Waco Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute Lawyer

In Texas, every criminal offense related to controlled substances is a serious matter. Possession alone can lead to steep consequences, but there are other charges that can bring heavier sentences. One example is possessing drugs with the intent to distribute them.

If you are facing charges, a dedicated drug defense attorney could help protect your rights and fight back against the state. A strong strategy may be enough to avoid a conviction or secure a favorable outcome. Let a Waco drug possession with intent to distribute lawyer be your ally today.

The Intent to Distribute

Under state law, it is illegal to possess, transport, deliver, or manufacture any controlled substance with the intention of distributing it to others. The penalties for this offense are much more serious compared to having small amounts of narcotics for personal use.

It can be difficult for the state to make this case, given that they must have evidence beyond just the possession of an illegal drug. There must also be proof of the intent to distribute the substance, which can be done in a number of ways.

Often, the state will point to large amounts of drugs as evidence of intent. They might also show a jury that additional items closely related to the drug trade were seized at the same time, including scales, baggies, or large amounts of cash.

Prosecutors often rely on testimony from witnesses to make the case that someone intended to distribute the drugs in question. This could be testimony from an undercover officer or a co-conspirator who accepted a plea bargain. A drug attorney in Waco could further explain the legalities surrounding possession with intent to distribute.

Drug Penalty Groups

Not all controlled substances are treated the same. The state and federal governments categorize them into different Penalty Groups based on the likelihood of abuse, with the most dangerous drugs falling into Group 1. Some examples include the following:

• Penalty Group I – Cocaine, Marijuana, Opium, Methamphetamines, Ketamine, Methadone, and Oxycodone;
• Penalty Group II – Ecstasy and Amphetamines;
• Penalty Group III – Valium, Methylphenidate and LSD; and
• Penalty Group IV – Compounds or mixtures that contain active ingredients of other drugs.

The penalties for substances in the higher categories are typically steeper compared to other drugs. For example, someone found with more than 400 grams of a substance from group I could face between 15 and 99 years in state prison on top of a fine of no more than $250,000.

Fighting Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute Charges

While being arrested is overwhelming for most people, there is an opportunity to face the state and beat these charges. A solid defensive strategy is critical for anyone accused of drug possession with intent to distribute in Waco, and a lawyer is central to identifying the right approach.

One option is to challenge the admissibility of the state’s evidence. If the police illegally searched or seized the accused’s property, this violation of their constitutional rights can lead a judge to exclude that evidence at trial. Other strategies include highlighting the lack of evidence or claiming they were not knowingly in possession of drugs.

Talk to an Attorney in Waco About Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute

You have the right to a vigorous defense whenever you are charged with a crime. This is crucial when facing a serious offense that could lead to long-term incarceration.

Schedule an initial consultation with a Waco drug possession with intent to distribute lawyer today to discuss your options. Our team of determined criminal defense attorneys could advocate for you.