Federal Drug Crimes

In New Hampshire, just like in every other state in the nation, both state and federal laws cover drug crimes.

So, if you are arrested on any kind of drug charge, you will need to hire a criminal defense attorney who understands the ins and outs of both court systems. Michael Anzalone has experience defending clients on both levels.

One thing you will need to be aware of if you are arrested on a federal drug crime is that these kinds of convictions typically have longer and harsher sentences than convictions at the state level. You should also be aware that having a drug conviction on your record is NEVER a good thing. It can keep you from getting jobs in the future and can interfere with other things, such as student financial aid.

New Hampshire’s drug laws are among the country’s toughest, but sometimes the crime elevates to federal court.

For the most part, the federal Drug Enforcement Agency concentrates on cases that involve two or more states but there are exceptions. Drug trafficking is an example of a case in which federal prosecutors would likely get involved. But as in any other case, much depends on the circumstances of your individual case.

These cases fall under the federal Controlled Substances Act, which establishes a federal drug policy. This law regulates the manufacture, possession, importation and distribution of illegal substances in the United States and determines when state law applies.

This is why you need a lawyer who is well-versed in both the federal and state court systems. Criminal defense lawyer Michael Anzalone has successfully tried cases in both venues and will work hard to get the best possible outcome no matter where your case lands.

He will ask you to work with him to develop a credible defense for your case and he will make recommendations on whether you should accept a plea bargain with prosecutors or continue on to trial.

There are cases in which he will advise you to take a possible suspended sentence by pleading guilty to lesser charges. Remember, federal drug charges can carry stiff penalties.

Your best option is to contact The Anzalone Law Firm in Nashua, New Hampshire to schedule a free consultation. We will be here for you 24/7 and walk you through all of the confusing aspects of the federal drug laws.

In many drug crimes, the federal mandatory minimum law comes into play during sentencing. This means that the type and amount of drug in question dictate your sentence. Prior drug convictions also come into play. These federal drug laws have resulted in longer sentences for many defendants convicted on drug charges.

If, for example, you are arrested on a cocaine charge, you could face a federal prison sentence of five to 40 years. And if the case resulted in someone’s death, your sentence would rise to 20 years to life in prison on that charge, if it’s a first offense. The fines can be as high as $2 million.

For a second offense, the penalty jumps to 10 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $2 million.