Street Drugs, Prescription Medications, And Texas Arrests

Whether a case involves street drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter products misused to create illicit substances, drug-related charges can turn a person’s life upside down. The consequences are serious. Understanding the differences between different drug categories and how they factor into Texas law is the first step toward protecting your rights. Talk to a seasoned Houston DWI lawyer to learn more.
Street Drugs vs. Prescription Medications
Also known as illegal drugs, street drugs are substances like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Possession, distribution, or manufacturing of these substances is a crime in Texas. The penalties for street drug offenses are severe and depend on factors like the amount involved and whether the crime occurred near a school or other protected areas.
Prescription medications, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or ADHD drugs like Adderall, are legal when prescribed by a doctor. But possessing these drugs without a valid prescription, selling them, or using them outside their intended purpose is illegal. Misuse of prescription drugs often leads to arrests and charges similar to those for street drugs.
The fact is, both street drugs and prescription medications can result in Texas arrests under various circumstances.
- Possession charges. Whether it’s heroin purchased from a stranger on the street or being in possession of prescription opioids without a valid script, being caught with controlled substances is a common reason for arrest.
- Driving under the influence. Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or any drug, illegal or prescribed, can result in a charge of driving impaired.
- Distribution or trafficking. Selling drugs, even prescription ones like painkillers, can lead to severe criminal charges.
- Manufacturing drugs. Using over-the-counter medications, such as pseudoephedrine, to concoct illegal drugs like methamphetamine is another common reason for arrest.
There are a range of situations that can lead to a drug-related arrest. Legal challenges are possible when a college student is caught selling Adderall to a friend during finals week or a driver is stopped for erratic driving and tests positive for Xanax, which they took without a prescription.
Any legal charges involving street or prescription drugs require legal expertise. After all, facing drug charges can be overwhelming. Texas has some of the toughest drug laws in the country, and the penalties include steep fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. A knowledgeable attorney can investigate whether your rights were violated during an arrest, challenge evidence, and negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, like drug diversion programs.
Take Action to Protect Your Future
Whether you’re facing charges for street drugs, prescription medications, or misuse of over-the-counter products, don’t face the system alone. An experienced Houston DWI lawyer criminal lawyer can guide you through the process, fight for your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Should you learn more about how to build a strong defense following a drug-related charge? To protect yourself and your future, have a conversation with the legal team at Ayson Law Firm. If you or someone you care about has been arrested, contact us.