Houston Drug Lawyer
Accused of a Drug Offense in Houston? Call Our Drug Possession Attorneys Today!
Have you been charged with a drug crime in Houston, Texas? You need an experienced trial attorney to fight drug-related charges. Brian Nguyen and his legal team have successfully represented people in some of the most severe criminal cases possible. You may face punishment that ranges anywhere from probation to life in prison, so schedule a case evaluation with our firm now.
Houston Drug Attorney Proudly Serving Harris County
Being accused of possession of a controlled substance is no walk in Hermann Park. You may face a misdemeanor or felony that puts your freedom in jeopardy, depending on the type and amount of drug. Drug possession charges require serious representation, and our attorneys are former prosecutors trained by top legal minds. Protecting your future and constitutional rights is our top priority.
Our Houston drug crimes attorneys fight for results that matter. When the police accuse you of possessing a small amount of cocaine or intent to distribute marijuana, your best bet is a Not Guilt verdict in court. At Universal Law Group, our trial attorneys build defense strategies that achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Call 832-767-0339 now to schedule a case evaluation with a top Houston attorney.
Possession of a Controlled Substance in Texas
Texas is quite strict when it comes to its drug possession laws. When you face charges for drug possession, you risk steep fines as well as imprisonment. In parts of Texas, this includes even small amounts of a controlled substance.
Additionally, drug possession convictions have the potential to result in a mandatory suspension of your driver’s license for 6 months. Typically, these are the substances most common to possession of a controlled substance in Texas.
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
- Ecstasy
- Methamphetamine
Aside from small amounts of marijuana, the possession of these substances constitutes a felony under Texas law. Furthermore, drug laws in Texas cover the possession of prescription medications when you don’t have a valid prescription.
When you face drug crime charges, it’s important to understand the consequences. Oftentimes, the ramifications of these convictions extend far beyond the time in a jail cell. Generally, having a conviction for drug possession on your record impacts your ability to find a job or even housing.
If you face charges for possession of a controlled substance in Houston, TX, it is crucial that you discuss your case with a Houston criminal defense lawyer. At Universal Law Group, we have an expansive legal team with experience and expertise in Houston drug crimes.
As experienced criminal defense lawyers, we are your advocates. Let us help you build the strongest defense possible.
Former Prosecutor Experience
Proven Defense Strategies
State and Federal Representation
Schedule Classifications of Drugs in
Texas
In Texas, not every controlled substance has equal standing. Texas law divides drugs into four different Penalty Groups.
However, it’s important to understand the exception for marijuana, which is not in any of the groups.
Regardless of the group, though, it’s important to understand that all of these are felonies in Texas. Moreover, they all carry the potential of jail time.
Penalty Group 1
This group includes the most addictive drugs with the fewest legitimate medical applications. It includes cocaine, heroin, ketamine, methadone, methamphetamine, opium, oxycodone, and over 300 mg of hydrocodone.
This group carries the stiffest penalties.
Penalty Group 2
Penalty Group 3
Penalty Group 4
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession
When convicted of drug possession in Texas, your penalty depends on both the amount of drugs in your possession as well as which Group(s) they fall under. For marijuana, possession of under 2 ounces comes with a maximum sentence of six months.
Over two ounces, it becomes a bit more complicated. In some cases, you may face a charge of “possession with intent to deliver,” which carries far greater penalties.
- Penalty Group 1 substances have a sentence that ranges from 6 months to life in prison. Moreover, they come with fines up to $100,000. However, LSD and other hallucinogens carry fines up to $250,000.
- Penalty Group 2 substances come with a maximum sentence of life and fines up to $50,000.
- Penalty Groups 3 and 4 may fall into misdemeanor charges when the amount is under 28 grams. Cases of more than 28 grams become a felony. When the amount is extremely high, this can result in a life sentence and fines up to $50,000.
As you can see, possession of a controlled substance in Texas comes with severe consequences in many cases. When you need a strong defense, you need a Houston drug crimes lawyer who understands how to navigate these matters.
At Universal Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys work with you to attain the best possible outcome for your case. We work with your best interest in mind to protect your future. Schedule a case evaluation to learn more about your options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the elements of a drug possession case?
A drug possession case in Texas requires the prosecution to prove two elements: that you had control or custody of the illegal substance, and that you knowingly possessed it. Evidence may include your presence at the scene, proximity to the drugs, or items like paraphernalia linking you to the contraband. The prosecution must establish a clear connection between you and the substance to secure a conviction. Contact our Houston drug crimes lawyers for help in protecting your rights.
What are the potential defenses of drug charges?
There are several potential defenses to drug possession charges in Texas. These include having a valid prescription for the controlled substance, not knowing you were in possession of the drug, or not knowing the substance was illegal. Additionally, if the substance was not intended for human consumption or if the amount of the drug was too small to be tested, these could also serve as defenses. A skilled Houston drug possession attorney can help build a strong case for you.
What is the Texas Controlled Substance Act?
The Texas Controlled Substance Act regulates both legal and illegal drugs in the state. It classifies substances into four categories: narcotics (e.g., opium, morphine), depressants (e.g., tranquilizers, alcohol), stimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines), and hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, marijuana). The Act also outlines penalties for possession and abuse of prescription drugs.
Can I expunge my drug possession arrest record in Harris County?
Yes, a lawyer may be able to help you expunge your drug possession arrest record in Harris County under certain circumstances. You may be eligible if you were arrested but not charged, or if your case was dismissed due to lack of evidence or probable cause. However, if you were convicted, you cannot expunge your record.
Schedule a Consultation With Drug Crimes Lawyers Near You
In any possession of a controlled substance case, your best chance for a fair outcome is experienced legal representation. As your advocates, our criminal defense attorneys build a strong defense and fight vigorously to protect your rights.
When you face drug charges in Harris County, TX, contact our Houston drug crimes attorneys. At Universal Law Group, we are always ready to fight for you. Schedule your case evaluation today.