The penalties for drug violations vary widely based on a range of factors, including the type and weight of drugs involved, the criminal history of a defendant, whether or not dealing or trafficking are alleged, the presence of firearms or paraphernalia, and proximity of an alleged crime to a Drug-Free Zone, such as a school or playground.
Penalties range from a Class C misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $500, to a
First-Degree felony, carrying a maximum penalty of up to life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Common drugs include:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Oxycodone
- Codeine
- Hydrocodone
- Oxycodone
- Fentanyl
- Hallucinogens
Common drug charges include:
- Possession
- Drug Trafficking, Distribution and Delivery
- Possession with intent to manufacture or distribute
- Cultivation
- Drug paraphernalia
- Drug-based DWI
- Drug conspiracy
Drug Crimes Defense
The vast majority of drug charges involve teenagers or those aged 20-39. The societal consequences of a drug conviction can be severe, including job loss, the inability to work in certain jobs or professions, loss of reputation, an inability to obtain a rental residence, negative impact on divorce, child custody or family law matters, denial of residency or citizenship applications, and even an inability to obtain certain forms of state and federal aid.
Early consultation with an experienced Houston drug crimes lawyer is the best thing you can do to protect your freedom and your rights. Exercise your rights to remain silent. Even if you don’t think you are incriminating yourself, statements you make to law enforcement may conflict with potential defenses your attorney may use on your behalf.
Possible defenses to drug charges include:
- Challenging possession
- Challenging probable cause for a search
- Challenging basis for warrants
- Challenging weight
- Challenging intent to sell or distribute
- Challenging lab results
The truth is that so many defendants face drug charges in Houston each year that the state hopes most will simply plead guilty and attempt to put the embarrassment behind them. However, as we discussed, having a drug charge on your permanent criminal record carries many long-term negative consequences. Even when the evidence against you makes beating a case unlikely, there are many ways a drug crimes defense lawyer in Houston can reduce the potential consequences, including negotiating charges down to a lesser offense, and successfully arguing for alternative sentencing options, such as drug court or diversion.
Alex Macias is an experienced Houston drug crimes lawyer who represents clients in state and federal court in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Pearland, Knogwood, Katy, League City, Stafford, Friendswood, Richmond, Cypress, Clear Lake, Humble and Fulshear.
The Law Offices of Alejandro Macias, PC offers free and confidential consultations. Call 281-742-9508. ¡Se Habla Español!
