Northwest Louisiana Drug Trafficking Lawyer
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Aggressive Defense for State and Federal Drug Trafficking Charges
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for drug trafficking, you need a Louisiana drug trafficking lawyer who understands the seriousness of what you are up against.
Drug trafficking is treated as a major felony under both Louisiana and federal law, often involving accusations of distributing, transporting, or possessing large amounts of illegal drugs. These drug charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines, even for first-time offenders. Whether your case involves state law enforcement or federal agencies, the consequences of a conviction can change your life forever.
Michael J. Vergis is a criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling drug crimes in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Northwest Louisiana. He defends clients charged with drug possession, trafficking, and related offenses in both state and federal court.
If you are facing drug trafficking charges or believe you are being investigated, time is not on your side. Call The Law Office of Michael J. Vergis at (318) 698-3724 to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Louisiana felony defense attorney and start building your defense today.
What is Considered Drug Trafficking?
A drug trafficking offense typically involves the transportation, sale, or intent to distribute large amounts of controlled substances, which goes far beyond simple possession for personal use. While possession with intent may be charged when someone has drugs and items like scales or baggies, trafficking charges are triggered when the weight or quantity of the drugs exceeds certain thresholds under Louisiana or federal law.
Even if there is no actual sale, being caught with a large amount of drugs can lead to trafficking charges. These types of drug crimes carry severe penalties, regardless of whether the substance has an accepted medical use or not.
Louisiana Drug Trafficking Laws
Under La. R.S. 40:966 – 40:989, a drug trafficking offense involves the manufacturing, distribution, or transportation of large amounts of controlled substances. Unlike drug possession for personal use, trafficking usually involves larger quantities and is more closely linked with possession with intent to distribute. As such, a drug-related crime under these statutes carries harsh penalties, including mandatory prison time and steep fines.
Louisiana classifies drugs into five schedules, ranging from highly addictive substances with no accepted medical use to prescription drugs with a lower potential for abuse. Examples of drugs that are commonly associated with drug trafficking charges include:
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamine
- Cocaine
- Oxycodone
- Heroin
- Fentanyl
Transporting Drugs Across State Lines (Interstate Trafficking)
Transporting drugs across state lines is a serious offense that can quickly escalate a state-level drug trafficking charge to federal charges, especially if the case involves large-scale drug distribution. Because these drug crimes often fall under federal jurisdiction, the penalties are typically much harsher than in state cases.
If you are being investigated or have already been arrested for interstate drug trafficking, seeking aggressive criminal defense representation is important. At The Law Offices of Michael J Vergis, our experienced criminal lawyers in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA can handle cases at both the state and federal level and are prepared to fight by your side.
Federal Drug Trafficking Laws
Federal drug trafficking laws apply when a controlled substance is moved across state lines, involves large quantities, or triggers the interest of the federal government, such as through DEA investigations.
Charges are typically brought under federal statutes 21 U.S.C. §§ 841 and 846, which cover the manufacture, distribution, and conspiracy to traffic drugs. These drug charges often carry enhanced penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences ranging from 5 to 20 years (depending on the amount of drug in possession and if death or serious bodily injury occurred because of the drug).
Unlike state cases, federal prosecutions are based on violations of interstate commerce laws and are handled in federal court. If you are facing federal drug crimes, having the help of experienced drug crimes attorneys on your side from the beginning can make all the difference in how your case plays out.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Louisiana and Federal Court
A drug offense involving controlled substances can lead to life-changing consequences in both state and federal courts. Whether you are facing drug charges for local drug distribution or a federal case involving interstate trafficking, the penalties are severe, especially if there are prior convictions or aggravating factors.
Possible penalties include:
- Lengthy prison sentences, including life imprisonment for repeat offenses or large-scale operations
- Millions of dollars in fines
- Asset forfeiture, including vehicles, cash, or property tied to the offense
- Steep mandatory minimum sentences under federal law
- Sentencing enhancements for firearm possession, offenses near schools, or previous drug convictions
Convictions for this type of drug crime also result in a permanent criminal record, which stays with you long after you’ve completed your sentence. Skilled criminal defense attorneys such as Michael Vergis are essential in developing a strong defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for your future against such high-stakes allegations.
Why You Need an Experienced Northwest Louisiana Drug Trafficking Lawyer
When you are charged with a drug crime, the stakes could not be higher; a conviction can lead to hefty fines, a permanent criminal record, and life-altering consequences. That is why it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side.
Michael J. Vergis, a Shreveport-Bossier City drug crime lawyer, provides aggressive representation and personalized attention to each case, using a defense strategy built on decades of experience in state and federal courtrooms.
He thoroughly understands Louisiana drug laws and federal sentencing guidelines, and knows how to build strong defenses, seek reduced charges, or argue for alternative sentencing when possible. Whether negotiating with prosecutors or challenging unlawful evidence, his goal is always to protect your future and pursue a favorable outcome.
Defenses to Drug Trafficking Charges
If you are facing drug charges, knowing that several possible defenses may apply to your case is important. A well-planned defense can raise reasonable doubt about your involvement in the alleged drug offense, potentially leading to reduced charges or dismissal. As a seasoned criminal defense lawyer, Mike Vergis takes a strategic approach to each drug crime case, carefully reviewing the facts to pursue the most aggressive legal defense and the most favorable outcome for his clients.
Some potential defenses to drug trafficking charges include:
- Lack of knowledge or intent
- Illegal search and seizure (violations of your Fourth Amendment rights)
- Errors in the chain of custody for the evidence
- Entrapment by law enforcement officers
- Challenging the drug quantity or classification involved in the arrest
Each case is different, and Attorney Michael J. Vergis will evaluate all available options to build the strongest defense possible.
Facing Drug Trafficking Charges in Shreveport or Bossier City? Contact Michael J. Vergis
If you’ve been accused of drug trafficking or another drug-related offense, whether under Louisiana law or federal law, it’s essential to speak with an attorney before talking to law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you, and without legal representation, you risk facing serious consequences without a clear strategy to protect your rights and best interest.
At the Law Office of Michael J. Vergis, our experienced attorneys understand the challenges of the legal system and bring extensive experience in both state and federal drug cases. From the moment you contact our law firm, we are committed to building a strong, strategic defense tailored to your situation.
We offer a free and confidential consultation to help you understand your options and begin taking the right steps forward. Call (318) 698-3724 or fill out our online contact form to request your free consultation today.
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