Drug charges are a serious issue that can lead to irreversible consequences. If you receive a conviction in Houston, a strong legal defense is your best hope. It’s our job to get you a fair trial and the best possible outcome. No matter the level of drug charge or circumstances of the situation, Freedom Law Group is on your side.
Texas drug charges vary in severity depending on the volume, type and activity involved. Whether you receive a simple possession charge or a drug trafficking charge, you have the right to a defense. The Freedom Law Group team is here to help.
What is a Drug Offense in Houston?
Texas laws and federal laws determine whether a substance or action involving a substance falls under the category of a drug offense. In Texas, it is illegal to use, possess, manufacture or distribute a controlled substance. The Texas Controlled Substance Act clearly outlines the illegal possession of specific substances.
If you’re in possession of a controlled substance, you may face a drug charge. The consequences for drug offenses increase if you’re in possession of a larger amount of a controlled substance or if you manufacture or distribute a controlled substance.
*Texas law defines possession as “knowing or intentional possession” of an illegal drug.
Marijuana Possession
Marijuana is still illegal to possess in Houston, Texas. Regardless of whether other states in the U.S. have adjusted the legality of marijuana, Texas has not. If you receive a charge for possession of marijuana, you may face felony consequences. A marijuana possession charge carries serious weight in Houston.
The volume of marijuana in possession impacts the charge and penalty. For example, possession of two ounces or less of marijuana carries a penalty of no more than 180 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine. Alternatively, possession of 2,000 pounds or more carries a penalty of up to 99 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
Cocaine Possession
Unlike marijuana possession, a small amount of cocaine never results in a misdemeanor charge. If you’re charged with cocaine possession, you need an attorney on your side right away. The earlier you seek help, the stronger your defense.
Even less than one gram of cocaine carries a penalty of up to two years in jail and a $10,000 fine. For cocaine possession of more than 400 grams, you can face life in prison and up to a $100,000 fine. Possession of other controlled substances like heroin, methamphetamines and oxycodone, carry heavy penalties with a possession conviction.
Drug Trafficking
Texas law defines drug trafficking as the intent to manufacture, deliver, sell or import illegal drugs. Drug trafficking convictions carry much greater penalties than possession charges. The penalties for drug trafficking convictions depend on the type of substances. Texas law breaks down each substance into a penalty group with defined charges for each group.
If you face drug trafficking charges in Houston, seek the help of an experienced attorney right away. You need to begin building a strong defense based on the facts of your case. Your rights and freedom are on the line.
Federal Drug Crimes
Federal drug charges are most often more serious than Texas drug charges and carry harsher penalties. Additionally, the federal system has more resources than the state system. Your case usually moves much faster with federal charges.
The difference in a state and federal drug change usually involves the transfer of drugs across state or international borders. The Freedom Law Group Firm understands federal drug laws and successfully represents clients facing federal drug charges.
How to Build a Strong Defense Against Drug Charges
If you face drug charges at any level, you need an experienced defense team on your side. Even low-level offenses can lead to incarceration and fines. You don’t want to take the risk. Instead, partner with an attorney who understands drug charges in Houston. Whether your charges are state or federal, we work with each client to build the best possible drug crime defense.
Contact Freedom Law Group today to request a consultation.
