Possession of Controlled Substances

Houston’s Possession of Controlled Substances Defense Lawyer

If the government has charged you with Possession of a Controlled Substance, you will need an experienced Houston drug lawyer who will aggressively protect your rights while ensuring that you understand all of your available options under the law. Without the aide of a skilled attorney, a possession charge can cause serious damage to your livelihood. The Law Office of Henry K. Nguyen can help you defend your freedom and good name.

In Texas, a person can be charged with this crime if they knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance. While there are many interpretations of the word “possession,” legally it is not the same as ownership. Possession merely means that one has care, control, management, or other custody of the item. You can also illegally possess a controlled substance if it was prescribed but you do not have the prescription documentation with the item.

Possession of Controlled Substances Charges in Houston

A controlled substance is something that the DEA classifies by how potentially addictive it is and what its accepted medical applications are. They are classified by Roman numerals “I-V,” with “I” being the most addictive with no accepted medical value. There are hundreds of different controlled substances. Some of these are classified as dangerous drugs while others are obtained by prescription. Examples of commonly abused controlled substances are:

• Cocaine
• Methamphetamine
• Marijuana
• Xanax
• Oxycontin
• Heroin

Houston Felony Controlled Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

There are a wide range of sentences that may result from a controlled substance charge, depending on the weight of the substance including anything that it was “cut” with, in order to dilute it or increase the perceived amount. For instance, the minimum is any amount, under 1 gram of a detectable controlled substance, is a state jail felony and can require 6 months to 2 years in jail and a fine up to $10,000. If there is between 1 and 4 grams it is upgraded to a 3rd degree felony which may carry from 2-10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Additionally, if the state includes ‘intent to deliver’ with the charged, it upgrades any charge by one degree.

If you are facing charges for Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Houston area, contact the Law Office of Henry K. Nguyen immediately. Our caring staff will create a defense and effectively protect your rights against these serious allegations.