What Is Drug Trafficking vs. Intent to Distribute?

Feb 09, 2018, by Martin Drias in Drug Crimes, Legal Blog

Drug crimes are highly serious and are severely prosecuted in the state of Michigan. There are varying degrees of drug offenses, whether the charge involves possession, delivery, manufacturing, intent to distribute, or trafficking. In particular, there are some differences between the crime of drug trafficking and the crime of intent to distribute that are important to know. A Detroit drug lawyer can help you understand the complexities of the law as well as defend you against any drug charges imposed by the state.

If you are facing a drug trafficking, intent to distribute, or other drug offense in Michigan, you need a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer on your side to ensure your rights are protected from start to finish. At Drias Law Group, we can create a strong defense on your behalf to secure a fair outcome in your case.

Drug Trafficking

The offense of drug trafficking does not exclusively or necessarily involve the transport of drugs from one individual to another or across state lines. A major element involved in drug trafficking is the amount of drugs possessed, handled, or delivered. As the quantity of drugs increases, so does the chance of facing a drug trafficking charge. This crime is considered a Class A felony.

Various actions can constitute drug trafficking in Michigan.The following activities with a controlled substance as stated under Section 333.7401 of the Michigan Public Health Code can land you with a serious drug charge:

Create
Manufacture
Deliver
Possess with the intent to create, manufacture, or deliver

Drug manufacturing is a charge that falls under Section 333.7401c of the Michigan Public Health Code. It applies when you:

Possess or own lab equipment or chemicals you know are being used to manufacture drugs
Possess or own or use a building, vehicle, land, or structure you know is being used to manufacture drugs
Provide lab equipment or chemicals to another person when you know those items will be used to manufacture drugs

The majority of drug trafficking charges in the state of Michigan carry a penalty of 20 years to life in prison and fines that can range between $25,000 and $1 million. The amount of drugs in your possession will be a significant determining factor in the severity of the penalty you face. Therefore, it is important to have an experienced drug lawyer on your side to advocate for you and your rights.

Possession with Intent to Distribute

Possessing with the intent to distribute or deliver is a charge that applies when an individual is furnishing, delivering, or selling any controlled substance, including marijuana and other narcotics. The charge is considered a Class B felony.

Often times, law enforcement may charge individuals who are in possession of illegal drugs with the crime of possession with intent to distribute. This is because they suspect the individual has the intent to sell or distribute the controlled substances. If you are facing a potential intent to distribute charge but were only using the drugs for personal use, be careful not to admit to a crime you did not commit. An experienced drug lawyer can give you effective legal counsel and defense against any potential or existing drug charge.

Depending on the nature of the crime, the penalties for intent to distribute can be life-changing and match the severity of many drug trafficking convictions.

Contact a Michigan Drug Lawyer For Help

If a drug offense charge involving trafficking or intent to distribute is threatening your future, a strong and effective legal advocate from our team at Drias Law Group can gather the facts of your case and fight to lessen, or if possible, eliminate the consequences you are facing.

To set up a free initial consultation, contact us today at (313) 944-0236.