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DEA Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyers – Federal Criminal Defense
The Drug Enforcement Administration takes allegations of drug trafficking against individuals seriously, and you need an experienced and respected federal criminal defense attorney protecting your freedom and your rights. The DEA monitors and investigates drug trafficking violations throughout the United States. The DEA Office of Diversion Control coordinates with federal prosecutors on trafficking cases, and the United States District Courts handle these matters through federal courthouses nationwide.
An investigation and/or criminal prosecution can threaten an individual’s professional reputation and freedom. During the investigative stage, an experienced federal criminal defense attorney can assist the individual by responding to an inquiry from the DEA. This response may be in writing and/or in person during an investigative interview. With experienced defense counsel, an effective response may result in the investigation closing without a formal filing. This is absolutely critical.
The financial and emotional costs of a formal criminal filing can be overwhelming, and can tarnish a career given that the filing and charges of the individual’s violations are publicly available because criminal charges are posted to the federal court system, published in the media, and accessible through online databases. Even if the allegations are later disproven, the damaging effect may linger.
It is important to retain an experienced federal criminal defense attorney early. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the complexities of defending an individual’s freedom. Whether your legal problem arises from a DEA investigation, a filing by federal prosecutors, or a controlled delivery operation we can assist you in protecting your employment and freedom.
Our office is experienced defending individuals facing criminal prosecution(s) due to the following allegations:
Individuals are required to cooperate with criminal investigations when served with a grand jury subpoena and/or when contacted by federal law enforcement according to federal statutes. Any false statement to federal law enforcement can result in additional criminal charges. A DEA investigator will follow-up in writing requesting additional information if necessary and/or may request an interview.
The DEA and FBI may become involved in cases involving drug trafficking offenses. Agents from these offices and/or the United States Attorney’s Office have authority to investigate violations that may constitute criminal offenses under federal drug laws.
At Spodek Law Group we evaluate the best course of action for the individual by examining your circumstances and taking a proactive, understanding approach. As experienced federal criminal defense counsel, we represent individuals at all phases of the Criminal Proceedings including:
At Spodek Law Group, we also assist individuals with Cooperation Agreements and/or Sentencing Mitigation which have been previously denied. We pride ourselves on taking a comprehensive strategy to defend the individual’s freedom. Over 40 years combined experience – really.
Depending on the individual’s circumstance, the defense strategy may include:
Requesting a meeting with the United States Attorney’s Office to present evidence to either refute the allegation that drug trafficking occurred or mitigate the degree of charges;
Retaining appropriate experts in the issues at hand;
Retaining a defense investigator to interview any witnesses, issue subpoenas of relevant records, secure computer meta data, and/or evaluate the scene or evidence;
Developing a constitutional defense if Fourth Amendment violations are at issue. This may include documentation showing illegal searches and/or reasonable expectations of privacy; or if necessary recommend negotiating a cooperation agreement to address any criminal liability under federal sentencing guidelines;
Creating a mitigation strategy for sentencing. Sometimes in our lives we suffer personal hardships, addiction struggles, financial pressures, or even just go through an extended period of difficulty. In these instances, an individual is not in need of criminal prosecution by the government; they need understanding andcontext;
Assisting the individual with gathering the necessary mitigation documents to support a defense package and/or prepare for trial with the prosecution.
| Drug Type | Quantity | Mandatory Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Cocaine | 500g – 5kg | 5 years federal prison |
| Heroin/Fentanyl | 100g – 1kg | 5 years federal prison |
| Methamphetamine | 5g – 50g | 5 years federal prison |
| Cocaine | 5kg or more | 10 years federal prison |
| Heroin/Fentanyl | 1kg or more | 10 years federal prison |
DEA drug trafficking prosecutions by federal prosecutors have increased significantly nationwide. The agency has charged thousands of defendants with drug trafficking conspiracies in recent years. Recent cases show the seriousness – defendants in major trafficking organizations have received sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment.
The DEA now pursues even smaller cases aggressively. First-time offenders with minimal quantities who might have received probation years ago now face mandatory minimum sentences. The agency uses wiretap evidence, cooperating witnesses, controlled deliveries, and surveillance footage to build overwhelming cases before arrest.
Federal prosecutors coordinate with DEA task forces across multiple jurisdictions. The United States Attorney’s Offices have made drug trafficking prosecutions a priority enforcement area. Cases that begin as state matters often become federal prosecutions when DEA involvement occurs.
The agency’s focus has shifted significantly with the opioid crisis. Fentanyl trafficking now receives the highest priority, with prosecutors seeking enhanced penalties for cases involving this deadly substance. Healthcare providers face particular scrutiny, as the DEA investigates prescription patterns and potential diversion schemes. Task force operations span multiple states, allowing federal prosecutors to bring charges in districts with the harshest sentencing guidelines.
Federal prosecutors must prove possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute. Evidence typically includes large drug quantities, packaging materials, scales, customer lists, large cash amounts, or communications about sales. The DEA uses surveillance, informants, controlled purchases, and wiretaps to gather evidence. However, circumstantial evidence alone can support trafficking charges even without direct observation of sales.
Winning requires challenging the prosecution’s evidence through suppression motions, attacking witness credibility, or negotiating favorable plea agreements. Constitutional violations like illegal searches can result in evidence suppression. Cooperation through substantial assistance may reduce sentences significantly. Your attorney must examine chain of custody, lab testing procedures, and informant reliability. Each case requires a tailored defense strategy.
The DEA employs attorneys in their Office of Chief Counsel who advise on investigations and regulatory matters. However, criminal prosecutions are handled by Assistant United States Attorneys from the Department of Justice. These federal prosecutors work closely with DEA agents but are separate from the agency. Your defense attorney negotiates with these prosecutors, not DEA lawyers directly.
If you or a loved one is facing DEA drug trafficking charges, contact the experienced federal criminal defense attorneys at Spodek Law Group. We have over 40 years of combined experience defending individuals against federal drug charges. Our attorneys understand the complexities of DEA trafficking cases and how federal prosecutors evaluate these matters.
For immediate assistance, call us at 212-300-5196. We maintain 24-hour availability for urgent federal criminal matters. Don’t wait until charges are filed – early intervention often produces significantly better outcomes.
Spodek Law Group
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
212-300-5196
Available 24/7 for Federal Criminal Matters
Very diligent, organized associates; got my case dismissed. Hard working attorneys who can put up with your anxiousness. I was accused of robbing a gemstone dealer. Definitely A law group that lays out all possible options and best alternative routes. Recommended for sure.
- ROBIN, GUN CHARGES ROBIN
NJ CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS