Were you arrested for suspicion of transporting, selling, or distributing illegal substances? In the state of Arizona, drug trafficking is a felony offense with some of the harshest penalties in the state, especially when large quantities or dangerous drugs are involved.
Unfortunately, this can sound overwhelming to someone in your position. However, you’re not alone. Even though the consequences can include mandatory prison time, massive fines, and a felony record that can follow you for life, a Tempe drug trafficking defense lawyer can help.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we take these charges seriously. As your Tempe drug crimes lawyer, you can trust us to act as your voice in action. With over decades of experience representing people in your position, you need Suzuki.
Arizona’s Drug Trafficking Laws
Under Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 13-3408, drug trafficking is a charge that refers to your involvement in the selling, manufacturing, transporting, or possessing with the intent to sell narcotic drugs. Narcotic drugs include substances such as heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl.
Engaging in any of these activities without proper authorization is considered a felony offense. If you are accused of any of these behaviors, a Tempe criminal defense lawyer is the one to call.
Classification of Drug Trafficking Offenses in Arizona
Drug trafficking offenses are classified based on the specific actions that you allegedly took and the quantity of drugs that are supposedly involved in the situation. Here’s how they are broken down:
- Possession or use of a narcotic drug: Class 4 felony
- Possession of a narcotic drug for sale: Class 2 felony
- Manufacture of a narcotic drug: Class 2 felony
- Transportation for sale, importation, or offer to sell a narcotic drug: Class 2 felony
It’s important to note that certain offenses—such as the sale or possession for sale of fentanyl in amounts of 200 grams or more—carry enhanced penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking Offenses
The penalties for drug trafficking offenses vary depending on the classification of the felony and the presence of any aggravating factors. Here’s what you might have to expect in response to a first-time offense:
- Class 2 felony: 4 to 10 years in prison
- Class 3 felony: 2.5 to 8.75 years in prison
- Class 4 felony: 1 to 3.75 years in prison
Repeat offenders usually endure far more serious penalties, namely increased prison terms and a reduction in their eligibility for parole or probation. Additionally, people who are convicted of drug trafficking offenses may be subject to the following as conditions of probation:
- Substantial fines
- Mandatory drug testing
- Community restitution hours
Aggravating Factors and Enhanced Penalties
Several factors can lead to enhanced penalties for drug trafficking offenses:
- Involvement of minors: Selling or distributing drugs to minors or near schools can result in increased penalties.
- Crossing state or international borders: Transporting drugs across state or international lines can lead to federal charges, which carry harsher penalties than state-level charges.
- Prior convictions: Those who already have previous drug-related convictions may face longer sentences and reduced eligibility for parole.
Legal Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges
When you hire drug trafficking defense attorneys in Tempe, your legal counsel might apply any of the following legal defenses in your case:
- Lack of knowledge: If you were unaware of the presence of drugs, this may serve as a defense.
- Illegal search and seizure: Evidence obtained through unlawful searches or seizures without probable cause might be regarded as inadmissible in court.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit the offense, an entrapment defense may be applicable.
- Insufficient evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence can lead to a dismissal of charges in some cases.
The Potential Impact of Drug Trafficking Charges on Your Professional and Personal Life
A conviction for drug trafficking can have far-reaching consequences beyond any legal penalties that you also have to endure:
- Employment: A felony conviction can hinder your job prospects, and it can also result in you being terminated from your current place of employment.
- Housing: Those who have felony convictions on their records might face difficulties when it comes to securing housing.
- Civil rights: Certain rights—such as voting and firearm ownership—might be restricted as a result of a felony conviction.
Contact Our Drug Trafficking Defense Law Firm in Tempe Today to Learn More About What We Can Do for You
If you are facing drug trafficking charges, don’t wait to reach out to Suzuki Law Offices. Our Tempe drug trafficking defense lawyers have an in-depth understanding of Arizona’s drug laws, mandatory sentencing guidelines, and prosecutorial strategies.
We are prepared to examine every detail of your case and identify weaknesses in the evidence that is presented by the state. You can trust us to work tirelessly as we develop a strong and strategic defense that reflects your side of the story while upholding your constitutional rights.
Don’t hesitate to ask our drug trafficking defense attorneys in Tempe for help. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can start investigating the facts, building your case, and taking the necessary steps to protect your freedom, your future, and everything you’ve worked for.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form