May 30, 2022

A depiction of Houston law enforcement conducting an investigation before filing drug trafficking charges in Texas.

Texas legislatures and law enforcement take all drug charges very seriously. That’s especially true for drug trafficking charges in Texas. Individuals convicted of trafficking drugs within, into, or out of the state face long-term incarceration, fines, probation, and much more. 

It’s important to note that drug trafficking charges are not the same as typical drug distribution offenses. A key difference is the total weight and class of the drug. Texas classifies illicit drugs into six penalty groups (PG). They include: 

  • PG 1 – Dangerous and addictive drugs with no medical value like cocaine, meth, crack, heroin, Oxycontin, Vicodin, etc. 
  • PG 1-A – LSD, also known as Acid.
  • PG 1-B – Fentanyl 
  • PG 2 – Drugs considered slightly less harmful than penalty group one, but still dangerous. This includes drugs like Molly, PCP, Mushrooms, THC, Adderall, etc.
  • PG 2-A – Synthetically produced marijuana like K2, spice, etc. 
  • PG 3 – Controlled substances considered stimulants and depressants like Xanax, Ritalin, HGH, Diazepam, Valium, etc. 

Generally, the lower the penalty group, the higher the punishment. If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Houston, TX, it’s in your best interest to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. 

At The Napier Law Firm, our Houston drug trafficking lawyers are compassionate, skilled, and prepared to aggressively pursue every available option to secure decreased or dismissed charges. Contact us today at 713-470-4097 for your free initial consultation with an attorney for drug trafficking charges in Texas. 

1. You Can Face State and Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

Suppose an individual is charged with trafficking large quantities of drugs into Texas. In that case, they will likely face both Federal and Texas drug trafficking charges. Generally, federal drug trafficking charges incur much harsher penalties. 

In comparison to the state, federal prosecutors have more resources and intelligence. That means they typically don’t move forward with charges unless they are very confident in their ability to obtain a conviction. 

A Houston lawyer for drug trafficking charges can investigate your arrest, ensure your rights are protected, cast doubt on the prosecutor’s evidence, and ultimately secure the best possible outcome for you under the circumstances. 

2. The Penalties For a Drug Trafficking Conviction Are Severe

What’s the penalty for drug trafficking in Texas? Depending on the nature of the drug trafficking offense, you could simultaneously face federal and state charges. That could lead to 6 months to 99 years imprisonment, fines up to $10,000+, and more. 

The good news is that an experienced lawyer for drug trafficking charges in Houston can help drastically reduce the penalties associated with a conviction.  Contact the criminal defense lawyers at The Napier Law Firm to discuss the details of your case today. 

3. It Can Be Difficult To Get Drug Trafficking Charges Expunged 

Most crimes are eligible for expungement in Texas. However, that’s not the case with drug trafficking convictions. Generally, the only way to get an expungement for drug trafficking charges is to have your case dismissed. 

That’s why it’s imperative to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Depending on the facts of your case, your Houston criminal defense lawyer may be able to negotiate reduced charges (to an expugnable offense) or uncover law enforcement errors leading to case dismissal. 

4. A Conviction Will Impact Every Area of Your Life

The consequences of drug trafficking in Texas (or any other state) are severe. In addition to prison time and fines, penalties for drug trafficking include, but are not limited to: 

  • Lifelong criminal record 
  • Difficulty securing gainful employment or safe housing 
  • Tarnished reputation 
  • Automatic disqualification from certain professions 
  • License suspension 

No Houston drug trafficking lawyer can guarantee reduced or dismissed charges. However, working with a skilled criminal defender can increase your odds of a favorable outcome. Learn more below. 

5. The Sooner You Hire A Drug Trafficking Lawyer, The Better

Both Texas and federal prosecutors invest significant resources into obtaining drug trafficking convictions. They typically have a mountain of evidence by the time they formally file charges. 

While that can be scary, it doesn’t always mean that you’re going to be convicted. That’s especially true if you work with a proven drug trafficking lawyer in Houston, TX. Depending on the facts of your case, your attorney can mount one or more of the following defenses for drug trafficking charges: 

  • Failure to Mirandize 
  • Illegal search and seizure 
  • No intent to sell or distribute
  • Unaware of the presence of the illegal drugs 
  • Lack of control or possession of the drugs
  • Entrapment 

Contact George Napier today at 713-470-4097 to discuss your case with an experienced drug trafficking lawyer you can trust.