Kerrville Drug Crime Attorneys

Ready to Protect Your Rights & Future

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we understand that being accused of a drug crime can turn your life upside down. Drug crime charges carry significant penalties in Texas, including hefty fines, potential prison time, and long-term consequences like a criminal record that may affect your employment and future opportunities. Our Kerrville drug crime lawyer is dedicated to providing aggressive legal representation and tailored defense strategies to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.

Call (512) 991-0576 or contact us online today to learn how we can help.

Understanding Drug Crime Charges in Kerrville

Drug offenses can result in severe repercussions, impacting your freedom, career prospects, and personal life. In Kerrville, TX, the legal environment for drug crimes is stringent, reflecting the state’s firm stance on controlled substances. Offenses in this area are prosecuted aggressively, with law enforcement working closely to curtail drug distribution and abuse. Understanding the nuances of these charges is crucial in formulating an effective defense strategy.

Texas law classifies drugs into penalty groups, influencing both the severity of the charge and the potential penalties. In Kerrville, as with the rest of Texas, the consequences of being convicted can range from misdemeanors to severe felonies, depending largely on the type and amount of substance involved. Engaging a skilled drug crime attorney in Kerrville is essential for navigating these complex scenarios.

Common Types of Drugs

Drug-related crimes can involve a wide range of substances, each with varying degrees of penalties depending on factors such as the type of drug, amount, and intent. Here are some of the most common drugs associated with criminal charges in Texas:

• Marijuana: Despite recent changes in public opinion and laws regarding marijuana in some states, possession and distribution of marijuana remain illegal under Texas law. Even small amounts can lead to criminal charges.
• Cocaine: Possession, sale, or trafficking of cocaine is a serious offense with stiff penalties. It is classified as a Penalty Group 1 drug, which includes the most dangerous substances in Texas.
• Methamphetamine (Meth): Known for its highly addictive nature, meth is another Penalty Group 1 drug. Meth possession, manufacturing, or distribution can result in severe legal consequences.
• Heroin: This opioid is also classified under Penalty Group 1. Given its association with the opioid crisis, law enforcement often pursues heroin-related charges aggressively.
• Prescription Drugs: Medications such as Xanax, Oxycodone, and Adderall can lead to criminal charges if they are possessed, distributed, or sold without a valid prescription.
• Ecstasy/MDMA: This party drug is classified as a Penalty Group 2 substance in Texas and can lead to serious charges even if it is possessed in small amounts.

Understanding which drug is involved in your case is critical, as each substance carries its own set of legal considerations and potential defenses.

Common Types of Drug Crimes in Texas

Drug-related offenses in Texas vary widely, from minor infractions to serious felonies. Some of the most common drug crimes that our firm handles include:

• Possession: Possession is one of the most frequent drug charges in Texas. If you are found with a controlled substance in your possession, whether it’s for personal use or with intent to distribute, you could face serious penalties. The severity of these penalties often depends on the type and amount of the drug in question.
• Distribution or Trafficking: Charges of drug distribution or trafficking occur when law enforcement believes that you were involved in selling or transporting drugs. These charges are more serious than simple possession, especially if large quantities or multiple parties are involved.
• Manufacturing: Manufacturing illegal substances, such as growing marijuana or producing methamphetamine, can lead to severe felony charges. Texas law takes manufacturing crimes very seriously due to the danger they pose to public safety.
• Drug Paraphernalia: Possession of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, syringes, or scales, can lead to misdemeanor charges even if no drugs are found. While the penalties may not be as severe, a conviction can still result in fines and a criminal record.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute: If law enforcement believes you intended to sell or distribute drugs, you could be charged with possession with intent to distribute. This charge is more serious than simple possession and often hinges on factors such as the quantity of the drug, the presence of packaging materials, or large amounts of cash found with the drugs.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Texas

The penalties for drug crimes in Texas vary depending on several factors, including the type of drug, the quantity, and the specific charge. Penalties can range from:

• Misdemeanor charges for small amounts of marijuana or possession of drug paraphernalia, which may result in up to a year in jail and fines.
• Felony charges for more serious drugs, large quantities, or distribution offenses, leading to longer prison sentences, higher fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Some drug charges, particularly those involving trafficking or large-scale manufacturing, can result in penalties of 10 years or more in prison, along with significant financial fines.

Legal Defenses to Drug Crimes

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, our goal is to provide a strong defense to those accused of drug crimes in Kerrville, TX. Every case is unique, but there are several common legal defenses we can explore:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: Under the Fourth Amendment, you are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. If the police obtained evidence against you without a proper warrant or probable cause, we may be able to challenge the evidence and have it suppressed in court.
• Lack of Possession: In some cases, law enforcement may accuse someone of possession even when they were not in control of the drugs. For instance, if drugs were found in a car or shared space, it might be difficult to prove who actually possessed the drugs.
• Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers coerce or induce someone to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. If we can prove entrapment, your charges could be dismissed.
• Mistaken Identity: In certain cases, especially involving larger drug operations, individuals may be wrongfully identified as participants. If we can demonstrate that you were not involved in the criminal activity or were mistakenly accused, it could lead to dropped charges.
• Lack of Intent: In cases of possession with intent to distribute, it is often critical for the prosecution to prove intent. If we can show that you had no intention of selling or distributing the drugs, the charges could be reduced.

Why Choose Cofer & Connelly, PLLC as Your Kerrville Drug Crime Lawyer?

Facing drug charges can be a life-altering experience. The legal system in Texas is tough on drug offenses, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we bring years of experience and a thorough understanding of Texas drug laws to each case we handle.

As your Kerrville drug crime lawyer, we will:

• Investigate the details of your case and look for ways to challenge the evidence against you.
• Develop a personalized defense strategy aimed at reducing or dismissing charges.
• Fight for your rights and work to secure the best possible outcome, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea deal or taking your case to trial.

In addition to our focused legal strategies, our connection to the Kerrville community solidifies our commitment to understanding the local culture, values, and concerns. By choosing Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, you are selecting a firm that not only fights tirelessly on your behalf but values the unique dynamics of the Kerrville area.

To discuss your needs with our drug defense attorneys in Kerrville, please contact us directly at (512) 991-0576.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does the Kerrville Legal System Handle First-Time Drug Offenders?

First-time offenders in Kerrville may have options that would not involve incarceration. The justice system here often considers rehabilitation or educational programs, especially if the offense involves possession of small amounts of a controlled substance. These alternative resolutions are sometimes proposed as plea deals, aiming to redirect the offender away from future criminal activity. However, the availability and suitability of such options depend on numerous factors, including the type of substance and the circumstances of the case. Consulting with a knowledgeable drug crime lawyer in Kerrville at Cofer & Connelly, PLLC can provide clarity on potential outcomes specific to the local legal landscape.

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested for a Drug Crime in Kerrville?

If arrested for a drug-related offense in Kerrville, it is critical to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent until you've consulted with a lawyer. Contacting Cofer & Connelly, PLLC immediately can set the stage for a strong defense, as swift legal intervention often serves to protect your rights. Ensure you gather all relevant information and refrain from discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney, as this can preserve the integrity of your defense strategy.

Can Drug Charges be Dropped or Reduced in Kerrville?

There is potential for drug charges in Kerrville to be dropped or reduced, depending on the specifics of the case and the defense strategies employed. Factors such as illegal search and seizure, lack of evidence, or procedural errors can contribute to the reduction or dismissal of charges. Engaging an experienced drug crime attorney in Kerrville can significantly enhance the odds of achieving such outcomes by scrutinizing every detail for possible avenues of defense.