In Texas, drug offenses are prosecuted vigorously by most District Attorney’s Office. This is especially true in Brazoria County, Galveston County, and Harris County. If you’re convicted of a drug offense, the repercussions could be profound.
Many presume that resolving a drug charge is just a matter of serving a little jail time or paying a fine. However, the implications can be extremely serious if certain substances of quantities are involved with your case.
Defending a person with drug-related criminal charges, be it possession or trafficking, requires a criminal defense attorney that has a comprehensive understanding of the law and acceptable defense strategies. If you’re seeking legal representation following an arrest for possession of a controlled substance, contact the Law Office of Sandra J. Oballe today.
We can be reached at 713-524-6656 for cases in Houston or at 979-265-6800 for people south of Houston, in Brazoria & Galveston Counties.
Criminal Charge Classification Matters
From Misdemeanors to Felonies
The Texas Health & Safety Code categorizes drug charges based on the type and quantity of the substance. Some offenses, such as possession of small amounts of marijuana, are misdemeanor offenses while others, such as possession of any amount of cocaine, are felony offenses.
Misdemeanors, which are less severe, can still result in hefty fines and jail time. More serious drug charges, classified as felonies, can lead to state prison sentences.
For context, possessing less than 2 ounces of marijuana is a misdemeanor, but possessing more than 400 grams of a controlled substance like cocaine is a first-degree felony, with potential penalties of up to 99 years in prison. 1
Again, that’s if you’re convicted. Not every person charged with a drug offense are convicted. Not every person found not guilty was innocent. Prudent legal representation and a strong knowledge of the law can make all the difference in the world.
LEARN MORE: Texas Drug Penalty Groups
Beyond the Immediate Punishments
Long-Term Consequences
There are various long term consequences that a person with a drug conviction will be forced to contend with. Below, we’ve outlines some of the most common lingering consequences associated with criminal convictions.
Civil Liberties at Stake: A drug conviction might restrict your fundamental rights. It can affect your right to vote, serve on a jury, or possess firearms.
Employment and Housing: Employers and landlords often conduct background checks on new applications. A drug conviction can make securing a good job or leasing a decent place to live much more difficult. If you’re a professional, license restrictions may be applicable if you work in certain industries.
Educational Prospects: Many educational institutions might deny admissions to those with drug convictions. Additionally, you could lose or forfeit your eligibility for federal student aid. Often, a criminal conviction can push the potential for higher education out of reach.
Family Implications: A drug conviction, especially one that results in incarceration, can really hurt your family. If you’re a parent, it could cause challenges in custody battles or even cost you custody of your kids altogether.
Immigration Concerns: Non-citizens should be acutely aware that drug convictions might lead to deportation or prevent re-entry into the U.S. This is true regardless of your residency status. 3
Collateral Consequences and Texas Law
While the penalties associated with a drug conviction are clear, there may be an opportunity for recourse. There are provisions under Texas law that can help get the criminal records of some offenses sealed or erased. Orders of non-disclosure, in certain cases, can seal your record from public view.
Attorney Sandra Oballe, an experienced criminal defense attorney, will work with you on resolving the case and sealing the record should you qualify.
Your Rights Matter
Seek Only Qualified Representation
Talk with Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Sandra Oballe
If you or someone you know is facing drug-related charges in Brazoria County, Angleton, Harris County, or the Greater Houston area, my office can help you.
Having practiced law in Texas since 2003, with experience as a court reporter preceding my career as an attorney, I’ve witnessed the unpredictability of the Texas criminal justice system first-hand.
The Law Office of Sandra J. Oballe is committed to ensuring that those facing these charges get the defense they deserve.
I invite you to reach out to my office. When we meet, I’ll help you understand your rights, and use my years of experience to get you out of this situation.
The Law Office of Sandra J. Oballe stands ready to defend, advise, and ensure that every avenue of defense is explored on your behalf. We provide affordable legal fees, flexible payment options, and effective legal representation.
To get started, call us today at 713-524-6656 or 979-265-6800.
LEARN MORE: The Best Ways to Avoid an Arrest
LEARN MORE: Things to Know About Texas Drug Possession Cases
Footnotes
