Federal Crimes like drug trafficking or possession with intent to distribute cocaine, marijuana, or most other drugs carry mandatory prison time. Navigating your way through the maze of options takes an experienced federal criminal attorney who knows how to get the least time possible.
Mandatory minimum sentencing only means “mandatory” if you don’t qualify for things like the safety valve or “5K” mitigation. Also, if the person charged only had a minor or even “minimal” role the court can reduce the amount of prison time. Other important factors that can make the difference in how much prison time is ordered are enhancements, or more prison time, beyond the minimum mandatory if the person that was an organizer, or if they used a private plane, or depending on how much (in weight) was imported or sold.
To learn more about the guidelines call Matthew Ladd, an experienced attorney who knows how to the get the reductions you want at 305-665-3978.
Also, here’s a link to the federal guidelines manual: http://www.ussc.gov/guidelines-manual/guidelines-manual.