Rockwall Drug Defense Attorneys Assert Your Rights

Determined advocates handle Texas felony and misdemeanor drug cases

Drug charges are zealously prosecuted in Texas, with defendants facing incarceration for activity that might not be criminal in other parts of the country. Moreover, as a border state, there is also an increased possibility that cases involving controlled substance offenses might wind up in federal court.   Under such circumstances, you need experienced and capable criminal defense representation, which you can find at Grob & Associates Law Firm PC. From our offices in Rockwall and Wylie, we tailor our defense strategy to the precise facts of your case, challenging the prosecution in pursuit of a favorable result. 

Frequently prosecuted drug crimes in Texas

The Texas Controlled Substances Act outlines several drug-related offenses, such as the following:  

• Possession of controlled substances — Unlawfully possessing drugs like cocaine, heroin or methamphetamines. Penalties are based on the specific substance and the amount seized. 
• Possession with intent to distribute — There are several factors that prosecutors cite to allege an intent to distribute drugs, such as the quantity found and the presence of packaging associated with the sale of controlled substances.
• Drug trafficking — Transporting or distributing large quantities of controlled substances, often involving interstate or international activity.
• Manufacturing drugs — Producing or cultivating illegal drugs, such as operating a meth lab or growing marijuana.
• Prescription drug crimes — Obtaining or distributing prescription medications, including opioids, without valid authorization.
• Marijuana possession — Possessing marijuana remains illegal in Texas, except for limited medical use with state permission.
• Drug paraphernalia — Having items, such as pipes or scales, associated with drug use or distribution can trigger a criminal charge.

Regardless of how strong the government’s case might seem, there could be potential defenses that defeat the charges against you. Some prosecutions are based on mistaken interpretations about who possessed a particular substance or the defendant’s mental state. In certain cases, evidence is collected in violation of a suspect’s fundamental rights and is subject to exclusion. 

Potential penalties for Texas drug offenses

Controlled substance counts in Texas vary by offense severity, drug type, quantity and prior convictions. The state law sentencing structure is as follows:

• Class C misdemeanor — Minor offenses, like possessing small amounts of drug paraphernalia, carry fines up to $500.
• Class B misdemeanor — Possession of less than two ounces of marijuana may result in up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
• Class A misdemeanor — Possession of under one gram of certain controlled substances can lead to up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
• State jail felony — Possessing one to four grams of a Penalty Group 1 substance, such as heroin or cocaine, is punishable by 180 days to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
• Third-degree felony — Possession of four to 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 substance may result in two to seven years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• Second-degree felony — Possession with intent to distribute smaller quantities can lead to two to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• First-degree felony — Trafficking or possessing large quantities, 200+ grams of cocaine for example, draws five to 99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Enhanced penalties apply for factors like prior convictions or activity near schools. A prior conviction need not be a drug offense; convictions for crimes such as theft or domestic violence can trigger increased sentences.

How an experienced Rockwall lawyer defends against drug charges

A skilled Texas criminal defense lawyer is essential for fighting drug charges effectively. We begin by reviewing evidence, such as police reports and lab results, to identify potential weaknesses in the government’s case. Our lawyers might question the validity of traffic stops or residential searches in order to have evidence suppressed. Defenses based on lack of knowledge or control of the substance might also be warranted depending on the facts. When appropriate, we seek to negotiate plea deals to reduce charges or penalties, such as steering first-time offenders to drug treatment programs under Texas’s diversion laws. Our experience ensures your rights are protected and improves your prospects of a positive outcome.

Contact an accomplished Texas criminal defense attorney for your drug case

Grob & Associates Law Firm PC defends North Texas residents accused of felony and misdemeanor drug offenses. For a consultation to discuss your legal rights, please call 972-777-5701 or contact us online. Our offices are in Rockwall and Wylie.