Federal Drug Crime Defense Lawyers
Representation during an investigation, after an arrest, and in federal court.
A federal drug allegation can leave you making important decisions before you have seen the evidence. Keith & Lorfing helps you understand the accusation, evaluate your options, and prepare a defense grounded in your own circumstances.
Your involvement deserves its own examination.
In a case involving several people, an indictment may describe a broad operation. Your defense needs a more individual account: what you knew, what you did, and what the evidence actually connects to you.
We review the government’s allegations with that distinction in mind. Messages, recorded conversations, seized property, and witness statements can tell different stories when examined in context. We look for the facts that support or contradict the role prosecutors have assigned to you.
The charges shape the questions we ask.
Distribution and intent to distribute
For allegations involving sales, delivery, or possession with intent to distribute, we examine how the government seeks to prove knowledge and intent. Possession, access, and ownership are factual issues that deserve separate attention.
Drug conspiracy
An alleged agreement can bring several defendants into one prosecution. We investigate the evidence of your participation and assess whether the government’s account confuses association with involvement.
Importation and diversion
Cases involving cross-border shipments or controlled medications may turn on communications, transaction records, and what a person understood about the activity. We investigate those details rather than rely on labels.
If the immediate concern is a pharmacy or medical-practice inspection, our DEA audit defense page explains how we assist registrants.
Preparation begins before a courtroom decision.
Searches and seized evidence
We review how agents obtained evidence and whether the circumstances support a legal challenge. A motion depends on the search, the applicable law, and the facts we can establish.
Witness accounts and recordings
We compare statements with documents and recordings, look for inconsistencies, and examine incentives that may affect a cooperating witness’s account.
Your alleged role and drug quantity
We assess the basis for amounts attributed to you, including estimates and conduct involving other people. We also examine claims about leadership, weapons, or other facts that could affect the case.
Plea terms and trial preparation
We explain proposed terms and unresolved risks so you can make an informed decision. Evaluating an offer requires preparation, including an understanding of the evidence that could be presented at trial.
Sentencing requires more than a headline number.
The charge, substance, quantity, and other legally relevant facts can affect the sentencing range. Federal law includes mandatory minimums for certain offenses, but there is no single sentence that applies to every drug case. The penalty provisions in 21 U.S.C. § 841 illustrate why those distinctions matter.
We work through the applicable law and the disputed facts before discussing potential exposure. If sentencing becomes necessary, preparation includes reviewing the presentence report, identifying supported objections, and documenting relevant information about your life and circumstances.
Any discussion of a plea, cooperation, or possible sentencing relief should account for the requirements and consequences in your particular case. We explain those decisions without promising a result.
Talk with Russell and Brandi.
Our former federal prosecutors bring experience examining investigations and presenting cases to juries. Their background helps inform the questions we ask when preparing a defense.
Russell Lorfing
Russell’s federal prosecution experience includes complex trials and investigations. His practice also includes a sustained focus on federal sentencing.
Brandi Young
Brandi handled narcotics and other criminal matters during her years in federal prosecution. She brings state and federal trial experience to the firm.
Questions about representation.
Can I speak with the firm before charges are filed?
Yes. An interview request, search, or other contact may raise questions before a formal charge. Tell us what has happened and provide any documents you received so we can discuss the request and the next decision.
What if a family member has just been arrested?
When you call, let us know where the person is being held, the court involved if known, and any scheduled appearance. We can discuss the status of the case and what information is needed to consider representation.
Does every case end in a guilty plea?
No. The appropriate course depends on the evidence, available legal challenges, and the client’s informed decisions. We evaluate those issues and explain the consequences of the options that are actually available.
What should I bring to a consultation?
Have the charging documents or agency correspondence available, along with hearing dates and the name of any current attorney. We will explain what else may be useful and how to share records securely.
Begin with the next decision you face.
Whether you have received a call from agents or already have a court date, we can discuss your situation and whether our firm can help. Tell us the district handling the matter and any approaching deadline.
Houston office coming soon.