This is the first post in a series which will deal with the process of defending against drug-related charges in Austin, Texas. I feel it is necessary to write on this topic as may defendants make the mistake of thinking there is nothing they can do after having been arrested in such cases. The fact of the matter, however, is that such individuals have options. It is my hope that this series will provide information which helps people to better understand their situation. It is also my hope that the information provided in my coming articles will help people to make an informed decision when they are selecting a criminal defense lawyer. If you or a loved one have been arrested then contact my office today to speak with an attorney.
I will be addressing several topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will analyze include:
- How search and seizure issues impact narcotics offenses
- Whether or not police may utilize a drug sniffing dog
- Challenging arrest warrants which relied on confidential informants
- Dealing with charges involving prescription drugs
- Dealing with charges which involve “hard drugs” such as heroin or methamphetamine
There are several reasons why Austin residents must understand these issues. First, drugs are often found as the result of police stopping an individual for a traffic-related offense or for some other matter. If the stop violated a defendant’s rights then it may be possible to have the drugs excluded from evidence. Second, recent U.S. Supreme Court case law has limited the extent to which officers may utilize a drug sniffing dog. Third, drug trafficking cases sometimes stem from arrest warrants that were based on information from confidential informants. Depending on the circumstances it may be possible to challenge the validity of such a warrant. Fourth, many people make the mistake of thinking that prescription drug charges are “no big deal” when, in fact, they can carry serious consequences. Finally, the possession or distribution of harder drugs can result in a lengthy prison sentence.
One point I cannot stress enough is that you should retain counsel immediately if you or a loved one have been arrested for possessing or distributing a controlled substance. The sooner you retain a lawyer then the sooner they will be able to begin an investigation into your case, to file motions, and to conduct other necessary tasks. The longer you wait to retain an attorney then the more you hinder their ability to mount an adequate defense.
Contact my Austin office today to schedule an initial consultation. 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.