Dallas Drug Crimes Attorney
Texas Defense for Possession, Distribution, & Trafficking Charges
An experienced Dallas drug crime attorney can help protect your rights. Former federal prosecutor, criminal court judge, and U.S. Marine Corps officer Patrick J. McLain has spent countless hours protecting people inside the courtroom and out. He uses his 30 years of legal experience to provide clients with the tough, ethical legal defense they need.
When you hire the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC you get an advocate with the knowledge and background to defend you. We are proud of the high quality criminal defense we provide. Don’t take chances with a cheap or an inexperienced lawyer. Put your case in the hands of a strong and able defender.
Whether you are being charged in state or federal court, we can defend you against charges of drug related crimes. Drug crimes include charges of:
- Possession
- Manufacture
- Conspiracy
- Distribution
- Sale
- Trafficking
Call (214) 238-9392 to speak with our Dallas drug crime attorney today. We are available 24/7.
Texas Drug Laws & Penalties
Texas follows the Texas Controlled Substances Act, which divides drugs into Penalty Groups based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. The higher the penalty group number, the less severe the punishment generally is.
Penalty Group 1 (PG1)
- Includes:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Fentanyl
- Ketamine
- Opiates
Penalties:
- Less than 1 gram: State jail felony (6 months–2 years)
- 1–4 grams: 2–10 years in prison
- 4–200 grams: 2–20 years
- 200–400 grams: 5–99 years
- Over 400 grams: 10–99 years + up to $100,000 fine
Penalty Group 1-A
Includes:
- LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide)
Penalties (based on dosage units):
- <20 units: State jail felony
- 20–80 units: 2–10 years
- 80–4,000 units: 5–99 years
- 4,000 units: 15–99 years
Penalty Group 2
Includes:
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- PCP
- Synthetic cannabinoids
Penalties:
- <1 gram: State jail felony
- 1–4 grams: 2–10 years
- 4–400 grams: 2–20 years
- 400 grams: 5–99 years
Penalty Group 3
Includes:
- Xanax
- Valium
- Ritalin
- Anabolic steroids
Penalties:
- <28 grams: Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail)
- 28–200 grams: 2–10 years
- 200–400 grams: 2–20 years
- 400 grams: 5–99 years
Penalty Group 4
Includes:
- Codeine (in small amounts)
- Morphine-based medications
Penalties mirror Group 3, but substances typically have a lower abuse potential.
Marijuana Laws in Texas
Texas treats marijuana separately from the Penalty Groups.
Possession Penalties:
- <2 oz: Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail + $2,000 fine)
- 2–4 oz: Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail)
- 4 oz–5 lbs: State jail felony (6 months–2 years)
- 5–50 lbs: 2–10 years
- 50–2,000 lbs: 2–20 years
- 2,000 lbs: 5–99 years + up to $50,000 fine
THC Concentrates (like wax, oil) are treated under Penalty Group 2 (much harsher than marijuana leaf)
Do not hesitate to let our Dallas drug crime attorneys protect your rights and future throughout the legal process. Contact us today to get started on your defense.
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“Mr. Patrick McLain equals instant and good results for you. Hiring Mr. Patrick McLain is the best decision I had made throughout my military career.”- Master Sergeant Michael A Heath Jr. -
“A Marine through and through. He is dedicated to taking care of his clients.”
“He is an excellent lawyer who gives his all for you and gets things done. He has a no-nonsense approach that gets you results.”- Scott S. -
“First class lawyer!!!!!”
Patrick saved my career and my life by proxy, he did everything and more you would HOPE for from a lawyer. Patrick is what you need if you want to win your case!- David L. -
“If anyone needs an attorney that will stand with you during your time of trouble, look no further.”
“Patrick has truly become a good friend and if anyone needs an attorney that will stand with you during your time of trouble, look no further. Patrick J. Mclain is this man.”- Child Abuse Client
Drug Crime FAQs
What types of defenses are available?
Common defenses include:
- Challenging possession: Actual vs. constructive possession
- Unlawful search and seizure: Lack of probable cause or invalid warrants, especially during traffic stops
- Negotiating plea bargains, Diversion programs, or pursuing trial if the evidence is weak
How do drug convictions affect my life beyond legal penalties?
- Employment: Convictions may trigger job loss or disqualification during background checks.
- Housing: Landlords often deny rentals based on convictions.
- Education: colleges may suspend, expel, or deny admission due to criminal records.
- Professional licensing & insurance: Convictions can hurt licenses and require SR‑22 insurance.
Are prescription drugs treated the same as illegal drugs?
Yes and no. Unauthorized possession of prescription medications (like Xanax, Adderall, or OxyContin) is illegal and can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the drug and quantity. However, having a valid prescription provides a legal defense.
Can a drug conviction be expunged in Texas?
Possibly. If your case was dismissed, you completed a diversion program, or you received deferred adjudication (and meet specific conditions), you may be eligible for expungement or non-disclosure. A lawyer can help evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.
Will a drug charge affect my immigration status?
Yes. Non-citizens (including lawful permanent residents) may face deportation, visa revocation, or denial of naturalization due to drug convictions. Even misdemeanor offenses like marijuana possession can have serious immigration consequences.
Does Texas offer drug court as an alternative to jail?
Yes. Dallas County Drug Court offers certain non-violent drug offenders the opportunity to enter treatment programs instead of serving jail time. Successful completion can lead to reduced charges or dismissal, but eligibility is limited and must be approved by the court.
Law Office of Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC Drug Crime Legal Counsel - Available 24/7
If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is paramount to contact an experienced Dallas drug crime attorney can help investigate your case and help you understand your rights. No matter the drug involved, it is important to have a lawyer on your side who knows how to approach these serious situations. The drug crime lawyers at the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC will fight vigorously to protect your legal rights.
It takes a serious Dallas drug crime lawyer to give you the professional service and quality defense you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation regarding your accusations. Se habla Español.