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Defending Against Conspiracy and Distribution Charges

Conspiracy and distribution charges are among the most aggressively prosecuted offenses in federal court. Prosecutors often bring these charges together, arguing that individuals worked with others to plan, transport, or sell controlled substances. The penalties are severe, including lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and forfeiture of assets.

But conspiracy and distribution cases are not always as strong as they first appear. These charges often rely on circumstantial evidence, cooperating witnesses, and complex legal theories. A skilled drug defense attorney can expose weaknesses in the government’s case and protect a defendant’s rights.

Understanding Conspiracy Charges

Conspiracy is a separate offense from the underlying crime. The government must prove two elements:

• An agreement between two or more people to commit a criminal act.

• An overt act taken in furtherance of that agreement.

The government does not have to show that the crime was completed. Simply participating in an alleged agreement can be enough for conviction.

Challenges in conspiracy cases often arise because:

• Evidence of an agreement may be thin, based only on conversations or associations.

• Prosecutors may “bundle” multiple defendants into one conspiracy, even when their involvement was minimal.

• Statements from cooperating witnesses, who often receive leniency in exchange for testimony, may be unreliable.

Understanding Distribution Charges

Distribution involves the transfer, delivery, or sale of controlled substances. Importantly, distribution charges are not limited to large-scale trafficking.

Examples include:

• A single transaction involving a small quantity of drugs.

• Sharing drugs with others, even without profit.

• Being accused of intending to distribute based on packaging, quantity, or paraphernalia.

Because the definition of distribution is broad, defendants may face charges even when their conduct was limited.

Common Defense Strategies

A strong defense begins with understanding the government’s evidence and identifying weaknesses. Common strategies include:

• Lack of Agreement. Arguing that the defendant never entered into an agreement to commit a crime. Mere association with others is not enough.

• Withdrawal. Showing that the defendant withdrew from the conspiracy before any crime occurred.

• Entrapment. Demonstrating that law enforcement pressured or persuaded the defendant to commit an act they otherwise would not have committed.

• Insufficient Evidence. Highlighting the lack of physical evidence or reliance on testimony from unreliable cooperating witnesses.

• Challenging Credibility. Exposing inconsistencies or motives for witnesses to lie, such as plea deals or reduced sentences.

The Importance of Investigating the Evidence

Many conspiracy and distribution cases hinge on wiretaps, surveillance, or confidential informants. A thorough defense requires examining:

• Whether search warrants or surveillance were lawfully obtained.

• Whether recorded conversations truly demonstrate agreement.

• Whether informants were credible or had hidden incentives.

• Whether the government’s interpretation of evidence is consistent with other facts.

By carefully reviewing the government’s evidence, a defense attorney can often show that allegations of conspiracy or distribution are overstated.

Sentencing Considerations

Even if a defendant is convicted, sentencing can vary widely depending on the circumstances. Courts consider factors such as drug quantity, role in the offense, criminal history, and whether firearms were involved.

Defense attorneys can argue for reduced sentencing by:

• Challenging drug quantity calculations.

• Demonstrating a minor role in the conspiracy.

• Presenting mitigating factors such as lack of prior record, family responsibilities, or rehabilitation efforts.

Effective advocacy at sentencing can reduce penalties significantly.

Why Experienced Counsel Matters

Conspiracy and distribution cases move quickly, and prosecutors often stack charges to increase pressure. Having an experienced defense attorney is essential to protect rights, challenge unreliable evidence, and present the strongest possible case.

At Glozman Law, we have defended clients against some of the most complex federal conspiracy and distribution charges. We know how to investigate the government’s evidence, cross-examine cooperating witnesses, and fight for favorable outcomes both at trial and on appeal.

Contact a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one is facing conspiracy or distribution charges, do not wait to seek legal help. The earlier a defense attorney becomes involved, the more options are available to challenge the case.

Contact Glozman Law today for a confidential consultation. Our attorneys will review the charges, explain your options, and fight to protect your rights at every stage of the process.