What Happens if You Are Caught with Cocaine in Texas?

 Posted on June 28, 2021 in Drug Charges

Texas is known for having strict laws prohibiting the use of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. If you or a loved one were arrested for possession of cocaine, it is important to realize the gravity of these allegations. You or your loved one may be facing life-changing criminal penalties. The penalties you face are especially harsh if the prosecution alleges possession with intent to distribute.

Cocaine Possession Laws in Texas

The state of Texas categorizes illicit substances into several penalty groups based on the drug’s perceived severity. Cocaine is in penalty group 1, which means that cocaine-related offenses are penalized more harshly than offenses involving drugs like marijuana. Being caught with even a small amount of cocaine or crack cocaine is a felony offense punishable by significant jail time. The greater the amount of cocaine allegedly in your possession, the harsher the penalties:

• Less than one gram of cocaine is a state jail felony punishable by up to a year in jail and a maximum $10,000 fine

• 1-4 grams is a third-degree felony punishable by 2-10 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine

• 4-200 grams is a second-degree felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison a maximum $10,000 fine

• Greater than 200 grams is a first-degree felony punishable by a staggering maximum of 99 years in prison

In addition to lengthy prison sentences, possession of less than 200 grams of cocaine is penalized by a maximum $10,000 fine. Possession of greater than 400 grams may be penalized by a fine of up to $100,000.  

If you were allegedly in possession of a significant quantity of cocaine or you possessed items used in the production or sale of cocaine or crack, you may be charged with manufacture or delivery of cocaine and subject to harsher penalties.

What Should I Do If I Was Arrested for Cocaine?

If you have been charged with a cocaine-related offense, remember that there are several things you can do to increase your chances of avoiding conviction and subsequent jail time. Firstly, do not let the police interrogate you without a lawyer. If the police ask you questions, state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and ask for your lawyer. Then say nothing. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence for and against you and use this evidence to develop a strong defense strategy.

Contact a Frisco Cocaine Possession Lawyer

If you or a loved one were arrested for possession of cocaine or another drug crime, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. The skilled Collin County criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. have helped many criminal defendants avoid conviction for drug possession, including possession of cocaine. Call our office for a free consultation today at 469-333-3333.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.481.htm