Seek Experienced Representation from Our Committed Legal Team
Anti-drug trafficking efforts are significantly intensified in Texas, where its bordering neighbor country, Mexico, has been the main source for importation and delivery for many illegal substances.
According to the Justice Department, around $18 billion to $39 billion is made each year from drug sales in the United States by the Mexican and Colombian cartels.
Cartels also operated in 1,286 U.S. cities in 2009 to 2010, five times more than the total reported in 2008.
Since the nation’s anti-drug trafficking agenda has been a top priority for federal law enforcement agencies, convictions and wrongful arrests are quite common and the associated punishments are severely harsh and unforgiving.
Shane Phelps Law has decades of legal experience to properly protect your rights and your reputation.
Contact our firm today for your free consultation.
Is Drug Trafficking a Felony in Texas?
In the state of Texas, drug trafficking is categorized as a felony offense. Anyone who has been convicted of partaking in or aiding in the sale, distribution, or manufacturing of illegal drugs could face substantial fines and lengthy jail sentences.
The severity of punishment depends on the amount and specific type of drugs that were involved in the crime. Potential penalties may range from probation to life in prison for individuals convicted of drug trafficking felonies.
Common Defense Strategies Against Drug Trafficking
If you have been arrested or charged with drug trafficking in Texas, you must take precautionary steps because your behavior subsequently affects the outcome of your case.
Speak with the police prior to consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney. In most drug trafficking cases, a successful defense comes from exploring and scrutinizing the actions of the police.
Defenses for arrests associated with controlled substances are the following:
- The police did not have a legal cause to stop your vehicle or search you and your vehicle
- The controlled substances were not in your possession
- The controlled substances belonged to someone else
- The controlled substance has been approved or has been exempt for investigational purposes under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
- Entrapment due to the involvement of a confidential informant or undercover agent
Do not hesitate to contact our Bryan & College Station drug defense lawyers for a free case evaluation today.
Bryan Drug Trafficking Lawyer: Comprehensive Legal Representation for Drug Crimes
Seek Experienced Representation from Our Committed Legal Team
Anti-drug trafficking efforts are significantly intensified in Texas, where its bordering neighbor country, Mexico, has been the main source for importation and delivery for many illegal substances. According to the Justice Department, around $18 billion to $39 billion is made each year from drug sales in the United States by the Mexican and Colombian cartels. Cartels also operated in 1,286 U.S. cities in 2009 to 2010, five times more than the total reported in 2008.
Since the nation's anti-drug trafficking agenda has been a top priority for federal law enforcement agencies, convictions and wrongful arrests are quite common, and the associated punishments are severely harsh and unforgiving. Shane Phelps Law has decades of legal experience to properly protect your rights and your reputation. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Is Drug Trafficking a Felony in Texas?
In the state of Texas, drug trafficking is categorized as a felony offense. Anyone convicted of partaking in or aiding in the sale, distribution, or manufacturing of illegal drugs could face substantial fines and lengthy jail sentences.
The severity of punishment depends on the amount and specific type of drugs involved in the crime. Potential penalties may range from probation to life in prison for individuals convicted of drug trafficking felonies.
Understanding Drug Crimes and Their Legal Implications
Drug crimes encompass a wide range of illegal activities involving controlled substances, including drug trafficking, drug possession, and prescription drug fraud.
The legal system treats these offenses seriously, often imposing severe penalties to deter such activities.
Types of Drug Crimes
- Drug Trafficking: This involves the distribution, sale, transportation, and illegal importation of controlled substances. Penalties can be extremely harsh, especially if large quantities of drugs are involved.
- Drug Possession: This charge applies when an individual is found in possession of illegal drugs or controlled substances without a valid prescription. Penalties can vary from a class B misdemeanor to a first-degree felony, depending on the amount and type of drugs involved.
- Prescription Drug Fraud: This includes activities such as forging prescriptions or obtaining prescription medications through deceit. It is treated seriously due to the potential for abuse and addiction.
- Marijuana Possession: Although some states have legalized marijuana, it remains illegal under federal law and Texas law. Possession of even small amounts can result in criminal charges.
- Drug Paraphernalia: Possessing items related to drug use, such as pipes or syringes, can also lead to charges, even if no drugs are found.
Legal Representation in Bryan and College Station
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial when facing drug crime charges. Bryan drug trafficking lawyers at Shane Phelps Law concentrates on defending clients against a wide range of drug offenses.
Our seasoned criminal defense team understands the complexities of Texas drug laws and the nuances of the legal system.
Importance of Legal Representation
- Expert Knowledge: An experienced criminal defense lawyer has in-depth knowledge of criminal law and Texas drug laws. This expertise is vital for developing a strong defense strategy.
- Protecting Your Rights: Defense attorneys ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. They scrutinize the prosecution's evidence and challenge any unlawful actions taken by law enforcement.
- Navigating the Legal System: The legal system can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with it. A knowledgeable attorney guides you through each step, from arraignment to trial, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, negotiating plea deals can result in reduced charges or lighter sentences. Skilled defense lawyers are adept at negotiating favorable terms with prosecutors.
- Building a Strong Defense: A robust defense strategy is essential for challenging the prosecution's case. This may involve presenting evidence of entrapment, mistaken identity, or lack of intent.
Common Defense Strategies Against Drug Trafficking
If you have been arrested or charged with drug trafficking in Texas, you must take precautionary steps because your behavior subsequently affects the outcome of your case.
It's imperative you do not speak with the police prior to consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney. In most drug trafficking cases, a successful defense comes from exploring and scrutinizing the actions of the police.
Defenses for Arrests Associated with Controlled Substances
- Illegal Search and Seizure: The police did not have a legal cause to stop your vehicle or search you and your vehicle. Any evidence obtained through unlawful searches can be challenged and potentially excluded.
- Lack of Possession: The controlled substances were not in your possession. Demonstrating that the drugs belonged to someone else can be a viable defense.
- Prescription Medications: The controlled substance has been approved or has been exempt for investigational purposes under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Valid prescriptions can negate possession charges.
- Entrapment: Entrapment due to the involvement of a confidential informant or undercover agent. If law enforcement induced the criminal act, this defense could be effective.
Consequences of Drug Crime Convictions
Drug crime convictions carry serious consequences that can impact various aspects of your life. These include:
- Legal Penalties: Depending on the severity of the offense, penalties can range from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences. For example, a state jail felony can result in up to two years in a state jail facility.
- Professional Licenses: Convictions can jeopardize professional licenses, affecting careers in fields such as medicine, law, and education.
- Personal Impact: Criminal charges and convictions can strain personal relationships and impact your reputation within the community.
- Sex Offender Registration: Certain drug offenses, particularly those involving aggravated sexual assault or sexual misconduct, can result in mandatory sex offender registration.
Why Choose Shane Phelps Law
Shane Phelps Law boasts a proven track record in defending clients facing drug crime charges.
Our experienced criminal defense lawyers provide effective defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case.
Our Commitment to Clients
- Comprehensive Legal Guidance: We provide thorough legal guidance to help clients understand their rights and the charges they face.
- Aggressive Defense: Our seasoned criminal defense team aggressively challenges the prosecution's case, aiming for the best possible outcome.
- Free Consultation: We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. This initial meeting is crucial for understanding the potential defenses and strategies available.
- Local Knowledge: As Bryan criminal defense attorneys, we have extensive knowledge of the local legal landscape, including the practices of local law enforcement and prosecutors.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one is facing drug crime charges, do not hesitate to contact our law offices. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and build a strong defense. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and future.
Facing drug crime charges is overwhelming, and navigating the complexities of the legal system requires skilled drug crime lawyers. A Bryan criminal defense attorney can provide the essential guidance and representation needed to defend your rights effectively.
With a deep understanding of both local and state laws, these attorneys are equipped to challenge the prosecution's case, ensuring the best possible outcome for your situation in and around Brazos County.