If you face drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia, you need expert legal representation.
A conviction can have serious consequences, affecting your freedom, future opportunities, and personal relationships.
To navigate drug laws and the criminal justice system, you need a lawyer with specialized knowledge and experience.
Choosing the right drug trafficking lawyer in Philadelphia can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A skilled attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, challenge any unlawful searches or seizures, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
They can also negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing options.
The Law Offices of David Jay Glassman offer experienced representation for those facing drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia.
1) Bradford Cohen
Bradford Cohen is a prominent criminal defense lawyer with over 20 years of litigation experience.
He has represented numerous high-profile clients, including celebrities and corporations, in various legal matters.
Cohen’s expertise extends to drug-related cases, making him a sought-after attorney for complex legal situations.
His skill in the courtroom has earned him recognition, including nominations for Best Lawyers in America in 2008 and 2009.
You may be familiar with Cohen’s work representing notable figures such as rapper Kodak Black.
He successfully handled Kodak’s oxycodone drug possession charges, leading to their dismissal.
Cohen’s legal acumen extends beyond drug cases.
He has also represented clients like Drake, Travis Scott, and Dennis Rodman in various legal matters.
His diverse experience demonstrates his versatility as an attorney.
When you’re facing serious drug charges, Cohen’s track record of success can be reassuring.
His ability to navigate complex legal situations and achieve favorable outcomes for his clients sets him apart in the field of criminal defense.
While based in Florida, Cohen’s reputation extends nationally.
His experience with high-stakes cases and his strategic approach to defense make him a valuable asset for those facing drug trafficking charges, even outside his home state.
2) David Z. Chesnoff
David Z. Chesnoff is a renowned criminal defense attorney based in Las Vegas.
While not primarily practicing in Philadelphia, his expertise and reputation in high-profile cases make him worth considering for complex drug trafficking cases.
You may find Chesnoff’s experience with celebrity clients and crime figures valuable.
His background includes representing individuals in high-stakes criminal matters, which can be applicable to serious drug trafficking charges.
Chesnoff’s law firm, Chesnoff & Schonfeld, PC, has a strong reputation in criminal defense.
Their expertise extends beyond local cases, potentially offering insights that could benefit your defense strategy in Philadelphia.
It’s important to note that Chesnoff’s primary practice is in Las Vegas.
However, his national recognition and experience with federal cases could make him a viable option for consultation or potential representation in Philadelphia drug trafficking cases.
Chesnoff’s accolades include being selected for Super Lawyers from 2007 to 2023.
This recognition speaks to his peers’ respect for his legal abilities and achievements in criminal defense.
When considering Chesnoff for your case, you should inquire about his availability and willingness to take on cases in Philadelphia.
His expertise might be particularly valuable if your case has interstate or federal components.
3) Mark Geragos
Mark Geragos is a prominent criminal defense attorney known for representing high-profile clients.
You may recognize his name from various celebrity cases he has handled throughout his career.
Geragos has experience defending clients accused of drug trafficking and other serious offenses.
His law firm, Geragos & Geragos, is based in Los Angeles but takes on cases nationwide.
As a skilled litigator, Geragos has a reputation for aggressive defense strategies and media savvy.
He often appears as a legal commentator on television news programs, discussing high-profile cases.
While not based in Philadelphia, Geragos has represented clients across the country.
His expertise in complex criminal cases makes him a sought-after attorney for those facing serious charges like drug trafficking.
Geragos has previously represented Sean “Diddy” Combs in other legal matters.
This demonstrates his experience working with high-profile clients in sensitive cases.
When choosing a lawyer for drug trafficking charges, you should consider an attorney’s track record and experience.
Geragos’s history of handling complex criminal cases could make him a strong choice for your defense.
4) Benjamin Brafman
Benjamin Brafman is a renowned criminal defense attorney based in New York City.
While not specifically practicing in Philadelphia, his reputation extends nationwide, making him a top choice for high-profile cases.
You may recognize Brafman’s name from his representation of numerous celebrities and public figures.
His client list includes Sean “Diddy” Combs, who recently sought Brafman’s services for a high-stakes legal battle.
Brafman’s expertise extends to complex criminal cases, including drug trafficking.
His strategic approach and courtroom skills have earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable defense attorneys in the country.
When choosing Brafman, you’re selecting a lawyer with decades of experience in federal and state courts.
His firm, Brafman & Associates, has successfully defended clients against serious drug charges and other criminal allegations.
If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia and have the means to hire a top-tier attorney, consider reaching out to Brafman’s office.
While he may not be local to Philadelphia, his expertise could be invaluable in navigating complex federal cases.
Remember that Brafman’s services come at a premium, reflecting his status in the legal community.
However, for those seeking the highest level of defense, his track record speaks for itself.
5) Roy Black
Roy Black is a renowned criminal defense attorney based in Miami, Florida.
While not primarily associated with Philadelphia, his expertise and reputation extend nationwide.
You may recognize Black from his high-profile cases and media appearances.
He has represented numerous celebrities and public figures throughout his career.
Black gained national attention in 1991 when he successfully defended William Kennedy Smith against rape charges.
This case catapulted him to prominence in the legal world.
Your interest in drug trafficking defense may be piqued by Black’s representation of Rush Limbaugh.
He defended the conservative radio host against prescription drug charges in 2006.
Black’s firm handles a wide range of criminal cases, including drug-related offenses.
His analytical skills and courtroom presence make him a formidable advocate for his clients.
You might appreciate Black’s approach to legal education.
He teaches advanced criminal evidence at the University of Miami School of Law, sharing his expertise with future attorneys.
Black’s media presence extends beyond the courtroom.
You may have seen him as a legal analyst on various television networks, offering insights on high-profile cases.
While not specifically focused on Philadelphia, Black’s national reputation and experience with complex criminal cases make him a notable figure in drug trafficking defense.
6) Gerald Shargel
Gerald Shargel was a renowned criminal defense attorney based in New York City.
His expertise and skill in defending high-profile clients earned him a reputation as one of the best criminal defense lawyers in the country.
You might recognize Shargel’s name from his work representing members of organized crime families.
He famously defended John Gotti, the notorious Gambino crime family boss, in several trials.
Shargel’s courtroom tactics were widely admired.
He was known for his canny approach and ability to craft compelling arguments in defense of his clients.
His cross-examination skills were particularly noteworthy.
Throughout his career, Shargel received numerous accolades for his legal work.
He was selected as a “Top 100 New York Super Lawyer” multiple times, showcasing his standing among his peers in the legal community.
In 2013, Shargel made a significant career move.
After decades of running his own small practice, he joined the large law firm Winston & Strawn as a partner.
This transition demonstrated his adaptability and continued relevance in the legal field.
Sadly, Gerald Shargel passed away on July 16, 2022, at the age of 77.
His legacy as a skilled criminal defense attorney continues to influence the legal profession today.
7) Murray Richman
Murray Richman is a renowned criminal defense attorney based in New York, not Philadelphia.
While he has gained national recognition for his work, he does not primarily practice in Philadelphia.
You should be aware that Richman, often called “Don’t Worry Murray,” has decades of experience defending high-profile clients.
His expertise lies in criminal defense, particularly in cases involving organized crime and celebrities.
Richman’s legal career spans over 50 years.
He has represented clients in numerous high-stakes criminal trials across the United States.
His reputation for aggressive defense tactics and courtroom charisma has earned him widespread respect in legal circles.
If you’re seeking representation for drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia specifically, you may want to consider local attorneys who are more familiar with Pennsylvania state laws and the Philadelphia court system.
For drug trafficking cases in Philadelphia, you might explore options like Brennan Law Offices.
They specialize in drug-related offenses and have extensive experience in Philadelphia courts.
Remember, when choosing a lawyer for drug trafficking charges, local expertise and familiarity with state-specific laws can be crucial to your defense strategy.
8) Peter Frankel
Peter Frankel is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in New York City.
While he doesn’t primarily focus on Philadelphia cases, his expertise extends to defense litigation throughout the United States.
As a former prosecutor, Frankel brings valuable insights to his defense practice.
You can benefit from his experience in both state and federal cases, which he has been handling since 1993.
Frankel’s office is located at 20 Vesey Street, Suite 1200, New York, NY.
You can reach out to him for a consultation during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, by appointment.
For urgent matters, emergency assistance is available 24 hours a day.
This round-the-clock availability can be crucial when dealing with time-sensitive legal issues.
To discuss your case with Peter Frankel, you can contact his office at 212-732-0002.
Alternatively, you may reach out via email for non-urgent inquiries.
While Frankel’s primary focus may not be drug trafficking cases in Philadelphia specifically, his broad experience in criminal defense across the United States could be valuable for complex cases that cross state lines or involve federal charges.
9) Thomas Mesereau
Thomas Mesereau is a renowned criminal defense attorney based in Los Angeles.
While he isn’t primarily focused on drug trafficking cases in Philadelphia, his expertise and reputation make him a formidable choice for high-profile criminal defense.
You may recognize Mesereau from his successful defense of Michael Jackson in 2005.
His ability to handle complex, high-stakes cases has earned him widespread recognition in the legal community.
Mesereau has received numerous accolades throughout his career.
In 2011, he was named criminal defense lawyer of the year in Southern California by the Los Angeles Times.
His approach to cases is thorough and strategic.
Mesereau is known for his intense preparation and his skill in cross-examination.
These qualities can be invaluable when defending against serious charges like drug trafficking.
While Mesereau’s practice is not limited to drug cases, his experience in handling complex criminal matters makes him a strong candidate for such cases.
His track record includes successful defenses in murder and attempted murder cases.
If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia and are looking for top-tier legal representation, Mesereau’s national reputation and proven results make him a compelling option to consider.
However, it’s important to note that his services may come at a premium due to his high-profile status.
10) Alan Dershowitz
Alan Dershowitz is a renowned American lawyer and legal scholar.
You may know him for his high-profile cases and controversial stances on various legal issues.
Dershowitz has defended numerous notable clients, including Jeffrey Epstein.
His involvement in the Epstein case has brought both acclaim and criticism to his career.
As a former Harvard Law School professor, Dershowitz has extensive experience in constitutional and criminal law.
You can benefit from his deep understanding of legal principles and strategic approach to complex cases.
Dershowitz’s expertise extends beyond drug trafficking cases.
He has handled a wide range of criminal defense matters throughout his career.
You should note that Dershowitz’s association with controversial figures has led to public scrutiny.
This includes allegations related to the Epstein case, which he has vehemently denied.
When considering Dershowitz as your legal representative, you must weigh his impressive track record against the potential public perception issues.
His aggressive defense strategies and media savvy can be valuable assets in high-stakes cases.
Remember that choosing a lawyer is a personal decision.
You should carefully evaluate Dershowitz’s experience, reputation, and approach to determine if he aligns with your specific legal needs and goals.
Qualities of the Best Drug Trafficking Lawyer
When facing drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia, choosing the right attorney is crucial.
The best drug trafficking lawyers possess specific qualities that set them apart and give you the strongest possible defense.
Extensive Experience in Drug Trafficking Cases
A top drug trafficking lawyer has years of experience handling similar cases.
They understand the nuances of drug laws and how they apply to your situation.
Experienced attorneys know how to analyze evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop effective defense strategies.
These lawyers stay current on changes to drug laws and court procedures.
They’re familiar with local judges and prosecutors, which can be advantageous when negotiating plea deals or presenting your case.
Look for an attorney who focuses primarily on drug-related offenses.
Their specialized knowledge will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of your case.
In-depth Knowledge of Philadelphia’s Legal System
The best drug trafficking lawyers have a deep understanding of Philadelphia’s legal landscape.
They know the intricacies of local court procedures and how different judges tend to rule on drug cases.
This knowledge allows them to:
- File motions strategically
- Anticipate prosecution tactics
- Navigate plea bargaining effectively
Familiarity with local drug task forces and law enforcement practices is also crucial.
It helps in challenging evidence collection methods and identifying potential constitutional violations.
Choose a lawyer who regularly practices in Philadelphia courts.
Their relationships with court staff and other legal professionals can streamline the process and potentially lead to better outcomes for you.
Proven Track Record of Success
A top drug trafficking attorney should have a history of achieving favorable results for their clients.
This might include:
- Reduced charges
- Dismissed cases
- Acquittals at trial
- Favorable plea agreements
Ask potential lawyers about their success rates in drug trafficking cases.
Reputable attorneys will be transparent about their track record and may provide anonymous case examples.
Look for recognition from peer review organizations or local legal associations.
These accolades can indicate a lawyer’s skill and reputation within the legal community.
Remember, past success doesn’t guarantee future results, but it’s a strong indicator of a lawyer’s capabilities in handling complex drug trafficking cases.
Legal Strategies for Drug Trafficking Defense
Effective defense against drug trafficking charges requires a multi-pronged approach.
Skilled attorneys employ various tactics to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Challenging the Evidence
A crucial strategy involves scrutinizing the evidence against you.
Experienced drug trafficking lawyers meticulously examine how law enforcement obtained the evidence.
They look for potential violations of your Fourth Amendment rights, such as illegal searches or seizures.
Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if it was obtained unlawfully.
This can include challenging the validity of search warrants or questioning the reliability of informants.
Forensic evidence analysis is another key aspect.
Your lawyer may request independent testing of alleged drug samples or challenge the accuracy of field tests used by police.
Negotiating Plea Bargains
In some cases, negotiating a plea bargain may be the most advantageous strategy.
Your attorney will assess the strength of the prosecution’s case and your potential exposure to lengthy sentences.
Plea negotiations can lead to reduced charges or lighter sentences.
For instance, your lawyer might work to have trafficking charges lowered to possession charges, which typically carry less severe penalties.
Factors such as your criminal history, the quantity of drugs involved, and your role in the alleged offense can influence plea negotiations.
Your attorney will leverage these factors to advocate for the most favorable terms possible.
Exploring Diversion Programs
For some defendants, particularly first-time offenders, diversion programs may be an option.
These programs offer an alternative to traditional prosecution and can help you avoid a criminal record.
Drug court programs focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
They typically involve substance abuse treatment, regular court appearances, and drug testing.
Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges.
Your attorney can determine your eligibility for such programs and advocate for your admission.
They’ll explain the requirements and help you weigh the pros and cons of participation versus fighting the charges in court.
The Role of a Drug Trafficking Lawyer in Philadelphia
Drug trafficking lawyers in Philadelphia play a crucial role in defending clients facing serious charges.
They navigate complex legal systems, advocate for their clients’ rights, and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Client Representation and Advocacy
A skilled drug trafficking defense attorney serves as your voice in the legal system.
They protect your constitutional rights and ensure fair treatment throughout the legal process.
Your lawyer will review the evidence against you, looking for any procedural errors or violations of your rights that could lead to case dismissal.
They may negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
In court, your attorney will present a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific case.
This might involve challenging the legality of searches and seizures or questioning the credibility of witnesses.
Navigating Local and Federal Laws
Drug trafficking cases often involve both state and federal laws, adding layers of complexity.
Your lawyer must be well-versed in Pennsylvania statutes as well as federal drug laws.
They’ll analyze which jurisdiction your case falls under and how this impacts potential penalties.
Philadelphia drug lawyers stay updated on changing laws and precedents that could affect your case.
Your attorney will explain the charges against you, potential consequences, and your legal options in clear terms.
They’ll guide you through plea bargaining processes if appropriate, weighing the pros and cons of different strategies.
Collaborating with Expert Witnesses
Drug trafficking cases frequently require technical expertise.
Your lawyer will work with forensic specialists, toxicologists, and other experts to strengthen your defense.
These experts can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, such as the accuracy of drug testing methods or the reliability of informants.
They may provide testimony on scientific or medical aspects relevant to your case.
Your attorney will carefully select and prepare these witnesses, ensuring their testimonies align with your overall defense strategy.
This collaboration can be crucial in casting doubt on the prosecution’s case or supporting alternative explanations for the evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia requires skilled legal representation.
Several top attorneys specialize in this area of law and employ various defense strategies.
Who are some of the top-rated defense attorneys for drug trafficking cases in Philadelphia?
Bradford Cohen is recognized as a leading drug trafficking defense lawyer in Philadelphia.
His firm has extensive experience handling complex cases.
David Z. Chesnoff and Mark Geragos are also highly regarded for their work in drug-related cases, though they primarily practice in other jurisdictions.
What should I look for when choosing a criminal defense attorney for a drug trafficking charge in Pennsylvania?
Look for an attorney with specific experience in drug trafficking cases.
Check their track record of successful outcomes and client reviews.
Ensure they are familiar with Pennsylvania drug laws and have a strong understanding of local court procedures.
Can you recommend a defense lawyer with a strong track record in drug trafficking cases?
Lloyd Long has built a reputation for effectively defending clients against drug trafficking charges in Philadelphia.
His law office has a history of achieving favorable outcomes in complex drug-related cases.
What are the potential defenses against a drug trafficking charge in Philadelphia?
Common defenses include:
- Challenging the legality of searches and seizures
- Questioning the chain of custody for evidence
- Disputing the intent to distribute
An experienced attorney may also explore options like negotiating plea deals or proving lack of knowledge about the drugs.
How do I find a lawyer specialized in drug laws in Philadelphia?
Start by researching attorneys who focus on drug crime defense.
The Philadelphia Bar Association can provide referrals to qualified lawyers.
Consider scheduling consultations with a few attorneys to discuss your case and assess their expertise.
What legal strategies might a defense attorney use in a Philadelphia drug trafficking case?
A skilled attorney may challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
They can also file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or negotiate for reduced charges.
They might also investigate potential constitutional violations or explore alternative sentencing options if a conviction seems likely.