A drug possession charge in League City or Galveston can be daunting. Texas is known to come down hard on drug crimes, and even a tiny amount of a controlled substance can have disastrous consequences. If you’ve been arrested already or are the subject of an investigation, knowing your rights—and the laws that apply—is of the utmost importance.
At the Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, we help Galveston County citizens navigate the legal system and fight for their future. The following is what you need to know about drug possession charges in Texas and how a seasoned criminal defense attorney can help you protect your rights and your freedom.
Understanding Drug Possession Laws in Texas
Under Texas law, drug possession is defined as knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This may be illegal substances such as cocaine or methamphetamine, or medication such as Xanax or Adderall when obtained illegally.
Possession can be:
- Actual (on your body), or
- Constructive (in your own car, at home, or property with indicia of control or knowledge).
How serious your crime is depends on the type of drug, the amount, and whether there were aggravating factors such as proximity to a school or a prior offense.
Common Drug Possession Charges in League City and Galveston
Some of the most frequent drug charges our firm sees in Galveston County include:
- Possession of Marijuana – Although marijuana laws have relaxed in some states, Texas still treats possession as a criminal offense.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance – Includes drugs like cocaine, heroin, LSD, and MDMA.
- Possession of Prescription Drugs Without a Prescription – Painkillers, anti-anxiety medication, and ADHD medications are commonly involved.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Items like pipes, grinders, or scales can result in separate misdemeanor charges.
In Texas, drug crimes are prosecuted aggressively—even minor offenses can carry long-term consequences if not properly handled.
Penalties for Drug Possession in Texas
Drug possession penalties in Texas vary widely but can include:
- Jail or Prison Time – Ranging from a few days in county jail to years in state prison.
- Fines – Up to $10,000, depending on the classification of the offense.
- Probation or Community Supervision
- Mandatory Drug Education Programs
- License Suspension
Beyond the courtroom, a drug conviction can lead to:
- Difficulty securing employment or housing
- Revocation of professional licenses
- Immigration consequences
- A permanent criminal record that may follow you for years
Legal Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help identify possible defenses based on the facts of your case. Some common strategies include:
- Unlawful Search and Seizure – If law enforcement conducted an illegal search without a warrant or probable cause, the evidence may be suppressed.
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent – If you didn’t know the drugs were in your possession, or they belonged to someone else, you may have a valid defense.
- Valid Prescription – If the drugs were lawfully prescribed to you, this can be used as a defense.
- Crime Lab Mistakes – The substance in question may not have been properly tested or documented.
- Chain of Custody Errors – Mishandling of evidence could raise doubts about its integrity.
Every case is different. The sooner you speak with a defense attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense.
Why Local Representation Matters
Hiring a defense attorney who understands the local court system in League City and Galveston can make a significant difference. Local attorneys are familiar with:
- Galveston County judges and prosecutors
- Court procedures and timelines
- Diversion programs or alternative sentencing options available in the region
The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates has been serving this community for decades, offering aggressive and knowledgeable representation tailored to the unique challenges of each case.
What to Do If You’re Arrested for Drug Possession
If you’re stopped, searched, or arrested, here’s what you should do immediately:
- Remain Silent – Politely decline to answer questions without an attorney present.
- Do Not Consent to a Search – Even if you have nothing to hide, never waive your rights.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case with Others – This includes friends, family, or on social media.
- Call a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately – The earlier you have legal representation, the more protection you have.
A single mistake should not define your future. The right attorney can guide you through the process and help minimize the damage.
Contact a Trusted Drug Possession Attorney in League City or Galveston
A drug charge doesn’t have to define your future. Whether you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, we’re here to help you fight for the best possible outcome.
Call 281-280-0100 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation.