Ohio Drug Crime Lawyers—Federal Drug Crimes

Criminal activity that crosses state lines and U.S. borders falls under federal jurisdiction, which is why drug trafficking cases are often heard in the federal justice system. Our Ohio drug crime lawyers at Yavitch & Palmer have experience aggressively defending clients’ rights in federal courts. We take your case seriously and do everything legally possible to provide you with the most effective defense.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

The DEA is the main federal agency that enforces federal drug laws and battles against drug trafficking, drug violence, and drug cartels that smuggle drugs into the United States. The DEA works in conjunction with the FBI, the Department of Justice, and local police systems to dismantle drug trafficking operations.

Difference between state and federal prosecution

In rare instances, cases may be tried at both state and federal levels, and such prosecution does not constitute double jeopardy. However, generally when drug crime falls under both federal and state jurisdictions, the case is heard at the federal level.

Federal drug charges include offenses involving drug possession, sale, distribution, manufacture, packaging, and trafficking. Federal courts typically hear drug trafficking cases which local district attorneys refer for federal prosecution, often because they seek stiffer sentencing.

Under federal law, drugs are classified according to schedules, which define the type of drug and drug quantities. Overall, penalties under federal conviction are harsher than under state conviction, especially when involving Schedule I and II drug convictions.

While relating the laws to your particular case, a drug crime lawyer in Ohio can explain in detail the differences between federal and state level drug charges.

Federal sentencing guidelines—imprisonment, fines, and prison systems

Federal convictions are subject to federal sentencing guidelines, and federal drug conviction penalties include:

• Denied federal benefits. Drug conviction can result in loss of the following benefits:

• School loans Grants Scholarships

  Contracts Licenses

• Personal property and real estate forfeiture. When convicted and sentenced to more than one year in prison, the government may seize personal or real property connected with the drug offense, such as cars, houses, or personal belongings.
• Drug trafficking Penalties. Convictions for death or seriously bodily injury that results from drug trafficking have mandatory life imprisonment sentences and fines that range up to $8 million.
• Drug possession penalties. Fines range from $1,000 to $100,000. Subsequent convictions have higher minimum fines.

Rely on skilled drug crime lawyers in Ohio

We are serious about defending your rights in the most effective way possible. Call our firm at 614-224-6142 or fill out the web contact form to arrange a consultation with an Ohio drug crime lawyer.