Baton Rouge Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Baton Rouge Drug Trafficking Attorney

Drug trafficking charges in Louisiana come with serious consequences that can change your life forever. If you are charged with drug trafficking, you could face years — or even decades — behind bars, along with hefty fines and a permanent criminal record. A Baton Rouge drug trafficking lawyer can construct a compelling defense against your allegations.

At Longman Jakuback, we know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to fight for you. Whether you’re accused of possessing large quantities of controlled substances, distributing drugs, or being involved in a trafficking operation, we can navigate the legal system and build a strong defense.

Understanding Drug Trafficking in Louisiana

Drug trafficking includes the manufacture, transportation, distribution, and/or sale of controlled substances in large quantities. Unlike possession charges, trafficking charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences. Furthermore, if the case involves interstate activity or large-scale distribution networks, the charges can lead to federal prosecution.

Some factors that could affect these charges and penalties include:

• The type and amount of the drug(s) involved
• Whether the alleged trafficking crossed state or national borders
• Prior criminal history
• The presence of firearms or other aggravating factors

At Longman Jakuback, our experienced attorneys can assert your rights and craft a robust defense strategy, tailored to your unique situation.

Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Baton Rouge

Depending on the type and amount of drugs involved, as well as the specific circumstances of the case, those convicted of drug trafficking could face lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and long-lasting consequences.

These could include:

• Lengthy prison sentences: Louisiana imposes harsh penalties for trafficking, including decades in prison for high-quantity offenses. Some cases trigger mandatory minimum sentences, which eliminate the possibility of parole.
• Heavy fines: A conviction can result in thousands or even millions of dollars in fines, depending on the drug type, the amount of the substance, and the size of the distribution network.
• Asset forfeiture: Law enforcement may seize money, vehicles, or property if they suspect they were used in the drug trafficking scheme.
• Federal charges: Large-scale or interstate trafficking cases can lead to federal prosecution, which often results in longer sentences.

The penalties for drug trafficking in Baton Rouge can be extremely harsh, ranging from long-term imprisonment to substantial financial fines. However, with the efforts of an experienced Baton Rouge drug trafficking lawyer from Longman Jakuback, it may be possible to reduce the severity of the charges or secure a more favorable outcome.

Possible Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges in Baton Rouge

Being charged doesn’t automatically lead to a conviction. From the moment you schedule a consultation, the team at Longman Jakuback can get to work. We can assess all aspects of your case and craft a defense strategy for your situation. Common defenses can include:

• Illegal search and seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, any evidence gathered could be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of knowledge. If you were unaware of the drugs in your possession (e.g., a package or vehicle you were transporting contained drugs without your knowledge), you may have a valid defense.
• Entrapment. If law enforcement coerced you into committing a crime you wouldn’t have committed otherwise, entrapment may be a defense.
• Insufficient evidence. The prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak, the charges against you could be reduced or dismissed.

The Baton Rouge Drug Trafficking Attorneys at Longman Jakuback can thoroughly review every aspect of your case and collect evidence to support your defense. This allows us to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.

How Longman Jakuback Can Help

At Longman Jakuback, we understand the complexities of drug trafficking cases, so we work tirelessly to protect our clients’ rights. We can provide:

• Case evaluation: Our team can analyze evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Legal defense: We can then craft a strategy to challenge the charges, from pre-trial motions to courtroom defense.
• Negotiations: Our attorneys can seek reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or case dismissals when possible.
• Trial representation: Our firm can defend clients in both state and federal court.

In drug trafficking cases, the stakes couldn’t be higher, which is why early legal intervention is critical for seeking a positive result. If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Baton Rouge, the experienced team at Longman Jakuback can fight for your rights, cast doubt on the prosecution’s narrative, and secure the most favorable outcome possible.

FAQs About Baton Rouge Drug Trafficking Laws

Can My Sentence Be Reduced If I’m Willing to Cooperate With the Authorities?

In some cases, cooperating with law enforcement during an investigation, or providing information about larger criminal operations, could lead to reduced sentencing or other leniency. However, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits of cooperating, as it might not always guarantee a favorable outcome. Our experienced attorneys can help you decide if cooperating is the right decision for your specific situation.

Can Law Enforcement Use Text Messages as Evidence in a Drug Trafficking Case?

Yes, text messages can be a key piece of evidence in a drug trafficking case. If law enforcement obtains a warrant, they can access phone records, messages, and call logs to build their case. Even deleted messages can be recovered and used against you. However, not all digital evidence is admissible in court. Our seasoned attorneys can challenge how the evidence was obtained or argue for its exclusion if your rights were violated.

What Should I Do If I’m Pulled Over and Suspected of Drug Trafficking?

If you’re pulled over and suspected of drug trafficking, remain calm and avoid making any incriminating statements. Don’t consent to a search unless the officers have a warrant, and politely decline to answer questions without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s wise to invoke your right to remain silent.

Can a Drug Trafficking Charge Affect My Ability to Rent a Home or Get a Loan?

Yes. A drug trafficking charge or conviction can have long-term consequences beyond the legal penalties. Many landlords conduct background checks, so they can deny rental applications based on a criminal record. Similarly, banks and lenders could view a conviction as a financial risk, which can make it harder to secure a mortgage or loan.

Contact an Experienced Baton Rouge Drug Trafficking Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Baton Rouge, it’s important to have an experienced and dedicated legal team on your side. The consequences of a conviction can be life-altering but, with the right defense strategy, your attorney could reduce your charges or penalties.

At Longman Jakuback, our team can provide the aggressive legal representation you need to defend your rights and fight for the most favorable outcome possible.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and take control of your own future.