Criminal Defense Lawyers

NYC Federal Drug Conspiracy Lawyers

Federal cases involving drug conspiracies are some of the most serious crimes in existence. This set of laws covers a very broad range of drug related activity. As such, it is fairly common for federal prosecutors to commandeer state cases, and try them in district court where the penalties are much harsher. Federal drug conspiracy charges need an thorough, aggressive defense.

An Overview of Federal Drug Conspiracy Charges

Federal drug charges can be initiated for a myriad of reasons. Some of the commonly targeted activities include possession, manufacturing, trafficking and distribution. Federal cases are usually reserved for defendants dealing with a large quantity of controlled substances. As stated above, federal law imposes strict punishments upon guilty parties. In trafficking or distribution cases, the sentence can vary depending on the type of substance, the amount, the location of crime and the defendant’s criminal record. Many federal crimes carry minimum sentences of at least 10 years.

What is a Drug Conspiracy

A conspiracy is merely an agreement to engage in a criminal act. It is a separate crime from the underlying criminal act itself. Thus, if you follow through in a conspiracy, you can be charged with two different offenses.

To prove the existence of a drug crime conspiracy, the prosecution will have to prove three elements: that an agreement existed, that the defendant knew of it, and that he or she willingly joined the plan. The prosecution may also have to prove that the defendant carried out an overt act which demonstrates his or her intent to act on the conspiracy.
The prosecution does not have to rely on direct evidence, such as a written document, to prove the case. A conspiracy can be shown through circumstantial evidence alone.

Who Can be Charged in a Conspiracy Case?

The category of people who can be charged in a conspiracy case is far reaching. Whenever there is an agreement between two or more people to engage in a drug offense, each person can be charged with conspiracy. Furthermore, any person who can be connected to someone who has the intention to break the law may be charged. It doesn’t matter if the person actually participates in the final act.

A conspirator can also be held responsible for all the crimes committeed by a co-conspirator. This is especially true where an agreement is made to commit an end crime, and the co-conspirator carries out additional crimes towards the common purpose. Anyone involved in the conspiracy will be charged for any forseeable crime that is comitted by another to achieve the common goal.

Sentencing in Federal Drug Conspiracy Cases

Federal law comes down hard on those who are convicted of a drug conspiracy. The statutory minimum sentences found in 21 U.S.C. section 846 apply to the crime of conspiracy. However, the actual sentence imposed will depend on the type and amount of the controlled substance at issue. No mandatory minimum sentence will be imposed for marijuana, crack, heroin or methamphetamine if the government does not specify the amount involved in the crime. Yet, when federal prosecutors do declare an amount, the sentence will vary.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

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Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

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2024-03-12

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2024-02-28

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divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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A conspiracy involving more than 100kg of marijuana can be punished by five to forty years in prison. Marijuana offenses exceeding 1000kg are subject to a sentence of 10 years to life.

For offenses involving cocaine there is a maximum sentence of 20 years when no specific amount is alleged. When a defendant is accused of a conspiracy involving at least 500 grams of cocaine or 28 grams of crack, the sentence will be five to 40 years. For offenses involving five kgs of cocaine (or 280g of crack) the sentence can range from 10 years to life.

Methamphetamine-related conspiracies can be punished by five to forty years if at least 5g is involved. The punishment rises to 10 years to life for 50g or more of the substance.

Potential Defenses in a Drug Conspiracy Case

You need a solid defense when facing drug conspiracy charges. The prosecution will need to prove the elements of the case beyond a reasonable doubt. It is the defense lawyer’s job to make sure one or all of the elements cannot be satisfied. One major issue that is often explored by defense lawyers is whether the defendant truly came to an agreement about the criminal scheme. If this element is successfully challenged, it may be cause to have the case dismissed.

Defense efforts may also be focused on the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable search and seizure. If federal law enforcement agencies violated your right to be free from illegal search and seizures it could allow for the suppression of any related evidence. By hiring a NYC federal drug conspiracy lawyer, you’ll have the best chance at making sure your rights are protected.