Drug Crimes

Drug Crimes Defense Attorney in Houston, TX

Drug crimes often carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. However, one of the most damaging long-term consequences of a conviction is a criminal record, which can significantly affect employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.

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If you’ve been arrested for a drug offense in Harris County—whether it’s drug possession, prescription drug fraud, or possession with intent to deliver—do not speak to law enforcement before consulting an attorney. Call 832 202-8409 now to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation with a drug crimes defense lawyer at Salinas Defense.

Federal Drug Schedules

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) under Chapter 13 of Title 21 of the U.S. Code categorizes drugs into five schedules:

Schedule I

Drugs with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Examples: heroin, LSD, marijuana, MDMA, methaqualone, peyote.

Schedule II

Drugs with high abuse potential and risk of severe dependence. Examples: hydrocodone (Vicodin), cocaine, meth, methadone, oxycodone, fentanyl, Adderall, Ritalin.

Schedule III

Moderate to low potential for dependence. Examples: Tylenol with codeine, anabolic steroids, ketamine, testosterone.

Schedule IV

Low potential for abuse or dependence. Examples: Xanax, Soma, Valium, Ativan, Ambien, Tramadol.

Schedule V

Lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV. Examples: Robitussin AC, Lomotil, Motofen, Lyrica, Parepectolin.

Drug Penalty Groups in Texas

Texas separates controlled substances into six Penalty Groups under Chapter 481 of the Texas Health and Safety Code:

Penalty Group 1

Includes: meth, GHB, cocaine, heroin, oxycodone

• Less than 1g: State Jail Felony
• 1–4g: Second-Degree Felony
• 4–200g: First-Degree Felony
• 200–400g: 10 years to life + up to $100,000 fine
• Over 400g: 15 years to life + up to $250,000 fine

Penalty Group 1-A

Includes: LSD and analogs

• Less than 20 units: State Jail Felony
• 20–80 units: Second-Degree Felony
• 80–4,000 units: First-Degree Felony
• Over 4,000 units: 15 years to life + up to $250,000 fine

Penalty Group 2

Includes: MDMA, PCP

• Less than 1g: State Jail Felony
• 1–4g: Second-Degree Felony
• 4–200g: First-Degree Felony
• Over 400g: 10 years to life + up to $100,000 fine

Penalty Group 2-A

Focuses on synthetic cannabinoids

• Includes civil liability for those harmed by ingestion
• Manufacturers, sellers, or providers may be liable

Penalty Group 3

Includes: Xanax, Valium, Ambien, Ritalin

• Less than 28g: State Jail Felony
• 28–200g: Second-Degree Felony
• 200–400g: First-Degree Felony
• Over 400g: 10 years to life + up to $100,000 fine

Penalty Group 4

Includes narcotic compounds or mixtures

• Less than 28g: State Jail Felony
• 28–200g: Second-Degree Felony
• 200–400g: First-Degree Felony
• Over 400g: 10 years to life + up to $100,000 fine

Types of Drug Crimes in Texas

Drug charges in Texas depend on several factors: the type and amount of drug, the alleged action, and any criminal history. Common cases we handle include:

• Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Possession with Intent to Deliver
• Drug Trafficking
• Drug Manufacturing
• Prescription Drug Fraud
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Drug Crime Resources in Harris County

Houston Area Service Committee of Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
This nonprofit helps individuals recover from drug addiction. Find local meetings or download schedules at their website.

Texas Controlled Substances Act
Chapter 481 of the Health and Safety Code outlines controlled substance definitions, penalties, and forfeiture laws. View the full legal text online.

Contact a Houston Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Today

If you’ve been charged with a drug crime in the Greater Houston area—including Pearland, Pasadena, Baytown, La Porte, Galena Park, or Seabrook—you need experienced legal defense. At Salinas Defense, we are committed to protecting your rights and fighting to reduce or dismiss your charges. Call 832 202-8409 or complete our contact form to schedule your free, confidential consultation.