It is common knowledge that smuggling narcotics across the US border is unlawful. Many people, however, are unaware of the nuances of the rules governing drug smuggling and trafficking. Continue reading to learn more about the state and federal laws that apply to this case. If you have been arrested for or accused of any form of drug offense, call Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation from a federal criminal defense lawyer in Irvine CA.
The Laws Concerning Drug Trafficking
According to federal law, anybody who knowingly and willfully smuggles something into the nation that they should have been invoiced for or that is prohibited can be prosecuted and sentenced to up to 20 years in federal prison. The prosecution just needs to show that the accused was in actual possession of the objects at the time of their arrest.
It’s important to note that the legislation outlined above applies to everything being smuggled in. When narcotics are being brought in, there are frequently extra charges. Drug possession, substance possession with the purpose to sell, and being under the influence of an illicit drug are all examples of this.
It’s also crucial to understand that even if a person is smuggling something that isn’t drugs across the border but is discovered to have drug paraphernalia on them, they can be charged with drug possession – even if there are no drugs on them.
Smuggling Drugs Across the Border: Possible Penalties
Smuggling is a federal felony, which means that when this charge is filed, a variety of federal authorities may become involved. The Coast Guard, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Customs, and Border Control may all be involved. This is why you need a federal criminal defense lawyer in Irvine CA who is very familiar with the type of case you are facing.
A person convicted of smuggling faces a cumulative term of between 26 and 43 years in federal prison. As a result, it is common for someone who is apprehended for smuggling narcotics into the United States and proven guilty to spend the rest of their life in jail. This is especially true if the individual apprehended has a criminal record, and the more drugs implicated, the greater the sentence will be.
Allow Us to Assist You with These and Other Related Charges
A person accused with narcotics smuggling nearly usually faces further counts. We can assist you with a wide range of criminal charges, from violent offenses to white collar crimes, at Chambers Law Firm. If you or a loved one has been charged with a felony in California or federal court, you should speak with a federal criminal defense lawyer Irvine CA as soon as possible.
Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to find that attorney. We are ready to provide you with a free legal consultation so that you may completely understand your alternatives.
