Drug Crime Lawyer in Houston

Helping Clients Fight Drug Crime Charges in Harris County

If you have been arrested and charged with a drug crime, you may likely feel frightened and uncertain of what will happen next. A drug crime conviction can haunt individuals for the rest of their lives, making it hard to achieve the goals they have set for themselves. Even a misdemeanor drug conviction can prevent individuals from holding professional licenses, serving in the military, or obtaining gainful employment.

If an individual is convicted of a felony drug offense, they will be forever labeled a convicted felon. In Texas, convicted felons are prevented from legally owning or possessing firearms, holding public office, and are limited in their ability to obtain student loans or housing. If you have been charged with a drug offense, you cannot wait to obtain legal representation. Don’t face a drug case alone. Speak with an experienced drug crime lawyer in Houston.

Contact our criminal defense attorney in Houston, TX, to schedule a free consultation to review your case and determine what legal options may be available.

What Are Texas Drug Charges?

Texas takes drug charges seriously, and understanding the types of offenses can help you navigate the legal process more effectively. Our Houston drug crime lawyers and criminal defense team are experienced in defending cases under the Texas Controlled Substances Act, including issues involving controlled substances and drug possession. Common drug offenses in Texas include:

• Drug Possession: simple possession of a controlled substance or illegal drugs
• Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute: charges for selling or delivering controlled substances
• Drug Manufacturing:  producing illegal drugs under Texas law
• Drug Trafficking: transporting controlled substances
• Prescription drug violations: misuse or illegal distribution of prescription medications

Our team works closely with clients to provide strategic defense and guidance through every step of the legal process, protecting your rights and aiming for the most favorable outcome possible.

What Are the Criminal Penalties For Drug Charges in Texas?

Criminal charges for illegal drugs range from misdemeanors for drug possession up to first-degree felonies for drug trafficking. Dangerous drugs include methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and ecstasy to name a few.

The criminal penalties for Texas drug crimes include:

• Class C misdemeanor: Possession of drug paraphernalia is considered a Class C misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine of up to $500.
• Class B misdemeanor: Possession of up to two ounces of marijuana is typically a Class B misdemeanor and is punishable by 180 days in jail and a fine of $2,000.
• Class A misdemeanor: Possession of dangerous drugs less than 28 grams may be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days to one year in jail and a potential fine of $4,000.
• State jail felony: Possession of dangerous drugs under one gram may fall under the state jail felony offense and is punishable by 180 days to two years in jail and a potential fine of $10,000.
• 3rd-degree felony: Possession of at least one but less than four grams of dangerous drugs is punishable by two to 10 years in prison and a potential fine of $10,000.
• 2nd-degree felony: Possession of at least four but less than 200 grams of dangerous drugs is punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
• 1st-degree felony: Possession of at least 200 grams but less than 400 grams of dangerous drugs is punishable by 5 to 99 years in prison and a potential fine of $10,000.

It is vital that anyone who has been charged with a drug crime obtain qualified legal representation immediately. Our drug crime lawyer in Houston has a highly trained criminal defense attorney who will fight to reduce or dismiss your charges.

Can a Person Be Granted Probation For Drug Crimes?

One of the most common questions clients ask is whether they can receive probation for drug offenses. Texas law dictates that If you have been charged with possession of a controlled substance less than a gram and do not have any prior felony conviction, the judge is obligated to place you on probation.

Probation, also called community control, is an option that courts use to avoid sending offenders to jail or prison. However, if you have a prior drug conviction, you may still be able to receive probation; however, the decision to do so is at the discretion of the prosecutor and the probation department.

Having a highly trained criminal defense attorney works to a defendant’s advantage as their legal counsel can often negotiate a plea deal with the state that will grant the defendant another chance.

However, anyone placed on community control must adhere to the probation guidelines and requirements; otherwise, they risk having to serve possible jail or prison time for their offenses.

Why Do I Need to Hire a Houston Drug Lawyer?

Many defendants charged with Texas drug crimes make the initial mistake of waiting to obtain legal representation or thinking they can handle their defense. However, the Texas criminal justice system can be confusing for individuals who lack legal training.

Some other reasons why it is essential to hire a trained criminal defense lawyer to handle drug crime charges include:

• Examine the evidence: A criminal defense lawyer will examine the state’s evidence to look for potential weaknesses, scrutinize witness statements, and determine if your legal rights have been violated.
• Conduct an independent investigation: A well-trained criminal defense lawyer will not solely rely on the prosecution’s evidence when researching the case. Instead, they will conduct an independent investigation by interviewing witnesses and determining loopholes that may work to their advantage.
• Negotiate with prosecutors: Many defendants are unaware that most criminal cases are decided through plea negotiations with prosecutors. A defense attorney will act as your legal advocate to try and have your charges reduced or possibly dismissed.
• Prepare for trial: If the state is unwilling to negotiate, a drug crimes defense lawyer can develop a defense strategy tailored to your needs to try and obtain the best possible outcome for your charges.

If you still need more information about the advantages of hiring a drug crimes defense lawyer, contact Drehner Law of Houston and ask to schedule a meeting with a qualified legal team member who can answer your questions.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Houston Drug Crime Lawyer Today

Because of the severe nature of drug crimes and the stiff penalties Texas imposes, it is in your best interest to hire a highly skilled drug crimes defense lawyer immediately. Our well-experienced Houston drug crime lawyer has a working knowledge of Texas drug laws and what it takes to obtain favorable client results. When you come to Drehner Law with your legal needs, our lawyer will sit down and explain your charges, rights, and what legal defense strategies may be available for your case. Our legal team helps clients in Harris County and the surrounding areas.

Additionally, we have in-depth experience in handling drug crime cases and obtaining favorable client outcomes. Our drug crimes defense attorney is fearless when it comes to standing up to the prosecution to fight for your legal rights. If you have been charged with a drug offense like simple drug possession, drug trafficking, etc., don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm.

Contact Drehner Law of Houston at 832-626-0063 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and what legal strategies may be available.