El Paso Drug Possession Attorney

Texas has passed strict drug laws for possession of controlled substances. Depending on the type of drug, amount, and other factors, you could be facing severe penalties. If you have been charged with drug possession, call Joseph Veith Law for a skilled El Paso attorney with over a decade of experience in both defense and prosecution.

Are you facing a criminal charge? Call (915) 600-6045 to get advice from an experienced trial attorney in Texas. 

Texas Drug Possession Laws

In Texas, drugs are categorized by the type of substance and its potential for abuse. The charges and possible penalties are classified into 4 groups, which depend on the classification of the substance. The penalties for a drug possession conviction in Texas may include: 

Penalty Group 1

• Includes opioids (including prescription drugs and heroin), cocaine, LSD, methamphetamine, and other hallucinogens.
• A conviction may result in up to 2 years in jail and a $10,000 fine, up to a maximum of life in prison and $300,000 in fines.

Penalty Group 2

• Includes LSD, ecstasy, PCP, and amphetamines.
• Penalties include up to 2 years in jail, or up to life in prison and $50,000 in fines for 400 grams or more.

Penalty Group 3

• Includes benzodiazepines, Valium, Ritalin, or anabolic steroids.
• Being found guilty may result in up to 2 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines, or up to life in prison and $50,000 in fines for quantities above 400 grams

Penalty Group 4

Includes opioids not listed in Group 1 and prescription medications.

• A conviction can carry a sentence of up to 2 years in jail and $10,000 in fines

Marijuana Possession Charges

Marijuana is in its own category, which covers cannabis, synthetic cannabinoids, and synthetic marijuana. If convicted, you could be sentenced to the following:

• Up to 180 days in jail
• Up to $2,000 in fines
• Probation
• Mandatory drug treatment

Your driver’s license may be suspended for up to six months. In some cases, the charge can be dismissed after successful completion of a drug treatment program.