Felonies and the Penalties

In general, a crime can fall under one of two classifications. If is a "lesser" offense, it can be classified as a misdemeanor and will result in a fine or a jail sentence of under one year. However, if the sentence for the crime amounts to more than one year in prison, it is most likely a felony charge. In the state of Texas, most drug-related misdemeanors involve the possession of less than 4 ounces of one drug: marijuana. Possession of any other illegal drug, or more than 4 ounces of marijuana, will likely result in felony charges and bring harsh penalties along with it.

Consequences for Drug-Related Felonies

The Texas Health and Safety Code has created five different penalty groups for illegal drug possession:

• Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, GHB, ketamine, oxycodone and hydrocodone
• LSD
• Ecstasy (MMDA), PCP and mescaline
• Valium, Xanax and Ritalin
• Any compounds containing Dionine, Motofen, Buprenorphine or Pryovalerone

Each of these penalty groups carries its own fines and jail/prison sentences depending on the amount of the drug in possession, ranging from state jail felonies to enhanced first-degree felonies. The minimum penalty a convicted person can be sentenced with is 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000. If you think this is bad, it can only get worse. The maximum penalty for illegal drug possession is a sentence of 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 dollars. This maximum penalty is specifically for group 1A, but each group has a maximum penalty that is very similar. Drug crimes are serious offenses and are punished accordingly. Therefore, if you are facing false charges, it is imperative that you take action to defend yourself right away.

Our Attorneys Can Help

At the Martinez Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation and want nothing more than to see you free of your wrongful drug crime charges. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Martinez knows how your prosecution may be thinking and can prepare your case accordingly, defending it from every possible approach. He has also received a perfect "Superb" rating from Avvo.com, has been named a Houston Top Lawyer from 2008-2011, and was nominated to be a Super Lawyer, showing that his skill and success as a criminal defense attorney has not gone unrecognized. For a lawyer who will dedicate themselves to your case, call the Martinez Law firm right away.