Drug Trafficking Attorney in Columbia, MO

Drug trafficking charges come with some of the harshest penalties in Missouri. While smaller amounts of a substance typically result in a simple possession charge, larger amounts will trigger a trafficking charge. If interstate commerce is involved, you may be facing federal charges, threatening your present and prospects.

If you have been arrested for drug trafficking, it is crucial that you seek an attorney with proven results. At Landon Miller Law, our Columbia, MO, drug trafficking lawyer has experience in both prosecuting and defending drug charges. This experience has resulted in our firm securing favorable plea bargains for defendants, reducing their liability.

Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug trafficking is the sale, delivery, cultivation, or transportation of an illicit substance. If the transaction involves interstate commerce, then you will most likely be charged under federal law (21 U.S. Code §841). However, crossing state lines is not the only criterion for a federal investigation. If there is a large quantity of a substance, if you were arrested by a federal agent, if the trafficking occurred on federal property, or if a large-scale operation is involved, this would also warrant federal charges.

Missouri Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug trafficking is a felony offense in Missouri. The legislature classifies a drug trafficking offense as either first-degree trafficking or second-degree trafficking. First-degree trafficking will apply when a person knowingly distributes or produces, or attempts to distribute or produce, an illegal substance.

More than 30 grams of heroin, more than 500 milligrams of LSD, more than 30 kilograms of marijuana, and more than 10 milligrams of fentanyl may result in a first-degree trafficking charge. A class B felony, a conviction will result in five to 15 years in prison. If the substances involved increase to certain thresholds, the charge is enhanced to a class A felony, placing you at risk of being sentenced to 30 years in jail.

A defendant will be charged with drug trafficking in the second degree for having certain quantities in their possession, attempting to purchase such substances and quantities, or bringing such substances and quantities into the State. Under Missouri law, more than 30 grams of heroin, more than 500 milligrams of LSD, 30 kilograms of marijuana, more than 30 grams of methamphetamine, and more than 10 milligrams of fentanyl will result in a second-degree trafficking charge (a class C felony). If found guilty, you may be sentenced to three to ten years in jail and fined up to $10,000. However, certain thresholds can upgrade the charge to a class B felony.

Proving Your Guilt Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This is the highest burden in the law, demanding that the State present such convincing evidence that the trier of fact (a judge or jury) has no shadow of a doubt that the defendant committed the crime. An accomplished defense attorney has to place doubt in the minds of each juror, which requires finding any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. These weaknesses or inconsistencies may include issues with the law or the facts in your case.

When you work with our Columbia, MO, drug trafficking lawyer, you can rest assured that every aspect of your case is being scrutinized. We feel that justice is not fulfilled until every piece of evidence and legal argument is examined. If you are ready to take your case to the next level, give Landon Miller Law a call today.

Tenacious Representation From a Columbia Drug Trafficking Lawyer

If you are facing drug trafficking charges, you need to seek representation as soon as possible. Our Columbia, MO, drug trafficking attorney is committed to helping reduce or negate your culpability. While being charged does not automatically make you guilty, retaining counsel early in the process has been shown to result in a more favorable outcome. If you are interested in learning more about our services, contact Landon Miller Law today. Our office can be reached online or by phone at (573) 658-1919.