Law enforcement has the right to impose criminal charges onto any individual who is found in possession of the drug or paraphernalia associated with its use. The quantity of the drug in the individual’s possession may lead to further charges such as the intent to distribute. Anyone in Austin facing these charges should contact a drug lawyer in Austin for additional assistance.
Marijuana Laws and Penalties
Under the criminal code of Austin, the penalties for marijuana possession begin at any quantity that is under thirty grams. This initial charge holds a jail sentence of thirty days and a $500 fine. Any quantity over thirty grams result in a one-year jail sentence and a fine of $5,000; a six-month license suspension is also ordered.
A judge may allow a first-time offender with a smaller quantity to qualify for probation. However, any further charges after this plead bargain results in double the penalties. Any quantity over thirty grams could also be deemed intent to distribute or traffic the drug. Individuals who are caught with drug paraphernalia or selling the drug will receive the penalty for possession as well as one year in jail and fines that will not exceed $2,500. However, Austin imposes strict and unforgiving penalties for drug traffickers who sell to minors. These offenders receive a felony charge which imposes a two-year jail sentence and a fine of $5,000.
Further Controlled Substances
Austin criminal laws cover additional controlled substances such as meth, heroin, and cocaine. Any individual who is arrested for possession of these drugs, illegal steroids, or fraudulent prescriptions are subject to the penalties of the state. The first offense for these possession charges holds a penalty of one year in prison with a $5,000 fine. Any additional charge increases in penalty by one year. Anyone who is found in possession of quantities of crack cocaine exceeding five grams receive at least five years in prison. Anyone charged with these criminal charges should contact a Law Office Of Jesse Hernandez.
