What are the Penalties for Possession of Cocaine in Texas?
Penalties for Possession of Cocaine are extremely harsh in Texas. Under the Texas Health and Safety Code, possession of cocaine is classified under Penalty Group 1, which makes possession of even the smallest amount of cocaine a felony. If you are facing a charge of possession of cocaine and are in need of legal representation, contact Austin Cocaine Defense Lawyer Kevin Bennett. Texas drug possession laws usually involve complex and and very specific legal issues that can have a direct impact on a defendant’s criminal case case. Having a criminal defense attorney that regularly defends Texas drug possession cases can make an essential difference in the outcome of your case.
The penalties for possession of cocaine in Texas can vary depending on the amount of the drug seized or where the cocaine was found. The punishment for cocaine possession in Texas is as follows:
- Less than one gram of Cocaine: Is a state jail felony punishable by 180 days to two years in jail and a fine up to $10,000.
- One gram or more but less than four grams of Cocaine: Is considered a third-degree felony punishable by a jail sentence from two to ten years and a fine up to $10,000.
- Four grams or more but less than 200 grams of Cocaine: This is a second-degree felony punishable by a jail sentence from two to twenty years and a fine up to $10,000.
- 200 grams or more but less than 400 grams: This is a first-degree felony punishable by a jail sentence from five to 99 years and a fine up to $10,000.
- 400 grams or more: This is an enhanced first-degree felony punishable by a jail sentence of ten to 99 years and a fine up to $100,000.
As you can see, possession of cocaine is a serious drug offense in Texas and even possession of less than one gram of cocaine is considered a felony punishable by up to two years in state jail.
If you are confused or unsure how to proceed in your felony cocaine or controlled substance case, please call the Law Office of Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626. You may also contact the Law Office of Kevin Bennett through email. Mr. Bennett can also advise you as to how to obtain an Order of Non-Disclosure or Expungement, whenever eligible.