What is Drug Trafficking?

Drug trafficking is a serious offense that can result in significant jail time. Unlike simple possession of drugs, drug trafficking involves the sale or distribution of drugs. This makes it a more serious crime and can lead to longer sentences.

In Colorado, drug trafficking is defined as the sale, distribution, or manufacture of drugs. It can also include the possession of drugs with the intent to sell or distribute them. Drug trafficking is a felony offense and can carry severe penalties.

While simple possession of drugs is a misdemeanor offense, drug trafficking is a much more serious crime. If you are convicted of drug trafficking, you could face a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines. It is important to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer if you have been charged with drug trafficking to learn more about your rights and to build a solid defense against your charges.

How Much Jail Time Can I Receive for a Drug Trafficking Conviction?

In Colorado, the punishment for drug trafficking can range from 8 years to life in prison if the drugs you are charged with trafficking are level one drugs. The severity of the punishment depends on the type and amount of drugs involved in the trafficking offense. For example, possessing more than 4 grams of cocaine can lead to a sentence of 4 years in prison, while trafficking heroin can result in a 20-year sentence. Previous charges or arrests may also impact the amount of time you end up serving if convicted. In general, you can spend anywhere between 6 months to 32 years in prison for drug trafficking. To learn more about your specific case, it is best to reach out to an experienced lawyer for help.

What Other Consequences Can I Face?

In addition to spending time in jail, you may also face other consequences if convicted of drug trafficking. These can include:

  • Fines
  • Probation
  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Difficulty finding a job
  • Housing insecurity

These are just some of the possible consequences you may face. The specific penalties you will receive will depend on the facts of your case and your criminal history. An experienced lawyer can help you understand what to expect and how to best defend against your charges.

What Defenses Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Use?

When it comes to being charged with drug trafficking, there are a variety of different defenses that a criminal defense lawyer can use in order to help their client. Some of these defenses may be more successful than others, but it really depends on the specific circumstances of each case. Here are some of the most common defenses used in drug trafficking cases:

  • The accused was not aware of the drugs: This is one of the most common defenses used in drug trafficking cases. If the accused can show that they were not aware that the drugs were present, then they may be able to have the charges against them dropped or reduced. This defense is often used in cases where the drugs were hidden in a car or in luggage.
  • The accused was not trafficking drugs: This defense is often used in cases where the accused is caught with a large amount of drugs but there is no evidence that they were planning on selling or distributing them. If the accused can show that they were simply in possession of the drugs for personal use, then the charges against them may be reduced or dropped entirely.
  • The accused was entrapped by law enforcement: This defense is sometimes used when the accused is caught up in a sting operation. If the accused can show that they would not have been involved in drug trafficking if it wasn’t for law enforcement’s actions, then the charges against them may be reduced or dropped.

To learn more about your specific situation, contact us at 719-331-8837 to get started.