Conroe Drug Crime Lawyer

Conroe Drug Crime and Drug Charges Defense Attorney

Being charged with criminal drug offenses can be an extremely emotional and stressful experience. Drug possession charges can be serious, and the punishment can range from fines to spending time in jail. Therefore, if you have been charged with possession or a DWI in Conroe, Texas, you need a criminal defense lawyer on your side. They can fight to get your charges dropped and your overall sentence minimized.

The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, believes that one mistake should not impact the rest of your entire life, such as whether you can work or vote. Our experienced criminal law team can expertly piece together the evidence to build the best defense for you, whether you are facing misdemeanor charges or felony penalties. We can defend you in court against a variety of drug crime charges and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Understanding Texas Drug Laws

Drug laws in Texas are generally strict, and penalties for drug offenses can be severe. Possession, manufacture, and distribution of controlled substances are all considered criminal offenses in Texas.

• Possession: Possession of any amount of a controlled substance, including drugs like cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, is illegal in Texas. Possession charges depend on the type and amount of drugs involved. They can range from a misdemeanor to a first-degree felony. The penalties can range from a small fine to life in prison.
• Manufacturing and Delivery: Manufacturing, delivering, or offering to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance is also illegal in Texas. Charges for manufacturing or delivery depend on the quantity and type of drug involved. However, they are generally more severe than possession charges. This offense can be charged as a first-degree felony, which carries penalties of up to life in prison.
• Prescription Drug Offenses: Possession of a prescription drug without a valid prescription is also illegal in Texas. The severity of a prescription drug offense depends on the type and amount of drug involved. Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with life in prison as a possible penalty.
• Drug-Free Zones: Texas law also establishes drug-free zones, which are areas around schools, parks, and public housing where drug offenses carry enhanced penalties.
• Drug Paraphernalia: Possession, delivery, or manufacturing of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes and syringes, is also illegal in Texas. Penalties for drug paraphernalia offenses depend on the specific circumstances of the case. Nevertheless, they can include fines and imprisonment.

Drug laws in Texas are subject to change, and the specific laws and regulations that apply to your criminal drug case may vary.

What to Do During a Texas Drug Possession Arrest

If you are arrested for drug possession in Texas, there are several steps you can take to maintain control of the situation:

• Keep your cool and follow the police’s orders. When being arrested, it is critical to maintain your composure and follow instructions from the authorities. Avoid putting up a struggle or saying anything that can be used against you in court.
• Use your right to silence to prevent self-incrimination. You have the right to keep silent. It is crucial to make use of this option and to refrain from speaking to the police without a lawyer present.
• Contact a lawyer. You have the legal right to be represented. Therefore, you should do so as soon as you can. An attorney can guide you through the criminal court system and give you advice on your rights and alternatives.
• Obtain information. Gather details regarding the arrest, such as the names and badge numbers of the officers involved, the location, and the time of the arrest, if you are able to.
• Know your legal rights. Know your legal options and the rules and legislation that pertain to your situation. The police must recite you your Miranda rights, for instance, in Texas.
• Be ready to post bail. If bail is needed to be released, be prepared to pay it. An attorney can assist you in looking into other possibilities, such as a bail bond or a release on your own recognizance, if you are unable to pay bail.
• Observe the advice of your lawyer. Be sure to follow your lawyer’s advice and be upfront with them about the details of the case.
• Be ready to answer for your actions. You must be aware that drug possession in Texas is a serious offense with harsh consequences. Your lawyer can assist you in comprehending the particular laws and rules that relate to your case. They can also help prepare you to defend yourself in court.

Being under arrest can seem like a hopeless situation. However, if you are able to stay calm and leverage your resources, including an experienced lawyer, you can navigate the situation.

How a Texas Drug Crime Lawyer Can Assist You

A drug crime lawyer can help you in several ways if you are facing drug charges:

• Providing legal advice. A drug crime lawyer can advise you on the precise laws and regulations that relate to your case, along with the potential repercussions of a conviction. They can assist you in understanding your rights and alternatives, as well as the criminal justice system.
• Crafting a defense. Your attorney can analyze the evidence against you, question witnesses, and investigate the case. This information can be used to develop a powerful defense on your behalf. This might include claiming that the narcotics were not yours, that the police had no reason to search or arrest you, or that the drugs were obtained through entrapment.
• Negotiating a plea bargain. A drug crime lawyer may be able to arrange a plea bargain with the prosecution if the evidence against you is substantial. This may entail pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence or smaller fines.
• Advocating for you in court. An attorney who specializes in drug crimes may represent you in court and fight for your rights. They can cross-examine witnesses, provide supporting documentation, and argue in your favor.
• Helping with alternative sentences. A drug crime lawyer can help you explore alternatives to jail time, such as drug treatment programs or community service.
• Assisting with post-conviction relief. Your lawyer can help you appeal your conviction. They can also seek post-conviction relief such as expungement or a pardon.

The specific ways a lawyer can help you will depend on the facts and circumstances of your case and state and federal law, depending on where you were charged. An experienced drug crime lawyer can help you navigate the criminal justice system and secure your rights.

Drug Crimes Law FAQs

Q: How long do you go to jail for drug possession?

A: In the United States, possession of a controlled substance is generally considered a felony and can carry a prison sentence of several years. The specific length of the sentence will depend on the laws of the state where the crime was committed and the discretion of the judge or jury. It is also important to note that drug possession is not the only charge that could be filed. There may be other charges like drug distribution or manufacturing, etc., so the sentence could be much more severe.

Q: Can you get probation for a felony drug charge in Conroe, Texas?

A: In Texas, a person convicted of a felony drug charge may be eligible for probation, also known as community supervision. The availability of probation as a sentence and the terms of the probation will depend on the specific drug charge and the defendant’s criminal history. However, in Texas, drug offenses are considered “violations of probation,” and this could lead to the revocation of probation and the individual going to jail for the full sentence.

Q: What is the mandatory minimum sentence for drug possession in Texas?

A: In Texas, the mandatory minimum sentence for drug possession depends on the type and amount of drug involved in the crime. For example, possession of less than one gram of a controlled substance can be a state jail felony. Penalties can include a fine of up to $10,000 and a sentence of 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility. However, possession of larger amounts of drugs can result in significantly more severe penalties. These can include long prison sentences and large fines.

Q: Can you rent an apartment with a felony in Texas?

A: In Texas, landlords have the legal right to reject rental applications from individuals with a felony conviction. However, it does not mean that it will be automatically denied. Landlords are not required to rent to anyone. Most landlords will run background checks and credit checks on potential tenants to help them make a decision.

A Conroe Drug Crime Lawyer That Can Help You Build Your Case

Facing serious drug charges does not have to be the end of your story. Our law firm can help you protect your reputation and your future. Schedule a consultation today with a drug lawyer at the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, to learn more about the options available to you in your case.