San Marcos Drug Crime Attorneys
Skilled Legal Defense for Drug Charges in San Marcos, Texas
Texas has some of the most stringent drug laws in the nation. Being caught with a controlled substance can lead to severe consequences, including a misdemeanor or felony charge depending on the type, quantity, and circumstances surrounding the drug. When your future and freedom are on the line, you need experienced legal representation. At [Your Law Firm Name], we are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals accused of drug crimes in San Marcos and throughout Hays County.
Why Choose Smith & Vinson Law Firm?
When facing drug charges, it’s essential to have attorneys who know how to navigate the complexities of Texas drug laws. Our San Marcos drug crime attorneys bring years of experience, including backgrounds as former prosecutors. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and build robust defenses tailored to your case. We pride ourselves on our thorough case preparation, aggressive defense strategies, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Contact us at (512) 359-3743 for a free consultation with a San Marcos drug crime lawyer today.
Possession of Controlled Substances in Texas
Texas categorizes controlled substances into four Penalty Groups, with marijuana classified separately. These Penalty Groups include drugs like:
- Penalty Group I: Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and opiates.
- Penalty Group II: MDMA (ecstasy), mescaline, and amphetamines.
- Penalty Group III: Xanax, Valium, and other prescription medications with potential for abuse.
- Penalty Group IV: Compounds with limited narcotics and active medical ingredients.
The severity of the charge depends on several factors, including:
- The type and quantity of the drug.
- Whether there was intent to distribute.
- Prior criminal history.
- Circumstances such as the presence of drug paraphernalia or large sums of cash.
Penalties for Drug Possession in Texas
The penalties for drug possession vary widely based on the type and quantity of the drug. For example:
- Less than 2 ounces of marijuana: Class B misdemeanor, up to 180 days in jail, and a fine up to $2,000.
- 2 to 4 ounces of marijuana: Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail, and a fine up to $4,000.
- 4 ounces to 5 pounds of marijuana: State jail felony, 180 days to 2 years in state jail, and a fine up to $10,000.
- More than 2,000 pounds of marijuana: Enhanced first-degree felony, 5 to 99 years in prison, and a fine up to $50,000.
For substances like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamines, penalties can escalate quickly. Possessing larger quantities may result in felony charges punishable by decades in prison and substantial fines.
Types of Drug Charges We Defend
Our San Marcos drug crime attorneys handle a wide range of drug-related charges, including:
- Drug Possession: Defense against charges for controlled substances.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute: Fighting allegations of intent to sell or distribute drugs.
- Drug Trafficking: Challenging claims of transporting or selling drugs.
- Drug Manufacturing: Defending against accusations of producing illegal substances.
- Prescription Drug Crimes: Legal defense for unauthorized possession or distribution of prescription medications.
- Marijuana Charges: Representation for possession, distribution, and cultivation cases.
Marijuana Laws in San Marcos, TX
While marijuana laws are evolving across the country, Texas remains strict. Both natural and synthetic marijuana fall under heavy regulation. Even small amounts can result in serious consequences, including:
- Probation with mandatory treatment programs.
- Jail time ranges from 180 days to life imprisonment for large quantities.
- Fines up to $50,000 for enhanced felony charges.
Building a Strong Drug Crime Defense
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we take a proactive approach to building your defense. Common defense strategies include:
- Challenging Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches. If law enforcement violated your rights, we can file motions to suppress evidence.
- Disputing the Prosecution’s Evidence: We scrutinize police reports, witness statements, and lab results to uncover inconsistencies.
- Proving Lack of Possession or Knowledge: In some cases, we can argue that the drugs did not belong to you or that you were unaware of their presence.
- Negotiating Reduced Charges: We work tirelessly to seek alternatives such as diversion programs or reduced penalties for eligible clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get probation for a felony drug charge in Texas?
Probation may be available for first-time offenders or individuals charged with low-level felonies. However, eligibility depends on the specifics of your case, including prior convictions and the quantity of drugs involved. Our attorneys can assess your situation and explore all available options.
What happens if I’m charged with drug trafficking?
Drug trafficking charges are serious and often involve federal investigations. Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. A strong defense is essential to challenging the prosecution’s case and protecting your rights.
Protect Your Future with Smith & Vinson Law Firm
Drug charges are life-altering and require immediate action. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of legal representation to individuals facing drug charges in San Marcos and the surrounding areas. From the initial investigation to courtroom advocacy, we fight relentlessly to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
Contact us at (512) 359-3743 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and begin building your defense.
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
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Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
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What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
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When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
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After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
911 caller reported a major rollover, single car accident. EMS and fire arrived on scene. They had to break the window to get our client out of the car. He said he had swerved to miss a deer and had been up close to 18 hours before the crash. Police later arrived on scene, spoke to our client and he admitted to coming from a bar and drinking 2 martinis.
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
Our client was pulled over for a traffic violation. Officer smelled alcohol, client admitted to consuming a few drinks. Officer also noted slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. Client performed the SFST’s (roadside tests). Officer said he failed all 3, eye test, walk and turn and one-leg stand. Officer placed client under arrest and asked him for a sample of breath and/or blood. Client refused. Officer did not get a blood warrant.
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Case Dismissed 2nd DWI
Our client was involved in a vehicle accident in La Grange where she was ejected from the vehicle and had to stay in the hospital. There was alcohol in the car, and she had prior DWIs. The ethanol levels in her blood came back at a .13 so she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated. This client was unaware that she was charged after she left the hospital which resulted in the charge of Bail Jumping. However she maintained that she had only an 8% functioning liver due and upon researching her medical hist
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault & Tampering with Evidence
Our client was involved in a verbal dispute that turned into an altercation where a firearm was discharged into the ground. The round ricocheted and grazed a party to the dispute. Our client was facing multiple felony convictions and a prison sentence.
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault Family Violence w/ Serious Bodily Injury
Our client was involved in a domestic altercation that resulted in one of the parties sustaining a very serious life -altering injury that required serious medical intervention. We took the case and approached our defense with heavy strong willed negotiations with the State.
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Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation