How Can I Contest Charges of Intent to Distribute Drugs in Texas?

 Posted on October 06, 2020 in Drug Charges

In the state of Texas, criminal drug charges can result in severe consequences that may affect you for the rest of your life, including burdensome fines, extended imprisonment, and a criminal record that can impact your employment opportunities, immigration status, and more. Drug possession on its own is treated as a serious offense, and when you are facing charges of intent to distribute or manufacture drugs, the potential penalties are even more significant. However, it can be difficult for the prosecution to prove intent in cases such as these. That is why it is essential that you consult a skilled criminal defense attorney who can build a strong defense on your behalf. 

What Are the Penalties for Possession With Intent to Distribute or Manufacture?

You may be charged with possession with intent to distribute or manufacture a controlled substance if law enforcement believes that you are in possession of a drug for purposes other than your own personal use. In most cases, these charges can result in greater penalties than charges of possession alone under Texas law. For example, possessing 1-4 grams of cocaine is a third-degree felony with possible penalties including 2-10 years of imprisonment and up to $10,000 in fines, whereas possessing the same amount with intent to distribute or manufacture is a second-degree felony with a maximum prison sentence of 20 years in addition to a possible $10,000 fine.

Defending Against Charges of Intent to Distribute or Manufacture

When prosecuting a defendant on charges of possession with intent to distribute or manufacture, the State often relies on evidence including observations of the defendant’s behavior, informant testimony, possession of large amounts of a substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia used to package, weigh, and manufacture substances for distribution.

A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you stand up to the prosecution and present a defense with the goal of dismissing or reducing your charges. You may be able to demonstrate that the prosecution’s evidence was obtained through an illegal search and seizure, or that law enforcement infringed upon your rights during your arrest. It also may be possible to argue that the evidence used to demonstrate your intent to distribute or manufacture is inconclusive, in which case your charges and sentence may be less severe.

Contact a Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyer

At the Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson, P.L.L.C., we believe strongly that anyone facing criminal drug charges is entitled to a qualified attorney who can help them fight charges that may lead to unnecessary hardship. We have proven success in achieving not-guilty verdicts, dismissed charges, and reduced sentences for hundreds of clients in the past, and we will do everything in our power to achieve the same for you. Contact our dedicated Frisco, TX criminal defense attorneys today at 469-333-3333 to arrange a free consultation.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.481.htm