Washington Drug Trafficking Lawyers

Washington Drug Trafficking Lawyers: Your Best Defense Against Charges

Drug trafficking charges can lead to very severe consequences in Washington, ranging from hefty fines and probation to many years behind bars. But, with an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side, you may be able to minimize penalties or even beat the criminal charges altogether. This article explains why you need a lawyer for drug trafficking accusations, examines possible defenses. The Spodek Law Group is here to help you.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer?

Facing drug charges alone can be frightening. Prosecutors know most defendants have no legal knowledge, so they will try to steamroll you into accepting a bad plea deal or harsh jail sentence. An attorney levels the playing field, and makes sure your rights are protected.

Reasons you need a drug trafficking lawyer include, but are not limited to:

Navigating Laws and Charges

Drug trafficking laws in Washington are complicated, with harsh mandatory minimums and sentencing enhancements that can quickly add up. For instance, selling narcotics within 1,000 feet of a school bus stop can result in double prison time. Your attorney understands these laws inside and out. Your attorney can review the facts of your case to identify the exact charges you face and any available defenses.

Avoiding Mistakes

When fighting criminal charges, any mistake can sabotage your case. From saying the wrong thing during questioning, to submitting faulty paperwork, simple errors can have enormous consequences. A drug trafficking lawyer handles these cases, and won’t make rookie mistakes which jeopardize your defense.

Plea Bargaining and Sentencing

Over 90% of criminal defense cases end in plea deals instead of trials. Your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor on your behalf to reduce charges and penalties. Your attorney also argues for the lightest sentence possible. Without a criminal lawyer, you have to handle plea bargaining alone against prosecutors.

Challenging Evidence and Statements

Prosecutors often use questionable evidence and statements against defendants. This means improper police searches, coercion, witness misidentification, and more. Your attorney can look closely at the prosecutor’s case, object to inadmissible evidence, and suppress illegally obtained evidence and statements so they cannot be used against you.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

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

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

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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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Presenting a Strong Defense

Criminal law has complex rules about what evidence, and arguments are admissible in court. Skilled drug trafficking lawyers understand how to present a compelling defense within these constraints. They can call expert witnesses, introduce evidence in your favor, and make strategic legal arguments to raise doubt about the prosecution’s version of events.

Drug trafficking charges expose you to years behind bars and other serious penalties. Defending yourself is extremely risky, while hiring a lawyer leverages experienced legal guidance in your favor.

What Are Possible Defenses in My Criminal Case?

Just because you have been accused of drug trafficking doesn’t mean you have no options. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your attorney may be able to get charges reduced, or dismissed. Below are some of the most common defenses against Washington drug trafficking accusations:

You Didn’t Actually Sell Drugs

Trafficking charges often rely heavily on circumstantial evidence. If the prosecution’s case depends on shaky assumptions, and you were not caught selling drugs directly, your attorney can argue there is too much reasonable doubt for a conviction.

You Had No Knowledge of the Drugs

It is illegal to knowingly transport drugs with intent to distribute. But, what if someone secretly stashed narcotics in your luggage, or vehicle without your knowledge? In situations where you did not know about the presence of contraband, your lawyer can argue you should not face trafficking charges.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when police improperly encourage, or coerce you, into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t commit. Some undercover officers often make repeated attempts to buy drugs from reluctant targets. Your lawyer can argue you only sold drugs due to entrapment, not criminal intent.

Illegal Search and Seizure

Rules dictate how police can search property, and vehicles without a warrant. If drugs were discovered through an illegal search, your attorney can file a suppression motion. If successful, the judge tosses illegally obtained evidence so it cannot be used against you. That can sometimes literally take apart the entire case and dismantle it.

Misidentification

Eyewitnesses and confidential informants are often mistaken. Your lawyer will scrutinize any police identification procedures for behavior undermining reliability. They can also focus on flaws in descriptions of the perpetrators. This creates reasonable doubt about your involvement in the crime.

Sentencing Entrapment

Trafficking charges depend on the quantity of drugs involved. Undercover police could have illegally induced you to sell larger amounts than you probably would have. Your lawyer can argue sentencing entrapment occurred, possibly reducing penalties in the final outcome.

By identifying problems with the prosecution’s version of events, drug trafficking lawyers can get charges dropped, reduced, or mitigated. But every case is different, so it’s extremely important to consult an attorney to discuss defenses specific to your circumstances.

How Do I Find the Best Drug Trafficking Lawyer?

All attorneys are not equal when mounting an aggressive drug trafficking defense. You want a criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience, relevant skills, and a proven record of success in cases similar to yours. Consider these tips when comparing criminal defense attorneys:

Seek Experience

Find lawyers focusing specifically on drug crime cases, not those who simply dabble in criminal defense as one practice area among many. You don’t want a jack of all trades you want a master of drug trafficking criminal defense. Ask about their specific experience defending trafficking accusations like yours. The best lawyers bring deep knowledge of Washington drug statutes and courtroom strategy to the table when talking to you, and when defending you.

Evaluate Resources and Credentials

A private criminal defense firm with adequate staff and resources is preferable to an overburdened public defender with hundreds of cases.

Review Case Results

The most important metric is an attorney’s record in drug trafficking cases. Do they have strong experience in getting charges dismissed pre-trial, reaching favorable plea bargains, or prevailing at trial? Be wary of guarantees of outcomes. Ask for references from past clients.