McKinney Drug Crimes Attorneys

Lawyers for Charges of Drug Possession, Distribution, or Trafficking in McKinney, TX

Texas has some of the strictest drug laws in the country. People who are accused of possessing controlled substances can face serious legal consequences, even in cases involving small amounts of substances. The charges become even more serious in situations involving accusations of drug distribution, drug manufacturing, or drug trafficking.

If you are facing drug-related charges, it is crucial to have a strong legal defense. The McKinney drug crimes defense lawyers at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. can review the details of your case, evaluate whether law enforcement followed the proper procedures, and develop a strategy to help you resolve your case successfully.

Texas Drug Penalty Groups

Texas classifies controlled substances into penalty groups, which are similar to the schedules that the federal government uses to classify drugs. These groups determine the penalties that will apply for those who are charged with possession, manufacturing, or distribution of drugs.

• Penalty Group 1: Includes drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. These substances will usually lead to the most severe penalties, with even small amounts leading to felony charges. There are two subgroups, with Penalty Group 1-A including LSD and Penalty Group 1-B including fentanyl.
• Penalty Group 2: Includes hallucinogens like PCP and MDMA (known as ecstasy or molly). Possession and distribution of these substances carry felony penalties.
• Penalty Group 3: Includes prescription medications such as Xanax, Valium, and Ritalin when possessed without a valid prescription.
• Penalty Group 4: Covers compounds containing small amounts of narcotics, such as codeine-based cough syrup, which can still result in criminal charges.

Marijuana is not included in these Penalty Groups, but it is still considered an illegal controlled substance in Texas. Charges for possession or distribution of marijuana or products containing THC may apply, even if these substances were purchased legally in other states.

Drug Possession

Intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription can lead to charges of drug possession. Penalties vary depending on the penalty group of the drug in question and the amount of the substance. For example:

• Possession of less than one gram of a Penalty Group 1 or Penalty Group 2 substance is a state jail felony, punishable by 6 months to two years in jail.
• Possession of between one and four grams of a Penalty Group 1 or Penalty Group 2 substance is a third-degree felony, with penalties of 2 to 10 years in prison.
• Larger amounts of substances in Penalty Group 1 or Penalty Group 2 may lead to second-degree or first-degree felony charges, with potential sentences of up to life imprisonment.

Possession With Intent to Distribute

Possession of a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture or deliver is a more serious offense than simple possession. Prosecutors may base charges of possession with intent on factors such as:

• The quantity of drugs found
• The presence of baggies, scales, or packaging materials
• Large amounts of cash found alongside the drugs

When a charge is elevated from drug possession to drug manufacturing or distribution, more serious penalties will apply upon conviction.

Drug Delivery and Manufacturing

Distributing drugs is a more serious offense than drug possession. Drug delivery charges may apply if a person allegedly sold controlled substances or distributed them to others. Drug manufacturing charges can also be very serious. They may apply if a person is accused of producing drugs such as methamphetamine or processing or packaging drugs in order to distribute them.

As with drug possession, the penalties for drug manufacturing or delivery are based on the Penalty Group and amount of the drug involved. In cases involving more than one gram of drugs in Penalty Group 1 or Penalty Group 2, the minimum charge is a second-degree felony. In cases involving large amounts, convictions may result in sentences of life imprisonment and fines as high as $250,000.

How Our McKinney Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers Can Help

An experienced defense attorney can provide invaluable assistance for those who are facing drug-related charges. Our team may use strategies such as:

• Challenging Illegal Searches and Seizures: If law enforcement obtained evidence through an unlawful search, we can seek to have the evidence suppressed.
• Disputing Possession Claims: Prosecutors must prove that a person knowingly possessed drugs. If multiple people were present or if the drugs were found in a shared space, our attorneys may argue that the accused was not in control of the substance.
• Questioning the Validity of Evidence: Defense strategies may include challenging lab testing procedures, chain of custody issues, or the credibility of witnesses.
• Negotiating for Reduced Charges: In some cases, our lawyers can negotiate plea deals for lesser charges. We may be able to help our clients receive probation or participate in drug diversion programs instead of being sentenced to jail time.
• Exploring Alternative Sentencing Options: In some cases, a person may qualify for drug treatment programs instead of serving time in jail or prison.

Contact Our McKinney, Texas Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers

If you have been charged with a drug-related offense in McKinney, Texas, it is essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Drug crime convictions can carry severe penalties and long-term consequences, but The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. can provide a strong defense, helping to have charges reduced or dismissed. Contact us today and set up a free consultation by calling 214-544-0061.