This is the first post in a series of articles which will discuss defending against drug possession charges in Austin, Texas. I have decided to write on this issue due to the fact that a defendant may have more options than they realize if they have been arrested for possessing an illegal substance. Unfortunately, many individuals feel that there is “nothing they can do” after they have been arrested. Discussing your situation with an attorney, as soon as possible, can help one to fully understand their options. If you or a family member have been arrested then contact my office today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer. I have been practicing law since 1995 and I am Board Certified in Criminal Defense by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
I will be addressing a number of topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will analyze include:
- Texas’ penalties for drug possession (including prescription drugs such as Xanax, Oxycodone, etc.)
- The impact of search and seizure issues upon drug possession charges
- What to expect at trial
- Serving probation after having been convicted of drug possession
I am addressing these topics for a variety of reasons. First, it is important to understand that possession can result in either felony or misdemeanor charges. This will depend on the nature of the substance involved as well as the amount. Second, if law enforcement illegally searched your person or vehicle, and narcotics were discovered, then it may be possible to exclude the drugs from evidence. Depending on the circumstances, such an exclusion can result in the charges being dismissed. Third, knowing what to expect from the trial process will assist an accused individual in mounting the best possible defense. Finally, it is important to understand the requirements which one must meet while under court-ordered supervision. Failing to meet these requirements can result in the defendant having to serve their term of incarceration.
A point I will be stressing in each of these articles is that it is important to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you have had an encounter with the police. The sooner you contact counsel, then the sooner your representative can begin to build a case on your behalf. It is important that you retain a firm with substantial criminal experience as such cases can involve complicated areas of the law. I devote my firm to protecting the rights of the accused. My office strives to provide the highest level of service and I believe that everyone is entitled to both quality representation and respect. Contact us online or by telephone to speak with an Austin drug trafficking lawyer. I also serve the cities of Rollingwood, Round Rock, Elgin, Jonestown, Manor, Bee Cave, Lago Vista, Sunset Valley, Lakeway, Creedmoor, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and San Marcos, Texas.