(Last Updated On: October 17, 2023)Last Updated on: 17th October 2023, 10:57 pm
Brooklyn Drug Transportation Lawyers: Your Best Defense Against Drug Charges
Getting arrested for drug transportation charges in Brooklyn can be scary. The penalties are harsh, and the laws are complicated. But with an experienced Brooklyn drug transportation lawyer on your side, you can get the best possible outcome for your case.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about fighting drug transportation charges in Brooklyn. We’ll look at common defenses, explain the specific laws, and help you understand what’s at stake so you can make smart choices if you’re facing charges.
Drug Transportation Laws in Brooklyn
There are two main laws in New York that apply to drug transportation charges:
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance (CPCS)
- Criminal sale of a controlled substance (CSCS)
CPCS applies when you knowingly and unlawfully possess drugs, even if you don’t intend to sell them. CSCS is for actually selling or transporting drugs with the intent to sell them to someone else.
The specific charges and penalties depend on:
- The type and weight of the drugs
- Where you were caught with them
- Whether you have any prior drug convictions
For example, possession of over 4 ounces or selling 2 grams of cocaine is a Class B felony. That can mean up to 9 years in prison. Meanwhile, possession of small amounts of marijuana is just a violation with a $100 fine.
School zones and public transit bring much harsher punishments. Getting caught selling drugs on a subway or near a school adds an extra year or more to your sentence if convicted.
Common Defenses Against Drug Transportation Charges
Fighting drug transportation charges starts with understanding the prosecutor’s burden of proof. They have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- You knowingly possessed illegal drugs
- You intended to sell or transport those drugs to someone else
Poking holes in either of those things can get your charges reduced or dismissed. Here are some of the most common defenses:
Lack of Intent
For any drug sale or transportation charges, the prosecution must prove you intended to distribute or sell the drugs. If the drugs were just for personal use, that takes away the criminal intent required for a conviction.
Of course, the amount of drugs involved matters. Having a few grams may look like personal use, but kilos of cocaine likely point to distribution. This is where an experienced drug crimes lawyer knows how to argue intent even with large amounts of drugs.
No Actual Drugs
Believe it or not, people sometimes get charged with possessing or selling drugs when no drugs actually existed. This happens when an informant lies or the police make false assumptions.
In these fake drug cases, a skilled lawyer can challenge the validity of the alleged drugs and the testing procedures used to identify them. This comes down to exposing sloppy police work and making the prosecutors prove their case.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Another common defense strategy is attacking how the police obtained the evidence. If the search or traffic stop that uncovered the drugs was illegal, the evidence may be excluded.
Police need probable cause for searches without a warrant. They also can’t prolong traffic stops longer than reasonably needed to issue a ticket. Any violations of your rights could make the evidence inadmissible.
Entrapment
Entrapment defenses argue that police improperly tricked or coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have. This applies to undercover drug stings where informants hassle someone for weeks begging them to provide drugs.
Judges and juries don’t look kindly on these overzealous tactics. But an experienced lawyer needs to carefully document the timeline of events to prove entrapment.
Why You Need an Experienced Drug Crimes Lawyer
Trying to navigate Brooklyn’s complex drug laws alone is dangerous. Drug charges come with life-changing penalties that can follow you forever.
Unlike a public defender who juggles hundreds of cases, a private Brooklyn drug crimes lawyer focuses solely on defending people like you. They know every defense angle to fight for an acquittal or get your charges reduced.
An experienced lawyer also knows the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures. This helps them craft an effective defense and negotiate favorable plea deals when needed.
Don’t leave your fate to chance. The right drug transportation lawyer in Brooklyn can make all the difference.
How an Attorney Defends Drug Transportation Cases
Wondering how a drug crimes lawyer actually defends drug transportation charges? Here’s a quick overview of the defense process:
- Review police reports for illegal searches, faulty evidence, or other constitutional violations.
- Analyze the prosecutor’s evidence and devise defense strategies to create reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the DA for reduced charges or pretrial diversion programs.
- Suppress evidence through motions if there are 4th Amendment violations.
- Meticulously prepare for trial questioning all witnesses and evidence.
- Present the best defense at trial focusing on intent, entrapment, false evidence, etc.
- Make appeals if necessary to fight the conviction and sentence.
This takes an intimate understanding of criminal law and trial experience that only a seasoned drug crimes attorney has. Public defenders simply don’t have the time or resources to mount this type of aggressive defense.
Finding the Right Drug Crimes Lawyer in Brooklyn
The stakes are high when facing drug charges, so you need a lawyer you can trust. Here are some tips for finding the best drug transportation attorney in Brooklyn for your case:
- Look for 10+ years of experience specifically handling drug cases in Brooklyn.
- Find someone who is familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures.
- Choose a lawyer focused solely on criminal defense, not a general practice attorney.
- Meet with lawyers for a free consultation before deciding.
- Read online reviews, but take them with a grain of salt.
- Ask about case results and the specific defenses they’ve used.
- Get fee details upfront – never work with someone demanding money right away.
With an experienced drug transportation lawyer in your corner, you can face the charges with confidence knowing your rights are protected. Don’t leave your fate to chance – get the representation you deserve.
What to Expect at Your First Meeting
If you’re worried about those first conversations with a lawyer, here’s what to expect at your initial consultation:
- The lawyer will ask questions about your arrest, the police conduct, and any statements you made.
- They’ll want to know about your past record, employment, ties to the community, and ability to pay legal fees.
- You’ll discuss defense strategies and the lawyer will give their honest take on your options.
- The meeting helps you get a feel for their experience and whether you can work together.
- Never feel judged or uncomfortable – they’ve seen it all and are there to defend you.
Come prepared with any documents related to your case. Making a good first impression helps get your relationship with your lawyer off on the right foot.
Takeaways on Fighting Brooklyn Drug Charges
Here are the key takeaways to remember about drug transportation charges in Brooklyn:
- The laws and penalties are complex, harsh, and unforgiving – don’t go it alone.
- An experienced drug crimes lawyer knows how to attack the prosecutor’s evidence and intent.
- Raising reasonable doubt by suppressing evidence or arguing entrapment can beat the charges.
- Negotiating plea deals and appealing sentences are also important defense tools.
- The right lawyer makes all the difference – find someone experienced and trustworthy.
Facing drug charges is scary, but you have rights. Call a dedicated Brooklyn drug transportation lawyer today for a free consultation and start fighting back.
References
New York Penal Code Section 220.00 – Controlled Substances Offenses
Entrapment – USLegal Criminal Law
New York City Criminal Court Specialized Parts