Drug Possession

Drug Possession Lawyer Midland

Your Trusted Advocate for Drug Possession Charges in Midland

Facing drug possession charges in Midland can be daunting, but understanding and strategic legal support are key to managing this challenge. At Sarabia Law Firm, we offer personalized and comprehensive legal representation specifically for individuals in Midland and the surrounding Permian Basin region. 

Our strong local presence and dedication to each client ensure you receive the focused attention necessary to navigate legal challenges effectively. Understanding the intricacies of local laws, such as the Texas Controlled Substances Act, is crucial in building a robust defense.

Beyond legal knowledge, we emphasize understanding you as our client. This unique approach ensures we integrate every detail of your story into a customized legal strategy. By investigating evidence collection and analyzing local statute details, we ensure your defense is both strong and personalized, aimed at achieving the best possible outcome.

Facing drug possession charges? We offer free and virtual consultations. Contact a drug possession attorney in Midland to protect your future. Call (432) 224-8036 or reach out online.

Understanding Drug Possession Laws in Texas

In Texas, to secure a conviction for a drug possession offense, the prosecution must prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Possession: The state must prove that you were in possession of a controlled substance. This can be "actual possession" (the drugs are on your person) or "constructive possession" (the drugs are in a place you have control over, like your car or home).
  • Knowledge: The state must prove that you knowingly possessed the controlled substance. This means they must demonstrate you were aware of the substance's existence and its illicit nature.
  • Controlled Substance: The substance in question must be identified as a controlled substance under Texas law.

The prosecution's case often relies on the testimony of law enforcement, forensic experts, and circumstantial evidence. As a seasoned drug possession attorney in Midland, we will challenge the government's evidence at every turn, scrutinizing the methods used to collect and analyze the evidence and questioning the credibility of their witnesses.

Classifications and Degrees of a Drug Possession Offense

In Texas, drug possession crimes can be classified as both misdemeanors and felonies, with the penalties escalating significantly based on the type of drug, the amount, and your criminal history. The least serious charges can be a Class B misdemeanor, while the most serious can be a first-degree felony or an enhanced felony.

  • Marijuana Possession:
    • Less than 2 ounces is a Class B misdemeanor.
    • 2 to 4 ounces is a Class A misdemeanor.
    • 4 ounces to 5 pounds is a state jail felony.
  • Controlled Substances: The penalties for possessing controlled substances in Penalty Groups 1, 1-A, 1-B, 2, 2-A, 3, and 4 are much more severe.
    • Penalty Group 1 (e.g., cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine): Less than 1 gram is a state jail felony; 1-4 grams is a third-degree felony; 4-200 grams is a second-degree felony; and 200-400 grams is a first-degree felony.
    • Penalty Group 1-B (e.g., fentanyl): Penalties are similar to Penalty Group 1, with a conviction for possessing 200-400 grams being a first-degree felony.
    • Penalty Group 2 (e.g., ecstasy, psychedelic mushrooms): Less than 1 gram is a state jail felony; 1-4 grams is a third-degree felony; and 4-400 grams is a second-degree felony.
    • Penalty Group 2-A (e.g., K2/Spice): Less than 2 ounces is a Class B misdemeanor. 2 to 4 ounces is a Class A misdemeanor. 4 ounces to 5 pounds is a state jail felony.
    • Penalty Group 3 (e.g., Xanax, Valium): Less than 28 grams is a Class A misdemeanor; 28-200 grams is a third-degree felony.
    • Penalty Group 4 (e.g., opiates): Less than 28 grams is a Class B misdemeanor; 28-200 grams is a third-degree felony.

It is also important to note that a drug charge can be enhanced if the offense was committed in a drug-free zone, such as near a school or a daycare, or if it involved a minor. 

Our firm is prepared to handle all levels of drug charges and will fight to prevent any enhancement of your case. We are a comprehensive drug possession attorney in Midland.

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Penalties of a Drug Possession Conviction in Texas

The direct legal penalties for a drug possession conviction in Texas are steep and often include:

  • Incarceration: Jail or prison time, ranging from a few months for a misdemeanor to decades for a serious felony.
  • Fines: Fines can be substantial, often reaching into the thousands of dollars.
  • Forfeiture: Texas law allows for the forfeiture of property, including vehicles and homes, that were used in the commission of a drug crime.
  • Probation and Supervised Release: A conviction will likely be followed by a period of supervised release, during which you must adhere to strict conditions. A violation of these terms can lead to re-incarceration.
  • License Suspension: A drug conviction can result in the suspension of your driver's license.

A criminal record for a drug offense can follow you for the rest of your life, making it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Additionally, a felony drug conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. 

For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Building a Strategic Defense Against Drug Possession Charges

Every case is unique, and we develop a criminal defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned Midland drug possession lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

  • Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your Fourth Amendment rights (unlawful search and seizure), Fifth Amendment rights (right to remain silent), or Sixth Amendment rights (right to an attorney). If evidence was obtained illegally, it may be suppressed, which can significantly weaken the prosecution's case.
  • Lack of Knowledge or Possession: The prosecution must prove you had the knowledge and possession to commit the crime. We can argue that you were unaware of the drugs' presence or that you did not have control over them, especially in cases where drugs are found in a shared space like a car or a home.
  • Challenging the Evidence: We can argue that the prosecution has not met its burden of proving every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. This may include challenging the credibility of witnesses or the reliability of the forensic evidence.
  • Legal Prescription: If you have a valid prescription for the drug, we can argue that your possession was lawful. This is a common defense in cases involving prescription drugs.
  • Chain of Custody Issues: We will scrutinize the handling of the evidence from the time it was seized to the time it was presented in court. If there were any breaks in the chain of custody, we can argue that the evidence is unreliable.
  • Entrapment: In cases involving confidential informants or sting operations, we can argue that law enforcement officers induced you to commit a crime that you otherwise would not have committed.

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When your future is on the line, we're here to help. Protect your rights by contacting us now for a free consultation: (432) 224-8036.

Why Choose Sarabia Law Firm as Your Drug Possession Lawyer

Our firm is deeply rooted in the Midland community, distinguishing us through our blend of cutting-edge technology and personalized legal practice. As native residents, we relate to the unique challenges you face and are dedicated to providing robust legal support. 

Offering free consultations helps you understand your rights and options from the outset. With technology as part of our toolkit, we're always a step ahead—whether in gathering electronic evidence or using advanced tools for legal research. 

Our commitment to clear communication ensures you are well-informed and confident throughout the legal process. This comprehensive approach not only defends your case vigorously but also fosters a partnership that prioritizes your peace of mind.

What Should I Expect During My Initial Consultation?

During your initial consultation with Sarabia Law Firm, we’ll discuss your case details, concerns, and legal options. The goal is to understand your situation and guide you on potential next steps. This session allows you to ask questions and evaluate how we can represent your interests effectively.

Additionally, we explain potential timelines, clarify court appearance expectations, and demystify legal jargon that may seem overwhelming. By simplifying the legal process early, we aim to alleviate anxieties and prepare a cohesive roadmap for your defense aligned with your goals and circumstances.

Comprehensive Legal Process for Drug Possession Cases

Handling drug possession charges involves navigating complexities, including those outlined in the Texas Controlled Substances Act. 

Here’s what you can expect with us:

  • Initial Consultation: We provide a free initial consultation to discuss your case details. This crucial first step allows us to lay the groundwork for a defense strategy tailored to your needs and circumstances.
  • Investigation & Strategy: Our team conducts a thorough investigation to uncover procedural errors or rights violations. We examine every aspect of the prosecution's case, from search legality to evidence management, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
  • Pre-Trial Negotiations: Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing is key. Our insight into Midland's prosecutorial practices allows effective negotiation, leveraging our expertise and relationships within the local legal community.
  • Court Representation: Should your case go to trial, our committed team will represent you vigorously. We meticulously prepare for court, integrating every facet of your case to bolster your defense and pursue the best outcome.

Throughout this process, we maintain open communication, ensuring you understand each step and its implications. Our transparency guarantees you’re never left in the dark.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation & Take Control of Your Future

If you’re facing drug possession charges in Midland, TX, it’s crucial to act promptly. Our dedicated team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, answer your questions, and fight for your rights.

Contact Sarabia Law Firm by calling (432) 224-8036 for a free consultation. 

Why Clients Choose Sarabia Law Firm

What Sets Our Team Apart?
  • Local Advocacy
    We are deeply rooted in your community and understand the local legal landscape. This enhances our ability to effectively represent you, as we are familiar with the nuances of the local courts and legal environment.
  • Comprehensive Support
    From start to finish, we guide you through the entire legal process with unwavering support.
  • Straightforward and Honest Representation
    At our firm, we prioritize transparency. Our goal is to equip you with the clear and actionable advice you need to navigate your legal challenges effectively.
  • Free Consultations
    Take the first step toward a strong defense with our free consultation, providing personalized legal advice and a strategic plan tailored to your unique situation at no cost.

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