Michigan Drug Distribution Lawyer

Understanding Federal Drug Distribution Charges

Federal drug distribution charges are similar to state charges, with the main difference being whether the case is in state or federal court. A drug case is often picked up by the feds if federal investigators were involved (like the DEA, ATF, or FBI), or if the person was found with large quantities of drugs, if a firearm was involved, if there was distribution resulting in death, or if the person has a prior history of drug dealing. These charges are taken seriously by federal law enforcement and prosecuted under the Controlled Substances Act, which classifies drugs into different schedules based on their potential for abuse.

If someone is convicted of federal drug charges, they can face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory supervised release following their prison term.

How to Find an Experienced Drug Lawyer

If you have been charged with drug distribution, it is crucial to hire an experienced drug distribution lawyer as soon as possible. Ask any potential lawyers whether they are familiar with the court in which your case has been charged and how many similar cases their firm has handled. Ask what their approach would be to filing motions to suppress and challenging the evidence before trial. Pay careful attention to their strategy in advance of and at the preliminary examination if charged in a Michigan state case, as that will give you an idea of how well prepared your attorney will be at trial. To speak with an experienced drug attorney today with a high rate of success throughout Michigan and in federal courts nationwide, reach out to SBBL Law’s drug attorneys for a free consultation.

Drug distribution charges are serious and can carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that can affect your future employment and housing opportunities.

According to one source, Michigan had 20,784 controlled substance violations in a single year. There were also 4,501 narcotic equipment violations. A Michigan drug distribution attorney will help:

• Build a strong defense in your favor
• Investigate the evidence against you
• Challenge any unlawful searches and seizures
• Negotiate on your behalf for reduced penalties
• Represent you in court if your case goes to trial

Your lawyer’s knowledge of drug distribution cases and Michigan drug distribution laws will contribute to your defense, giving you a stronger advantage.

Penalties for Drug Distribution in Michigan

Penalties for drug distribution in Michigan depend mainly on the type and amount of the drug that is found. Typically speaking, drugs that are considered a greater danger to the public, meaning they have a greater chance of abuse and little to no accepted medical use, will result in steeper penalties. Additionally, larger quantities will generally result in harsher penalties than having smaller quantities. The person’s prior criminal history, particular in drug-related offenses, will also have a huge impact on the sentence in Michigan cases.

Typical penalties under Michigan law include:

• Manufacturing, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver 1,000 grams or more of a Schedule 1 or 2 narcotic is punishable by life or any term of years, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both.
• Four hundred fifty grams to less than 1,000 grams is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, or by a fine of up to $500,000, or by both.
• Possession or distribution of a Schedule 1 or 2 narcotic between 50 grams and 450 grams leads to potential imprisonment for up to 20 years and/or monetary penalties up to $250,000.
• Distribution of less than 50 grams is still a felony, punishable by up to 20 years and up to $25,000 in fines.

Additionally, Michigan imposes even harsher penalties if the alleged crime is committed near schools, around children, or results in the serious injury or death of another person. Additional aggravating circumstances that could result in steeper penalties include having prior related convictions, having abnormally large quantities of the drug, distributing in public spaces, or distributing across state lines.