Lubbock Drug Defense Lawyer
Nationally Recognized Trial AttorneysRussell Lorfing and the Keith & Lorfing team defend clients against drug charges throughout Lubbock County and West Texas.
As a former federal prosecutor who worked in Lubbock, Russell brings unique insight to drug defense cases that other attorneys simply cannot match.
When you’re facing drug charges in Lubbock County, every decision you make can impact your future. Don’t go through this challenging time alone.
The prosecution is already building its case against you – you need our experienced defense attorney who knows both sides of the courtroom.
If you’re facing drug charges in Lubbock County, contact us today to speak with our experienced Lubbock criminal defense lawyer. We’re available 24/7 to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Texas Drug Laws and Penalties
Texas has some of the nation’s strictest drug laws, with penalties determined by the Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 481. The law categorizes controlled substances into penalty groups that determine both the classification of charges and potential punishments.
⚖️ Texas’s penalty groups mean even small quantities can escalate to felonies, creating life-altering consequences from what might appear to be “minor” cases.
Texas Penalty Groups
| Penalty Group | Common Examples | Possession Under 1 Gram | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | Cocaine, Heroin, Methamphetamine | State jail felony (180 days-2 years) | First degree felony (5-99 years) |
| Group 1-A | LSD, MDMA, Ecstasy | State jail felony (180 days-2 years) | First degree felony (15-99 years) |
| Group 1-B | Fentanyl, Carfentanil | State jail felony (180 days-2 years) | First degree felony (5-99 years) |
| Group 2 | PCP, Amphetamines, Mescaline | Class B misdemeanor (180 days) | First degree felony (5-99 years) |
| Group 2-A | K2, Spice, Synthetic Cannabis | Class B misdemeanor (180 days-2 years) | First degree felony (5-99 years) |
| Group 3 | Prescription drugs, Valium, Ritalin | Class A misdemeanor (1 year) | First degree felony (5-99 years) |
| Group 4 | Limited prescription compounds | Class A misdemeanor (1 year) | Second degree felony (2-20 years) |
| Marijuana | Cannabis, THC products | Class B misdemeanor (180 days) | Second degree felony (2-20 years) |
Common Drug Charges in Lubbock
- Possession of controlled substances: Involves knowingly having illegal drugs in your custody or control. Texas law recognizes both “actual possession” (drugs found on your person) and “constructive possession” (drugs found in areas under your control).
- Possession with intent to distribute: Is charged when prosecutors believe you intended to sell drugs. Factors include the amount of drugs, presence of scales, baggies, large amounts of cash, or other evidence suggesting distribution.
- Manufacturing and distribution: These charges involve the production, cultivation, or sale of controlled substances. These charges carry significantly harsher penalties and often result in federal prosecution.
- Drug paraphernalia: These charges are common around the Texas Tech University campus. Even items like spoons, pipes, or small baggies can result in Class C misdemeanor charges that remain on your record permanently if not handled properly.
Hypothetical Scenario: A driver is pulled over on University Avenue for allegedly failing to signal. The officer claims to smell marijuana and searches the vehicle, finding prescription pills without a prescription bottle. If the traffic stop lacked reasonable suspicion or the search exceeded the officer’s authority, all evidence could be suppressed.
Defending Drug Cases in Lubbock County
Russell Lorfing’s experience as both a federal prosecutor and defense attorney provides unique advantages in drug defense cases. Knowing prosecution strategies is essential to building an effective defense.
Proven Defense Strategies
Fourth Amendment violations are powerful defenses in drug cases. Law enforcement must follow strict constitutional requirements when conducting searches and seizures:
- Traffic stops without reasonable suspicion
- Searches without valid consent or warrants
- Extending traffic stops beyond their original purpose
- Improper home or vehicle searches
Chain of custody issues can destroy the prosecution’s case. From seizure to courtroom presentation, law enforcement must maintain an unbroken chain of custody:
- Evidence not properly labeled or stored
- Gaps in the custody chain
- Laboratory testing errors
- Evidence contamination
Lack of knowledge or intent defenses challenge whether you knew drugs were present and intended to possess them. This defense is particularly effective in shared vehicle situations or apartment searches where multiple people have access.
Federal vs. State Cases: The Critical Difference
As a former federal prosecutor, Russell knows when and why cases become federal matters. Recent federal operations in Lubbock demonstrate this distinction clearly.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas has been particularly active in Lubbock drug prosecutions:
- October 2024: Twelve alleged cocaine dealers charged, with seizure of approximately six kilograms of cocaine, five firearms, and $55,000 in cash
- September 2024: Eight defendants arrested in Project Safe Neighborhoods takedown, seizing 12 firearms, 946 grams of methamphetamine, 2 ounces of cocaine, and over 10 pounds of marijuana
- April 2024: Twenty-three defendants sentenced to a combined 218 years in federal prison for drug trafficking
Federal cases typically involve larger quantities, interstate trafficking, organized criminal enterprises, or firearms possession during drug crimes. Federal penalties are often much harsher than state penalties.
Texas Tech Student Drug Defense
College students face unique challenges when charged with drug offenses, dealing with both criminal charges and university disciplinary action simultaneously.
📌 Students face “dual jeopardy”: criminal courts AND university discipline. Poor handling of one process can wreck both education and legal outcomes.
Dual Jurisdiction Challenges
Texas Tech students face two separate proceedings:
- Criminal court system – Legal charges with potential jail time, fines, and criminal record consequences
- Student conduct system – University disciplinary process that can result in suspension or expulsion
The Texas Tech University Student Code of Conduct requires students to report arrests and can impose sanctions even for off-campus violations. Timing is essential – decisions made in the criminal case can impact university proceedings.
Campus-Specific Issues
- Dormitory searches – While students have reduced privacy expectations in dormitories, university officials and police must still follow proper procedures.
- Off-Campus jurisdiction – Texas Tech Police Department has jurisdiction throughout Lubbock County and often works closely with city and county law enforcement.
- Student rights – Students don’t forfeit constitutional rights on campus. You have the right to remain silent and request an attorney, even during university disciplinary proceedings.
Lubbock County Courts and Legal System
Local legal knowledge is essential for effective drug defense. Russell’s experience in Lubbock County courts provides valuable insight into local procedures.
Local Courts Handling Drug Cases
- 237th District Court – Felony drug cases
- 140th District Court – Felony cases and appeals
- County Courts at Law – Misdemeanor drug offenses
- Justice of the Peace Courts – Class C drug paraphernalia cases
Drug Court and Diversion Programs
Lubbock County offers drug court programs for eligible defendants as an alternative to traditional prosecution. This intensive supervision program includes:
- Regular court appearances
- Mandatory drug testing
- Substance abuse treatment
- Community service requirements
- Educational programs
Completing drug court can result in dismissed charges and a clean record, though not all cases qualify, and the program requires strict compliance.
Facing drug charges in Lubbock can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out now for a free consultation with our experienced drug defense lawyer and start building your defense immediately.
What to Do If You’re Charged
Time is critical in drug cases. Evidence can be lost, witnesses’ memories fade, and delay can limit defense options.
Immediate Steps
- Exercise your right to remain silent – Politely decline to answer questions and ask for an attorney immediately.
- Don’t consent to additional searches – You have the right to refuse consent to search your person, vehicle, or home.
- Document everything – Write down officer names, time, location, and what was said during your arrest.
- Contact our attorney immediately – The sooner we begin working on your case, the better we can protect your rights.
⚠️ The first 24 hours matter most—staying silent and refusing consent to searches preserves defense options that can otherwise disappear permanently.
Building Your Defense
Effective defense requires thorough investigation, including obtaining police reports, dash cam footage, body camera recordings, and witness statements. Modern surveillance cameras are everywhere, and this footage can be essential to your defense.
Why Choose Keith & Lorfing
Former Federal Prosecutor Advantage
Russell Lorfing’s background as a federal prosecutor in Lubbock provides unique advantages:
- Inside Knowledge – Knowing how prosecutors evaluate cases, make charging decisions, and approach plea negotiations
- Federal Experience – With increasing federal involvement in local drug cases, having our attorney who knows federal procedures is invaluable
- Trial Experience – Over 500 jury trials between our attorneys means we’re prepared to take cases to trial when necessary
West Texas Tough means we fight with the determination and grit that defines our region.
Our Comprehensive Approach
- Immediate Investigation to preserve evidence and identify witnesses
- Expert Witnesses are used when needed for technical or scientific issues
- Long-term Planning to minimize collateral consequences
- Client-Focused Representation, treating each client like family
Contact Our Lubbock Drug Defense Team
Don’t let drug charges destroy your future. The Keith & Lorfing team is ready to fight for your rights with the experience and determination you need.
- Free Consultation Available – We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and explain your options with no obligation.
- 24/7 Availability – Drug arrests don’t happen only during business hours, and neither does our commitment to our clients.
Serving West Texas from Multiple Locations:
- Lubbock
- Midland
- San Angelo
- Abilene
At Keith & Lorfing, we believe in leveling the playing field for hard-working West Texans.
When you’re facing drug charges, you need attorneys who know the stakes and won’t back down from a fight.
Our West Texas Tough approach means we’ll use every legal tool available to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Drug charges in Lubbock carry serious consequences, but immediate legal help can make all the difference. Call (325) 480-8100 now to contact us and speak with our experienced drug defense lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Defense Cases
What should I do if the police ask to search my vehicle in Lubbock?
Drug possession during a traffic stop is a common charge in Lubbock County. You have the constitutional right to refuse by clearly stating, “I do not consent to any search.” Police can search without consent only with probable cause or a valid warrant. Never physically resist, but verbally make your refusal clear and ask for our attorney immediately.
Can I be charged with possession if the drugs belong to someone else?
Constructive possession charges are common in Texas drug cases. You can be charged even if drugs aren’t directly on your person but are found in areas under your control, like your car or home. The prosecution must prove you knew about the drugs and intended to possess them, which creates opportunities for defense.
What makes a drug case federal instead of state in Lubbock?
Federal drug charges typically involve larger quantities, interstate trafficking, firearms, or organized criminal enterprises. Federal penalties are often much harsher than state charges. With recent federal operations seizing kilograms of drugs in Lubbock, federal involvement in local cases is increasing significantly.
Do first-time drug offenders qualify for probation in Texas?
First-time drug possession charges often qualify for probation rather than jail time. Texas law mandates probation for certain first-time state jail felony possession cases involving small amounts. Drug court programs may also be available, allowing charges to be dismissed upon successful completion.
How do drug arrests impact Texas Tech students' academic status?
Texas Tech students charged with drug offenses face dual consequences: criminal court proceedings and university disciplinary action. The Student Code of Conduct requires reporting arrests and can result in suspension or expulsion, even for off-campus violations. Strategic handling of both proceedings is essential to protect your educational future.
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Our every action is driven by a deep-seated commitment to fighting for hardworking Texans. Each client we represent and every case we undertake reflects our dedication to ensuring fairness and justice.
Our roots run deep in West Texas. Many of our attorneys hail from modest backgrounds, with family histories steeped in professions like farming, mechanics, labor, firefighting, and military service. These humble beginnings instilled in us the value of hard work, a principle we uphold daily.
We consciously choose to stand with the everyday people rather than corporations or the elite. Our focus is on representing dedicated, family-oriented Texans who aspire to provide a better future for their children. This often means challenging big insurance companies that attempt to undercut rightful claims. 
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