Often times, when an individual is found to be in possession of an excessive amount of drugs, he or she will face charges for drug trafficking. In Pennsylvania, drug trafficking is a felony offense that generally results in significant prison time. If you have been arrested and charged with drug trafficking, contacting a Philadelphia drug defense attorney is essential to protecting your freedom from a determined prosecution.
Drug Trafficking Lawyer in Philadelphia
The experienced legal team at LLF Law Firm has handled many drug charge cases throughout Pennsylvania, and they understand the importance of developing a thorough defense strategy, including numerous clients who were accused of drug trafficking.
Call LLF Law Firm at (888) 535-3686 to schedule your first consultation appointment. We can review the facts in your case and develop a unique strategy, designed to help you fight for not guilty verdicts and case dismissals while avoiding the most severe penalties associated with your alleged offense.
Information on Drug Trafficking Crimes in Pennsylvania
- An Explanation of Drug Trafficking Charges
- Penalties for Trafficking Schedule I or II Drugs in Philadelphia
- Pennsylvania's Penalties for Trafficking in Marijuana
An Explanation of Drug Trafficking Charges
In Pennsylvania, it is against the law for an individual to cultivate, deliver, sell or transport drugs. If an individual is found to be in possession of drugs that he or she has manufactured or is attempting to deliver or distribute, he or she can be charged with drug trafficking. Substances that are most commonly trafficked in Philadelphia include:
- Marijuana
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Oxycodone
- Vicodin
- Valium
- LSD
- Ecstasy (Molly)
- Methamphetamine
Although this offense is similar to possession with intent to sell, the major difference between these two offenses is usually the amount of drugs involved. Drug trafficking charges generally involve a substantial amount of illegal narcotics or other substances.
Penalties for Trafficking Schedule I or II Drugs in Philadelphia
The penalties for drug trafficking can vary depending on the amount and type of drug involved in the alleged offense. Drug trafficking charges frequently involve drugs from Schedule I and II. According to 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 7508, the mandatory minimum penalties are as follows:
- 2-10 grams: Two years in prison and a $5,000 fine
- 10-100 grams: Three years in prison and a $15,000 fine
- Over 100 grams: Five years in prison and a $25,000 fine
The penalties mentioned above are associated with a first time drug trafficking offense. If the alleged offender has been previously convicted of this offense, he or she can face increased penalties.
Pennsylvania's Penalties for Trafficking in Marijuana
Section 7508 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes has separate penalties for drug trafficking crimes that involve marijuana. These mandatory minimum penalties for an offense in this category include:
- 2-10 pounds or 10-21 plants: One year in prison and a $5,000 fine
- 10-50 pounds or 21-51 plants: Three years in prison and a $15,000 fine
- Over 50 pounds or more than 51 plants: Five years in prison and a $50,000 fine
These penalties are the mandatory minimums, which means that an individual convicted of drug trafficking could be subjected to even harsher penalties than the ones listed above. If charged with drug trafficking, it would be beneficial to hire a drug defense lawyer who may be able to find mitigating factors that could lead to a dismissal or reduction of the charges against you.
Finding the Best Defense Attorney for Drug Trafficking Charges in Philadelphia
The team of dedicated defense lawyers at LLF Law Firm has the necessary experience and resources to provide you with the highest quality of legal representation. If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia, it is vital that you contact them immediately so they can begin preparing your case. Call (888) 535-3686 today to schedule a consultation.
