California Drug Trafficking Defense Law Firm

Ontario International Airport is just 40 miles from Los Angeles, and thus, is frequently monitored by federal drug agents. Indeed, drug trafficking is one of the most common reasons why someone is arrested at the airport.

California drug trafficking offenses can be prosecuted under either state or federal law, and can carry lengthy prison sentences. Anyone facing these serious allegations needs to have an attorney in their corner who understands the relevant laws and is prepared to fight on their behalf.

We handle the details. We make your case.

At Amicus Legal Group, we proudly stand up for those who have been charged with California drug trafficking after being arrested at Ontario International Airport. We command an in-depth understanding of the relevant state and federal laws, and use this knowledge to aggressively defend your rights at every stage of the process. At Amicus Legal Group, we will not play around with your freedom. We know how serious a drug trafficking conviction is, and what it can do to the life you have created, and we promise to do everything we can to help you move past the allegations and get on with your life.

State and Federal Drug Trafficking Laws

Fighting state or federal drug trafficking charges can be an uphill battle. However, having an experienced Ontario criminal defense attorney in your corner will ensure that you are doing everything possible to protect your future.

Drug trafficking is illegal under both state and federal law.

While most street-level drug offenses are prosecuted in state court, interstate or international drug trafficking is most often handled in federal courts. Under federal law, drug smuggling carries significant penalties. The length of the penalty depends on the amount of drugs as well as any prior conviction(s).

Drugs and Their Corresponding Penalties

Below is a list of a few drugs and their corresponding penalties.

Cocaine Base

More than 5 kilos: Not less than ten years imprisonment, up to life in prison for a first offense, and not less than 20 years imprisonment for a second offense.

500 grams to less than 5 kilos: Not less than five years imprisonment and not more than 40 years imprisonment for a first offense and up to a life sentence for subsequent offenses.

Heroin

• One hundred grams to less than 1 kilo: Not less than five years imprisonment and not more than 40 years imprisonment for a first offense and up to a life sentence for subsequent offenses.
• More than 1 kilos: Not less than ten years imprisonment, up to life in prison for a first offense, and not less than 20 years imprisonment for a second offense.

Marijuana

• One hundred kilos to less than 1000 kilos: Not less than five years imprisonment and not more than 40 years imprisonment for a first offense and up to a life sentence for subsequent offenses.
• More than 1000 kilos: Not less than ten years imprisonment, up to life in prison for a first offense, and not less than 20 years imprisonment for a second offense.

Things to Keep in Mind When Traveling at the Ontario International Airport

Travelers who have been through the Ontario International Airport are familiar with the security measure in place. In addition to law enforcement officers that regularly patrol the airport, travelers must also interact with U.S. Customs and TSA agents. These agents are trained to ask basic questions about the contents of passengers’ bags, and to detect any hesitation or withheld information. If an agent suspects something is off about a passenger, they can flag the passenger and their belongings for an additional search. However, a search must be limited in scope to detect the contraband the agent suspects were present. When a search exceeds its permissible scope, or statements are coerced from passengers, any evidence obtained may be suppressed and kept out of trial.

We proudly stand up for your rights.

If you have recently been charged with a California drug trafficking offense after being arrested at the Ontario International Airport, reach out to the dedicated team of criminal defense attorneys at Amicus Legal Group. Our attorneys command a detailed knowledge of the legal principles involved in these cases, as well as your state and federal constitutional rights. When you allow us to defend you, we will proudly stand up for your rights, doing everything we can to help you move past the allegations, and get on with your life. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation, call us at (888) 588-1777. You can also reach us through our online form.