Even though marijuana has become legal in many states, under federal law, any possession is illegal. Texas hasn’t eased up on their marijuana laws either and it looks like they won’t anytime soon. Being convicted of a drug-related charge in the State of Texas has far-reaching repercussions, staining one’s reputation and drastically reducing the pool of work and life opportunities one has access to. On top of potential prison time, those charged and convicted of possession of marijuana or other drug-related charges can find themselves levied with hefty fines. This is especially true for individuals charged with violating a drug-free zone during their arrest.
Even though marijuana continues to gain acceptance throughout the country, the state of Texas has clear restrictions against its possession. If you are facing a marijuana charge, you need legal counsel that has credibility in working with marijuana possession clients in the past. Only their experience and skill can help combat this charge and possible imprisonment. If you face a charge for felony possession of marijuana, then let our firm work in your favor. The Gonzalez Law Group has many years of experience working with clients who’ve faced severe marijuana possession charges.
Our Houston attorneys work with diligence on their cases and keep a line of open communication with their clients. Call (832) 530-4070 to schedule a free consultation with no strings attached.
Felony Possession of Marijuana Overview
- What is Felony Possession of Marijuana?
- Penalties for Felony Possession of Marijuana
- Additional Resources
What is Felony Possession of Marijuana?
Felony possession of marijuana is a serious drug-related charge in any state, but Texas is especially harsh. Depending on the particulars of any given case, defendants might be facing an enhanced form of their charge. For example, if arrested while within 1000 ft (or 300 ft in some instances) of a drug-free zone, one can be accused of a more severe version of the drug-related charge. For possession of marijuana, this means a mandatory increase in the length of sentencing by 5 years as well as the doubling of any levied fines.
On its own, possession of marijuana charges is a frightening prospect for many. If you have been convicted of a felony before, the penalties can be further heightened. Repeat offenders face some of the strictest punishments for drug-related laws and can often have their cases altered from a potential state jail felony conviction or third-degree felony conviction to a second- or first-degree conviction.
Possession of marijuana cases require experienced lawyers in order to provide the kind of legal service required for the particulars of your case. With so many potential aggravating factors, is it really worth it to risk going at it alone?
Penalties for Felony Possession of Marijuana
The standard penalties for this charge, without including enhancing factors such as having been arrested inside of a drug-free zone, are as follows:
- Possession of 4 oz- 5 lbs of Marijuana —State Jail Felony (180 days – 2 years in jail and a fine up to $10,000)
- Possession of 5 – 50 lbs —Third Degree Felony (2-10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000)
- Possession of 50 – 2000 lbs —Second Degree Felony (2-20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000)
- If you have more than 2000 lbs in your possession when arrested, you may face a sentence of life imprisonment, or a sentence ranging anywhere from 5-99 years, as well as a fine up to $50,000.
Additional Resources
Chapter 481 of the Texas Health and Safety Code– This is the official website that houses the Texas Statutes regarding drug-related charges including Possession of Marijuana. It is always a good idea to spend some time reading the law itself to determine exactly where you stand in your case.
Texas Marijuana Laws and Penalties– This website compiles information about the laws and punishments for Marijuana crimes in the State of Texas. Depending on the specific details of your case, the charge and penalty you face in court could be different from what you expected. Using this site in conjunction with the official statutes site can help you get better informed about where you stand legally before consulting a qualified attorney.
Contact The Gonzalez Law Group
The Gonzalez Law Group prides themselves in keeping direct communication with their clients. Though a charge for felony possession of marijuana can be overwhelming, We will make this process smoother. Call our firm for a free consultation with no attachment to get your legal defense going right away.
