In Texas, drug offenses are prosecuted in both state and federal courts. The sentence for a drug offense is complicated and based on a variety of factors, such as the type of drug in question, the amount of the drug, the purpose in which the drug was used , and the location of the offense.

Marijuana Possession

Marijuana, also known as weed and a variety of other slang terms, is defined by the state of Texas and the federal government as “the plant Cannabis sativa L., whether growing or not, the seeds of that plant, and every compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of that plant or its seeds.” It is a Schedule I controlled substance that is prohibited from possession, use, or distribution. Anyone caught with “usable” marijuana faces fines, required drug rehabilitation, and/or incarceration.

Cocaine Possession

A cocaine possession or distribution conviction can have a devastating impact on people ’s lives. In Texas, the penalty range for more than 400 grams of cocaine is 10 years to life, which is higher than the penalty for murder. If you or someone you know has been charged with cocaine possession or distribution, you should consult with a drug possession attorney right away to protect your constitutional right to a vigorous defense.

Drug Offense Felony

In some cases, a drug offense is also linked to osther crime, such as carrying a gun, making the penalty even harsher. If the defendant is a repeat offender or was caught smuggling, possessing, or distributing illegal substances in high volumes, the case may be enhanced.

Large Scale Cases

Drug cases involving large quantities of drugs or a conspiracy with others frequently result in federal charges. A plaintiff charged in federal court is frequently subjected to pre-trial detention with no chance of bond and harsh mandatory minimum prison sentences. It is critical in federal drug cases to hire a drug defense attorney who is licensed in federal district court and has handled cases there.

Possession of Controlled Substances

Aside from marijuana and cocaine, a variety of other illegal drugs can result in possession or distribution charges. Opioids, heroin, methamphetamine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, ketamine, ecstasy, LSD, crystal meth, and certain prescription drugs such as Valium and Hydrocodone are examples of “controlled substances.” Individuals charged with possession or distribution of a controlled substance face up to a $250,000 fine, drug tests, rehabilitation, and up to 99 years in prison, depending on the drug and amount found.

Manufacturing of Controlled Substances

According to Section 481 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, growing, processing, or manufacturing a controlled substance is a criminal offense. The penalties for such a crime are determined by the classification of the substance. The most severe penalties are reserved for those who manufacture Group 1 drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine. The consequences of processing pharmaceutical drugs such as Valium, Ritalin, and Codeine are less severe. Marijuana is classified as Miscellaneous, which means that the penalties can range from fines to probation to imprisonment.

Drug Trafficking & Distribution

Whether charged with trafficking marijuana, cocaine, prescription drugs, or another controlled substance, the penalties are almost always severe, ranging from the loss of a driver’s license to life in prison. Such a heinous punishment can have long-term consequences for your freedom and reputation, not to mention your job and family. If you have been accused of distributing an illegal substance, you should contact a drug offense lawyer right away. An experienced drug trafficking lawyer can assist you in negotiating the best possible outcome in your case.