In Texas, marijuana charges are quite serious, even when it’s your first offense. Depending on how much marijuana you’re in possession of, you could be facing felony charges. If you’re convicted of a marijuana crime, you could be looking at serious jail or prison time, and hefty fines.
In addition, marijuana crimes will go on your permanent criminal record. Your record could affect you for life: You could struggle to secure a good job; you could be denied access to certain government programs; and you and your family could suffer greatly because of a marijuana conviction. See below for a more in-depth look at Texas marijuana laws.
Understanding Texas Marijuana Laws
Marijuana possession, use, and sales are still very much illegal in Texas. Crimes involving marijuana use are generally broken down into two main categories: possession of marijuana, and sale/transport of marijuana.
The larger the amount of marijuana you’re in possession of will increase the class of felony you’ll be charged with, and the greater your legal and other consequences will be.
In addition, your possession or sales crime could be aggravated if: you use a minor in the commission of the crime; you are in possession in a prohibited area, such as a school; or you sell to a minor.
Below are a few examples of legal consequences you could face for a marijuana possession charge, depending on the amount of marijuana you were in possession of:
Possession of less than five pounds is either a class B or A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine.
Possession of more than five pounds is a state jail felony, punishable by state jail time and a fine.
Marijuana possession of more than fifty pounds, but less than 2,000 pounds is a third-degree felony, punishable by serious prison time, plus a fine.
Possession of more than 2,000 pounds will get you between five and ninety-nine years in prison, plus a fine.
Are You Facing a Marijuana Charge in Texas?
A marijuana conviction can affect your life severely, just like any other drug crime. Fight your charge by working with a Texas drug crime lawyer from the Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy. Call us directly at 817-605-1010 or visit our website to learn more.