Serving Houston, TX Since 1995
Michigan Drug Trafficking Lawyer
Federal Defense for High-Stakes Drug Charges
Federal drug trafficking charges in Michigan are aggressively prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys and investigated by agencies like the DEA, FBI, and Homeland Security. If you're accused of manufacturing, importing, or distributing controlled substances, you face severe penalties under federal law.
At Guy L. Womack & Associates, P.C., we provide strategic defense for individuals charged with drug trafficking in both the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan. These cases often involve lengthy investigations, coordinated task force operations, and the use of confidential informants or wiretaps. Federal prosecutors may file charges even when a person’s involvement is limited or peripheral to a larger operation. That’s why early legal intervention is critical. Our firm is prepared to respond swiftly, protect your rights during the investigative phase, and begin building a defense strategy that reflects the facts and circumstances of your unique situation.
Federal charges carry mandatory minimum sentences, asset forfeiture, and long-term consequences. If you're under investigation or have already been indicted, contact us at (713) 364-9913 to speak with an experienced Michigan federal drug trafficking attorney.
Federal Drug Trafficking Offenses We Handle
Our firm is focused exclusively on federal criminal defense. We represent clients across Michigan's federal courts who are charged with serious drug offenses under the following federal statutes:
- Possession with Intent to Distribute (21 U.S.C. 841) - Covers the manufacture, distribution, or possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute. Penalties are based on drug type, quantity, and criminal history.
- Importation of Controlled Substances (21 U.S.C. 952) - Charged when drugs are transported into the U.S., including over the Canadian border into Michigan. Common in border cities like Detroit or Port Huron.
- Conspiracy to Distribute (21 U.S.C. 846) - An agreement to distribute drugs can result in conspiracy charges, even if the defendant never handled the drugs directly.
- Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) (21 U.S.C. 848) - Applies to individuals accused of directing large-scale trafficking operations. Often referred to as the “kingpin statute.”
- Use of Communication Facilities (21 U.S.C. 843b) - Covers the use of phones, email, or text messaging to arrange or further drug trafficking activity.
- Distribution Near Protected Locations (21 U.S.C. 860) - Enhanced penalties apply when drug offenses occur near schools, playgrounds, or public housing, relevant to urban areas like Detroit and Flint.
We have experience defending federal drug trafficking cases involving methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, and prescription opioids throughout Michigan.
Penalties for Federal Drug Trafficking Convictions
Federal drug trafficking convictions carry some of the most severe penalties in the U.S. criminal justice system. Sentencing is primarily governed by the Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, with penalties increasing based on several aggravating factors.
Mandatory Minimum Sentences
Many drug trafficking offenses under 21 U.S.C. 841 and 21 U.S.C. 952 carry mandatory minimum prison terms, ranging from 5 to 10 years or more, depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved. For example:
- 5+ grams of methamphetamine or 28+ grams of crack cocaine can trigger a 5-year minimum
- 1+ kilogram of heroin or 5+ kilograms of cocaine can trigger a 10-year minimum
Enhanced Penalties for Prior Convictions
If the defendant has one or more prior felony drug convictions, the penalties can significantly increase. A repeat offense may raise the minimum sentence or even result in a mandatory life sentence under certain circumstances.
Location-Based Enhancements
Under 21 U.S.C. § 860, trafficking offenses near schools or public housing result in stiffer penalties, especially relevant in urban Michigan communities.
Additional Consequences
Convictions may also include:
- Fines up to $10 million
- Asset forfeiture (vehicles, homes, bank accounts)
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Supervised release following incarceration
These factors make it essential to work with a federal drug trafficking lawyer in Michigan who understands the full scope of sentencing risks and how to challenge them effectively.
Mandatory minimums and asset forfeiture are just some of the risks in federal drug cases. Reach out to us by calling (713) 364-9913 to discuss your options with a dedicated defense lawyer.
Where Winning Matters
We Have the Experience You Can Count On
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$2 Million Settlement Obtained for Grieving Family
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Criminal Charges Dropped $300,000 of Equipment and Funds Were Misplaced, Disposed of And/Or Taken
State of Texas v. SM
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$4 Million Settlement Recovered for Electrocution Victim
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$4.85 Million Settlement Recovered for Victim of Sexual Assault
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All Charges Dismissed 7 Indictments of Sexual Molestation of Neighborhood Children
State of Texas v. B.H.
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No Criminal Charges Filed Aggravated Assault
U.S. v. LTC GW
Sentencing Mitigation Strategies
While some federal drug trafficking charges may seem insurmountable, there are often legal opportunities to reduce sentencing exposure. At Guy L. Womack & Associates, P.C., we craft tailored mitigation strategies designed to limit the severity of the outcome—even in cases where conviction may be likely.
Challenging Drug Quantity and Role in the Offense
Sentencing ranges under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines often depend on drug quantity and the accused’s role in the conspiracy. We work to demonstrate that a client had a minor or peripheral role in the offense, which can lower the applicable guideline range.
Arguing for Safety Valve Eligibility
If certain conditions are met, first-time, non-violent offenders may qualify for the “safety valve” provision under 18 U.S.C. § 3553(f), allowing for sentencing below the mandatory minimum.
Pursuing Substantial Assistance Reductions
In applicable cases, we may explore options under Rule 35 if a client’s cooperation with authorities is considered valuable, potentially reducing prison time.
Highlighting Personal History and Rehabilitation
Our attorneys prepare persuasive sentencing memoranda that include details about the defendant’s background, employment history, community involvement, or substance use recovery—factors that courts can consider at sentencing.
Challenging Prior Convictions or Enhancements
We thoroughly examine the validity of any alleged prior offenses the prosecution relies on to enhance sentencing. If improperly applied, we push to exclude them.
By using these and other mitigation strategies, we aim to help clients in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and other Michigan federal court locations avoid the harshest possible outcomes.
Contact a Michigan Drug Trafficking Attorney
If you are facing federal drug trafficking charges in Michigan, there is no time to waste. The stakes are high, and early legal guidance can make a critical difference in how your case unfolds. At Guy L. Womack & Associates, P.C., we defend individuals in the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, including Detroit, Flint, Bay City, Grand Rapids, Marquette, Kalamazoo, and Lansing.
Our firm focuses solely on federal criminal defense, with a deep understanding of the statutes, procedures, and strategies necessary to protect your rights in serious drug trafficking cases.
Call (713) 364-9913 or contact us online to schedule a confidential case evaluation. We are available 24/7 and ready to begin building your defense.