Defending Your Rights & Reputation in Collin County
Facing drug crime charges can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Whether you were arrested near a school zone, during a traffic stop, or at a public park, securing a strong defense is essential to avoiding life-altering penalties in criminal court. Fortunately, our drug crime defense lawyers are here to provide the tenacious representation you deserve in Frisco.
At Lance Kennedy Law, we understand the stress, fear, and uncertainty that come with drug crime charges. Our goal is to safeguard your freedom by pursuing the best possible outcome in your case. With former prosecution experience, an exclusive focus on criminal law, and a proven track record of results across Collin County, our attorneys are well-equipped to defend your rights, career, and reputation.
If you’re facing drug crime charges in Frisco, our attorneys can fight to restore your freedom. Contact us online to discuss your case. Se habla español.
Types of Drug Crimes We Defend Against
At Lance Kennedy Law, we defend against a wide range of drug offenses. Below are some common drug crime cases we handle:
Drug possession. Whether you were caught with a small amount of marijuana or charged with felony possession, our attorneys can examine the evidence against you and employ a robust defense on your behalf.
Drug distribution. Distribution is the intent to sell, share, or deliver drugs, regardless of whether compensation was involved. We have a deep understanding of these cases to fight for reduced or dismissed charges.
Drug manufacturing. Manufacturing is the production, preparation, compounding, conversion, or processing of a controlled substance. From small operations to large-scale labs, our lawyers can tirelessly defend your rights.
Drug trafficking. Trafficking refers to the transportation, distribution, or sale of controlled substances, often across state or national borders. It typically involves larger quantities of drugs and complex technical evidence, making it imperative to have the right attorney on your side.
What Are the Different Drug Schedules in Texas?
The Texas Controlled Substances Act plays a central role in determining how drug crimes are penalized. It classifies controlled substances into different penalty groups based on their potential for abuse, medical use, and addiction risk. These include:
Penalty Group 1
This group includes some of the most highly regulated drugs with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, including dangerous narcotics like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine.
Penalty Group 2
This group includes hallucinogens, stimulants, and synthetic compounds with a high potential for abuse, such as ecstasy (MDMA), PCP, mescaline, MDA, and THC concentrates like hash oil, wax, shatter, and vape cartridges.
Penalty Group 3
This includes drugs that are medically accepted, but have a potential for abuse, such as prescription medications that act as depressants, stimulants, or painkillers. Some examples include anabolic steroids and benzodiazepines like Xanax®, Valium®, and Klonopin®.
Penalty Group 4
This includes drugs with a lower potential for abuse and legitimate medical uses. Many of these substances are prescription medications, such as Tylenol® with codeine, anxiolytics, muscle relaxants, and sleep medications.
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Being accused of a drug crime can be daunting, but you don’t have to fight the charges alone. Having a skilled attorney in your corner is paramount to avoiding the lasting impacts of a conviction. At Lance Kennedy Law, we can evaluate the specific charges against you to determine an effective defense to employ in your case.
Some common defense strategies against drug crimes include:
Illegal search or seizure. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during your arrest, we can challenge unlawful police procedures and file a motion to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence from your case.
Unlawful stop or arrest. Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over and probable cause to arrest you. If you were arrested or detained without cause, our firm can fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Lack of knowledge or intent. This defense argues that the defendant lacked knowledge of the drug or intent to commit a drug-related crime, such as unknowingly possessing a controlled substance that was hidden in personal belongings.
Medical use or prescription. If you were charged despite having a valid prescription or medical marijuana card, we can help you gather evidence and advocate for a case dismissal.
What Are the Penalties for a Drug Crime Conviction?
The penalties for a drug crime conviction will vary depending on the type and amount of drug involved, any prior convictions, and the specific charge, such as possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking.
For example, possessing less than two ounces of marijuana is a class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. However, possessing larger amounts or harder drugs (such as cocaine or meth) is a felony punishable by harsher penalties, including 2-99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking are always felony offenses. Penalties vary based on the drug type and weight. Penalty Group 1 drugs (such as cocaine or heroin) carry a minimum of two years to life in prison, as well as up to $250,000 in fines in high-quantity cases.
No matter the charges against you, consulting a knowledgeable defense lawyer is critical to pursuing a favorable outcome in your case. Our attorneys are well-versed in state and federal drug laws to develop a strategic defense, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and fight for dismissed or reduced charges.
I Was Arrested for Marijuana Possession Near Frisco Commons Park. Which Courthouse Will I Appear At?
If you were arrested for marijuana possession near Frisco Commons Park, your case will likely be heard in the Collin County Courthouse in McKinney. The courthouse is located at 2100 Bloomdale Road and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Our lawyers are familiar with local court processes and procedures to help you understand your legal options and present a compelling case on your behalf.
If you were arrested for a drug crime, we can work diligently to dismiss or reduce the charges against you. Call (737) 324-7540 to schedule a free consultation.
Generally, police need a warrant to search your property. However, there are exceptions, such as if you give consent or if evidence is in plain view. You need to assert your rights politely but firmly and contact a criminal defense lawyer right away.
Possession charges typically involve smaller amounts for personal use, while possession with intent to distribute involves larger quantities or other evidence suggesting plans to sell the drugs. The latter carries more severe penalties.
In some cases, yes. Texas law allows for expungement or sealing of records under certain circumstances. Lance Kennedy can evaluate your situation and advise on your options.
“Constructive possession” means you can be charged even if the drugs weren’t physically on you. However, this can be challenged in court. Lance Kennedy will work to prove you didn’t have knowledge or control of the drugs.
This depends on the specifics of your case. While plea bargains can sometimes result in reduced charges or sentences, they’re not always in your best interest. Lance Kennedy will carefully evaluate any offers and advise you on the best course of action.
We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and stressful. As dedicated federal criminal defense attorney with years of experience, I am committed to providing personalized legal counsel for your defense. My approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you have an ally to help get your life back.
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Get a Free Case Review
Let’s discuss your case, your goals, and what strategies are right for you.
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Resolve Your Case
I will lead you every step of the way. Together, we will fight for a dismissal.
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Get Your Life Back
Work to get the best results possible so you can get your life back.
