Any type of drug charge can cause problems in Indiana whether it is a controlled substance like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine; a drug that is considered less serious like marijuana or prescription medications. However, there are different levels to the charges a person can face that can increase the severity of the penalties if they are convicted of a crime.
There is a difference between possession of a small amount of a drug, having drug paraphernalia and allegations of drug trafficking. When there are accusations that a person is involved in drug trafficking, they need to be aware of what can lead to these charges and the possible consequences. Then it is essential to prepare a viable defense.
Understanding what constitutes drug trafficking and its penalties
Transporting or taking part in transactions related to controlled substances could be the catalyst for drug trafficking charges. This is not just related to buying and selling drugs. It includes manufacturing the drugs, distributing them, dispensing them or possessing them with the intention to take part in any of these activities.
For example, if a person is said to have been manufacturing methamphetamine in Indiana, they might be arrested for drug trafficking. In short, any involvement in controlled substances could reach this level of crime.
The penalties will depend on the alleged crime itself. Generally, drug trafficking is a felony and the level hinges on the drug. For cocaine, methamphetamine or heroin, those who have a minimum of 10 grams will be charged with a Level 2 felony.
A conviction could result in between 10 and 30 years in prison. They can also be fined more than $10,000. By contrast, having less than 1 gram would be a Level 5 felony. That will result in one to six years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
Drugs that are not deemed as serious, like marijuana, will not have these harsh penalties, but people can still face charges related to the drug as it has not yet been legalized in the Hoosier State.
Caring and qualified help can be key when fighting drug trafficking charges
When they hear the words “drug trafficking,” people tend to have visions of televised dramas with large-scale drug dealing. Often, these charges are lodged against people who might have been in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The immediate aftermath of an arrest for drug trafficking tends to leave a person wondering about their future. While they might feel as if they are being attacked from every angle, it is comforting to know they have someone on their side.
Contacting experienced people who know the terrain and have more than five decades of experience with a range of criminal cases can be helpful with the case and with addressing the emotional impact of the situation.
The last thing people who are facing an extended battle for their freedom wish to feel is as if they are being viewed negatively for assertions of wrongdoing. Empathetic guidance can make a major difference in moving forward and finding a positive outcome.
Given the complicated nature of the criminal justice system, it can make a positive difference to have experienced assistance from qualified legal professionals who understand how to assess charges, scrutinize the evidence and seek strategies for the case. This is especially important for drug charges that have wide-ranging ramifications from large fines, extended jail sentences and disfavor in the community.