Needham Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Drug trafficking is one of the most serious criminal offenses in Massachusetts. A conviction carries severe mandatory prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Unlike simple possession or intent to distribute, trafficking charges are based on the quantity of drugs involved, leading to harsher penalties—even for first-time offenders.

If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Needham, it is critical to act fast. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney to challenge the prosecution's case, protect your rights, and fight for your future.

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide aggressive, strategic, and results-driven defense against drug-related charges. Call us today at (857) 229-2442 for a confidential consultation.

What is Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts?

Under M.G.L. Chapter 94C, Section 32E, drug trafficking is defined as the possession, distribution, manufacturing, or transportation of controlled substances above certain weight thresholds.

Drug trafficking differs from simple drug possession or intent to distribute. Even if you were not caught selling drugs, merely possessing a large quantity can result in trafficking charges.

Common Drugs Involved in Trafficking Charges

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Cocaine
• Methamphetamine
• Oxycodone and Other Prescription Opioids
• Marijuana (in large amounts)

Weight Thresholds for Drug Trafficking Charges in Massachusetts

The severity of the penalties depends on the type and weight of the substance:

Drug Type	Weight Threshold	Minimum Mandatory Sentence
Heroin	18+ grams	3.5+ years in prison
Cocaine	18+ grams	2+ years in prison
Fentanyl	10+ grams	3.5+ years in prison
Methamphetamine	18+ grams	2+ years in prison
Oxycodone	18+ grams	3.5+ years in prison
Marijuana	50+ pounds	1+ year in jail

If the amount exceeds these thresholds, the penalties increase significantly, with sentences of up to 20 years in prison for high-level trafficking cases.

Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has some of the toughest drug trafficking laws in the country, including mandatory minimum sentences that judges have little discretion to reduce.

• Prison Sentences: Ranging from 3.5 years to life in prison, depending on the drug type and quantity
• Fines: Ranging from $2,500 to $500,000
• Federal Charges: If drugs were transported across state lines, federal drug trafficking laws may apply, leading to even harsher penalties

If convicted, you cannot receive parole or early release until serving the minimum required sentence.

Beyond legal penalties, a drug trafficking conviction can have lifelong consequences, including:

• A permanent criminal record
• Loss of employment opportunities
• Ineligibility for certain housing and financial aid
• Possible immigration consequences (deportation for non-citizens)

Statute of Limitations for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts

Massachusetts law imposes a six-year statute of limitations for felony drug trafficking charges. However, in federal drug cases, there may be no statute of limitations in certain high-level cases.

If you are under investigation or believe you might be charged, consult an attorney immediately before speaking to law enforcement.

How We Defend Against Drug Trafficking Charges

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we craft a customized defense strategy based on the details of your case. Some common defense strategies include:

• Illegal Search & Seizure – If the police violated your Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an unlawful search, we can move to suppress evidence, potentially leading to a case dismissal.
• Lack of Knowledge or Possession – If you were unknowingly in possession of drugs (e.g., drugs found in a shared vehicle or property), we can argue that you had no control over them.
• Entrapment by Law Enforcement – If police or undercover officers induced you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn't have committed, entrapment can serve as a valid defense.
• Flaws in Evidence Handling – If law enforcement failed to properly document, store, or test the drugs, we can challenge the validity of the evidence.
• Constitutional Violations – If your rights were violated during arrest or interrogation, we can seek to have charges reduced or dismissed.

Where Will My Drug Trafficking Case Be Handled in Needham?

If you are arrested for drug trafficking in Needham, your case will be handled at:

Dedham District Court
📍 631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
📞 (781) 329-4777

The Needham Police Department is responsible for investigating drug-related offenses:

Needham Police Department
📍 99 School St, Needham, MA 02492
📞 (781) 455-7570

Our legal team has extensive experience handling drug cases in Dedham District Court and understands how to negotiate with local prosecutors to fight for charge reductions or dismissals.

Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?

Not all defense attorneys are equipped to handle high-stakes drug trafficking cases. At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we offer:

• Decades of experience defending drug trafficking cases
• Aggressive courtroom strategies to challenge weak evidence
• A deep understanding of Massachusetts drug laws and sentencing guidelines
• Proven track record of dismissals, reduced charges, and alternative sentencing options
• Strong relationships with local courts and prosecutors

When your freedom is on the line, you need a highly skilled, aggressive, and dedicated defense team to fight for you.