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Written By: Matthew W. Peterson
Published: 02/17/2025
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Drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts are extremely serious felony offenses that can result in mandatory prison time. If you’re facing these charges, it’s crucial to understand what you’re up against and know your options for defense.
Drug trafficking isn’t just about selling drugs. Under Massachusetts law, prosecutors must prove two main things:
The key factor that separates trafficking from simple possession is the amount of drugs involved. While larger quantities of drugs are often associated with distribution rather than personal use, prosecutors must still prove intent to distribute. The amount of drugs alone doesn’t automatically prove trafficking – it’s just one piece of evidence that prosecutors may use to try to prove intent to distribute.
Drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts carry mandatory minimum prison sentences. This means if you’re convicted, the judge must sentence you to at least the minimum prison term – there’s no option for probation instead of jail time.
Depending on the type and weight of the drugs involved, mandatory minimums can range from 2 to 12 years in state prison per charge. These are among the stiffest sentences in the Massachusetts criminal justice system.
If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts, several defense strategies may be available:
You might argue the drugs were for personal use rather than distribution. However, this defense becomes less credible as the quantity of drugs increases. When amounts reach trafficking levels, prosecutors and juries often find it hard to believe they were solely for personal use.
If law enforcement obtained the drugs through an illegal search or seizure, your attorney could file a motion to suppress the evidence. If successful, the drugs couldn’t be used as evidence against you, potentially leading to the dismissal of the charges.
If the drugs weren’t found on your person, you might challenge whether prosecutors can prove you actually possessed them. This is particularly relevant in cases involving drugs found in shared spaces or vehicles.
An experienced defense attorney may be able to negotiate with the district attorney’s office to reduce the charges to lesser offenses that don’t carry mandatory minimum sentences. This approach, often called a “breakdown,” can help you avoid the harshest penalties.
When facing drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts, having the right attorney is crucial. The stakes are incredibly high – your freedom is literally on the line. You need an attorney who will:
The Law Office of Matthew Peterson has extensive experience handling drug trafficking cases. We’ve helped many clients avoid prison through aggressive defense strategies and skilled negotiation. We understand the complexities of drug trafficking cases and know how to navigate Massachusetts drug laws to protect your rights.
If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you have an experienced Boston drug trafficking defense attorney working on your case, the better your chances of avoiding mandatory minimum prison time.
Call the Law Office of Matthew Peterson at 617-295-7500 to schedule a consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and develop a strategy to protect your rights and freedom.
Remember: Drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts are serious, but with the right legal representation, you have options. Contact us today to discuss how we can help.
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