If you are convicted of a charge of manufacturing, delivering, creating, or possessing a controlled substance with the intent to traffic in it, the penalties are severe, and can include up to life in prison and a fine of up to $1 million, depending on the type and amount of drugs involved.
While the prospect of a lengthy prison sentence and an expensive fine is stressful enough, a drug trafficking conviction can negatively affect your life in many other ways — and will stain your life for years or decades to come, even after you’ve served your sentence. The potential consequences of a drug trafficking conviction can include:
- A permanent criminal record
- The stigma of being a drug felon
- Loss of your driver’s license, even if your drug trafficking conviction didn’t involve driving
- Loss of your job or being denied employment
- Being denied rental housing
- Suspension or revocation of a professional license and loss of your career as a teacher, lawyer, pharmacist, nurse, doctor, or other licensed professional
- Loss of federal financial aid, such as grants or student loans, to pay for college
- Ineligibility for an immigration visa, work permit, or citizenship, and the potential for deportation if you’re not an American citizen
- Loss of custody of your children
However, you may have a chance at fighting the charge and avoiding some of these consequences with the help of an experienced Detroit drug trafficking lawyer. A good criminal defense lawyer can step in and represent you in any phase of the process — from the initial investigation by police to your trial in a Michigan courtroom. A lawyer can help protect your rights as you face this serious and distressing charge, and help protect your future. Working with a knowledgeable Detroit drug crime lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, especially when your freedom and long-term future are on the line.
