What Is The Difference Between State And Federal Drug Crimes?
Every drug crime case is unique, from the circumstances leading up to arrest to the potential punishment if convicted. Small details can make a big difference in sentencing. Attention to detail can also mean the difference between prison and your freedom. You need an experienced attorney who can tell you where you stand and challenge the prosecution’s case to position you for the best outcome.
Goldberg Dowell & Associates handles the full spectrum of drug cases, from simple possession to high-stakes charges of drug trafficking and conspiracy. Our Cleveland criminal defense lawyers regularly defend clients in Northeast Ohio and beyond accused of state and federal drug crimes.
Cuyahoga County Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney
Trial lawyer Michael J. Goldberg has defended the accused for 37 years. He has obtained notable results in drug crime defense, from dismissed charges and acquittals to favorable plea bargains and alternative sentences. Goldberg Dowell & Associates takes on all levels of drug charges:
- Possession of marijuana or drug paraphernalia
- Possession of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs
- Possession of prescription narcotics
- Possession with intent to sell
- Drug trafficking (dealing, transportation, conspiracy)
- Money laundering charges or asset forfeiture
Knowledge And Courtroom Experience Makes The Difference
True drug crime defense is very specialized, particularly in federal court. Many attorneys have only a passing knowledge of sentencing guidelines, yet seemingly minor details can have very serious ramifications. The exact amount of drugs, any prior convictions and other enhancing or mitigating factors sentences all are factored into the charges and the outcome. In federal court, the penalties are tougher, the prosecution is better and there is less leeway to negotiate. While state drug charges offer some flexibility, there are also important differences under Ohio law, including recent changes that increased the penalties for some drug crimes.
| What Are You Facing? State drug possession tables · State drug trafficking tables · Federal drug tables |
Michael Goldberg has taken more than 100 cases to jury trial as a defense attorney. He has defended major drug felonies, such as clients charged with conspiracy for transporting several kilos of cocaine. He knows how to challenge probable cause for traffic stops, wiretaps, Fourth Amendment search and seizure violations, testimony of informants or undercover agents, and all facets of drug investigations.
We Get Results Because We Are Prepared
At Goldberg Dowell & Associates, we spend a great deal of time on the front end of drug cases to understand exactly what our clients are facing. We prepare every case for the possibility of trial to position clients for the most favorable resolution in or out of court.
Our Cleveland drug crime defense attorneys offer a free consultation for any criminal charges. Call us today at 216-592-8719 or 800-845-4710, or contact us online.