Johnson County Drug Crimes Lawyers

Johnson County Drug Crimes Lawyers

Serving Ellis County, Johnson County, Tarrant County, and Dallas County

If you find yourself on this page, you likely need an attorney for a drug crime in Johnson County. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we understand the worry and uncertainty that come with facing drug crime charges. We are here to help you navigate through this difficult time and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding Drug Crime Penalties in Johnson County

Drug laws in Johnson County are strict and can lead to serious consequences. The charges you face depend on the type of drug involved, the amount in your possession, and the nature of the crime. Johnson County classifies drugs in a system similar to federal classifications, where drugs are divided into groups based on their danger and medical use. The lower the group number, the more dangerous the drug and the less likely it is to have a medical purpose.

Groups of Controlled Substances

Group 1 and 1-A drugs include heroin, LSD, cocaine, codeine, crystal meth, and Oxycodone. These drugs are highly dangerous, and any amount of possession is considered a felony. Group 2 drugs include Ecstasy, PCP, and mushrooms. These are also serious drugs, and possession is charged as a felony. Group 3 covers substances like Ritalin, Xanax, and Valium, where small amounts are considered a misdemeanor but larger amounts lead to severe penalties. Group 4 includes anabolic steroids and benzodiazepines, with possession of less than 28 grams being a misdemeanor. Marijuana has its own category. While medical marijuana is permitted for certain conditions, recreational possession remains illegal and can lead to charges ranging from a misdemeanor to a first-degree felony depending on the quantity.

Factors Influencing Drug Charges

The type of drug and the amount you possess significantly affect the charges you face. For instance, possessing a small amount of marijuana might only lead to a possession charge. However, possessing large quantities, such as 10 kilograms, can result in a drug trafficking charge. The type of crime also matters. Possession is generally seen as a minor offense compared to manufacturing or delivering drugs. However, having large amounts of drugs for potential resale can lead to more severe charges like trafficking.

Penalties for Drug Possession

Penalties for drug possession in Johnson County vary based on the drug type and quantity. Group 1 and 1-A drugs, such as heroin and cocaine, carry severe penalties. Possessing any amount is a felony, with potential jail time ranging from six months to two years and fines up to $10,000. Possessing more than 400 grams can result in 10 to 99 years in prison and fines as high as $100,000. Group 2 drugs, including PCP and ecstasy, also result in felony charges, with penalties starting at six months to two years in jail and fines up to $10,000 for less than a gram. Possession of over 400 grams can lead to five to 99 years in prison and fines up to $50,000. Group 3 drugs, like Valium and Ritalin, are usually misdemeanors for small amounts but can become felonies with larger quantities, carrying penalties of up to 99 years in prison and $50,000 in fines. Group 4 drugs, such as morphine and opium, are classified as a Class B misdemeanor for less than 28 grams, with up to six months in jail and a $2,000 fine. Larger amounts lead to harsher penalties.

Marijuana Possession

While many states have decriminalized marijuana possession, Johnson County has not fully embraced this change. Medical marijuana is allowed for certain conditions, but recreational use remains illegal. Possessing less than two ounces is a Class B misdemeanor, but having more than 2,000 pounds is a first-degree felony, with penalties up to 99 years in prison and fines reaching $50,000.

Penalties for Manufacturing, Trafficking, and Distributing

Drug possession is one aspect, but manufacturing, trafficking, and distributing drugs are much more serious offenses in Johnson County. Delivery, which includes transferring or selling illegal drugs, is against the law. Manufacturing involves any act of cultivation, production, or processing of drugs, including labeling and packaging. These crimes are typically felonies, carrying severe penalties.

Choosing a Team of Experienced Johnson County Drug Crimes Lawyers

When facing drug crime charges, choosing the right legal team is crucial. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we understand the challenges you face and are here to offer the support you need. Our team brings over fifty years of combined experience in criminal defense, providing a wealth of knowledge to each case we handle. This extensive experience means we are well-versed in the complexities of drug crime cases and can offer you the strong defense you deserve.

Our firm is led by former law enforcement officers and prosecutors. This unique background gives us valuable insights into how both sides of the legal process operate. We understand the strategies used by the prosecution and can use this knowledge to build a strong defense for you. This dual perspective helps us identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and strengthen your defense.

Our reputation speaks for itself, with more than 270 Google 5-star reviews from satisfied clients. We are proud of the positive feedback we have received and the successful outcomes we have achieved. This track record of excellence is a testament to our commitment to providing top-notch legal representation.

Defenses Against Drug Crime Charges

Unlawful Search and Seizure

One of the strongest defenses against drug possession charges is challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the drugs. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, along with Article I, Section 9 of the Johnson County Constitution, protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. If law enforcement officers conducted a search without a valid warrant, probable cause, or your consent, your attorney can file a motion to suppress the evidence obtained. If this motion is granted, the drugs found cannot be used against you, which could lead to the dismissal of your case.

Lack of Possession or Control

For a drug possession conviction in Johnson County, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly or intentionally had control over the controlled substance. If the drugs were found in a place that you did not exclusively control, such as a shared vehicle or apartment, it can be challenging for the prosecutor to prove that the drugs belonged to you. Your attorney can argue that there is no direct evidence linking you to the drugs and question the prosecution’s case.

Lack of Knowledge

Another defense is claiming that you were unaware of possessing the drugs. If you did not know the drugs were in your possession or believed the substance was legal, your attorney can use this as a defense. For instance, if someone put the drugs in your bag or vehicle without your knowledge, or if you were given a substance you thought was legal, your lawyer can present evidence to show you did not know about or intend to possess the drugs.

Crime Lab Analysis Issues

In drug cases, the prosecution needs to prove that the substance is an illegal drug. This is often done through crime lab analysis. However, errors or misconduct in crime labs can lead to unreliable results. Your attorney can challenge the procedures used by the lab, the qualifications of the technicians, and the accuracy of the tests. If there are issues with the analysis, your lawyer can argue that the drug evidence should not be admitted in court.

Why McCarty-Larson, PLLC Is the Right Choice

At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and determine your best options. Drug crime convictions can lead to severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. We are here to guide you through the complex court and administrative processes and help you find the best chance for a successful outcome.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Drug Crime Arrest in Johnson County

If you’ve been arrested for a drug crime in Johnson County, it’s crucial to handle the situation carefully. Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in your case. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Don’t Speak to Police Without a Lawyer

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is talking to the police without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you in court. It’s important to remain silent and ask for a lawyer right away. Your lawyer will help protect your rights and provide guidance on how to proceed.

Don’t Delay Getting Legal Help

Waiting too long to seek legal help can hurt your case. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better they can prepare your defense. Delays can result in missing important deadlines or losing evidence. Act quickly to ensure you have the support you need.

Don’t Ignore Court Dates

Missing a court date can lead to serious consequences, including additional charges or a warrant for your arrest. Make sure you attend all scheduled court appearances and follow any instructions from your lawyer. Staying on top of your court obligations is crucial.

Don’t Talk About Your Case Publicly

Discussing your case with friends, family, or on social media can be risky. Information shared publicly might be used against you. Keep details about your case private and only discuss them with your lawyer. This will help maintain the confidentiality of your defense strategy.

Don’t Accept Plea Deals Without Advice

A plea deal might seem like an easy way out, but accepting one without understanding the full implications can be a mistake. Always consult with your lawyer before making any decisions. They can help you understand the consequences and explore all possible options.

Johnson County Criminal Practice Areas

Johnson County Drug Crimes Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

Joe’s life changed forever when he was arrested for drug possession in Johnson County, TX. He felt trapped and scared, not knowing what to do or where to turn. His family was worried, and the weight of the charges was almost too much to bear. Joe had never been in trouble before, and now he faced the real possibility of going to jail and losing everything he worked so hard for.

Joe decided he needed help, and that’s when he found Robin McCarty from McCarty-Larson, PLLC. Robin was a Johnson County drug crimes lawyer who understood what Joe was going through. From the moment they met, Robin showed Joe that he wasn’t alone. He listened carefully to Joe’s story, comforting him and making him feel like there was hope.

Robin worked tirelessly to uncover every detail of Joe’s case. He reviewed all the evidence, talked to witnesses, and made sure that Joe’s side of the story was heard. Robin knew that Joe’s future was on the line, and was determined to fight for him with everything he had.

Throughout the process, Robin kept Joe informed and involved, explaining every step clearly so Joe knew what was happening. He reassured Joe when he felt anxious and helped him understand that there was still a chance for a good outcome.

When the day of the trial arrived, Robin was by Joe’s side, ready to defend him. The attorney’s dedication and hard work paid off. He showed the court that the evidence against Joe wasn’t strong enough and that his rights had been violated. The jury listened carefully to Robin’s arguments and saw the truth. In the end, Joe was found not guilty of the drug charges.

Joe walked out of the courthouse with a sense of relief and gratitude he couldn’t put into words. He knew that Robin’s skill and determination had made all the difference. Joe could start fresh and move forward with his life.

Get Help Today with the Johnson County Drug Crimes Lawyers at McCarty-Larson, PLLC

If you have been arrested for a drug crime in Texas, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we understand how challenging this situation can be. Our team of Johnson County drug crimes lawyers is here to support you every step of the way.

We offer free consultations to help you understand your options and the best path forward for your case. During this consultation, we will listen to your story, assess the details of your situation, and explain how we can help. Our goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your defense.

Our commitment is to work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We know how much is at stake, and we take our responsibility to defend your rights very seriously. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we are dedicated to providing the strong, effective representation you need during this difficult time.
Don’t face these charges alone. Contact McCarty-Larson, PLLC today to schedule your free consultation. We are here to help you navigate through this challenging experience and to fight for the best result in your case.