In Arlington County, importation of controlled substances is a federal offense under 21 U.S.C. §§ 952-960, carrying mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending federal importation cases. An Importation of Controlled Substances lawyer Arlington County can challenge the government’s evidence and build a strong defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Federal law prohibits importing controlled substances into the United States. Under 21 U.S.C. § 952, it is illegal to bring controlled substances listed on Schedules I-V across U.S. borders. The statute covers importation by any means — mail, courier, vehicle, or person. A conviction carries severe penalties including mandatory minimum prison terms. The government must prove you knowingly imported a controlled substance. A drug importation defense lawyer Arlington County can examine the evidence for procedural errors or lack of knowledge.
For the complete federal statute, see 21 U.S.C. § 952 (Importation of controlled substances). For federal court procedures in the Eastern District of Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
In Arlington County, federal importation cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA). The EDVA is known for aggressive prosecution and high conviction rates. Federal agents — including DEA, HSI, and CBP — conduct investigations. Early intervention is critical.
- Step 1: Do not speak to law enforcement without counsel. Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
- Step 2: Contact an Importation of Controlled Substances lawyer Arlington County before any court appearance.
- Step 3: Your attorney will appear at the initial appearance and argue for pretrial release at the detention hearing.
- Step 4: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal search or seizure.
- Step 5: Your attorney will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution or prepare for trial.
In Arlington County, importation of controlled substances carries mandatory minimum sentences ranging from 5 years to life depending on the drug type and quantity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Schedule I/II drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years to life | Up to $10 million | N/A (federal) | Supervised release up to 5 years; forfeiture of assets |
| Importation of Schedule III drugs | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $500,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release up to 3 years |
| Importation of Schedule IV drugs | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release up to 2 years |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legal knowledge. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County courts, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for importation of controlled substances in Arlington County?
Yes, penalties are severe. Importation of Schedule I/II drugs carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years to life in prison and fines up to $10 million. The exact penalty depends on the drug type and quantity.
Can I be released on bail for a federal importation charge in Arlington County?
It depends. Federal law presumes detention for drug trafficking offenses. Your attorney must argue for release at the detention hearing within 72 hours of arrest. Strong community ties and lack of flight risk help.
Do I need an Importation of Controlled Substances lawyer Arlington County for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first offense carries mandatory minimum prison time. Federal sentencing guidelines are complex. An experienced lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors and potentially reduce charges or sentence.
What defenses are available for importation of controlled substances charges?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge, illegal search and seizure, entrapment, and insufficient evidence. Your attorney will examine all evidence for constitutional violations and procedural errors.
How long does a federal importation case take in Arlington County?
Federal cases typically take 6-18 months from arrest to resolution. The Speedy Trial Act requires indictment within 30 days and trial within 70 days, but excludable delays can extend the timeline.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.