Drug Possession

Being accused of drug possession in Texas is a serious matter that can have lasting effects on your life. A conviction can lead to steep fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record that impacts employment, housing, and education opportunities. At The Santos Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the stakes and are dedicated to protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Our mission is to provide aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate legal defense for individuals facing drug-related charges throughout the Greater Houston area.

Understanding Drug Possession Laws in Texas

Texas has some of the toughest drug laws in the country. Under the Texas Controlled Substances Act (Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 481), it is illegal to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription.

Drugs are categorized into Penalty Groups, each carrying different levels of punishment based on the drug’s type and quantity:

• Penalty Group 1 – Includes substances such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.
• Penalty Group 1-A – Includes LSD and similar hallucinogens.
• Penalty Group 2 – Includes MDMA (ecstasy), PCP, and certain synthetic drugs.
• Penalty Group 3 – Includes prescription depressants and stimulants such as Valium, Xanax, or Ritalin.
• Penalty Group 4 – Includes compounds with small amounts of narcotics mixed with nonnarcotic ingredients.

The penalties can range from a Class B misdemeanor for possession of small amounts of marijuana to a first-degree felony for possession of larger quantities of controlled substances.

Common Drug Possession Cases We Handle

Our firm represents clients charged with a full range of drug possession offenses under Texas law, including:

• Marijuana Possession – Although attitudes toward marijuana are changing nationwide, it remains illegal for recreational use in Texas.
• Cocaine Possession – Considered a serious felony, even for small amounts.
• Methamphetamine Possession – Punishments can include years in prison and thousands in fines.
• Heroin Possession – A high-penalty felony under Penalty Group 1.
• Prescription Drug Possession – Charges often arise from possession of painkillers, sedatives, or stimulants without a valid prescription.
• Synthetic and Designer Drugs – Including substances like K2 and bath salts, which fall under Penalty Group 2-A.

No matter the charge, we approach every case with a strategic plan tailored to the facts and circumstances of your situation.

Penalties for Drug Possession in Texas

The punishment for drug possession varies based on the type and amount of substance, as well as any prior criminal history. Potential penalties include:

• Fines ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars.
• Jail or Prison Time, from days to life imprisonment for major felonies.
• Probation or Community Supervision, often with mandatory drug testing.
• Mandatory Drug Education or Treatment Programs.
• Driver’s License Suspension for up to six months.
• Permanent Criminal Record, which can limit job opportunities and future rights.

The consequences can be life-altering — but with an experienced defense attorney, you may have strong options to reduce or avoid these penalties.

Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges

Every drug possession case is unique, and effective defense strategies depend on the evidence and the circumstances surrounding your arrest. At The Santos Law Firm, we carefully review every detail to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Common defenses include:

• Illegal Search and Seizure – If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a traffic stop or home search, the evidence may be suppressed.
• Lack of Knowledge or Intent – You may not have known the drugs were in your possession.
• Unlawful Arrest or Detention – We challenge procedural errors or rights violations.
• Improper Evidence Handling – Lab results and chain of custody issues can undermine the state’s case.
• Medical or Prescription Exceptions – You may have a valid medical reason or lawful prescription.

Our goal is to challenge the evidence, expose errors, and fight for the best possible resolution — whether that means dismissal, reduction of charges, or alternative sentencing.

Why Choose The Santos Law Firm for Your Drug Possession Case?

When your freedom is on the line, you need an attorney who knows both the law and the system. Here’s why clients across Houston and Texas trust The Santos Law Firm:

• Texas Law Expertise – Deep understanding of the Texas Controlled Substances Act and how prosecutors build cases.
• Aggressive Defense – We fight illegal searches, unreliable lab reports, and weak evidence.
• Personalized Strategy – Each case receives a customized defense plan tailored to your circumstances.
• Proven Track Record – We’ve successfully negotiated charge reductions, dismissals, and alternative outcomes.
• Compassionate Advocacy – We treat every client with respect and understanding.

You deserve a defense that’s both powerful in court and supportive outside of it.

The Drug Possession Defense Process

We believe that communication and preparation are key to an effective defense. Here’s how our process works:

1. Free Consultation – We review your case and explain your rights and options.
2. Investigation – We analyze police reports, body cam footage, lab results, and witness statements.
3. Negotiation – We engage with prosecutors to seek charge reductions, dismissals, or diversion programs.
4. Trial Defense – If necessary, we aggressively represent you in court to fight for your acquittal.

At every stage, our priority is to protect your rights and pursue the best possible result.

Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights

Drug possession charges move fast, and early legal intervention can make all the difference. The sooner you contact an attorney, the more opportunities you have to preserve evidence and build a strong defense.

Remember — you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercise both immediately.

Contact a Houston Drug Possession Defense Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has been charged with drug possession in Texas, don’t face the system alone. At The Santos Law Firm, PLLC, we’re ready to fight for your freedom, your future, and your reputation.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and start building your defense.