Drug Crimes Lawyer in Houston, TX

Drug crime federal laws and Texas state laws prohibit the possession, manufacture, and sale of certain controlled substances like ecstasy, cocaine, and heroin. The estimated cost of drug abuse, including illegal drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, is more than $740 billion a year, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 

If you’ve been charged with drug offenses and are facing drug charges in Houston, speak with a Houston drug crimes attorney. The experienced criminal defense law professionals at Napier Law Firm are prepared to protect your rights under Texas criminal law so sit down with a Houston drug lawyer for a free consultation. 

What Is a Drug Crime in Texas?

Different drug actions are considered crimes in Texas. The most common Houston, TX drug crimes involve drug trafficking, drug possession, and drug use. The penalties and fines for Texas drug crimes vary based on the severity, type of illegal drugs involved, and the amount of drugs involved. Many drug crimes result in misdemeanor cases and some result in felony charges. 

Texas law considers drug offenses to be serious crimes. That’s why illegal drug laws are categorized into different categories. Drug classification typically accounts for the drug’s addictiveness and legitimate medical purpose. The most commonly used drugs in Texas include methamphetamine, cannabis, and cocaine.  Federal laws and state laws prohibit the possession, manufacture, and sale of certain controlled substances.

Drug crimes involving aggravating events often lead to more serious punishments. Aggravated events are acts that occur in addition to drug offenses such as robbery, burglary, assault, murder, rape, homicide, and more. If you are facing Houston drug crime charges, a trusted drug defense law attorney can create a good legal defense to minimize penalties and fines or even get the case dismissed. 

What Are the Types of Crimes Associated With Drugs?

The most common crimes associated with drug convictions in Texas are the possession of drugs or a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and the possession/delivery of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute it. Each Houston drug crime has regulations and penalties associated with the charges. 

Common Drug Charges In Houston

If you’ve received a drug charge, you could face severe penalties. Here are some of the most common drug charges that our firm has experience dealing with:

• Marijuana possession
• Cocaine possession
• Drug distribution
• Drug trafficking
• Drug manufacturing
• Illegal sale of prescription drugs
• Drug possession with intent to distribute
• Other drug-related charges

If you need a drug possession attorney, sit down with a skilled drug crime lawyer from Napier Law Firm for a free consultation to discuss your state or federal drug charges. 

The penalties for possession of an illegal substance range from simple misdemeanors to serious felonies. The type and amount of the drug in possession, how it was being carried, concealed, and handled, the criminal law in question, how much (if any) paraphernalia was found, and the record of drug offenses are all factors taken into account.

Drug Possession in Houston, TX

The severity of your punishment for a drug offense depends on several factors. The following outlines how the type of drugs can influence the drug charges:

• Group 1 and 1-A drugs, like cocaine and heroin, possessed in any amount is a felony. The penalties begin at six months to two years in jail and up to a $10,000 fine. However, drug possession of more than 400 grams of heroin or cocaine means you could get 10 to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

• Group 2 drugs, including PCP and ecstasy, are also charged as a felony and are punishable by six months to two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000 if you have less than a gram. If you have more than 400 grams, you can get five to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

• Group 3 includes Valium and Ritalin, and is punishable starting at up to one year in prison and a $4,000 fine. For larger quantities over 400 grams, you can get up to 99 years in prison and a fine not exceeding $50,000.

• Group 4 involves morphine and opium, and is considered a Class B misdemeanor for having less than 28 grams. You can receive up to six months in jail without a prescription and a $2,000 fine. Larger quantities can be punished by five to 99 years in prison and a max $50,000 fine.

Common Drug Defenses in Houston Drug Crimes

Napier Law Firm has a track record of success in drug crimes defense, a legal specialization in criminal defense, and an understanding of federal drug cases, Houston drug charges, drug possession charges, and more. Here are some of the most common defenses used in drug charge cases: 

• You didn’t legally possess the drugs because they weren’t found on you. 

• You had no idea the drugs were there and therefore had no intent on exercising “dominion and control” over them.

• The police illegally discovered the drugs.

• The prosecution is burdened to prove they recovered drugs on you and also prove that it is the substance named in the indictment and there was clear custody.  

Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

Harris County, Texas drug laws are strict concerning drug offenses related to narcotics and illicit drugs. That’s why it’s important to work with a drug offense lawyer because our Houston drug crimes lawyers understand what’s at stake, are familiar with the law, and have experience in state and federal court. 

Hire a Houston Drug Crimes Lawyer Immediately

Many drug-related charges can be resolved by paying small fines and/or community service. However, admitting to a major drug crime can be detrimental. That’s why it’s important to remember that when you have been arrested and are questioned by police, you don’t have to tell them anything without your lawyer present. If you are facing a drug-related offense charge, contact an experienced drug law attorney for a free consultation.

To explore the broad spectrum of legal services offered by The Napier Law Firm, including representation in criminal defense cases, or to schedule a complimentary consultation, please do not hesitate to contact our team. For more information on how our Houston criminal defense attorneys can assist you, visit our dedicated page on criminal defense law.