Knowledgeable Representation for Drug Distribution Charges in Travis County
Any type of drug charge in Texas should be taken seriously, but a charge of drug distribution is far more serious than one of drug possession. Retaining a skilled Texas criminal defense attorney who has experience handling cases involving drug distribution is imperative. The attorneys at Granger and Mueller PC have the necessary experience to help prepare the best defense possible.
Is There a Difference between Drug Distribution and Drug Trafficking?
It is not surprising that many clients have questions regarding the difference between a charge of drug distribution versus one for drug trafficking. Drug distribution refers to providing, delivering, or selling a controlled substance in an illegal manner. You often see this in cases in which someone attempt to sell drugs to an undercover cop.
Drug trafficking differs a little in that it typically refers to an illegal sale and/or distribution of controlled substances. Think of it as distribution involving drugs’ movements and trafficking is calculated based on the weight of drugs in your possession. There is no movement required with trafficking.
Texas law makes no real distinction between selling versus transporting drugs, which means someone merely delivering the drugs could face the same penalties as someone charged with selling drugs. Depending on the amount in possession, the added charge of drug trafficking could apply.
Penalties for Drug Distribution
Drug distribution penalties are more severe than a conviction for drug possession. The penalties may vary based on the quantity and type of drugs involved. A charge of drug distribution related to a tiny amount of marijuana is going to have a less serious sentence than someone charged with distribution of more dangerous drugs. The marijuana conviction might carry a short jail sentence and/or small fine, while a drug distribution conviction involving crack cocaine might yield up to life in prison and a hefty fine.
The Texas Controlled Substances Act classifies drugs into different groupings, which determine the severity of the sentence. These groups include:
● Group I: Drugs with heightened chance of abuse including morphine, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, ketamine, oxycodone, GHB, Rohypnol
● Group IA: LSD, which is calculated differently using “abuse units” instead of pounds or grams
● Group II: Made up of stimulants and hallucinogens, such as mushrooms, mescaline, a majority of amphetamines, and analogs
● Group IIA: Includes synthetic cannabinoid and cannabinoid derivatives
● Group III: Typically involves depressants like Xanax, Ritalin, Valium, as well as anabolic steroids and peyote
● Group IV: Drugs with the lowest risk of abuse, and typically includes a combination of narcotics with drugs like the codeine used in Tylenol
● Marijuana is its own category with specific penalties
There are other alternatives that may be available depending on the individual circumstances of your case. These could involve mandatory drug treatment, fines, community service, and/or probation.
If there is an allegation that your personal assets were used to in connection with distributing drugs, you could see them confiscated by federal and local authorities, which will open the door to a civil forfeiture case to attempt to get your property back.
Contact Our Drug Distribution Attorneys in Austin for Skilled Drug Distribution Criminal Defense Representation
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges for a drug related offense, like drug distribution, you need a skilled Travis County criminal defense attorney. Contact Granger and Mueller PC at 512-474-9999 to schedule a free initial consultation.