Long Island Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Long Island Drug Trafficking Attorney

A Long Island drug trafficking lawyer can make a difference when facing one of the most serious narcotics charges in New York. Drug trafficking charges typically involve large quantities of a controlled substance, undercover investigations, or federal agencies.

Convictions can lead to decades in prison, massive fines, and lifelong harm to your future. Prosecutors aggressively pursue trafficking charges using surveillance, phone records, and confidential informants to achieve convictions.

The Vitaliano Law Firm understands the frightening and overwhelming nature of these charges. Former New York City prosecutor Michael E. Vitaliano is a dedicated defense attorney with a keen understanding of how to build strategic defenses to challenge the government’s case and protect your rights. We work to protect your freedom and your future.

Hire a Drug Trafficking Lawyer

At The Vitaliano Law Firm, Attorney Michael E. Vitaliano brings unique experience to drug trafficking defense, having served as a former New York City prosecutor in narcotics cases. This dual perspective allows him to anticipate government strategies and build effective counterarguments.

Recognized for thorough preparation and strong courtroom advocacy, Vitaliano has successfully defended clients facing high-stakes drug charges in both state and federal courts, earning trust through his dedication and proven results.

Understanding Drug Trafficking Laws in New York and Federal Court

Drug trafficking in New York is one of the most vigorously pursued crimes in the state, and controlled substances are governed by Penal Law Article 220. In most situations, trafficking is used to describe the sale, distribution, or transportation of large amounts of narcotics, which include heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, or fentanyl.

When an individual is not apprehended while physically selling drugs, they may be charged with drug trafficking if found in possession of large amounts. In some circumstances, drug trafficking cases are prosecuted in federal court under the Controlled Substances Act. This occurs when the substances have crossed state lines or involve interstate distribution channels.

Penalties for drug trafficking are harsh in both federal and state courts, so it is important to have an experienced Long Island Drug Trafficking Lawyer as soon as possible.

Penalties and Consequences of a Trafficking Conviction

Drug trafficking is a serious offense that carries severe penalties and consequences. Mandatory minimum prison sentences can range from many years to decades, depending on the type of drug and the amount. Convictions can result in substantial fines, forfeiture of assets, including homes and vehicles, and long-term supervision after release.

In addition to the legal penalties, a drug trafficking conviction also results in a permanent criminal record, which can impact future employment opportunities, housing options, and, for non-citizens, immigration status. Families of those convicted can also suffer financial and social consequences.

How Investigations and Evidence Are Built in Trafficking Cases

Drug trafficking arrests are usually the result of a long investigation conducted by local police and state agencies or federal law enforcement agencies, such as the DEA, FBI, or Homeland Security. Drug Trafficking Investigations on Long Island might include undercover officers, confidential informants, surveillance, or even controlled buys.

Sometimes federal agencies take an interest in local drug trafficking, especially when the operation involves more than one state. Drug trafficking prosecutors may also get involved and use wiretaps or simply try to link a defendant to drug trafficking using phone calls and other digital communications.

Federal courts in New York imposed 887 sentences in Fiscal Year 2023 for drug crimes, including manufacturing, trafficking, and distribution. Drug offenses accounted for nearly a third of the 2,727 federal sentences given in the state that year.

These figures underscore the vigor with which federal prosecutors and law enforcement agencies approach these matters, and they speak to the value of a Long Island drug trafficking lawyer who can craft an effective defense. A Long Island drug crime lawyer who knows how these investigations work in Nassau and Suffolk Counties can also find problems in the investigation to help protect your rights.

FAQs

Can I Face Both State and Federal Charges for Drug Trafficking?

Drug trafficking charges can span more than one jurisdiction, particularly when large quantities of narcotics are an issue or drugs are transported from one state to another. A defendant can be prosecuted in state court in Nassau or Suffolk County and also prosecuted in Federal court in the Eastern District of New York.

Federal prosecutions generally carry more severe penalties. It’s important to have a criminal defense attorney who is ready to defend at both the state and federal levels.

Are Mandatory Minimum Sentences Applied in Drug Trafficking Cases?

In a majority of trafficking cases, especially in Federal court, there are mandatory minimums that correspond with drug type and amount. This results in judges having to hand down a specific number of years without looking at extenuating circumstances.

These harsh sentencing guidelines highlight the need for an experienced attorney as soon as possible in the legal process. An experienced attorney can negotiate lesser charges or convince the court to sentence without applying mandatory minimums.

How Do Wiretap or Surveillance Laws Affect My Case?

Drug trafficking investigations commonly involve wiretaps, recorded calls, or even video surveillance. The use of these tactics is heavily regulated by law. If a law enforcement officer did not have the appropriate authorization or went outside the terms of a warrant, evidence may be thrown out. An attorney can review any surveillance evidence closely to decide whether it was legally obtained and whether it can be challenged.

Can Property Be Seized in a Drug Trafficking Case?

Under New York law and federal forfeiture laws, law enforcement can seize property they suspect is involved in drug trafficking. This can include cash, cars, real estate, and bank accounts. Property may be seized before conviction through civil forfeiture proceedings, so the property owner must file a claim to challenge the forfeiture and seek return of the property. A Long Island drug trafficking lawyer can work to oppose forfeiture and maintain your property rights.

Contact a Long Island Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Drug trafficking charges demand immediate action. The Vitaliano Law Firm provides aggressive defense for state and federal cases. Schedule a confidential consultation today and hire a skilled Long Island drug trafficking lawyer to protect your rights and future.