Aggressive Defense Against Drug Possession Charges in Texas

If you or a loved one are facing drug possession charges in Abilene, Texas, having an experienced team on your side is crucial. Keith & Lorfing is here to provide you with expert legal representation to navigate the complexities of drug possession cases. Our attorneys have a proven track record of helping clients facing drug possession charges achieve the best possible outcomes.

Call Keith & Lorfing today at (325) 308-6960 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug possession attorney in Abilene!

Texas Drug Possession Laws

Texas classifies controlled substances into different penalty groups based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. The penalties for drug possession are often determined by the specific penalty group associated with the drug. Here are the penalty groups:

• Penalty Group 1: This group includes substances with a high potential for abuse and limited medical use. Examples include cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.
• Penalty Group 1-A: Penalty Group 1-A includes LSD, which is considered highly dangerous.
• Penalty Group 2: This group contains substances with a lower potential for abuse than Penalty Group 1 but still poses significant risks. Examples include ecstasy (MDMA), PCP, and mescaline.
• Penalty Group 2-A: Synthetic cannabinoids are classified under Penalty Group 2-A.
• Penalty Group 3: Substances in this group have a lower potential for abuse and have accepted medical uses. Examples include anabolic steroids and Xanax.
• Penalty Group 4: The least restrictive group, Penalty Group 4, includes substances with a lower potential for abuse and accepted medical uses, such as prescription cough medicines with codeine.

What are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Texas?

The penalties for drug possession in Texas can be severe and life-altering. The consequences you may face depend on several factors, including the type and amount of the drug, your criminal history, and whether there was an intent to distribute. Here’s an overview of the potential penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor: Possession of a small amount of marijuana (less than 2 ounces) is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor. This can result in up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $4,000.
• State Jail Felony: Possession of Penalty Group 1, 1-A, 2, or 2-A substances in a small amount can lead to state jail felony charges, carrying a punishment of 180 days to 2 years in state jail and fines of up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: Possession of larger amounts of Penalty Group 1, 1-A, 2, or 2-A substances can elevate the charges to a third-degree felony, resulting in 2 to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: Possession of even larger quantities of certain controlled substances may lead to second-degree felony charges, carrying a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and fines of up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: In cases involving very large amounts of controlled substances, you could face first-degree felony charges, with penalties of 5 years to life in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges

Facing drug possession charges can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to remember that you have legal rights and options. Our experienced Abilene drug possession lawyers at Keith & Lorfing can help you build a strong defense tailored to your case. Some common defenses against drug possession charges include:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a search and seizure, evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of Knowledge or Control: You may not be aware of the presence of drugs or may not have had control over them. This defense can apply when you are in a shared space or borrowed a vehicle.
• Medical Necessity: In some cases, individuals may have a valid medical necessity for possessing controlled substances. This requires proper documentation from a medical professional.
• Chain of Custody Issues: Challenging the integrity of evidence by questioning the chain of custody can be an effective defense strategy.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a drug-related crime that you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a viable defense.

Contact Our Abilene Drug Possession Attorney Today

Navigating drug possession charges in Texas can be complex, and the potential consequences are significant. A dedicated and knowledgeable legal team is crucial to protect your rights and explore all available defenses. At Keith & Lorfing, we deeply understand Texas drug possession laws and have a proven track record of helping clients achieve favorable outcomes.

Contact Keith & Lorfing today to schedule a consultation with our drug possession lawyer in Abilene!