Punishment for Possession of Cocaine in Texas
If you have been arrested or charged with possession of cocaine in Texas, you are facing serious jail time if convicted. Even the smallest amount of cocaine is considered a felony offense in Texas.
The punishment for possession of cocaine can depend on various factors such as the amount of cocaine or whether the cocaine was found, for example, in a drug-free zone such as a school or near a public park or playground.
Cocaine is classified under Penalty Group 1 of the Texas Health and Safety Code and possession of even the smallest amount of cocaine is considered a state jail felony in Texas and is punishable from 180 days to 2 years in state jail and/or a fine not to exceed $10,000. As you can see below, the punishment for possession of cocaine in Texas can be severe.
Penalty Group 1 |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Weight |
Charge |
Range of Punishment |
|
Less than one gram |
State jail Felony |
180 days to 2 years in state jail and a fine not to exceed $10,000 |
|
1 gram or more, but less than 4 grams |
Third-degree Felony |
2 to 10 years in a state prison and a fine not to exceed $10,000 |
|
4 grams or more, but less than 200 grams |
Second-degree Felony |
2 to 20 years in a state prison and a fine not to exceed $10,000 |
|
200 grams or more, but less than 400 grams |
First-degree Felony |
5 to 99 years or life in a state prison and a fine not to exceed $10,000 |
|
400 grams or more |
Enhanced First-degree Felony |
10 to 99 years or life in a state prison and a fine up to $100,000 |
Other Consequences of a Drug Conviction in Texas
Conviction for possession of cocaine or for any drug charge in Texas can have far-reaching and unintended consequences. Collateral consequences of a drug conviction can include the suspension of your Texas Driver’s License, inability to own or possess a firearm, inability to vote, difficulty in leasing an apartment or obtaining a home loan, possible disqualification from student loans, and the stigma of a felony conviction on your permanent criminal record.
Possession of Cocaine Lawyer in Austin, Texas
If you are confused or unsure how to proceed in your possession case, please call Austin Cocaine Defense Lawyer Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626. You may also contact the Law Office of Kevin Bennett through email. The Law Office of Kevin Bennett offers free legal consultations for possession of cocaine cases in Austin, Texas.
