Decatur, TX Drug Crimes Attorney

Drug Crimes Lawyer Serving Clients in Decatur

Whether facing allegations of drug possession, distribution, trafficking, or manufacturing, finding the right lawyer can significantly help safeguard your rights. Godwin Law Firm, PLLC, a U.S. Army veteran-owned firm brings a unique perspective to drug crime defense. We will explore the different types of drug charges, the collateral effects of a conviction, and will provide legal support to those facing drug-related allegations.

Types of Drug Crimes in Texas

• Drug Possession: Possession charges apply when a person is found with a controlled substance without legal authorization. Penalties can range from fines and probation for minor infractions to lengthy prison sentences for more serious offenses.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute: When drugs are found in quantities that suggest distribution rather than personal use, or if there is other evidence like scales, baggies, or large sums of cash, a person may face charges of intent to distribute. This carries harsher penalties than simple possession.
• Drug Trafficking: Trafficking charges involve transporting, selling, or distributing illegal substances. These cases are typically handled in higher courts and often result in severe sentences due to the quantity of drugs involved and any connections to criminal networks.
• Drug Manufacturing: Manufacturing charges apply when a person is caught producing illegal substances, including growing, processing, or synthesizing drugs. Like trafficking, these charges carry severe penalties due to the intent to supply others.

The Repeat Offender Label and Its Impact

Under Texas law, people who commit multiple drug crimes are labeled as repeat offenders, which leads to significantly harsher penalties. The repeat offender status can result in:

• Enhanced Sentences: Texas imposes stricter sentences on repeat offenders, often doubling or tripling the incarceration period, fines, and other penalties.
• Mandatory Minimum Sentencing: In some cases, repeat offenders face mandatory minimum sentencing, leaving no room for judicial discretion in sentencing. This means that, upon conviction, a defendant may automatically face a predetermined period of incarceration.
• Ineligibility for Probation or Parole: Repeat offenders may be denied probation or parole, making it more challenging to secure early release or reduce the time spent in prison.

The Collateral Consequences of a Drug Crimes Conviction

Beyond immediate penalties like fines and incarceration, a drug crimes conviction can lead to long-term impacts on various aspects of a person’s life. Collateral consequences of a drug conviction may include:

• Employment Limitations: A criminal record can make it difficult to find employment, as many employers conduct background checks and may be unwilling to hire someone with a drug conviction. This can limit job opportunities and reduce financial stability.
• Housing Restrictions: Many landlords and property management companies also conduct background checks, making it harder for people with a drug conviction to secure rental housing.
• Loss of Driving Privileges: For certain drug crimes, particularly those involving drugged driving, Texas law may impose driver’s license suspensions that hinder a person’s ability to travel and work.
• Educational Opportunities: A conviction can limit access to federal student aid, scholarships, and certain educational programs, which can interfere with a person’s ability to pursue higher education or career advancement.
• Loss of Parental Rights or Child Custody: Family court judges may consider a criminal record when making decisions about child custody. A drug conviction may adversely affect a parent’s custody rights or lead to supervised visitation requirements.
• Ineligibility for Professional Licenses: Many professions, such as healthcare, teaching, or law, require clean criminal records for licensing. A drug conviction may restrict one’s ability to obtain or retain these licenses, affecting career prospects.

Understanding these potential consequences underscores the importance of working with a defense attorney who not only seeks to reduce immediate penalties but also works to protect the client’s future.

Contact Our Decatur, Texas Drug Crimes Lawyer

Facing drug charges is challenging, but you deserve effective representation. Contact Godwin Law Firm, PLLC at 940-255-0000 or complete our online contact form to schedule your free consultation and begin crafting a defense to protect your future.