Franklin Drug Trafficking Attorney

What are the Legal Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges?

Defending against drug trafficking charges involves various legal strategies, depending on the specifics of the case. Here are some common legal defenses used in drug trafficking cases:

• Illegal Search and Seizure
• Lack of Knowledge / Mistake of fact
• Entrapment
• Insufficient Evidence
• Coercion or Duress
• Mistaken Identity
• Alibi
• Police Misconduct

These defenses depend on the specifics of each case, and effective defense strategies are often tailored to the details and circumstances surrounding the charges. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential for evaluating these options and building a strong defense.

The Impact of Drug Trafficking Convictions on Future Opportunities

A conviction for drug trafficking can have long-lasting consequences that affect multiple areas of life. Even after serving a sentence, individuals may face significant barriers in employment, immigration status, housing, and family law matters.

Employment Challenges

• Many employers conduct background checks before hiring.
• A drug trafficking conviction can lead to automatic disqualification for jobs, especially in fields like healthcare, education, and government.
• Some states allow expungement, but drug trafficking charges are often more difficult to clear than minor drug offenses.

Immigration Consequences

• Non-citizens convicted of drug trafficking may face deportation, even if they are lawful permanent residents.
• Immigration authorities take drug-related offenses seriously, and many trafficking convictions make individuals ineligible for visas, green cards, or citizenship.
• A conviction could also result in mandatory detention with limited options for legal relief.

Housing and Public Assistance Eligibility

• Public housing authorities may deny applications from individuals with drug trafficking convictions.
• Some federal and state assistance programs disqualify people with felony drug convictions, making it harder to access food stamps, housing vouchers, and financial aid.
• Private landlords may also refuse to rent to someone with a criminal drug record.

Effects on Family Law

• A drug trafficking conviction can negatively impact custody battles and parental rights.
• Courts may view a conviction as evidence of an unsafe environment for children.
• Parents with a trafficking conviction may face supervised visitation or even loss of custody.

Drug Trafficking and Asset Forfeiture

When someone is charged with drug trafficking, law enforcement may seize their assets under civil asset forfeiture laws. This process allows the government to take property suspected of being connected to illegal drug activity.

• What Can Be Seized?
  • Vehicles used to transport drugs
  • Homes where drug-related activity allegedly took place
  • Cash, bank accounts, or other financial assets linked to drug sales
• How Asset Forfeiture Affects the Accused
  • The government can seize assets even if the person is not convicted of drug trafficking.
  • Losing essential property, like a home or car, can create financial hardship.
  • It can be difficult to recover seized property, as the burden of proof often falls on the owner.
• Defending Against Asset Forfeiture
  • Hiring an experienced attorney is crucial to challenge the seizure.
  • The accused must prove that their property was not involved in criminal activity.
  • Some states have passed laws requiring the government to show stronger evidence before seizing assets.
• Steps to Take if Your Assets Are Seized
  • Act quickly—many jurisdictions have strict deadlines to contest asset forfeiture.
  • File a claim challenging the government’s seizure in court.
  • Gather evidence showing that the property was obtained legally.
  • Consult a lawyer who specializes in asset forfeiture cases.

Contact Our Franklin Drug Trafficking Attorneys Now!

Facing drug trafficking charges is a serious matter with potentially severe consequences, including long prison sentences, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. 

Here is how we can help you in handling drug trafficking charges:

• We can  develop a tailored defense strategy based on the specifics of your case, such as challenging evidence, asserting legal defenses, or negotiating plea deals.
• We ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process, including your right to a fair trial and protection from unlawful search and seizure.
• We advise you on how to interact with law enforcement and ensure that any statements you make are legally sound.
• We handle the preparation and filing of necessary legal documents, ensuring they are completed accurately and submitted on time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Trafficking Charges in Tennessee

What should I do if I’m arrested for drug trafficking? 

• If you are arrested, remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss your case with law enforcement without an attorney present. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and build a strong defense strategy.

How is drug trafficking different from drug possession? 

• Drug possession typically refers to having a controlled substance for personal use, while drug trafficking involves the manufacture, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs. The penalties for trafficking are much more severe than for possession.

Can I be charged with drug trafficking even if I didn’t sell drugs? 

• Yes, you can be charged with drug trafficking if you are found in possession of a significant quantity of drugs, even if there is no evidence of a sale. Prosecutors may argue that the quantity suggests an intent to distribute.

What are the potential penalties for a drug trafficking conviction in Tennessee? 

• Penalties vary based on the type and amount of drug involved, but they can range from one year to life in prison, along with substantial fines. Federal charges may result in even harsher sentences.

Will a drug trafficking charge affect my ability to get a job? 

• A conviction can have serious consequences on employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks, and a drug trafficking conviction can make it difficult to secure certain jobs, particularly in government, healthcare, and education sectors.

Can drug trafficking charges be reduced or dismissed? 

• Yes, depending on the circumstances, charges may be reduced or dismissed through plea negotiations, procedural errors, or lack of sufficient evidence. An experienced defense attorney can help explore these options.

What defenses can be used against drug trafficking charges? 

Common defenses include illegal search and seizure, lack of knowledge, mistaken identity, entrapment, and insufficient evidence. Your attorney will evaluate the details of your case to determine the best defense strategy.

Schedule a Free Consultation Protect your rights—contact us at (615) 933-2454 to book a confidential consultation now.