Drug Trafficking Attorney in Waco
Your Advocate for Drug Trafficking Charges in Central Texas
If you or a loved one faces drug trafficking charges in Waco, you deserve guidance from a team that provides both personalized attention and the resources of a larger firm. At Milam & Fanning, PLLC, our drug trafficking attorneys guide clients through the complex landscape of Texas and federal drug laws. We focus on defending your rights, your future, and your peace of mind.
In the Waco area, law enforcement agencies—from local police to state and federal authorities—often coordinate on major drug trafficking investigations. Interstate 35 acts as a key corridor, which makes the region a focus for anti-trafficking efforts. These realities can lead to higher stakes and complex case details.
Our team offers practical information early, so you understand your options and make informed decisions from the first interaction through each stage in court. When you need a drug trafficking lawyer in Waco who values your privacy and dignity, we stand ready to help you protect what matters most.
Your freedom is too important to leave to chance. Our firm provides a free consultation and affordable services to every client. Contact a dedicated drug trafficking attorney in Waco today by calling (254) 237-5602 or fill out this online form to discuss your case and learn how we can help.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Laws in Texas
In Texas, the crime of "drug trafficking" is not a specific charge but is instead covered under the broader umbrella of "Manufacture or Delivery of a Controlled Substance." The severity of the charge and the potential penalties are based on two main factors: the type of drug and the quantity involved.
Texas law classifies controlled substances into "Penalty Groups" and establishes a detailed scale of punishments based on the weight or number of units of the substance. This is a complex area of law, and a knowledgeable Waco drug trafficking defense lawyer is essential for navigating the intricate details of your case.
The Texas Controlled Substances Act (Health and Safety Code, Chapter 481) outlines the following Penalty Groups:
- Penalty Group 1: This group includes the most dangerous and addictive drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and certain opiates. Charges related to these substances carry the most severe penalties.
- Penalty Group 1-A: This group contains LSD and its derivatives. The penalties are based on the number of "abuse units" rather than weight.
- Penalty Group 2: This group includes hallucinogens and other substances like ecstasy and PCP.
- Penalty Group 3: This group includes certain depressants, stimulants, and anabolic steroids.
- Penalty Group 4: This group includes narcotics with a non-narcotic active medical ingredient.
- Marijuana: The penalties for marijuana offenses are unique and are based on weight.
The prosecution doesn't need to prove an actual sale took place. Simply possessing a controlled substance with the intent to deliver or manufacture it is enough to warrant a charge. Evidence of intent can be as simple as having a large quantity of the drug, baggies, scales, or large amounts of cash. Our firm will meticulously investigate the circumstances of your arrest to challenge the prosecution’s claim of intent.
Penalties of Drug Trafficking Convictions in Texas
The penalties for a drug trafficking conviction in Texas are severe and can vary widely based on the specific drug, the quantity, and your criminal history. A conviction will result in a felony record, which will follow you for life and can have a profound impact on your personal and professional life.
Direct Penalties:
- State Jail Felony: A conviction can lead to a sentence of 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felony: This can result in a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
- First-Degree Felony: A conviction can lead to a sentence of 5 to 99 years, or life in prison, and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Enhanced Penalties: Penalties are often enhanced if the offense took place in a "drug-free zone," such as near a school or if a minor was involved in the offense.
Collateral Consequences:
- Criminal Record: A felony record is a public document that will be visible to potential employers, landlords, and others.
- Loss of Civil Rights: A felony conviction can result in the loss of your right to vote and your right to own a firearm.
- Employment and Professional Licensing: A felony conviction can make it nearly impossible to find a job or maintain a professional license in many fields.
- Housing: Landlords can deny housing to individuals with a felony record.
- Federal Consequences: If the crime involves crossing state lines or a federal offense is charged, you could face even more severe penalties in the federal court system.
Our firm is committed to doing everything we can to help you avoid these life-altering consequences. As your Waco drug trafficking defense lawyer, we will fight for a dismissal, acquittal, or a reduction of the charges.
The Texas Criminal Defense Process for Drug Trafficking Charges
The legal process for a drug trafficking charge is complex and can be overwhelming without proper legal representation. We will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you understand your rights and are prepared for what lies ahead.
- Arrest and Bail: Following your arrest, our primary goal is to get you released from jail as quickly as possible on a reasonable bail amount.
- Arraignment: At this first court appearance, the charges against you will be read, and you will enter a plea. We will be by your side to advise you to plead "not guilty."
- Discovery and Investigation: This is a crucial phase where we gather evidence from the prosecution, including police reports, forensic lab results, and video or audio recordings. Our firm will also conduct our own independent investigation, which may include interviewing witnesses or hiring private investigators.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We will file motions to suppress any evidence that was obtained illegally, such as through an unlawful search or seizure. This is a powerful tool that can often lead to a dismissal or a significant reduction of charges.
- Plea Negotiations: Using the weaknesses we have found in the prosecution's case, we will engage in negotiations to seek a favorable plea bargain, which may include a reduction to a less serious offense.
- Trial: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. We have extensive experience in the courtroom and will aggressively cross-examine witnesses and present a compelling defense to the jury.
- Sentencing: In the event of a conviction, we will present mitigating evidence and argue for the minimum possible sentence.
Call (254) 237-5602 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation and begin building your defense.