Escondido Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Aggressive Defense for Serious Drug Charges

Drug trafficking is a very serious crime that carries severe penalties if you are convicted. In California, drug trafficking is a felony offense, meaning that a conviction can result in years or even decades behind bars, as well as substantial fines and other penalties. If you are facing drug trafficking charges, you need to take immediate action to protect yourself and your rights. Our Escondido drug trafficking attorney is ready to assist you.

At Sterger Law Group, we know how to fight for you. Attorney Sara D. Sterger is a former prosecutor who has handled thousands of cases and earned a reputation for her aggressive and effective defense strategies. Our team is prepared to guide you through the legal process and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

Call us at (760) 280-7900 or contact us online to get started with a confidential case evaluation with an experienced Escondido drug trafficking attorney.

What Is Drug Trafficking?

Drug trafficking, also referred to as drug distribution, involves the sale, transportation, and/or importation of controlled substances. The specific charges and penalties you face for drug trafficking will depend on the type of drug involved, the amount of the drug involved, and whether you are facing state or federal charges.

State vs. Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

In most cases, drug trafficking is a state crime. However, certain types of drug trafficking cases are prosecuted at the federal level. Generally, drug trafficking cases are prosecuted federally when the defendant is accused of trafficking drugs across state lines or international borders.

Penalties for Federal Drug Trafficking 

The penalties for federal drug trafficking charges are often much more severe than the penalties for state drug trafficking charges. This is because the federal government has a vested interest in cracking down on the drug trade and is more focused on punishment than on rehabilitation.

The penalties for federal drug trafficking charges are as follows:

• First offense: Minimum 5 years in federal prison, maximum 40 years; if death or serious injury occurs as a result of the drug trafficking, minimum 20 years in federal prison, maximum life in prison
• Second offense: Minimum 10 years in federal prison, maximum life in prison; if death or serious injury occurs as a result of the drug trafficking, minimum life in prison without parole
• Third offense: Minimum life in prison without parole

In addition to these prison terms, you can also face substantial fines. The fines for federal drug trafficking charges can be as high as $10 million if you are an individual or $50 million if you are an organization.

It is also important to note that, in addition to these criminal penalties, a federal drug trafficking conviction can have severe collateral consequences. For example, you could lose your right to vote, your right to own a firearm, and/or your right to work in certain industries, such as education or law enforcement.

At Sterger Law Group, we handle both state and federal drug trafficking cases. No matter the specific charges you are facing, we have the experience, skill, and determination to fight for you.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking in California?

As previously mentioned, drug trafficking is a felony offense in California. The specific penalties you face for a drug trafficking conviction will depend on the type and amount of drug you are accused of trafficking. The penalties can also be enhanced if you are accused of trafficking drugs near a school, in a residential area, or to a minor.

Penalties for drug trafficking in California can include:

• 3, 4, or 5 years in state prison
• Up to $20,000 in fines
• Probation or parole

Again, the penalties for drug trafficking in California can be very severe, particularly if you are accused of trafficking large amounts of drugs and/or you have prior drug trafficking convictions on your record. You could also face additional penalties, such as mandatory drug testing, mandatory drug treatment, and more.

Defending Against Drug Trafficking Charges

If you are facing drug trafficking charges, you may feel hopeless. The evidence against you may seem overwhelming, and you may be unsure of what to do next. Fortunately, you are not alone. Our Escondido drug trafficking lawyer is here to help.

At Sterger Law Group, we can help you fight drug trafficking charges by:

• Investigating the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence against you
• Looking for any possible violations of your constitutional rights, such as an illegal search and seizure
• Examining the evidence to determine if there is any reasonable doubt as to your guilt
• Looking for any potential defenses, such as a lack of knowledge of the drugs
• Working to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed
• Aggressively representing you in court and at trial

When you need a drug trafficking attorney in Escondido, turn to Sterger Law Group. We are committed to providing you with the personalized legal representation you deserve and will fight to secure the best possible outcome in your case. 

Call us at (760) 280-7900 or contact us online to get started with a confidential case evaluation with an experienced Escondido drug trafficking attorney.