While people’s attitudes about drug use and drug possession have changed significantly over the past few years, those attitudes aren’t always so generous when it comes to people charged with the distribution or trafficking of drugs. Being charged with distribution can result in very harsh penalties, leading to long prison sentences and making life very difficult for the accused.
For people charged with distribution in Kentucky, it is important to get in touch with an attorney who knows the proper procedures required in these types of cases. The Kentucky criminal defense lawyers at Dan Carman and Attorneys are here to help. We provide skilled, aggressive legal representation to ensure that our clients have been treated fairly.
Kentucky Penalties for Distribution and Trafficking Charges
Drug trafficking and distribution is a felony in Kentucky. It is a very serious charge with penalties that can range from three years to life in prison. The charges depend on the type of substance, the quantity of the drug, the area in which distribution was intended and who the drugs were being sold to, among other possible factors.
The distribution and trafficking of certain substances will be treated much more severely than others. Distribution of heroin, for example, will typically be dealt with more severely than marijuana. Additionally, distributing to minors or in a school zone can make the penalties for distribution much harsher.
Many of our drug laws are based on and closely related to federal laws, and there are many circumstances in which drug charges are considered a federal crime. Possession charges often fall under the authority of state or local authorities, while drug distribution and trafficking can also be handled by federal authorities. Many drug distribution and trafficking penalties were designed to apply to high-level distributors, such as major drug cartels, who deal in large amounts of drugs, but these penalties often end up applying to lower-level dealers instead.
Drugs Related to Trafficking and Distribution
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Crack Cocaine
- Prescription Medications
- Heroin
- Methamphetamines
- Psychedelic Drugs
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
An attorney familiar with drug laws will know what to investigate and how to build a solid defense for their client. An attorney will make sure that the authorities followed necessary procedures when searches, seizures and arrests were made. They will also look at other circumstances surrounding a case to make sure their client’s rights are being protected. Criminal defense attorneys can often find ways to have certain charges dismissed or lessened, thereby making the penalties less harsh.
If you or a loved one has been charged, or suspect that you will be charged with possession with the intent to distribute in Kentucky, call Dan Carman and Attorneys. Our attorneys are experienced in all areas of criminal defense. Time is often of the essence when someone is placed under arrest, so it’s important to reach out to us as soon as possible. We understand how important cases are to our clients and their families, and we work tirelessly to make sure their needs are met. Contact Dan Carman and Attorneys today.
