Drug Possession Penalties

Houston Drug Possession Attorney – Shahin Zamir

A comprehensive description of the available drug possession penalties in the state of Texas can be found in the Controlled Substances Act of the Texas Health and Safety Code. In practice, the application of drug possession violations and penalties in the state of Texas is difficult to comprehend. Anyone who is charged with possession of drugs in the state of Texas should immediately retain a Houston drug possession lawyer to represent their interests.

Call Shahin Zamir and get a free consultation: 713-223-8900.

Texas Drug Possession

Texas drug charges range from simple drug possession to possession with the intent to distribute. The exact punishment will be determined by the following factors:

• Quantity
• How the substance was stored or concealed
• Possession with paraphernalia
• Whether the drugs were accompanied by a large amount of money
• Previous convictions

Drug Possession Penalties

Marijuana:

• Less than two ounces: Probation or a maximum of six months in jail
• More than two ounces: From six months in jail to a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine of no more than $10,000
• 2,000 pounds or more: Maximum sentence of life imprisonment

Cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin:

• Less than 400 grams: Maximum sentence of two years in jail and a $10,000 fine
• 400 grams or more: Maximum sentence of life imprisonment

LSD and other hallucinogens:

• Two years to life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000

Mescaline, Ecstasy, PCP and hashish:

• Less than one gram: maximum two year jail sentence
• 400 grams or more: Up to life imprisonment and a fine of no more than $50,000

Ritalin, Valium and other prescribed chemical compounds:

• Under 200 grams: At least one year in jail and a $4,000 fine
• More than 200 grams: Up to 20 years in prison and a fine of no more than $10,000

Mitigated or Dismissed Charges

Many Texas counties offer drug diversion programs for a first drug possession violation. The completion of a court-ordered drug education program, drug treatment program or community service commitment can result in a drug possession charge being dropped altogether. A Houston area drug possession lawyer may also be able to negotiate a reduction or dismissal of the charges, especially if law enforcement officials violated a defendant’s constitutional rights during the criminal investigation.

Consult With a Drug Possession Lawyer in Houston, TX

Even after a defendant has finished serving a sentence for possession of a controlled substance, the stigma of having a criminal record will continue to be a great burden. Everything from employment and security clearances to housing and education programs may become difficult to attain. Shahin Zamir, attorney at law, endeavors to protect the legal rights and personal reputation of every client.

For a free case evaluation, speak with Shahin Zamir by calling 713-223-8900.