Texas boasts some of the strictest drug offense laws in the country. Possession of any amount of cocaine is a felony. Even what may seem as minor as marijuana possession is one of the state’s top drug crimes, making up 33% of all drug-related offenses. While other states are rolling back marijuana regulations, Texas charges possession of two ounces or less of marijuana as a misdemeanor. This means that for more harshly viewed drugs, you could be looking at far worse consequences.
A Baytown criminal defense lawyer at Blass Law will do everything in their power to help you avoid a drug conviction. A confidential consultation is available so you can ask questions and find out what to expect in your drug possession case. We’ll also be able to break down your rights and your legal options.
Attorney Cohen and His Legal Team Know Drug Possession Defense
Our law firm marries experience and technical knowledge to structure a defense. Attorney Jay Blass Cohen remains as committed today as a defense lawyer as over a decade ago when he began his law career. His ability as a lawyer is bolstered by his training credentials and his passion for helping clients retain control of their lives.
Our law firm handles every drug defense case with care, conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances of your drug arrest. Attorney Cohen leverages his certification as a drug recognition expert (DRE) as well as training in drug detection and analysis to build a defense. Our team will work hard to find the evidence needed to arrive at the best outcome for your case.
Our Results for Past Clients
Our strategic legal representation has restored the hope and future of numerous clients facing life-disrupting criminal charges by winning. Clients in Baytown trust us because they have heard about our passionate and unrelenting advocacy. They have heard of our successes on the most challenging cases – cases like the ones below:
- Client had crystal meth in his pocket while at a gas station playing illegal gambling machines when officers came in to execute a search warrant. Charged with possession of a crystal meth. Case: DISMISSED
- Client was found to have a baggie of cocaine in his pocket. Charged with possession of cocaine <1G. Case: NOT GUILTY.
- Client was found driving intoxicated with a gun in the vehicle. Charged with DWI, resisting arrest, and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Case: DISMISSED.
- Client found to be intoxicated and in possession of a controlled substance while driving on the light rail tracks. Charged with DWI 2nd and possession of a controlled substance. Case: DISMISSED mid-trial.
- Client found asleep in the middle of the street. Failed every field sobriety test with 6 different prescription drugs in his system. Case: NOT GUILTY.
How We Help You Fight Drug Charges
Just because you were charged does not mean the State can prove you are guilty. Even if the case against you seems strong, a well-qualified criminal defense lawyer can provide a fresh perspective and help turn your case around. Depending on your charges, the drug defense lawyers at our firm may be able to get:
- Your case dismissed
- Your charges reduced
- Your charges dropped
- Your sentence reduced
- A not guilty verdict
Your freedom, career, and image are on the line. They are worth fighting for, and our drug defense attorneys serving Baytown, Texas can help you do that. We handle all types of drug defense cases including:
- Drug possession
- Drug distribution and sales
- Drug manufacturing with the intent to deliver
- Drug trafficking
- Other drug-related charges
Given its proximity to the Mexican border, Texas faces a unique influx of drugs that can lead to arrests and criminal charges. We take on federal and state cases that involve:
- Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth), the most common drug offense in Texas and the United States
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Ecstasy
- LSD
- Heroine
- Fentanyl
- Other Prescription drugs
- Any other illicit or designer drugs
The Impact of a Drug Conviction
You shouldn’t be defined by the worst thing you’ve ever done, especially when drug laws are evolving in a country that has historically put away minor drug offenders. But the reality is that a drug conviction can steal years of your life and destroy the relationships and career you’ve built.
Even if you never see any jail time, a drug conviction can rob you of your freedom and taint your name, making it harder for you to function in society. Legal repercussions for drawing a drug conviction can vary depending on your charges and your drug criminal history. Some consequences include:
- Time in jail
- Prison sentences up to life in prison
- Probation
- A suspended driver’s license
- Required drug treatment
- Mandated community service
- High fines
- A permanent criminal record
Drug Possession Sentencing in Baytown, Texas
Drug charges differ in severity based on two key factors: the type of drug at issue and the weight of the drug in play at the time of police discovery. The Texas Controlled Substances Act categorizes drugs by four penalty groups. Group 1 is for the most dangerous drugs like opioids and Group 4 represents the least dangerous drugs like certain prescription medications. Marijuana is in its own category. When found in small quantities, it is generally charged as a misdemeanor.
Misdemeanors
A misdemeanor is a criminal act that is typically punishable by less than 12 months in jail. It is a less serious crime. In Texas, misdemeanor drug charges for possession can carry up to 1 year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines. There are three classes of misdemeanors in Texas: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A misdemeanors have the highest penalties while Class C has the lowest which include a fine and no jail time.
Felonies
In general, a felony is a much more serious crime than a misdemeanor. It can be punishable by up to life in prison and fines up to $10,000. Texas has four classes of felonies. At the low end, a drug possession crime may result in a state felony charge of 6 months to 2 years in state jail and possible fines up to $10,000. At the high end, you could be looking at 15-99 years in prison, life imprisonment, and/or up to $250,000 in fines.
Statute of Limitations
A statute of limitations ensures that a person can only be charged during a certain time frame. For drug charges in Texas, it is 2 years for misdemeanors, and 3 years for felonies, according to Title 6, Section 481.024.
Discuss Your Drug Possession Case with Blass Law
Texas often errs on the harsher side of drug punishments. If you are convicted, it could mean the end of your world as you know it. Don’t go down without a fight. A well-credentialed drug defense lawyer in Baytown, TX will work to bring a responsive and aggressive legal approach to your case. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start putting together a defense case for you. Call Blass Law today at 713-664-4000 for a consultation or fill out a contact form.