necessary to pursue a positive outcome for you.