Have you been charged with a drug crime in Dallas, Texas? Texas Defense Firm can help when you call (469) 772-9509. We offer a initial consultation with an experienced Dallas drug crimes lawyer who can review your case, explain your options, and begin building a strong defense on your behalf.
Our respected criminal defense team has earned a reputation for strong results and dedicated client service across Dallas and the surrounding areas. No matter the seriousness of your charges, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.
Contact us today to get started.
Why Should I Hire Texas Defense Firm if I’m Facing Drug Charges in Dallas, Texas?
Not all criminal defense law firms are alike. When your freedom, career, and reputation are on the line in Dallas, TX, it’s critical that you are represented by a legal team with a long track record of success in Texas criminal courts. Texas Defense Firm offers proven defense strategies backed by centuries of experience.
Here’s why so many people in the area trust us with their drug crime defense:
- Years of experience: Our team has more than 200 years of combined legal experience successfully defending clients in Texas criminal courts, providing the depth of knowledge and insight needed to handle even the most complex drug cases.
- Trusted results: Our attorneys have helped clients facing all types of drug charges, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and we have a strong record of favorable outcomes.
- Personalized attention: Every case receives the full attention of our legal team, from the first consultation through the final resolution.
- In-depth local knowledge: We know Texas drug laws and understand how Dallas-area prosecutors and judges approach these cases.
- Aggressive advocacy: We will represent you at every court hearing and appearance, including taking your case all the way to trial if necessary.
Our commitment is to give you honest legal advice and help you work toward as favorable an outcome as we can. Contact our drug crimes lawyers today to schedule an initial consultation with a Dallas criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Drug Crimes Under Texas Law
Drug crimes in Texas fall under a range of state statutes, each with specific elements and penalties. The Texas Controlled Substances Act covers the majority of these offenses.
Some of the most common drug charges include:
- Possession of a controlled substance: Having illegal drugs or prescription medications without a valid prescription
- Possession with intent to distribute: Possessing drugs with the intent to sell, deliver, or otherwise distribute them
- Drug manufacturing: Producing illegal substances, including cultivation or chemical synthesis
- Drug trafficking: Transporting, selling, or distributing controlled substances, which can be charged at the state or federal level
- Possession of drug paraphernalia: Having items used to consume, manufacture, or distribute drugs, such as pipes or scales
The seriousness of a charge often depends on several factors, including the type and amount of drug, prior criminal history, and whether aggravating circumstances are involved.
For example, possessing a small amount of marijuana might be charged as a misdemeanor, but possession of larger amounts or harder drugs, like methamphetamine or cocaine, can result in felony charges.
Drug Penalty Groups in Texas
Texas divides controlled substances into different penalty groups. Each group carries its own sentencing guidelines, which affect the severity of the punishment.
- Penalty Group 1: Includes drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. These carry the most severe penalties, including long prison sentences and high fines.
- Penalty Group 2: Covers substances like ecstasy, PCP, and amphetamines.
- Penalty Group 3: Includes many prescription medications, such as Xanax and Valium.
- Penalty Group 4: Contains certain compounds with small amounts of narcotics.
Within each group, the penalties depend on the amount found and the nature of the offense (possession, intent to distribute, manufacturing, etc.). Even a small quantity of certain drugs can result in felony charges.
If you are facing drug charges in Dallas, it’s important to understand which penalty group applies to your case and what sentencing ranges you may be facing. A qualified drug crimes lawyer on our team can help you assess your situation and develop a defense strategy.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Dallas, TX?
The consequences of a drug conviction in Texas can be severe and life-changing. Misdemeanor charges may still result in jail time and a permanent criminal record, while felony convictions often bring much harsher sentences.
Potential penalties for drug crimes in Dallas may include:
- Jail or prison time, ranging from a few months to many years
- Substantial fines, sometimes totaling tens of thousands of dollars
- Mandatory probation, community supervision, or court-ordered treatment
- Suspension or loss of your driver’s license
The specific punishment you face will depend on factors like the drug involved, the amount, your intent, and your criminal history. For example, possessing less than one gram of certain Penalty Group 1 drugs can result in a state jail felony, while possessing larger amounts can lead to much steeper consequences.
Some drug offenses can also trigger federal charges. The penalties for trafficking or conspiracy convictions on the federal level are usually even more severe than those at the state level.
Collateral Consequences of a Drug Conviction in Dallas, TX
A conviction for a drug crime in Dallas can have lasting effects that go far beyond the courtroom. These “collateral consequences” can follow you for years, even after you have served your sentence.
Possible long-term impacts include:
- Difficulty finding a job or keeping your current employment
- Challenges in obtaining housing or loans
- Loss of eligibility for certain government benefits
- Suspension or revocation of professional licenses
- Immigration problems for non-citizens
- Damage to your reputation and personal relationships
Many employers and landlords run background checks. A drug conviction on your record can make it harder to rebuild your life. If you are a student, a conviction may also impact your ability to receive financial aid.
This is one reason why it’s so important to have an experienced Dallas drug crimes lawyer on your side from the beginning. A strong defense could mean the difference between moving forward with your life and facing years of hardship.
What Does the Criminal Process Look Like in Texas?
If you have been arrested for a drug offense in Dallas, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what comes next. The criminal justice process in Texas involves several steps, each of which can affect the outcome of your case. Knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions as your case moves forward.
Here’s a general overview of what the criminal process looks like in Texas:
- Arrest and booking: After a drug crime arrest, you will be taken to jail for booking. This involves recording your personal information, taking fingerprints, and photographing you.
- Initial appearance: You will appear before a judge soon after your arrest. The judge will inform you of the charges, advise you of your rights, and consider bail.
- Bail or bond: Depending on the circumstances, you may be released on bail while your case is pending. The judge will decide whether bail is appropriate and, if so, set the amount.
- Arraignment: During this hearing, you are formally charged, and you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pretrial proceedings: Both sides exchange evidence through discovery, and your attorney may file motions to challenge evidence or dismiss charges. Negotiations for a possible plea deal can also take place during this stage.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, both the prosecution and defense will present their evidence and arguments. A judge or jury will decide if you are guilty or not guilty.
- Sentencing: If you are convicted, the court will impose a sentence, which could include jail or prison time, probation, fines, or other penalties.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a conviction if you believe legal errors affected the outcome of your case.
The process can be complex and stressful. At every stage from start to finish, it’s important to have a skilled drug crimes attorney in Dallas protecting your interests and fighting for the best possible resolution.
Defenses Against Drug Crime Charges in Dallas
In any criminal case, the prosecution has the burden of proving each element of the alleged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. When you face drug charges, there are often several possible defenses your attorney can use to challenge the case against you.
The right defense(s) will depend on the unique facts and circumstances of your case. Some common defenses against drug crimes in Dallas include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Illegal search and seizure
- Lack of knowledge or intent
- Insufficient evidence against you
- Mistaken identity or false accusations
- Medical or prescription defense
There are other possible legal arguments and technicalities that can make a difference in your case. If you hire us, our lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the best possible defense strategy we can raise on your behalf.
Contact Our Trusted Dallas Drug Crimes Attorneys for Legal Help
A drug crime conviction in Dallas, Texas, can impact every part of your life. With so much at stake, you need experienced advocates by your side from the very beginning. The attorneys at Texas Defense Firm have handled thousands of criminal cases throughout Texas and know how to fight back against overzealous prosecutors.
Contact our Dallas drug crimes lawyers today for a consultation.