Pearland Drug Crime Attorney
Protecting the Rights and Freedom of Clients Facing Criminal Charges
If you have been arrested and charged with a drug crime, you are most likely feeling frightened and unsure of what the future may hold. Due to the high number of drug arrests in the state in recent years, Texas takes a tough stance on drug crimes.
For example, even a drug possession charge can result in defendants having to go to court, pay steep fines, and potentially even serve jail time. Additionally, a conviction for drug crimes can result in a defendant being forced to deal with a lifelong criminal record. Any criminal record can make it challenging for individuals to obtain gainful employment, hold specific professional licenses, and enlist in the military. Felony convictions may result in individuals being unable to legally own firearms, vote, or sit on a jury.
For these reasons, anyone charged with a drug crime must hire a criminal defense lawyer who will fight to protect their constitutional rights and freedom. Contact The Kahn Law Firm, P.C. of Pearland, TX, and ask to schedule a free initial consultation so that we may discuss your legal options and determine how we can help.
When Can a Person Be Charged With a Drug Crime?
Texas state law dictates that there are several different types of drug offenses considered to be criminal offenses. Possession of controlled substances is a serious crime and comes with steep penalties.
Texas law lists the following common drugs as controlled substances:
- Marijuana
- Anabolic steroids
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Heroin
- Fentanyl
- Ecstasy
- Opiates
There are many various drug acts, such as drug use, which can be charged as criminal offenses. However, some of the most common include:
- Drug possession: The care, custody, custody, or management of a controlled substance
- Drug trafficking: The manufacture, delivery, or possession with the intent to sell
Criminal charges vary depending on several factors, including the amount and type of drugs involved in the case and the defendant’s prior criminal record. For more information about drug crime charges, contact our law office to schedule a meeting with a legal team member who can answer your questions.
What are the Criminal Penalties for Texas Drug Offenses?
Texas crimes are separated into penalty groups based on their danger to the public. Group 1 is reserved for drugs with the highest penalties, and Group 4 carries the lowest.
Misdemeanor Drug Offense Penalties
Misdemeanor drug offenses are included in Group 4, and convictions typically result in less severe penalties than those charged as felonies.
Some examples of misdemeanor drug offense penalties include:
- Simple drug possession: Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to $500 with no jail time required
- Possession of two ounces or less of marijuana: Class B misdemeanor punishable by 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000
- Possession of two to four ounces of marijuana: Class A misdemeanor punishable by one year in jail and a maximum fine of $4,000
Felony Drug Offense Penalties
Felony drug offenses are based on the drug type and amount in the defendant’s possession. For example, possession of less than 20 units of specific drugs such as fentanyl or heroin is a state jail felony. Other examples include:
- Possession of 20 to 80 units is a third-degree felony punishable by two to 10 years in prison
- Possession of 80 to 4,000 units is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in prison
- Possession of 4,000 to 8,000 units is a first-degree felony punishable by 5 to 99 years in prison
Will I Have to Go to Trial for My Drug Charges?
A common question many clients ask is whether their case will have to go to trial. Even though Texas law views drug offenses as serious crimes, many cases are resolved without the need to go to trial. In most drug cases, a criminal defense attorney negotiates with the prosecutor to try to reduce or possibly dismiss the charges.
The Kahn Law Firm, P.C., has extensive experience providing legal representation to clients charged with drug crimes. It is essential to remember that not all drug charges are the same, and therefore, outcomes may significantly vary depending on the facts of the case. For example, a misdemeanor possession charge will be treated differently than drug trafficking.
Additionally, often, law enforcement officers will find drugs at a scene and arrest everyone there or obtain evidence without probable cause. Our attorneys may be able to have evidence excluded, significantly weakening the state’s case.
Regardless of the circumstances involved in your drug crime arrest, you must hire a skilled drug crime attorney who understands what it takes to get results.
Why Should I Trust Your Pearland Drug Crime Lawyers to Defend Me Against Criminal Charges?
The Kahn Law Firm, P.C. has a proven track record of successfully representing clients accused of drug crimes. We realize that, often, good people make poor decisions. However, we also recognize that a poor decision should not affect a client’s future.
Therefore, our law firm is passionately committed to fiercely advocating for our clients. Our Pearland drug crime lawyers will professionally evaluate your case to determine what legal strategies meet your needs.
Our Pearland drug crime lawyers will thoroughly examine the evidence the state has against you to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the case. In many instances, police officers and the prosecution are overzealous when pressing drug charges against defendants.
If you have been charged with a drug crime, you must hire an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately who can begin building a solid defense on your behalf.
Contact The Kahn Law Firm, P.C. at 713-999-6549 and ask to schedule a free, confidential consultation so that we may discuss your case and determine your legal options.