Suffolk Drug Crimes Lawyer

It used to be that those arrested and convicted of Suffolk County drug crimes were almost guaranteed to spend time in jail. However, in recent years, the local district attorney has implemented more progressive policies when it comes to prosecuting low-level drug crimes. However, most of these cases involve small amounts of narcotics for personal use, and it’s another story for those facing drug distribution or trafficking crimes. At the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, our Suffolk County drug crimes lawyer has three decades of experience handling high-stakes felony drug cases on behalf of clients, defending their rights, freedom and future.

Between 2017 and 2022, there have been between 250 and 300 overdose deaths in Suffolk County each year. In response, the Suffolk County District Attorney and various police departments have developed a hardline approach to the investigation and prosecution of drug dealers. In fact, according to the most recent data from the Massachusetts Trial Court, Department of Research and Planning, there were more than 1,500 drug arrests in 2022 alone. However, that figure doesn’t include cases in which the prosecution brought other, more serious charges. Thus, the true number of Suffolk County drug charges is actually quite a bit higher.

Under Massachusetts law, there are a few different types of drug crimes, including the following:

Simple possession, or possession for personal use, is the least serious drug crime. Thus, many who are charged with a first-time drug possession charge can qualify for a diversionary program. However, eligibility is not automatic, and an experienced Suffolk County drug crimes attorney may be necessary to enroll in the program.

Drug distribution charges involve selling, distributing, cultivating or possessing with the intent to distribute narcotics. These drug crimes are much more serious than simple possession; however, the seriousness of the offense will depend on what type of drug you were alleged to have possessed. For example, the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or any other Class A substance faces up to 2.5 years in the house of correction and a fine of up to $10,000.

Drug trafficking refers to larger-scale drug distribution operations. Unlike drug distribution charges, which may be filed regardless of the quantity of drugs involved, the drug trafficking statute provides specific threshold amounts. For example, under Mass. General Laws Chapter 94C Section 32E, possessing more than 50 pounds of marijuana with the intent to sell is considered drug trafficking, as is bringing more than 50 pounds of marijuana into the state. This carries a maximum penalty of up to 2.5 years in jail, with a minimum of a year in jail. However, those who possessed more than 18 grams of heroin would face the much harsher punishment of 3.5 years to 30 years in state prison, with 3.5 years being a mandatory minimum sentence.

Of course, if the government alleges that you sold drugs to a minor or in a school zone or public park, the punishment you face may be greater. 

If you are facing drug distribution or drug trafficking charges, it is essential that you have an experienced Suffolk County drug crimes lawyer by your side at every step of the way. At the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, we aggressively defend clients facing all types of drug charges and have done so for more than 27 years, helping countless clients move past their arrests and on with their lives. We understand all the best defenses to drug crimes and how to effectively use them to ensure your case ends in the best result possible. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with an attorney today, call 617-367-0450 or reach out to us through our online contact form. We represent clients throughout Suffolk County, including in Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop.