Drug Trafficking & Importation

Representing Individuals Charged With Drug Trafficking

Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving San Diego and Southern California

If you have been charged with drug trafficking or importation, your defenses depend on what role, if any, you played. At my law office in San Diego, I offer a free initial consultation to explain the charges and the consequences you might face if you are found guilty.

I have more than 23 years of experience as a lawyer protecting the rights of people who are under investigation for or have been charged with drug trafficking. Drug trafficking may also involve conspiracy, mail fraud and money laundering charges, as well as asset forfeiture. I can defend you against all charges and consequences.

Consequences of a Drug Trafficking Conviction

The majority of border bust and large drug trafficking arrests end up as federal cases. Federal drug crimes are very serious because mandatory minimum prison sentences apply. Depending on the quantity of drugs involved, you could be subject to a sentence of five to 10 years in prison. If you have a prior conviction, the mandatory minimum sentences are doubled.

Can the Prosecutor Prove the Charges?

Many people become unknowingly involved in drug trafficking operations. If you are a crew member or guest on a boat used to smuggle drugs, or if you are arrested in a borrowed vehicle that was used to smuggle drugs across the Mexican border, the government has to prove that you knew what you were doing. A common defense I could argue as your lawyer is that you didn't know the drugs were there.

Many drug trafficking charges result from the use of informants. Informants are people who have been arrested themselves and have cut deals with prosecutors. As your attorney, I can file a motion to give you an opportunity to confront the informant in court.

Mitigating Sentences if You Are Convicted

If the government can prove that you had a role in a drug trafficking operation, you may get an adjustment to the mandatory minimum sentence if you had a lesser role.

If you have a job, a work furlough may be a sentencing alternative. If you sold drugs to support a drug habit, enrolling in a treatment program may help you avoid or reduce a jail sentence.

Free Criminal Defense Attorney Consultation

If you have been arrested for a federal drug crime or state drug trafficking charges in Southern California, call me, criminal defense lawyer Michael Littman, at 619-618-2913 (866-767-1476 toll-free) or fill out our simple contact form. Jail visits available.