Texas Drug And Human Trafficking Charges

What to Do After Getting Charged with Drug Trafficking in Texas

Getting charged with drug trafficking in Texas is a serious matter; with severe penalties and life-altering consequences. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights and future. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps you should take after being charged with drug trafficking in Texas.

Remain Calm and Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

The moments after being charged with drug trafficking can be overwhelming; but it’s essential to remain calm and avoid making any statements that could potentially incriminate you further. Remember, you have the right to remain silent; and it’s in your best interest to exercise this right until you have legal representation present.

Understand the Charges and Potential Penalties

Drug trafficking charges in Texas are classified based on the type and amount of the controlled substance involved. The penalties can range from a state jail felony to life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties for drug trafficking in Texas:

Penalty Group 1 (e.g., cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine):
Less than 1 gram: State jail felony (180 days to 2 years in jail, up to $10,000 fine)
1 to 4 grams: Second-degree felony (2 to 20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine)
4 to 200 grams: First-degree felony (5 to 99 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine)
200 to 400 grams: First-degree felony (10 years to life in prison, up to $100,000 fine)
Over 400 grams: First-degree felony (15 years to life in prison, up to $250,000 fine)
Penalty Group 3 & 4 (e.g., Xanax, Valium):
Less than 28 grams: State jail felony (180 days to 2 years in jail, up to $10,000 fine)
28 to 200 grams: Second-degree felony (2 to 20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine)
200 to 400 grams: First-degree felony (5 to 99 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine)
Over 400 grams: First-degree felony (10 to 99 years in prison, up to $100,000 fine)

Understand the Severity of the Situation

Drug trafficking charges in Texas are among the most serious criminal offenses; and the consequences can be devastating. In addition to potential imprisonment and hefty fines, a conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses, and difficulty finding employment or housing.

Hire an Experienced Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney

Navigating the legal system and defending against drug trafficking charges is a complex and daunting task; one that should not be undertaken without the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney who specializes in drug trafficking cases can provide invaluable assistance and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

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Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

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2024-03-12

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2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Why Hire a Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney?

Here are some compelling reasons why hiring a skilled drug trafficking defense attorney is crucial:
Knowledge of the Law: Drug trafficking laws in Texas are intricate and constantly evolving. An experienced attorney will have a deep understanding of these laws and stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments and precedents.
Negotiation Skills: A skilled attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce the charges or secure a more favorable plea bargain, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Investigation and Evidence Analysis: Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, analyze the evidence against you, and identify any potential weaknesses or violations of your rights that could be used in your defense.
Courtroom Experience: If your case goes to trial, an experienced drug trafficking defense attorney will be well-versed in courtroom procedures and tactics, giving you the best possible chance of a favorable outcome.

How to Find the Right Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney

When selecting a drug trafficking defense attorney, consider the following factors:
Experience: Look for an attorney who has extensive experience handling drug trafficking cases in Texas, with a proven track record of success.
Specialization: Choose an attorney who specializes in drug trafficking defense, as they will have a deeper understanding of the nuances and complexities involved in these cases.
Reputation: Research the attorney’s reputation by reading online reviews, checking their standing with the state bar association, and asking for referrals from trusted sources.
Communication: Effective communication is crucial in any legal matter. Look for an attorney who is responsive, transparent, and takes the time to explain the legal process and your options in a clear and understandable manner.

Resources for Finding a Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney

Here are some helpful resources to assist you in finding a qualified drug trafficking defense attorney in Texas:
State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Service
Avvo
FindLaw
LawInfo
Reddit’s r/legaladvice subreddit
Quora

Understand Your Legal Options and Potential Defenses

While drug trafficking charges in Texas are serious, there are various legal options and potential defenses that an experienced attorney can explore on your behalf.

Common Defenses in Drug Trafficking Cases

Some common defenses that may be applicable in drug trafficking cases include:
Illegal Search and Seizure: If the evidence against you was obtained through an illegal search or seizure that violated your constitutional rights, your attorney may be able to have that evidence suppressed or dismissed.
Entrapment: If law enforcement officials induced or persuaded you to commit a crime that you would not have otherwise committed, your attorney may be able to argue entrapment as a defense.
Lack of Knowledge or Intent: In some cases, your attorney may be able to argue that you were unaware of the presence of the controlled substance or that you did not intend to distribute or traffic the drugs.
Mistaken Identity: If there is evidence that you were misidentified or wrongly accused, your attorney can present that information to challenge the charges against you.

Potential Legal Options

Depending on the specifics of your case, your attorney may explore the following legal options:
Plea Bargaining: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution, potentially reducing the charges or the severity of the sentence.
Diversion Programs: Certain first-time offenders or individuals with minimal criminal histories may be eligible for diversion programs, which can involve probation, community service, or drug treatment in lieu of incarceration.
Trial: If a favorable plea bargain cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend taking your case to trial, where they will present evidence and arguments in your defense.

Prepare for the Legal Process

Understanding the legal process and what to expect can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty associated with drug trafficking charges.

The Arrest and Booking Process

If you are arrested for drug trafficking, you will be taken into custody, booked, and processed. During this time, you will be fingerprinted, photographed, and your personal belongings will be confiscated. It’s important to remain calm and cooperative during this process, but remember to exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney.

The Bail Process

After being booked, you will typically have the opportunity to post bail and be released from custody while awaiting trial. The amount of bail will depend on various factors, including the severity of the charges and your criminal history. Your attorney can assist you in navigating the bail process and arguing for a reasonable bail amount.

The Preliminary Hearing and Arraignment

If you are charged with a felony, you will likely have a preliminary hearing, where a judge will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case. If the case moves forward, you will be arraigned, where you will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.

The Pre-Trial Process

During the pre-trial process, your attorney will work on building your defense, gathering evidence, and negotiating with the prosecution. This may involve filing motions, conducting depositions, and engaging in discovery to obtain information and evidence from the prosecution.

The Trial

If your case goes to trial, your attorney will present your defense and argue on your behalf before a judge or jury. The trial process can be lengthy and complex, but your attorney will guide you through each step and ensure that your rights are protected.

Maintain a Positive Attitude and Follow Your Attorney’s Advice

Facing drug trafficking charges can be an emotionally and mentally draining experience. It’s essential to maintain a positive attitude and follow your attorney’s advice throughout the legal process.

The Importance of Honesty and Cooperation

Being honest and cooperative with your attorney is crucial for building a strong defense. Your attorney needs to have a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding your case to effectively represent you. Withholding information or providing false statements can undermine your defense and jeopardize your case.

Staying Focused and Avoiding Distractions

The legal process can be lengthy and stressful, but it’s important to stay focused and avoid distractions that could potentially harm your case. Follow your attorney’s advice regarding your conduct and interactions, and avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your legal team.

Seeking Support and Self-Care

Facing criminal charges can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It’s important to seek support from loved ones and consider seeking professional counseling or joining a support group. Additionally, prioritize self-care by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in stress-relieving activities, and taking breaks from the legal process when possible.

Conclusion

Being charged with drug trafficking in Texas is a serious matter that requires immediate action and the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can protect your rights, understand your legal options, and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.