Drug Trafficking Attorney in Friendswood

Penalties for Drug Trafficking Convictions in Texas

A conviction for drug trafficking in Texas carries exceptionally severe penalties, often including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and other long-term consequences. These are always felony offenses.

Standard Penalties Based on Penalty Group and Quantity:

Penalty Group 1 (Cocaine, Heroin, Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, etc.):

• Less than 1 gram: State Jail Felony (180 days - 2 years in state jail; up to $10,000 fine).
• 1 gram to 4 grams: Second-Degree Felony (2-20 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 4 grams to 200 grams: First-Degree Felony (5-99 years or life in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 200 grams to 400 grams: First-Degree Felony with enhanced penalties (10-99 years or life in prison; up to $100,000 fine).
• 400 grams or more: First-Degree Felony with enhanced penalties (15-99 years or life in prison; up to $250,000 fine).

Penalty Group 1-A (LSD):

• Less than 20 abuse units: State Jail Felony (180 days - 2 years in state jail; up to $10,000 fine).
• 20 to 80 abuse units: Second-Degree Felony (2-20 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 80 to 4,000 abuse units: First-Degree Felony (5-99 years or life in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 4,000 abuse units or more: First-Degree Felony with enhanced penalties (15-99 years or life in prison; up to $250,000 fine).

Penalty Group 2 (Ecstasy, PCP, Psilocybin, etc.):

• Less than 1 gram: State Jail Felony (180 days - 2 years in state jail; up to $10,000 fine).
• 1 gram to 4 grams: Second-Degree Felony (2-20 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 4 grams to 400 grams: First-Degree Felony (5-99 years or life in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 400 grams or more: First-Degree Felony with enhanced penalties (10-99 years or life in prison; up to $100,000 fine).

Penalty Group 3 or 4 (Xanax, Valium, certain codeine compounds):

• Less than 28 grams: State Jail Felony (180 days - 2 years in state jail; up to $10,000 fine).
• 28 grams to 200 grams: Second-Degree Felony (2-20 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 200 grams to 400 grams: First-Degree Felony (5-99 years or life in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 400 grams or more: First-Degree Felony with enhanced penalties (10-99 years or life in prison; up to $100,000 fine).

Marijuana:

• 1/4 ounce or less (with remuneration/sale): Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year in county jail; up to $4,000 fine).
• 1/4 ounce to 5 pounds: State Jail Felony (180 days - 2 years in state jail; up to $10,000 fine).
• 5 pounds to 50 pounds: Second-Degree Felony (2-20 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 50 pounds to 2,000 pounds: First-Degree Felony (5-99 years or life in prison; up to $10,000 fine).
• 2,000 pounds or more: Enhanced First-Degree Felony (10-99 years or life in prison; up to $100,000 fine).

Enhanced Penalties and Aggravating Factors:

Sentences for drug trafficking charges can be further enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present:

• Drug-Free Zones: Trafficking drugs near schools, playgrounds, or other drug-free zones.
• Involving Minors: Delivering drugs to a minor, or using a minor in the drug operation.
• Use of a Firearm: Possessing or using a firearm during a drug trafficking offense often triggers additional and consecutive prison time.
• Prior Convictions: Previous felony drug convictions can significantly increase the minimum and maximum penalties.
• Organized Criminal Activity: Involvement in a larger criminal organization can lead to more severe charges, including engaging in organized criminal activity (Texas Penal Code 71.02), which elevates the underlying offense to the next higher degree.
• Federal Charges: Drug trafficking often crosses state lines or involves large quantities, leading to federal charges, which typically carry even harsher mandatory minimum sentences. A Friendswood drug trafficking attorney must be prepared to defend in both state and federal courts.

The profound and escalating nature of these penalties underscores why immediate engagement with a highly experienced drug trafficking lawyer in Friendswood is not merely a preference, but an absolute necessity to protect your future.

What to Expect in Friendswood Courts

Courts in Friendswood are part of the Brazoria County legal system, known for their rigorous approach to drug-related offenses. Anticipating procedural steps and understanding court expectations is crucial. Our team will guide you through each stage, from arraignment to trial, ensuring your rights are protected.

It’s important to remember that drug trafficking cases in Friendswood can involve multiple hearings and negotiations. The court system in Friendswood is dedicated to enforcing state laws and may impose strict penalties. However, with our firm’s thorough preparation and strategic approach, we aim to navigate these systems skillfully, advocating for reduced charges or alternative sentences where feasible. We are committed to ensuring that each client receives thorough consultation and representation while handling such serious allegations.

Building a Strong Defense

Our firm takes a proactive approach to defense. Key aspects of our strategy may include:

• Thorough Investigation: Reviewing all evidence to identify weaknesses or procedural errors in the prosecution’s case.
• Challenging Legality of Searches & Seizures: Examining if any rights were violated during evidence collection.
• Plea Negotiations: Where appropriate, negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges or sentencing.
• Trial Advocacy: If necessary, aggressively representing you in court to achieve the best possible outcome.

In addition, we collaborate with expert witnesses and use comprehensive legal research to support your case. By exploring every legal avenue, we aim to dismantle the prosecution’s arguments and highlight reasonable doubts about the evidence presented against you. Our proactive approach often uncovers mitigating factors that can significantly influence case outcomes.

Why Choose Law Office of Steve O. Gonzalez

Clients in Friendswood choose us because of our dedication to personalized and strategic legal defense. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experienced Representation: Steve Gonzalez and Kristina King lead our firm, leveraging over three decades of experience.
• Local Expertise: Our attorneys are familiar with local court procedures and the specific challenges faced in Friendswood.
• Tailored Strategies: We develop individualized defense plans that address the specific circumstances of your case.
• Client-Centered Approach: We emphasize open communication, ensuring you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.

Take the Next Step Towards Your Defense

If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Friendswood, the right support can make all the difference. At Law Office of Steve O. Gonzalez, we offer personalized consultations to discuss your case and explore all available options. When you reach out to us, you’ll gain clarity, dedicated support, and a path forward. 

Contact us today at (832) 900-9867 to protect your rights and secure the representation you deserve.