Texas Drug Crimes: Types, Penalties & More
Drug crimes are some of the most serious crimes in Texas and are aggressively prosecuted by the state.
Common drug offenses in Texas include:
- Possession of Controlled Substances: Illegal possession of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, meth, heroin, and prescription medications without a valid prescription.
- Possession with Intent to Deliver: Possessing drugs in quantities that suggest intent to sell or distribute.
- Manufacturing or Delivery of Controlled Substances: Involvement in the production or distribution of illegal drugs.
- Drug Trafficking: Transporting large quantities of controlled substances across state or international borders.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: Possessing items used to consume, produce, or distribute drugs.
Penalties for Georgetown drug crimes vary based on factors such as the type and amount of the controlled substance, prior criminal history, and whether minors were involved.
Consequences can include:
- Fines: Ranging from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Incarceration: Jail or prison sentences ranging from months to life imprisonment.
- Probation: Supervised release with strict conditions.
- Drug Treatment Programs: Mandatory participation in rehabilitation or education programs.
- Driver's License Suspension: Loss of driving privileges for certain offenses.
- Criminal Record: A permanent record that can affect employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
For example, possession of less than one gram of a Penalty Group 1 substance (such as cocaine or methamphetamine) is a state jail felony, punishable by 180 days to 2 years in a state jail and a fine up to $10,000. Larger quantities can result in more severe charges, including first-degree felonies.
The Impact of a Drug Conviction in Georgetown, TX
A drug conviction can have lasting repercussions beyond legal penalties. It can make finding employment challenging, as many Georgetown employers conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire individuals with criminal records. Housing opportunities may also be limited, with landlords refusing to rent to those with convictions. Educational pursuits can be hindered due to ineligibility for student loans or admission issues. Additionally, felony convictions can result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to possess firearms, and can carry a social stigma that affects personal relationships and community standing.
Our Comprehensive Approach to Drug Crime Defense
At Winters & Chidester, we are committed to providing a vigorous defense for those facing drug charges in Georgetown, Texas. Drawing on our extensive knowledge of Texas drug laws and the criminal justice system, we tailor our defense strategies to the unique circumstances of each case. As former prosecutors, our Georgetown criminal defense lawyers have invaluable insight into the tactics used by the opposition, allowing us to anticipate their moves and effectively counter them.
Our approach involves meticulously examining every aspect of your case. We scrutinize whether law enforcement conducted illegal searches and seizures that may have violated your Fourth Amendment rights. By identifying any procedural errors or constitutional violations, we can challenge the admissibility of unlawfully obtained evidence.
We also question the validity of the evidence presented against you, including the handling and testing of the alleged controlled substances. Any discrepancies or mistakes in the chain of custody or laboratory analysis can be critical in weakening the prosecution's case. Negotiation plays a key role in our strategy as well. Leveraging our experience, we engage with prosecutors to potentially reduce the severity of charges or penalties, which can sometimes result in lesser charges or more favorable plea agreements.
Contact Our Georgetown Drug Crime Attorneys Today
Facing drug charges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate the legal system alone. The sooner you engage experienced legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Let Winters & Chidester fight for your rights and future. It all begins when you reach out to our firm for a confidential consultation and review of your case.
Call us at (512) 961-4555 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our drug crime lawyers in Georgetown.
A Proven History Of Success
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Case Dismissed Felony Drug Possession
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No Charges Filed Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
We represented a woman under investigation for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and assault family violence. By demonstrating she was actually the victim and providing key evidence to authorities, we prevented any charges from being filed against her.
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Case dismissed Assault Family Violence
We represented a young man charged with assault family violence. By acting swiftly and conducting our own investigation, we achieved a dismissal of his case in under six months.
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No felony charge; Zero jail time DWI
We represented a client facing potential felony DWI charges due to prior convictions, along with a criminal mischief charge and a probation revocation. We helped him avoid felony charges and a criminal mischief conviction, and he served no jail time.
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Case dismissed Leaving the Scene of an Accident
We represented a person charged with leaving the scene of an accident. After reviewing the evidence, working with the client, and meeting with the prosecutor we were able to secure a dismissal.
Arrested? Don't Wait to Involve an Attorney.
Contact our firm immediately if you have been charged with a drug crime in the Georgetown area. Law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney are not on your side; they will do everything they can to see you behind bars. The sooner you retain our services, the sooner we can build your defense. At Winters & Chidester, we have handled hundreds of cases and can give you the best possible chance of having your charges reduced or dismissed.
Contact our firm today at (512) 961-4555 or schedule your consultation online.
