Drug trafficking is a severe felony offense in Massachusetts, carrying mandatory prison sentences and long-term consequences. If you are charged with drug trafficking in Dover, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer to fight for you. At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we have a proven track record of successfully defending drug charges, ensuring your rights and future are protected.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top Dover criminal defense attorney.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Massachusetts
Drug trafficking is prosecuted under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C, Section 32E. It is defined as the possession, distribution, manufacture, or transport of a controlled substance in amounts exceeding certain thresholds.
Common substances involved in drug trafficking charges include:
- Heroin
- Cocaine & Crack Cocaine
- Fentanyl
- Methamphetamine
- Prescription Opioids (Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, etc.)
Unlike simple possession or intent to distribute, trafficking is determined by drug weight, which dictates the mandatory minimum sentence imposed.
Drug Trafficking Penalties in Massachusetts
Drug trafficking penalties vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Convictions carry harsh mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges must impose at least the minimum prison time.
π΄ Heroin Trafficking Penalties
- 18β36 grams β Minimum 3.5 years in prison
- 36β100 grams β Minimum 5 years in prison
- 100β200 grams β Minimum 8 years in prison
- 200+ grams β Minimum 12 years in prison
π΄ Cocaine & Crack Cocaine Penalties
- 18β36 grams β Minimum 2 years in prison
- 36β100 grams β Minimum 3.5 years in prison
- 100β200 grams β Minimum 8 years in prison
- 200+ grams β Minimum 12 years in prison
π΄ Fentanyl & Methamphetamine Penalties
- Over 10 grams of fentanyl β Minimum 3.5 years in prison
Additional consequences of a drug trafficking conviction:
- Heavy fines (up to $250,000).
- Permanent felony record affecting employment and housing.
- Asset forfeiture (loss of money, vehicles, or property).
- Harsh immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Statute of Limitations for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for drug trafficking is six years. This means prosecutors must file charges within six years of the alleged crime. However, the clock may be paused if:
- The accused left the state.
- The investigation delayed the formal filing of charges.
Even if time has passed, do not assume you are safe. If you suspect you are under investigation, contact an attorney immediately.
Legal Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we use multiple defense strategies to fight drug trafficking charges, including:
- Illegal Search & Seizure β If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence against you may be thrown out.
- Lack of Knowledge or Possession β You cannot be convicted if the prosecution cannot prove you knowingly possessed or transported drugs.
- Entrapment by Law Enforcement β If undercover officers pressured you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed, an entrapment defense may apply.
- Chain of Custody & Lab Testing Issues β Improper handling of drug evidence can lead to case dismissal.
- No Intent to Traffic β Possession of a large amount of drugs does not always mean traffickingβwe can argue the drugs were for personal use.
Why Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
When you are facing serious drug charges in Dover, you need an attorney with experience, strategy, and a strong courtroom presence. At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide:
- β Decades of Experience in Drug Crime Defense
- β Proven Success in Massachusetts Drug Cases
- β Aggressive Defense Strategies to Protect Your Rights
- β Deep Understanding of Dedham District Court
Dedham District Court Information
If you have been arrested for drug trafficking in Dover, your case will be handled at:
π Dedham District Court
Address: 631 High St., Dedham, MA 02026
Phone: (781) 329-4777
Hire a Dover Drug Trafficking Lawyer Today
A drug trafficking conviction can impact your employment, housing, and future prospects for years. Acting quickly improves your odds of defeating the charges.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation.
Our Dover drug trafficking defense lawyers are prepared to stand up for you!
Contact a Dover Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Dover, don't delay seeking legal help. The sooner you reach out, the stronger your defense can be.
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
π¨ Facing drug trafficking charges in Dover? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.