COLUMBUS DRUG TRAFFICKING LAWYER

Ohio Drug Trafficking Attorney

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Facing Drug Trafficking Charges in Columbus, Ohio?

Drug trafficking is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face in Ohio. It involves the distribution, sale, or transportation of illegal drugs, and the consequences are severe. If convicted, you could be looking at lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and even federal charges.

When your future is at stake, you need an experienced legal defense on your side. We’ve successfully defended numerous clients facing drug-related charges in Columbus and throughout Ohio. We understand the complexities of the legal system and are ready to help you navigate this challenging time.

Ohio Drug Trafficking Laws

Ohio’s drug trafficking laws are tough, and the penalties increase depending on the type and amount of drugs involved. Prosecutors must prove several key elements to convict you, including:

  • Possession: You had illegal drugs in your possession.
  • Intent: You intended to distribute, transport, or sell the drugs.
  • Quantity: The amount of drugs in your possession exceeded a specific legal threshold.
  • Knowledge: You knew the substances were illegal.

If convicted, penalties vary based on the quantity and type of drug, as well as your prior criminal history. In some cases, drug trafficking charges can escalate to federal offenses, carrying even more severe consequences.

What Our Clients
Are Saying

Nathan Akamine has been recognized as one of the top Columbus criminal defense lawyers in the region. Let Akamine Criminal Defense Law fight for you.

"Mr. Akamine’s representation allowed me to learn and grow from my mistakes without having to pay for them for the rest of my life. I would highly recommend Mr. Akamine’s services to anyone in need of representation in the Central Ohio area."

Anthony N., ★★★★★ Google Review

"Thank you for a job well done. I appreciate that you took my calls and treated me with respect. I can’t thank you enough for everything you've done. I will recommend you to everyone I know."

-Anonymous

"My husband was facing serious jail time because of his prior DUI cases. Mr. Akamine encouraged him to get the help he needed in a treatment program and convinced the Prosecutor and Judge to allow him to do house arrest instead of jail. We can't thank you enough."

-Amy and John K.

"I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI. That was a mistake. Mr. Akamine goes above and beyond. Lawyer of the year in my option. I'll never go anywhere else for my legal issues."

-Adam D.

"Mr. Akamine represented my son several times in the past. He recommended the best actions to take in court and he truly cared about us. I called often and Mr. Akamine always was able to make me feel better about my son's situation. Thank you, thank you."

-Donna F.

What Our Clients
Are Saying

Nathan Akamine has been recognized as one of the top Columbus criminal defense lawyers in the region. Let Akamine Criminal Defense Law fight for you.

"Mr. Akamine’s representation allowed me to learn and grow from my mistakes without having to pay for them for the rest of my life. I would highly recommend Mr. Akamine’s services to anyone in need of representation in the Central Ohio area."

Anthony N., ★★★★★ Google Review

"THANK YOU NATHAN!"

J Mo, ★★★★★ Google Review

"Thank you for a job well done. I appreciate that you took my calls and treated me with respect. I can’t thank you enough for everything you've done. I will recommend you to everyone I know."

- Angie R. ★★★★★

"He was a great attorney defending my case."

Requel King, ★★★★★ Google Review

"My husband was facing serious jail time because of his prior DUI cases. Mr. Akamine encouraged him to get the help he needed in a treatment program and convinced the Prosecutor and Judge to allow him to do house arrest instead of jail. We can't thank you enough."

-Amy and John K.★★★★★

"I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI. That was a mistake. Mr. Akamine goes above and beyond. Lawyer of the year in my option. I'll never go anywhere else for my legal issues."

-Adam D.★★★★★

"Mr. Akamine represented my son several times in the past. He recommended the best actions to take in court and he truly cared about us. I called often and Mr. Akamine always was able to make me feel better about my son's situation. Thank you, thank you."

-Donna F. ★★★★★

Charged with drug trafficking? Schedule a consultation with our firm and receive legal counsel you can trust, contact us online, or call us at (614) 433-6818.

Possible Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges

At Nathan Akamine Law, we will evaluate every aspect of your case to build a strong defense. Some potential defenses may include:

  • Lack of Knowledge or Intent: We may argue that you were unaware of the drugs in your possession or had no intention to distribute them.
  • Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, we could have the evidence against you suppressed.
  • Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified, we’ll work to clear your name.
  • Entrapment: If you were pressured by law enforcement into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have, we may raise an entrapment defense.

 

What is the maximum sentence for drug trafficking in Ohio?

 
 
Penalties for drug trafficking can include a mandatory prison sentence ranging from 3 to 11 years, along with fines that can reach up to $20,000. If the quantity of drugs involved is 100 times or more than the bulk amount, the offense escalates to a first-degree felony, and the court is obligated to impose the maximum sentence of 11 years in prison.
 

Potential Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Ohio

Ohio imposes a range of penalties for drug trafficking offenses, depending on the severity of the charge:

  • Minor Misdemeanor: No jail time, fines up to $150.
  • Fourth-Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 30 days in jail, fines up to $250.
  • Third-Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 60 days in jail, fines up to $500.
  • Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail, fines up to $750.
  • First-Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $1,000.
  • Fifth-Degree Felony: Six to 12 months in prison, fines up to $2,500.
  • Fourth-Degree Felony: Six to 18 months in prison, fines up to $5,000.
  • Third-Degree Felony: Nine months to five years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
  • Second-Degree Felony: Two to eight years in prison, fines up to $15,000.
  • First-Degree Felony: Three to 11 years in prison, fines up to $20,000.

In addition to imprisonment and fines, a drug trafficking conviction in Ohio can carry other significant consequences. Your driver’s license may be suspended, affecting your ability to commute to work or school. You could be required to participate in drug treatment programs or complete community service.

A conviction will also leave a lasting mark on your criminal record, potentially making it difficult to secure employment, housing, or loans. If you’re a student, you could lose eligibility for federal financial aid. These life-altering consequences underscore the need for strong legal representation if you’re facing drug trafficking charges.

 

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Years of experience in Columbus courtrooms have allowed us to build professional relationships with local prosecutors and judges that can benefit your case through more productive negotiations and respected advocacy.

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Contact me for a free consultation.

Facing drug trafficking charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Nathan Akamine is known for his strategic defense tactics and thorough understanding of Ohio’s legal system. We’ll challenge the evidence, question the actions of law enforcement, and protect your constitutional rights at every step.

We provide personalized, compassionate support throughout the legal process. You’ll always be informed about your case, and we’ll work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.

If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Columbus, Ohio, call us now at (614) 433-6818. We’re here to help defend your rights and protect your future.

Let us help you navigate this challenging time and work towards the best possible outcome for you.