Conroe Drug Charges Attorney

Montgomery County Lawyers for Drug Crimes

Drug crimes are serious offenses in Texas, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. There are a wide variety of activities that could potentially lead to drug charges. In some cases, a person may be accused of simple possession based on drugs found on their person, in their home, or in their vehicle. In more serious cases, charges may be related to drug manufacturing or distribution. Regardless of the specific charges, it is important to work with an attorney who can help determine the options for defending against a conviction or pursuing alternative sentencing options.

If you have been charged with a drug crime in Conroe, Texas, Pullan & Young can provide the legal help you need. As former prosecutors, our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers have the skills and resources to help protect your rights and your freedom. We can review the charges against you, the evidence in your case, and other factors to develop an effective defense strategy. We will work to have your charges reduced or dismissed so that you can move forward with your life.

Drug Crimes Under the Texas Controlled Substances Act

Drugs that may lead to criminal charges are typically referred to as "controlled substances," since they are regulated by the federal government and state governments. While state and federal laws related to controlled substances are similar, there are some important differences. Federal law classifies controlled substances into different groups known as "schedules," while Texas law defines five "penalty groups." The specific charges related to controlled substances will depend on the applicable penalty group, and the amount of drugs involved in a case will determine the penalties that may apply.

Drugs in Penalty Group 1 are often treated the most seriously by law enforcement, and they include substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids like heroin, morphine, and codeine. While some drugs in Penalty Group 1 may be available for legal use as prescription medications, such as opioid painkillers like oxycodone, possession or distribution of these substances without authorization can lead to serious drug charges. Drugs in Penalty Group 1-A, including LSD, and Penalty Group 1-B, including fentanyl, are treated similarly to substances in Penalty Group 1, and offenses related to possession, distribution, or manufacturing of these substances are likely to result in harsh penalties.

In general, the minimum charge for possession of a drug in Penalty Group 1 is a state jail felony, and this charge will apply if a person possessed less than one gram of these substances. A person who is convicted may be sentenced to six months to two years in a state jail. A maximum fine of $10,000 may also apply for most felony convictions. The charges increase as the amount of drugs increase, with one to four grams resulting in a third degree felony, four to 200 grams resulting in a second degree felony, and 200 to 400 grams resulting in a first degree felony. In cases involving more than 400 grams, a person may be sentenced to 10 to 99 years or life in prison, and they may be fined up to $100,000. In cases involving large amounts of drugs, a person may be charged with possession with intent to deliver and distribute, which is a more serious offense that may result in harsher penalties.

While marijuana is not included in any of the five penalty groups, it is still considered an illegal controlled substance in Texas. The Controlled Substances Act outlines the penalties that may apply for possession or distribution of marijuana. Possession of less than four ounces of marijuana is a misdemeanor, but felony charges will apply for any amount over four ounces, up to a second degree felony for 50 pounds or more. Delivery of marijuana will be charged as a felony for any amounts over one fourth of an ounce, and distribution of more than 50 pounds is a first degree felony. In cases involving substances containing THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical in marijuana that causes a "high"), such as waxes and oils, more serious penalties may apply, since THC is included in Penalty Group 2.

Contact Our Conroe, Texas Drug Charges Defense Attorneys

In cases involving controlled substances, the team at Pullan & Young can help defend your rights and protect your freedom. We understand how serious the penalties for drug crimes can be, and whether you have been accused of possession, distribution, manufacturing, or related offenses, we will work diligently to develop a strong defense strategy. Contact us today by calling 936-647-1540 to set up a free consultation. We are available to address your needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.