If you are facing charges for trafficking in drugs in Ohio, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to expect. The legal process can be complicated, and the potential consequences of a conviction can have a serious impact on your life. You might be wondering what your options are and how to handle this challenging situation. The team at Sabol & Mallory Law Firm understands the stress and confusion that can come with being charged with drug trafficking. We are here to help guide you through this difficult time and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Meet the lawyers who make up the legal team at Sabol Mallory LLC. Read their individual bios and get to know more about their education, experience and accolades.
Learn more about our teamUnderstanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Ohio
Drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense in Ohio. It involves the illegal sale, distribution, or transportation of controlled substances. The state of Ohio classifies various drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and prescription pills, as controlled substances. If you are found to be involved in the trafficking of these drugs, you could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Under Ohio law, drug trafficking charges are divided into different levels of severity based on the type of drug, the amount involved, and whether the offense occurred near a school or within a certain distance of a public place. For example, trafficking in large quantities of illegal drugs or distributing drugs near a school can lead to harsher penalties. Understanding the specifics of your charges is crucial in determining the legal strategy for your defense.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking Convictions in Ohio
The penalties for a conviction of drug trafficking in Ohio can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Generally, the more serious the offense, the more severe the consequences. Trafficking in drugs is typically classified as a felony offense, and convictions can result in long prison sentences and significant fines.
For example, trafficking in small amounts of drugs may result in a first-degree felony charge, which carries a potential prison sentence of 3 to 11 years, along with a fine of up to $20,000. However, trafficking in larger amounts of drugs or engaging in trafficking near a school or daycare center can lead to even harsher sentences. In some cases, the sentence can be as long as 15 years or more, depending on the specifics of the case.
In addition to prison time, a drug trafficking conviction in Ohio can also lead to the loss of your driver’s license, a criminal record, and difficulty finding employment in the future. The lasting impact of a conviction can affect many areas of your life, making it important to take these charges seriously and seek legal help as soon as possible.
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Testimonials
Learn what our clients have to say about the work of Sabol Mallory. If you have any questions or need legal help for a criminal charge, please reach out to us right away.
Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
- Erin R.
Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Factors that Can Impact Your Sentence
Several factors can influence the severity of the penalties you may face if convicted of drug trafficking in Ohio. These factors include the type of drug involved, the amount in your possession, and any prior criminal history. The presence of aggravating circumstances, such as trafficking near a school or involving minors, can also lead to harsher penalties.
If you are convicted of drug trafficking involving a large amount of drugs, you may face more significant consequences. For instance, trafficking in more than 100 grams of heroin or cocaine can result in a first-degree felony charge with severe penalties. On the other hand, trafficking in smaller quantities may result in less severe penalties, but still serious consequences, including long prison sentences and steep fines.
Your prior criminal history will also be taken into account when determining your sentence. If you have previous convictions for drug-related offenses, you may face a higher sentence due to your history of involvement in criminal activity. On the other hand, if this is your first offense, the court may consider offering you a lesser sentence or an opportunity for diversion programs, such as drug treatment programs, in place of prison time.
Defending Against Drug Trafficking Charges
Being charged with drug trafficking does not mean that a conviction is inevitable. There are several defense strategies that can be used to challenge the charges against you. These strategies may include challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution, questioning the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of drugs, or proving that you were unaware of the drugs in your possession.
In some cases, a skilled attorney can negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced sentence or alternative sentencing options, such as probation or drug treatment programs, especially for first-time offenders or those who have not been involved in trafficking on a large scale. Having an experienced lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
If there are issues with the way the drugs were obtained or if your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or arrest, your attorney may be able to challenge the evidence and get it thrown out. This could result in the charges being reduced or dropped altogether.
The Importance of Legal Representation
The legal consequences of a drug trafficking conviction in Ohio are serious and far-reaching. With the possibility of lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, and the impact on your future, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney to represent you in court. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, understand your rights, and build a strong defense.
At Sabol & Mallory Law Firm, we are committed to providing you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. We understand the emotional toll that criminal charges can take, and we work diligently to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Ohio, it is important to take immediate action. Contact us at Sabol & Mallory Law Firm to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We will listen to your side of the story, investigate the details of your case, and help you understand your legal options. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, skilled legal representation to those who need it most.
We know that facing criminal charges can be a frightening experience, but you do not have to face it alone. With the right legal team on your side, you can fight for a favorable outcome and protect your future. At Sabol & Mallory Law Firm, we are here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us today to learn how we can assist you in achieving the best possible result in your drug trafficking case.