Houston Drug Crime Lawyer
Are you charged with a drug crime in Houston?
There are a large number of illegal acts that can be considered "drug crimes" in Houston, ranging in severity from misdemeanors to serious felonies. They include:
What drugs are illegal?
Illegal drugs can include those that are illegal for almost anyone to possess- such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy - and those that are legally prescribed but illegal for someone who does not have a valid prescription to possess - Codeine, Valium, Xanax, Vicodin, and others. These drugs are classified by "penalty groups" or "schedules." Some schedules or penalty groups are higher level crimes than others. For example, any amount of cocaine or heroin is a felony offense in Texas. Some simulated drugs, including "K-2" or "Spice" are also illegal.
Penalties for Drug Crimes
Most drug laws that affect Texans are based upon the type of drug involved and amount and are contained within Title 6 of the Texas Health & Safety Code. Although not all drugs are treated equally, the basic rule of thumb is that the harder the drug and the more drugs one illegally has, the more serious the crime.
Whether the person was merely possessing, or in
possession with intent to deliver, or
manufacturing,
delivering, or transporting the drug(s) will also determine the seriousness of the crime and potential punishment. Where the individual was caught, particularly if at or near a school, may also be a factor.
As with any crime, the person's criminal history may also affect the range of punishment.
Conviction of a drug crime can have long term consequences. In addition to probation, jail time, fines, and prison, there are potential consequences on a person's ability to drive, obtain financial aid for school, obtain employment, and rent an apartment.
History of Drug Crime Charges
Since the Nixon Administration declared the "War on Drugs" in 1970, our nation has waged a never ending and extremely expensive conflict against drug users, suppliers, and their associates that has seen law enforcement budgets and incarceration rates explode. More people are in jail and prison or on probation or parole for drug related crimes than any other cause. The fact that the vast majority of these are users who may suffer from addiction, a mental health condition, is lost on policy makers. In fact, local police unions have revolted against the Harris County District Attorney's decision not to prosecute so called "crack pipe" cases, where the residue of drugs is often too small to test or re-test.
Tough Houston Drug Crime Attorney
Don't let people tell you that "it's no big deal." Drug crimes are treated very seriously in the State of Texas, and can be met with very serious penalties in the event of a conviction. Even a "deferred adjudication" can impact your future ability to get a job, an apartment, education, or professional license. While some states and jurisdictions have legalized small amounts of drugs, Texas hasn't and the Federal government hasn't either.
If you have been charged with a drug crime, you need the help of a trusted Houston criminal defense lawyer to defend you aggressively throughout your legal proceedings. I, Tate Williams, of the Law Office of Q. Tate Williams PC, have practiced law for 12 years, which has given me the skill and insight necessary to provide high quality representation to those facing drug charges. I am immediately available to discuss your drug charges with you, and may be able to build a legal defense in your case that results in your charges being reduced or dropped completely. Contact a Houston drug crime attorney right away if you have been charged with a drug crime, as even the most minor drug offense can result in receiving stiff penalties.