Texas drug charges, including drug possession, possession with intent to distribute, and trafficking offenses, are all extremely serious. Upon conviction, individuals may face jail time, probation, monetary fines, and significant collateral consequences. If you are currently facing one of these charges, you need experienced legal counsel in your corner as soon as possible.
Our skilled Weatherford drug defense lawyers at Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys can meet with you right away to discuss your case and arrest circumstances, develop a thoughtful legal strategy, and pursue the best possible result in your criminal case.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with our experienced drug defense attorneys in Weatherford, please call us at (817) 877-3030 or contact us online today.
Why Should We Represent You?
If you face a criminal drug charge in Weatherford, you want a strong legal team advocating for you throughout your case. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys, several of our lawyers are former prosecutors. Consequently, we know how to view a criminal drug case from various perspectives, and we can use that knowledge to achieve a favorable result in your case.
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Our Weatherford office is located at 119 N. Main Street, Weatherford, TX 76086. Let us pursue the best possible result in your criminal drug case today.
Potential Legal Defenses to a Weatherford Drug Charge
Facing a drug charge can be scary, but understanding potential legal defenses can provide a sense of direction. The following are some strategies you may consider:
- Illegal Search and Seizure — The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. If law enforcement discovers the drugs through an unlawful search, such as without a warrant or probable cause, your defense attorney can argue that the judge should suppress the evidence.
- Lack of Possession — To be convicted of drug possession, the prosecution must prove that you knowingly and intentionally possessed the drugs. If you can show that you were unaware of the drugs’ presence or that they belonged to someone else, you may have a defense.
- Entrapment — If law enforcement coerced or persuaded you into committing a drug-related crime that you would not have otherwise committed, you may have a defense of entrapment.
- Duress — If someone forced or threatened you into possessing drugs against your will, you can argue that you acted under duress and should not be held criminally liable.
- Illegal Arrest Procedures — If law enforcement conducted your arrest unlawfully or without proper procedure, such as failing to read you your Miranda rights, you may have grounds to challenge the validity of the arrest and any evidence obtained after that.
- Mistaken Identity — If an individual mistakenly identified you as the person in possession of the drugs, you can argue that you were not the perpetrator and seek to establish an alibi or provide evidence of your whereabouts at the time of the alleged crime.
- Medical Necessity — In some cases, individuals may possess drugs for medical reasons, such as medical marijuana for a qualifying condition. You may have a defense if you have a valid medical prescription or can demonstrate a legitimate medical need.
- Crime Lab Errors — Challenging the reliability of drug testing procedures or the accuracy of crime lab results can be a defense strategy, especially if there are concerns about contamination, mishandling of evidence, or errors in testing protocols.
It’s important to discuss these potential defenses with a qualified lawyer. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys, we can assess your specific situation and advise you on the best course of action.
Categories of Possible Drug Offenses in Weatherford
In Texas, drug crimes can fall into several categories, each with its own legal implications and potential penalties. Those categories include:
- Possession — Possessing illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription, is a common drug crime. The severity of the offense typically depends on the type and amount of the drug in your possession.
- Possession with Intent To Distribute — If law enforcement believes you intended to sell or distribute drugs, even if you were not caught in the act, you may face charges of possession with intent to distribute. Factors such as the quantity of drugs, packaging materials, and evidence of sales can contribute to this charge.
- Trafficking — Drug trafficking involves the distribution of large quantities of illegal drugs across state lines or within the state. Trafficking charges often carry harsher penalties than simple possession or possession with intent to distribute.
- Manufacturing — Manufacturing drugs, such as methamphetamine or marijuana, involves the production or cultivation of illegal substances. This can include operating a meth lab, growing marijuana plants, or producing other controlled substances.
- Drug Paraphernalia — Possessing drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, syringes, or scales, with the intent to use them for drug-related activities can result in charges separate from drug possession.
- Prescription Drug Fraud — Obtaining prescription drugs through fraudulent means, such as forging prescriptions or doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions), is a form of drug crime that specifically involves prescription medications.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) — Driving while under the influence of drugs, including illegal substances or prescription medications, is a serious offense that can result in DUI charges.
- Conspiracy — Engaging in a conspiracy to commit a drug-related offense, even if the crime is not ultimately carried out, can lead to conspiracy charges.
Being charged with any of these drug crimes can have significant consequences, including fines, probation, loss of driving privileges, and imprisonment. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys, we can explain your rights and options for defense in terms you understand.
Potential Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Drug Conviction in Weatherford
A drug crime conviction can have serious repercussions, both in terms of immediate penalties and long-term consequences. Here is what you might expect:
- Jail or Prison Time — Depending on the nature of the offense, the quantity of drugs involved, and your criminal history, a conviction can result in incarceration. Penalties can range from a few months in county jail for minor offenses to several years or more in state prison for serious offenses like drug trafficking.
- Fines—Drug crime convictions often result in hefty fines, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. These fines can impose a significant financial burden on individuals and their families.
- Probation — In some cases, instead of or in addition to jail time, a judge may impose probation. While on probation, you must adhere to strict conditions, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, drug testing, and avoiding further legal trouble.
- Mandatory Treatment Programs — Depending on the circumstances of your case and any underlying substance abuse issues, the court may require participation in drug treatment programs as part of your sentence.
- Loss of Driver’s License — A drug conviction can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, making it difficult to commute to work, attend school, or fulfill other daily obligations.
- Criminal Record— Perhaps one of the most significant collateral consequences of a drug crime conviction is the creation of a permanent criminal record. This can have far-reaching effects, including difficulty finding employment, housing, or educational opportunities in the future.
- Professional Licensing Issues — A drug conviction may affect your ability to obtain or maintain professional licenses, particularly in fields like healthcare, law, or education, where character and integrity are closely scrutinized.
- Immigration Consequences — Non-citizens convicted of drug crimes may face deportation, denial of naturalization, or other immigration consequences, including being barred from re-entering the United States.
Our Weatherford drug defense lawyers at Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys can review your options and work to mitigate the effects on your life and future opportunities. Discuss your charges with our team as soon as possible.
Negotiating a Plea Deal in a Weatherford Drug Case
Deciding whether to accept a plea deal in a drug crime case is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. You should think about the following:
- Strength of the Prosecution’s Case — Evaluate the strength of the evidence against you. If the prosecution has a strong case with compelling evidence, a plea deal may offer a more favorable outcome than going to trial and risking a conviction with potentially harsher penalties.
- Potential Penalties If Convicted — Consider the potential consequences of a conviction at trial versus the terms of the plea deal. Compare the possible jail or prison time, fines, probation, and other penalties associated with both options.
- Collateral Consequences—Consider the long-term consequences of a conviction, such as the repercussions on your employment, housing, education, and future opportunities. A plea deal may result in a lesser charge or reduced sentence, which may minimize these collateral consequences.
- Legal Costs and Time — Factor in the cost and time involved in going to trial. Trials can be lengthy and expensive, requiring resources for legal representation, court fees, and other expenses. A plea deal may offer a quicker resolution and potentially lower legal costs.
- Risk of Acquittal or Conviction at Trial — Assess the likelihood of success at trial. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of your defense and the potential biases of the judge and jury. While going to trial allows you to potentially be acquitted, there is also the risk of being convicted and facing more severe consequences than offered in the plea deal.
- Personal Considerations — Reflect on your personal circumstances, including your tolerance for risk, ability to withstand the stress of a trial, and desire to put the legal matter behind you as soon as possible. A plea deal may provide closure and certainty, whereas going to trial involves uncertainty and potential emotional strain.
The decision to accept a plea deal should depend on a thorough analysis of these factors, as well as consultation with your Weatherford drug defense lawyer. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys, we can provide valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your case and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your best interests.
Steps You Should Take After a Drug Arrest in Weatherford
After a drug arrest in Weatherford, Texas, taking the right steps afterward is crucial. You should:
- Invoke Your Right To Remain Silent — Upon arrest, you have the right to remain silent. Refrain from making any statements to law enforcement officers until you have spoken with an attorney.
- Contact a Lawyer — Seek legal representation as soon as possible. The skilled Weatherford drug defense lawyers at Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and provide valuable advice.
- Understand Your Charges—We can thoroughly explain the charges against you and the potential consequences, as well as possible defenses and what to expect throughout the legal proceedings.
- Avoid Discussing the Case—Do not discuss your case with anyone other than our attorneys. This includes family members, friends, and especially other inmates. Confidentiality is essential to protecting your defense strategy.
- Appear in Court As Required — Attend all court hearings and appearances as required. Failing to appear can result in additional charges – and a warrant for your arrest.
- Consider Bail Options — If you are eligible for bail, explore your options for securing release from custody. We can advocate for a bail reduction or alternative forms of release on your behalf.
- Document Everything — Keep detailed records of all interactions with law enforcement officers and court appearances. This documentation can be valuable for your defense.
By taking these steps after a Weatherford drug arrest, you can protect your legal rights, build a strong defense, and pursue the most favorable outcome in your case.
Talk to Our Experienced Weatherford Drug Defense Lawyers Today
If you face drug charges in Weatherford, you must consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys, we can help you decide on the most appropriate legal path for your case and pursue the best possible result available.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with our knowledgeable drug defense lawyers in Weatherford, please call us at (817) 877-3030 or contact us online.