Drug use and drug crimes are becoming more prevalent in Frisco, Texas. While the city has a reputation for being safe and having a strong community base, drug crimes are still happening more often than people are aware. If you have been charged or someone you know has been charged, seeking legal representation as quickly as possible is the solution. L and L Law Solicitors will help you find your way through the court system and protect your rights from the start.
Understanding the types of drug offenses that dominate Frisco will steer you away from costly mistakes. Most are possession, intent to sell, or paraphernalia cases. But each case is different, and sentencing is based on numerous factors, including the quantity and nature of the drug at issue.
Possession of Controlled Drugs
The most common drug offense in Frisco is possession. It generally involves small amounts of illegal drugs like marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription medication without a prescription. Small amounts are sufficient to be taken seriously in Texas.
If you’re arrested with under 2 ounces of marijuana, that’s a Class B misdemeanor, which can be punished by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. For more serious drugs such as meth or heroin, even under 1 gram can be a felony offense. That entails state jail time and a criminal record for life. The law doesn’t play favorites, even for first-time offenders.
Possession with Intent to Distribute
This is a more serious crime than possession. If police think you had the drug for something other than your own use, depending on its packaging, the amount you have, or if there’s a lot of money around, you may be charged with possession with intent to distribute.
This is a felony offense, and the punishment is more severe depending on the amount of the drug. Even less than 1 gram of certain drugs can be 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine. The court will also consider if the offense was committed close to a school or park, which will increase the punishment.
Prescription Drug Abuse
Misuse of legal prescription medication is also a colossal issue. These drugs include Xanax, Oxycodone, and Adderall, which are frequently used without a proper prescription. People feel these medicines are safe because they are legitimate when prescribed by a doctor, but illegal possession is treated the same as illegal drugs.
Caught in possession of another’s prescription pills, you can receive a felony charge. Whether you meant to sell them or not, it does not matter. Unauthorized possession is a serious crime under Texas law. Selling or distributing pills is worse.
Paraphernalia Charges
Not many people are aware that equipment for drugs is a crime to possess. Pipes, syringes, scales, and rolling papers qualify as drug paraphernalia.
Possessing these items is a Class C misdemeanor, which may not carry jail time but still results in a fine of up to $500. However, if you’re caught selling or giving paraphernalia to a minor, the charge becomes a felony. These charges can pile on top of possession charges, making your situation much worse.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Driving under the influence of marijuana, prescription drugs, or any controlled drug is a matter of concern in Frisco and across Texas. Police officers now look for drug impairment just like they do for alcohol. If you are arrested driving under the influence of marijuana, prescription drugs, or any controlled drug, you might be charged with DUI or DWI.
These are criminal offenses and carry harsh penalties—license suspension, jail time, fines, and drug education classes. A second offense is subject to even harsher penalties.
How Frisco Handles Drug Charges
Frisco law enforcement is extremely hard on drugs. The city works closely with state and federal agencies in combating drug crime. First-offenders might get a chance to enter diversionary programs or drug court, but it is by no means guaranteed.
The law takes into account previous convictions, the substance in question, and your intent. That is why it is so important to have an experienced Frisco drug crime attorney on your side. They can challenge evidence, negotiate reduced penalties, or even have charges dropped in some instances.
Frisco drug offenses come in numerous forms—possession, distribution, paraphernalia, or DUI. All of them are serious. Some result in jail time. Others leave a criminal record that can ruin job and housing opportunities. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
Educate yourself on your rights. Get legal help. If you or someone you know has a drug charge, treat it seriously from the start. Having a good defense attorney can make all the difference in protecting your future.