A Sugar Land criminal attorney can help you if you are facing a recent misdemeanor drug charge in Texas. One of the most important reasons to consider retaining an attorney, even for a seemingly small crime, is the lingering impact a drug conviction could have on your ability to get a job, apply for higher education, or maintain professional licensure. There are ways under Texas law to avoid the disproportionately negative consequences associated with a misdemeanor drug charge, and an attorney can help you weigh all your options.
What is a misdemeanor?
Understanding the breakdown of Texas drug laws is the first step in determining the severity of your offense and its potential to affect your future. Unfortunately, possession of narcotics including cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamines, heroin, ketamine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone carry a mandatory felony penalty regardless of the amount. Possession of marijuana is considered a misdemeanor if the amount uncovered is less than four ounces. Possession of drug paraphernalia is also considered a misdemeanor.
What are the penalties?
Your Sugar Land criminal attorney will advocate for the lightest possible sentence following your drug charge. If this is your first drug offense and you are found with a small amount of the controlled substance, you may be able to avoid jail time and enter into a rehabilitation facility. Drug diversion programs are available in most Texas counties, as well as probation or community supervision in lieu of incarceration. The extent of your penalty will depend upon your criminal history, the amount of drugs uncovered, and various other factors related to the arrest.
Contact a knowledgeable criminal attorney today
John Venza is an experienced Sugar Land criminal attorney who can assist you with your recent drug arrest charges. Contact him today by calling 281-971-5660.