Experienced Federal Drug Crime Defense

Defending Against Federal Drug Charges

Federal drug crimes carry severe penalties, including several levels of mandatory minimum sentences based on drug weight, lengthy prison terms, and asset forfeiture. If you are facing federal drug charges, you need an experienced Charleston federal drug defense attorney who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights.

Types of Federal Drug Charges

The U.S. government aggressively prosecutes drug-related offenses, particularly those involving interstate trafficking, large-scale distribution, and conspiracy. These cases often involve wide-ranging investigations involving the DEA, FBI, HSI,, and local task force officers Togetherd, these resources can collectwide-ranging evidence, often including wiretapped conversationse.

Standard federal drug charges include:

1. Drug Trafficking & Distribution (21 U.S.C. § 841)

• Selling, transporting, or distributing controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, or prescription drugs.

• Sentences, including mandatory minimums, depend on drug quantity, prior offenses, and whether firearms or violence were involved.

2. Drug Conspiracy (21 U.S.C. § 846)

• Even if you did not personally distribute drugs, you can be convicted for participating in a conspiracy to manufacture or distribute drugs.

• Prosecutors do not need to prove that you completed the crime—only that you agreed to be part of a drug operation or assisted in the drug operation.

3. Possession with Intent to Distribute

• More serious than simple possession, this charge applies when law enforcement believes drugs were meant for sale rather than personal use.

• Evidence often includes large drug quantities, packaging materials, cash, or communications suggesting sales activity.

4. Manufacturing & Cultivation

• Operating a meth lab, growing marijuana (which is still illegal at the federal level even in states where recreational marijuana is legal and is entirely prohibited in South Carolina), or producing synthetic drugs can lead to federal charges, especially if chemicals or equipment cross state lines.

5. Federal Drug Smuggling (21 U.S.C. § 952)

• Importing or exporting controlled substances into the U.S.

• It is often investigated by the DEA, FBI, Homeland Security, and local South Carolina law enforcement agencies that work on task forces with federal agents.

6. Prescription Drug Fraud

• Illegal distribution of opioids, Xanax, Adderall, or Oxycodone.

• Physicians, pharmacists, and individuals involved in pill mills or fraudulent prescriptions can face federal prosecution.

Penalties for Federal Drug Crimes

Federal sentencing is harsh, often involving mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity.

Enhanced penalties, whether they be additional mandatory minimums or an enhancement under the federal sentencing guidelines, apply if:

✔ Firearms were involved.

✔ The defendant has prior convictions.

✔ Someone was injured or killed as a result of drug activity.

✔ An individual was a leader or organizer

Federal Drug Defense Strategies

At The Law Offices of Nathan S. Williams, we fight aggressively to protect your freedom. Possible defenses include:

✅ Illegal Search & Seizure – If law enforcement obtained evidence unlawfully, we can file a motion to suppress evidence.

✅ Lack of Possession – Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly possessed drugs.

✅ No Intent to Distribute – If no sales or distribution evidence exists, we can argue for a reduced charge.

✅ Entrapment – If federal agents coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have, we can challenge the prosecution’s case.

✅ Violation of Your Rights – We examine the case for constitutional violations that may warrant dismissal.

Why Choose Us for Your Federal Drug Defense?

• Experienced Federal Defense Lawyer – We have successfully defended clients in complex federal drug cases.

• Aggressive & Strategic Representation – We fight to get charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible.

• Personalized Legal Approach – Every case is unique; we build a defense tailored to your situation.

• Former Federal Prosecution Experience—As a former federal prosecutor who prosecuted federal drug cases for thirteen years, we have a unique understanding of how cases are built and where the weaknesses lie.

Charged with a Federal Drug Crime? Take Action Now.

A federal drug conviction can change your life forever. The sooner you get a strong defense attorney, the better your chances of a successful outcome.