Marijuana Charge Lawyer in Friendswood

A marijuana charge in Friendswood carries serious consequences if you are convicted. Texas law treats possession and distribution of marijuana as criminal offenses, and even small amounts can result in major consequences and a permanent criminal record.

If you are facing drug charges in Texas, you are right to be worried. The penalties tied to a marijuana charge can be severe. Don’t try to take on the system alone. Our marijuana charge lawyers in Friendswood will protect your rights and help you find the best possible path forward. 

The Law Offices of Tad Nelson has handled more than 500 jury trials. We win criminal defense cases. Call today to request a free consultation and learn more about how our drug crimes lawyers in Friendswood can help when you are facing serious drug charges.

How a Marijuana Charge Lawyer Can Help

A marijuana charge can raise many legal issues. While you are legally allowed to face your charges on your own, it is rarely a good idea. Our criminal defense lawyers in Friendswood will serve as your advocates and help you seek the best path forward. 

• Reviewing the charge: The first step is reviewing the charging documents to determine the specific marijuana offense alleged and the potential penalties associated with it.
• Evaluating the evidence: Our attorneys examine police reports, statements, photographs, and other evidence to determine whether the prosecution has sufficient evidence to prove the required elements of the charge.
• Examining the search: We investigate how law enforcement discovered the marijuana and whether officers conducted the search in accordance with constitutional requirements.
• Challenging improper evidence: When the circumstances support a legal challenge, our attorneys can file appropriate motions seeking to exclude evidence obtained through an unlawful search or other improper procedure.
• Investigating possession issues: The circumstances surrounding the alleged possession can be examined to determine whether the evidence establishes that our client knowingly or intentionally possessed the marijuana. 
• Negotiating with prosecutors: When appropriate, our attorneys can communicate with the prosecution and pursue a resolution that addresses the circumstances of the case.
• Representing you in court: Throughout the criminal proceedings, we handle court appearances, legal motions, negotiations, and other matters involved in defending the charge.

Texas Marijuana Possession Laws

Texas law makes it an offense to intentionally or knowingly possess a usable amount of marijuana unless the possession is authorized by law. The classification depends primarily on the amount alleged to have been possessed.

For possession of two ounces or less, the charge is a Class B misdemeanor. More than two ounces but not more than four ounces is a Class A misdemeanor. Possession above four ounces can result in a felony charge.

The amount can become especially important when a case reaches felony territory. More than four ounces but no more than five pounds is a state jail felony. Larger quantities can lead to third-degree, second-degree, or first-degree felony charges.

Marijuana Charge Penalties in Texas

Misdemeanor drug charges can lead to fines and jail time. Felony charges result in larger fines and longer prison sentences according to the punishment guidelines in Chapter 12 of the Texas Penal Code.

• A Class B misdemeanor carries a maximum fine of $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail. 
• A Class A misdemeanor carries a maximum fine of $4,000 and up to one year in jail.
• A state jail felony generally means 180 days to two years of confinement and a potential fine of up to $10,000.
• A third–degree felony can bring two to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• A second–degree felony can lead to 2 to 20 years in prison, while a first-degree felony can result in an even longer sentence.

The penalties for marijuana charges increase based on the type of offense and the amount involved. Our Friendswood marijuana charge lawyers can review your charges and advise you of the potential penalties you are facing. 

Possible Defenses and Case Outcomes

A marijuana case does not have one predetermined outcome. The available defense depends on the evidence, the charge, the circumstances of the search or arrest, and the prosecution’s ability to prove each required element.

• For a prosecutor to prove drug possession, they must establish that you intentionally possessed the marijuana.
• The circumstances may support a defense when the substance was lawfully obtained or possessed under applicable Texas law.
• Our defense team can challenge the admissibility of marijuana or other evidence when law enforcement obtained it through a search that violated constitutional protections.

Texas law also provides a specific defense to prosecution for certain low-level marijuana possession offenses involving an emergency medical request after a possible overdose. The statute establishes particular conditions for that defense, so it does not apply automatically.

Get Help from Our Marijuana Charge Attorneys in Friendswood

A marijuana crime conviction can impact every part of your life, including your freedom and your career. Penalties for marijuana charges can increase based on the amount, where it happened, and the type of substance involved. Don’t take this situation lightly. 

Our marijuana charge attorneys in Friendswood will review the facts of your arrest, examine the evidence collected, and work toward reducing or resolving the charge through negotiation, diversion programs, or court proceedings when appropriate.

Call the Law Offices of Tad Nelson today to request a free consultation. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience, and we are ready to go to the mattresses for you.