Drug trafficking is one of the most serious drug-related offenses in Massachusetts, carrying severe mandatory minimum sentences and life-altering consequences. If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Framingham, securing an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney is critical. The attorneys at Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm have extensive experience defending clients against drug charges and are prepared to fight for your rights.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top Framingham drug trafficking defense attorney.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C, Section 32E, drug trafficking is defined as the possession, distribution, manufacture, or transport of controlled substances in specific quantities. Unlike simple possession or intent to distribute, trafficking charges are based on the weight of the drugs involved.
Common drugs that lead to trafficking charges include:
- Heroin
- Cocaine & Crack Cocaine
- Fentanyl
- Methamphetamine
- Prescription Opioids (Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, etc.)
Convictions for drug trafficking carry mandatory minimum prison sentences, meaning a judge cannot reduce the sentence below the minimum requirement.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts
The severity of drug trafficking penalties depends on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Here are the potential penalties for some of the most commonly trafficked substances:
π΄ Heroin
- 18β36 grams β Minimum 3.5 years, up to 30 years in prison
- 36β100 grams β Minimum 5 years
- 100β200 grams β Minimum 8 years
- 200+ grams β Minimum 12 years
π΄ Cocaine or Crack Cocaine
- 18β36 grams β Minimum 2 years in prison
- 36β100 grams β Minimum 3.5 years
- 100β200 grams β Minimum 8 years
- 200+ grams β Minimum 12 years
π΄ Fentanyl
- Over 10 grams β Minimum 3.5 years in prison
In addition to long prison sentences, those convicted of drug trafficking may face:
- Heavy fines (up to $250,000)
- Permanent felony record
- Asset forfeiture (loss of property, vehicles, and money)
- Harsh immigration consequences (for non-citizens)
Statute of Limitations for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts
Massachusetts law imposes a 6-year statute of limitations for drug trafficking charges. This means the prosecution must file charges within six years of the alleged offense. However, there are exceptions:
- If the accused left the state, the clock may be paused.
- If the investigation was ongoing, charges may still be brought after the six-year mark.
If you are under investigation, do not assume time will protect youβconsult an experienced Framingham drug trafficking lawyer immediately.
Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges
A skilled defense attorney can challenge drug trafficking charges in multiple ways, including:
β Unlawful Search & Seizure β If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a search or seizure, evidence may be suppressed.
β Lack of Possession or Control β The prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed the drugs. If you were unaware of their presence, this may be a viable defense.
β Entrapment β If law enforcement induced or coerced you into trafficking drugs, an entrapment defense may be effective.
β Chain of Custody & Lab Testing Issues β Drug evidence must be properly tested and documented. If there were mistakes in handling or testing, the charges may be dismissed.
β Lack of Intent to Traffic β Possession of large amounts of drugs does not always mean trafficking. We can argue that the drugs were for personal use or belonged to someone else.
Why Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
When facing drug trafficking charges in Framingham, you need a highly skilled and aggressive defense team. At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide:
β Decades of Criminal Defense Experience
β Proven Track Record in Drug Cases
β Personalized, Strategic Defense Strategies
β Aggressive Trial Representation
Our legal team understands the Framingham District Court system and will fight tirelessly to protect your freedom.
Framingham District Court Information
If you have been charged with drug trafficking in Framingham, your case will be handled at:
π Framingham District Court
Address: 600 Concord St., Framingham, MA 01701
Phone: (508) 875-7461
Hire a Framingham 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 Framingham drug trafficking defense lawyers are prepared to stand up for you!
Contact a Framingham Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Framingham, 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 Framingham? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.