El Paso County Drug Crime Defense Lawyers

Drug Crimes in El Paso County

According to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office (EPCSO), there were 8,671 reported drug offenses in 2021. This is a noticeable increase from the previous year's total of 6,059 reported offenses.

Drug crimes are serious offenses and, if charged, you can potentially face a severe punishment. The act of being charged and its consequences can hugely impact your life and the lives of your loved ones. This is why it is crucial to find a skilled lawyer at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., who will help you defend your individual rights.

The Bussey Law Firm P.C. is an El Paso County criminal defense firm providing the highest level of legal services to residents of the El Paso County area. They focus on criminal defense cases and offer a quality legal service to clients and their families in various circumstances.

If you have been charged with drug crime offenses in El Paso County, call us today at (719) 475-2555 for a free consultation about your case.

Definition of Drug

The government has classified a drug as a substance that is illegal to manufacture, possess, use, or sell without a prescription. Possessing, using, or selling a controlled substance without a prescription is considered a drug crime.

Some controlled substances are illegal to sell without a license or prescription. Stimulants, Opioids, depressants, anabolic steroids, and hallucinogens are examples of controlled drugs.

Various Types of Drug Crimes You Can Be Charged With

Possession

If you're found in possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, you may be charged with a drug crime. Possession can be ‘actual’ or ‘constructive.’ ‘Actual possession’ means that you have the drugs on your person. ‘Constructive possession’ means that you have the drugs in your control, and they are under your control.

Possession is either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes than felonies. Misdemeanors are punishable by a fine and a maximum of two years in jail. The penalty for felony possession is a prison sentence ranging from 10-32 years in Texas state prison.

Possession charges vary depending on the type of controlled substance you possess. Possession crimes often carry stiff punishments, including fines, probation, and mandatory community service. The penalties for possessing a controlled substance may increase if you have previously been convicted of a drug crime.

Paraphernalia

It is illegal to possess equipment that is used in the commission of drug crimes. It doesn't matter if you only use the paraphernalia for your own personal use. You may be charged with a crime if you are caught with paraphernalia.

Paraphernalia includes items such as scales, glass pipes, syringes, smoking devices, and other equipment. Possession of paraphernalia is a misdemeanor, and it's punishable by a fine and up to two years in jail.

In Texas, the punishment for possessing paraphernalia is the same as possessing drugs. It doesn't matter if you have paraphernalia or the actual drugs, both are illegal. So, if you are caught with a controlled drug, crack pipe, and a crack rock, you may be charged with both possession of drugs and paraphernalia.

Need Drug Charge Defense? We Can Help

When you are charged with a drug crime, you should find an El Paso County criminal attorney right away. Our experienced lawyers can review the details of your arrest to see if the officers made any mistakes. We aim to get the charges dropped and prevent the prosecution from filing drug cases.

We can also file a motion to suppress any incriminating evidence officers have, like the search warrant or the arrest warrant. We work hard to protect your rights and help you get the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact us at (719) 475-2555 to learn more about our drug crime defense attorneys and to schedule a free consultation.

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