Were you arrested for drug possession in McKinney, Texas? A conviction can bring life-changing consequences, including jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. Fortunately, you still have the opportunity to fight back with help from an experienced trial lawyer at Texas Defense Firm.
With more than 200 years of combined experience, our McKinney drug possession attorneys have successfully defended clients facing drug charges across Collin County and throughout the state. We know local courts and laws inside and out, and our lawyers will make your case our priority from the moment you hire us.
Contact us today at (972) 369-0577 to get started with an initial consultation.
How Texas Defense Firm Can Help if You’re Facing Drug Possession Charges in McKinney, TX
Once you’re arrested, the state already believes you are guilty. However, under state law, the burden is on the prosecution to prove your case beyond a reasonable doubt. That standard leaves room for a knowledgeable McKinney drug crimes lawyer to challenge the state’s evidence and work to have your charges dismissed or reduced if possible.
When we take on your case, we’ll:
- Investigate the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence collected against you
- Challenge any unlawful searches and seizures or other rights violations
- File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Identify weaknesses and inconsistencies in the state’s case
- Represent you at hearings and trial, if necessary
At Texas Defense Firm, we’ve earned a reputation as one of the most respected legal teams in the state. Our lead attorney is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an honor only given to a select few lawyers in the state. Contact our McKinney drug possession lawyers today to set up a consultation.
Texas’s Drug Possession Laws
Texas has some of the strictest drug laws in the country. Under the Texas Controlled Substances Act, it is illegal to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription.
Controlled substances are grouped into penalty groups that determine the severity of charges. For example:
- Penalty Group 1: Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, opioids
- Penalty Group 2: Ecstasy, PCP, hallucinogens
- Penalty Group 3: Certain prescription medications, such as Xanax or Valium (without a prescription)
- Penalty Group 4: Compounds with small amounts of narcotics and other active ingredients
Marijuana, though treated separately, remains illegal in most forms under Texas law. Ultimately, the specific charge you face will depend on factors such as the type of drug in question, the amount, and the circumstances of your arrest.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in McKinney, TX?
Drug possession penalties in Texas vary widely in terms of the potential penalties. You could be facing anything from a Class B misdemeanor to a first-degree felony.
- Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine (for possession of small amounts of marijuana, for example)
- State jail felony: 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000
- Third-degree felony: 2 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
- Second-degree felony: 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
- First-degree felony: 5 to 99 years (or life) in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
Collateral consequences can also follow you long after sentencing. For instance, a conviction could make it more difficult to find housing or employment.
What Defenses Can I Raise in Response to Drug Possession Charges in Texas
Just because you’ve been arrested doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted. Our defense lawyers will evaluate every angle of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
Common defenses include:
- Illegal search and seizure: If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, evidence may be thrown out.
- Lack of knowledge: You must knowingly possess the substance to be convicted
- Lack of control: Prosecutors must prove you had control over the drugs, not simply proximity
- Prescription defense: Certain medications are legal with a valid prescription
- Insufficient evidence: The state may not be able to link the drugs directly to you
We will tailor each defense to the facts of your case, always working toward the goal of an outright dismissal or acquittal.
Contact Our McKinney Drug Possession Attorneys to Schedule a Consultation
A drug possession arrest in McKinney can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face the legal process without an experienced attorney on your side. With more than 200 years of combined experience, the lawyers at Texas Defense Firm have successfully defended thousands of Texans against serious criminal charges.
The sooner you call, the sooner we can start protecting your rights. Contact our office today to set up a consultation with one of our McKinney drug possession lawyers.
Visit Our Criminal Defense Law Firm in McKinney, TX
Texas Defense Firm McKinney
7300 State Hwy 121 Suite 400, McKinney, TX 75070
(972) 369-0577