The United States has a mass of drug laws governing different jurisdictions. As a resident of Lansing, you are subject to Michigan state and federal law when it comes to drug-related matters. If authorities determine that your alleged offense violates federal statutes, they may opt to charge your case in a federal court. You could face federal drug crime charges, often with specific legal implications and outcomes.
Federal cases can get extremely messy -- the United States government has attorneys that won't back down if they've decided to put you behind bars, but overzealous attorneys can often get the wrong people in trouble. When accused of a drug crime that you didn't commit, it's essential that you choose an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer.
O'Keefe Law has experience arguing cases at a federal level. With our firm, you'll benefit from a legal team that is fully capable in both state and federal court. We're here to help you navigate the complexities of this dual-legal system.
Federal Charges
Federal agents have made it a priority to prevent as much drug trafficking as possible. With many standard possession cases, you'll find that the state authorities will most likely deal with your crime. Federal authorities prefer to deal with large trafficking cases that may involve cross-state or cross-border transactions.
As you can imagine, the penalties for trafficking drugs are incredibly harsh. If you're picked up by federal authorities, you should expect a long and arduous legal battle. Federal officials do not mess around when it comes to trafficking charges.
If you're caught with a Schedule II drug, such as meth or cocaine, you can face a lengthy sentence if you have enough of the substance with you. For example, if you're found in possession of more than 5kg of cocaine—it could lead to a life sentence. On the other hand, you need to possess a lot more than 5kg of marijuana to get the same sentence. It's still a possibility though. For instance, if you possess over 1,000 kg of marijuana, and it’s not your first offense.
As you can see, you shouldn't take chances if you're accused of a federal drug crime. If you want to avoid a federal jail term, you need to use an attorney that will work with you to fight your case in court.
Second Offenses
Real problems arise if you've already been convicted of a federal drug offense. If you want to avoid serious time in jail, you need to take a second charge extremely seriously as second-time offenders are almost always sentenced more severely.
Federal attorneys take second offenses exceptionally seriously. If you are facing a second charge, it's essential to get in touch with an experienced federal attorney as quickly as possible.
Appealing a Previous Decision in Federal Drug Crime Cases
If you already have a federal drug crime conviction, you don’t have to accept that verdict. We can work with you to help you appeal cases on a national level. Even if your sentence is nearing its conclusion, it's always beneficial to clear your name if you want to move forward with your life.
If you feel your original attorney overlooked critical components of your case, or new evidence has emerged, we can help you begin the process of filing an appeal. It's time to put the power back in your hands -- don't let a previous decision dictate your future.
Why Does a Federal Attorney Matter?
If you're wondering why you need to obtain the services of a federal attorney, it's important to understand that there is a big difference between state and federal law. If you want to avoid going to federal prison, you need to make sure that you understand the ramifications of an inexperienced attorney.
Patrick O'Keefe has considerable experience arguing federal cases. If you need a federal defense attorney that will provide you with experience in the courtroom, you've come to the right firm.
O'Keefe also has experience as a prosecutor. His unique insight into prosecutorial tactics and behaviors helps ensure that you don't fall victim to courtroom strategies.
We work to find holes in the prosecution's case. If you work with an attorney that doesn't have experience in the federal system, you may leave yourself open to an unfair ruling.
Begin Preparing Today
If you want a Lansing criminal defense lawyer that's invested in your freedom, get in touch with O'Keefe Law to begin the process of planning your defense. We work with a wide variety of drug charge-related cases in East Lansing and the surrounding regions. If you want an attorney that understands both federal and state law, there isn't a better choice in the area.
Get in touch with our team today. We can begin a free assessment of your case to help you determine the correct strategy to fight your charges.
