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Drug crimes charges involve unlawful possession, distribution, and trafficking of substances such as cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, heroin, LSD or the possession or sale of unauthorized prescription medicines such as Vicodin, Percocet, and others. However, in any drug case, there are certain elements of charge that the prosecution needs to prove beyond a reasonable doubt. The defendant charged with a drug crime must possess the following characteristics:

  • Knowingly
  • Intentionally
  • Possessed
  • A controlled substance

If you are charged with a drug crime, you are in big trouble. Not only your independence but also your whole is in jeopardy. The consequences include prison time, high fine fees, and wrecked reputation. In such time, it is advisable to consult with and hire a criminal defense attorney who can help you in getting out of this legal myriad through building a strong defense against a prosecuting attorney.

General Information:

What Do I Need To Know About Federal Drug Charges In Austin, TX?

The Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 is the law that categorizes narcotics, marijuana, and other drugs into five schedules. This law establishes the requirements relating to the manufacturing and distribution of these drugs, as well as setting out the penalties for various violations of the Act. Depending on both the identification and the quantity of the drug involved, as well as the presence or absence of aggravating factors, the penalties for federal drug violations can range from severe to very severe. If you are facing a federal drug accusation, you must consult with an experienced drug crimes attorney in Austin, Texas for advice on the law and your rights.

What Does Criminal Forfeiture Mean?

Forfeiture is when the government seizes property that it suspects is somehow connected to criminal activity. Such tactics are commonly utilized by both federal and state law enforcement agencies under the guise of America’s “war on drugs”. These agencies claim that this practice is a completely effective way to deter drug crimes. Opponents to the practice, however, argue that criminal forfeiture results in far too many innocent people having their property forfeited to the government with very little or even no recourse. If your property has been forfeited in a drug crime case, it is imperative that you consult with an experienced drug crimes attorney to learn your rights and weigh your options in Austin, TX.

Are There Alternatives To Incarceration In Texas Drug Crime Cases?

Over the past three decades, there has been a slow but dramatic shift in the approach of America’s justice system toward drug related crimes. Drug courts now operate or plan to operate in all 50 states. Programs like drug court provide an alternative to traditional jail or prison sentences. Offering a structured environment that emphasizes treatment and supervision for substance abusers rather than harsh punishment, drug courts attempt to rehabilitate offenders and thereby reduce repeat drug crime offenses. Contact a reputable drug crimes attorney in Austin, Texas, if you would like to learn about about the full range of alternatives to incarceration that could be available in your drug crime case.

How Is Drug Court Different From Criminal Court In Austin, TX?

Drug court offers a combination of criminal justice and medical treatment in order to deal with substance abuse related crimes in a new way. These programs acknowledge that incarceration is not always the most effective method to address drug addiction and related criminal activity, particularly for first-time offenders. Drug courts require cooperation from the prosecutor, the defendant, and the criminal court and favors rehabilitation over incarceration. Successfully completing a drug court program can result in reduced charges and sentences, or the dismissal of your charges.

The very serious consequences of drug charges always require the immediate attention of a drug crimes attorney, who knows how to protect your rights and negotiate on your behalf. Don’t wait; contact an Austin, TX drug crimes attorney today.

Blackburn Betts PLLC

Call For A Free Case Evaluation
(512) 478-9898