Santa Rosa Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney

Experienced Drug Trafficking Lawyers Serving Sonoma County

Drug trafficking is a serious crime that is prosecuted harshly in California. A conviction for drug trafficking can carry a prison sentence of up to 40 years, depending on the type of drug and the amount involved. In addition to imprisonment, a conviction for drug trafficking can also result in the payment of heavy fines, seizure of property, and a lifelong criminal record that can impact your future employment and housing prospects. If you are facing drug trafficking charges, it is important to consult with a highly skilled criminal defense lawyer who can help you build a strong defense.

At the Wilber Law Offices, P.C., our Santa Rosa drug trafficking attorneys have over 45 years of combined legal experience and an in-depth understanding of this area of law. We have a long track record of success in defending clients against serious drug charges and have earned a reputation for our aggressive representation and unwavering commitment to our clients. As some of the top-rated drug trafficking defense attorneys in Santa Rosa, we know what it takes to win in court and how to protect your rights at all stages of the legal process.

Facing Drug Trafficking Charges? Don't wait—protect your rights today. Contact us at (707) 986-4482 for a consultation.

What Is Drug Trafficking?

Drug trafficking refers to the sale, transport, and/or importation and exportation of illegal drugs. Drug trafficking is a felony offense in California and can be charged as a federal crime as well. In many cases, drug trafficking charges are also accompanied by charges of possession with intent to distribute, which can be charged in cases where the drugs are found in quantities that are too large to be for personal use.

The following elements must be proven in order to obtain a conviction for drug trafficking:

• You knowingly transported, imported, or sold a controlled substance
• You knew the substance was a controlled substance
• You knew the substance was in your possession
• The substance was in a usable amount

Drug trafficking charges can vary depending on the type of drug involved, the quantity, and whether the drug was transported across state or international lines. Drug trafficking charges can be brought at the state or federal level and are generally prosecuted more harshly in federal court.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking in California?

Under California Penal Code 11352, drug trafficking is a felony offense that is punishable by up to 5 years in state prison. If you are convicted of trafficking drugs across more than 2 county lines, you could face an additional 3 to 25 years in prison.

In addition to prison time, a conviction for drug trafficking can also result in the payment of heavy fines, the seizure of property, and a lifelong criminal record. If you are convicted of drug trafficking, you will also be subject to California’s “Three Strikes” law. Under this law, if you are convicted of a serious or violent felony and have previously been convicted of two or more serious or violent felonies, you may be sentenced to life in prison.

How Can a Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer Help?

If you have been charged with drug trafficking, you need an experienced drug trafficking attorney on your side. Drug trafficking cases are often complex and require a highly skilled lawyer who knows how to effectively challenge the evidence against you. At the Wilber Law Offices, P.C., we have successfully defended clients against all types of drug trafficking charges and know how to build a winning defense strategy.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, we may be able to help you by:

• Challenging the legality of the search and seizure
• Challenging the chain of custody of the drugs
• Arguing that the drugs did not belong to you
• Arguing that you did not know the substance was a controlled substance
• Arguing that you did not know the substance was in your possession
• Arguing that the substance was not in a usable amount
• Negotiating with the prosecutor to get the charges against you reduced
• Filing a motion to suppress evidence
• Evaluating plea bargain offers to determine if they are in your best interest
• Representing you at trial, if necessary

Our drug trafficking lawyers in Santa Rosa will conduct a thorough investigation into your case and gather all available evidence to build a strong defense on your behalf. We will aggressively challenge the evidence against you and work tirelessly to protect your rights at all stages of the legal process. You can trust us to provide you with the effective legal representation you need and deserve.

How Do I Choose the Right Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney?

If you have been charged with drug trafficking, it is important to choose the right attorney to represent you. You need a highly skilled lawyer with a long track record of success in these types of cases and a reputation for providing excellent legal services. You also need a lawyer who is familiar with the local courts and knows how to effectively navigate the criminal justice system.

When choosing a Santa Rosa drug trafficking defense lawyer, be sure to consider the following factors:

• The attorney’s experience and track record of success in drug trafficking cases
• The attorney’s reputation in the legal community
• The attorney’s knowledge of the law
• The attorney’s familiarity with the local courts
• The attorney’s communication style and personality

At the Wilber Law Offices, P.C., we have successfully defended clients against all types of drug trafficking charges and have a long track record of success in these types of cases. We are highly skilled trial lawyers who know how to win in court and will aggressively fight to protect your rights. You can trust us to provide you with the trusted legal representation you need and deserve.

Federal vs. State Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug trafficking can be prosecuted at both the state and federal levels. The severity of the penalties depends on which jurisdiction handles the case.

State vs. Federal Jurisdiction

• State charges usually involve smaller amounts of drugs and cases that do not cross state lines.
• Federal charges apply when drugs are transported across state or international borders or when large-scale trafficking operations are involved.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

• Federal drug trafficking laws often impose mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges have little discretion in sentencing.
• Even first-time offenders can face years in federal prison if convicted.

Federal Investigations and Prosecution

• Federal agencies such as the DEA, FBI, and Homeland Security often handle large trafficking cases.
• Federal prosecutors have more resources, making these cases more challenging to defend.

Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges

A strong defense is crucial when facing serious drug trafficking charges. Possible legal strategies include:

Lack of Intent to Distribute

• Possessing drugs does not always mean there was intent to sell or distribute.
• The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused intended to traffic the drugs.

Illegal Search and Seizure

• The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unlawful searches.
• If law enforcement violated search and seizure laws, evidence may be suppressed.

Mistaken Identity or Wrongful Accusation

• Many trafficking cases rely on informants or surveillance, which can sometimes lead to false accusations.
• A defense attorney can challenge the credibility of witnesses and the evidence.

Entrapment

• If law enforcement pressured or tricked the accused into committing a crime they wouldn’t have otherwise committed, it could be considered entrapment.
• Proving entrapment can lead to a case dismissal.

Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy Charges

A person can be charged with drug trafficking even if they never physically handled drugs.

How Conspiracy Charges Work

• Prosecutors only need to show that the accused was part of an agreement to commit drug trafficking.
• No physical drugs need to be found in the accused’s possession.

Law Enforcement Tactics

• Wiretaps, confidential informants, and surveillance play a major role in these cases.
• Misinterpretations or misleading evidence can sometimes result in false charges.

Defending Against Conspiracy Allegations

• Challenging weak or circumstantial evidence.
• Proving lack of involvement or knowledge of the alleged trafficking operation.

A skilled attorney can analyze the details of the case and fight for the best possible outcome.

How We Can Help

An experienced Santa Rosa drug trafficking lawyer can provide critical assistance when facing serious drug trafficking charges. These charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Having a knowledgeable Santa Rosa drug trafficking attorney on your side ensures your rights are protected and that you receive a fair trial.

• Challenging Evidence: The evidence against you will be carefully examined by your attorney for signs of illegal searches, improper police conduct, or violations of your constitutional rights. If any evidence was obtained unlawfully, it can be suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.
• Developing a Strong Defense: Your lawyer will build a tailored defense strategy based on the specifics of your case. This could involve challenging the intent to distribute, disputing the quantity of drugs involved, or arguing that you were wrongfully accused.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, an attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or lighter sentencing, potentially avoiding the harshest penalties of a conviction.
• Representing You in Court: If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will provide vigorous representation, using legal knowledge and trial experience to present a strong defense and fight for the best possible outcome.

Our Experienced Santa Rosa Drug Trafficking Lawyers Can Help

At the Wilber Law Offices, P.C., we understand the serious nature of drug trafficking charges and know what is at stake. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf and provide you with the effective legal representation you need and deserve. As some of the top-rated drug trafficking defense attorneys in Santa Rosa, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Drug Trafficking Charges

Can I Be Charged With Drug Trafficking if I Didn’t Sell Any Drugs?

• Yes. You don’t need to be caught selling drugs to face trafficking charges. Simply possessing a large quantity of drugs, packaging materials, or large amounts of cash can lead to trafficking allegations.

What Should I Do if Law Enforcement Wants to Question Me About Drug Trafficking?

• You have the right to remain silent and should not answer questions without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, so it's crucial to consult an attorney before speaking to authorities.

Can Drug Trafficking Charges Be Dropped or Reduced?

• Yes, depending on the circumstances. If there was an illegal search, lack of evidence, or issues with the investigation, charges may be reduced or dismissed. A skilled defense attorney can negotiate for lesser charges or alternative sentencing options.

Will a Drug Trafficking Conviction Affect My Immigration Status?

• Yes. A conviction for drug trafficking can lead to deportation or make you ineligible for a visa, green card, or U.S. citizenship. If you are a non-citizen, it’s critical to seek legal representation immediately.

How Does a Prior Criminal Record Impact My Drug Trafficking Case?

• If you have prior drug-related convictions, you could face harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines. Repeat offenses may also trigger mandatory minimum sentencing laws.

Can My Property Be Seized in a Drug Trafficking Case?

• Yes. Under asset forfeiture laws, the government can seize property, money, or vehicles they believe were used in drug trafficking. However, an attorney can challenge the seizure and work to recover your property.

How Long Do Drug Trafficking Investigations Last?

• It depends on the case. Some investigations take weeks, while others can last months or even years, especially if federal agencies like the DEA or FBI are involved.

Get Experienced Legal Defense Now! Our attorneys are ready to fight for you. Contact us at (707) 986-4482 to discuss your case.