Drug Charges in Texas: FAQs | Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard

If you are facing drug charges in Texas, you are facing extremely serious legal consequences - undoubtedly have questions. Drug charges are serious charges that require professional legal attention, but having answers to some of your basic questions can help. If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Killeen today.

What if the Drugs Are Not Mine?

The fact is that drugs do not need to belong to you or be in your physical possession for you to be charged with possession. If illegal drugs that do not belong to you are found in your home or car (or on your person), you can be arrested and charged with drug possession. That said, if you did not know that you possessed illegal drugs, you may be able to avoid a conviction. (Read more: Drug Possession Charges and Penalty Groups)

If I Am Convicted, Will I Go to Jail?

If you are ultimately convicted of a drug crime, whether your sentence includes jail time depends on a variety of factors. That said, most drug offenses can result in jail time, but many first-time offenders are able to avoid it. Your best chance of avoiding jail time is to work closely with an experienced Killeen criminal defense attorney.

Am I Required to Answer the Officer’s Questions?

If the officer has not arrested you and is questioning you about an alleged drug crime, there is a good chance that he or she intends to arrest you but is trying to get as much information as possible. You are only obligated to provide the officer with your name, and you are well-advised to leave it at that. If, on the other hand, you have been arrested, you have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney, and you should invoke both of these rights. (When and How Should You Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent in Texas?)

What Defenses Are Available for Drug Charges?

Every drug charge is unique to its own circumstances, but there are several defense strategies that are often employed, including:

Establishing that the drugs did not belong to you or that there is no conclusive link between you and the drugs
Showing that the search and seizure related to obtaining the drugs was unlawful (Read more: Your 4th Amendment Rights and Police Searches & Seizures)
Alleging that your constitutional rights were violated

If you are facing a drug charge, an experienced criminal defense attorney will help you build your strongest defense.

Will Admitting Guilt Help My Case?

The officer and/or prosecutor questioning you may lead you to believe that your charges or your sentence will be reduced if you cooperate by admitting your guilt, but you are ill-advised to do so before you have consulted with skilled legal counsel.

If You Are Facing Drug Charges, You Need an Experienced Killeen Criminal Defense Attorney on Your Side

Drug charges are serious charges with serious consequences. Attorney Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is on your side. Mr. Pritchard is a formidable trial lawyer who is dedicated to helping defendants like you build your strongest defense and obtain the best possible resolution of your case. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us or call us at (254) 220-4225 today.