Drug Trafficking Attorney in Stephenville

Facing Drug Trafficking Charges? Protect Your Rights in Stephenville

If you or a loved one needs a drug trafficking lawyer in Stephenville, acting quickly can make all the difference. Texas takes drug offenses seriously, and convictions often bring severe penalties. At Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton, we focus on personal attention and clear guidance, helping you understand your options and feel supported from day one.

Charges for drug trafficking often come with high stakes because Texas law enforces strict sentencing guidelines based on the amount and type of substance involved. Law enforcement agencies in Stephenville, including local police and Erath County officials, regularly work with state prosecutors on these cases. 

Each stage in the legal process, from the initial investigation to court proceedings, carries specific requirements and deadlines that matter for your defense. By choosing a drug trafficking attorney in Stephenville with experience in the local court system, you receive support built on knowledge of how cases develop within Stephenville’s justice system.

Protect your assets and your freedom from life-altering charges. Secure a strategic Stephenville drug trafficking lawyer who offers bilingual services in English and Spanish and a free consultation. Call (888) 246-6869 or reach out online now.

Understanding Drug Trafficking Laws in Texas

Texas law defines drug trafficking by focusing on two primary statutes: Delivery and Manufacture of a Controlled Substance. The severity of the offense is based entirely on the Penalty Group (PG) of the substance (e.g., Penalty Group 1 includes Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin) and the aggregate weight or unit dose.

The penalties for drug trafficking are structured to be extremely punitive, escalating rapidly with the amount of the drug involved:

• State Jail Felony: Less than 1 gram. (180 days to 2 years in state jail)
• Second-Degree Felony: 1 gram to less than 4 grams. (2 to 20 years in prison)
• First-Degree Felony: 4 grams to less than 200 grams. (5 to 99 years or life in prison)
• Enhanced Felony: 400 grams or more. (15 years to 99 years or life in prison, with fines up to $\$250,000$)

This severity means that effectively challenging the aggregate weight is one of the most crucial defense strategies we employ as your drug trafficking attorney in Stephenville.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Drug Trafficking Conviction in Stephenville

The penalties for drug trafficking in Texas are among the most life-altering, extending well beyond the prison sentence.

Direct Penalties

As noted above, drug trafficking quickly escalates to First-Degree Felony charges. A conviction can mean a mandatory sentence of decades in prison, eliminating opportunities for probation or deferred adjudication.

Civil Asset Forfeiture

One of the most immediate and damaging consequences of a drug trafficking charge is Civil Asset Forfeiture. Under this law, the State can seize and keep any property—including your vehicle, bank accounts, cash, and even your home—allegedly connected to the crime, even if you are never convicted. This process begins upon arrest.

Collateral Consequences

A felony drug trafficking conviction results in a permanent loss of rights and opportunities:

• Loss of Firearm Rights: Permanent loss of the right to own or possess a firearm under state and federal law.
• Professional Licensing: Mandatory revocation or denial of licenses for fields like nursing, real estate, education, and finance.
• Immigration: A trafficking conviction is considered an aggravated felony for non-citizens, resulting in mandatory detention and deportation.
• Federal Financial Aid: Denial of eligibility for federal student loans or grants.

The Texas Criminal Defense Process for Drug Trafficking Cases

Our firm uses a comprehensive, proactive strategy to defend against drug trafficking charges in the Erath County judicial system.

• Challenging the Stop and Search (Fourth Amendment): We meticulously investigate the traffic stop or initial encounter. Our firm files a Motion to Suppress if the officer lacked reasonable suspicion for the stop or probable cause for the search. An illegal search, stop, or seizure can result in the entire case being dismissed.
• Challenging the Confidential Informant (CI): Many drug trafficking cases rely on CIs. We challenge the reliability, credibility, and motives of the CI, including their history of prior deals with police or incentives offered for your arrest.
• Bilingual Communication: We offer bilingual services in English and Spanish, ensuring that all clients fully understand the evidence, the legal strategy, and the severe risks involved, which is essential for making informed, critical decisions.
• Pre-Trial Negotiation: Leveraging the constitutional and factual weaknesses we identify, we negotiate with the prosecutor to achieve a dismissal or a reduction of the charge to simple possession, saving you from the extreme penalties associated with manufacture or delivery.

What Sets Our Legal Guidance Apart

At Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton, we put client care first. We listen closely to your concerns, respond to questions promptly, and walk you step-by-step through every stage of the legal process. Our hands-on approach means you are never left wondering what’s next. 

We serve Stephenville and nearby counties, offering thoughtful, dedicated service throughout your case. Our history of supporting clients through difficult times helps you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Our clients benefit from direct communication, as we prioritize answering questions and returning calls promptly. Focusing on clear language and transparency, we keep you involved and prepared at every stage of your defense.

Stephenville and the broader Erath County area have regional differences that can impact your case, including how courts set schedules, the way local authorities approach evidence, and how judges often handle bond hearings.

Our Approach to Drug Trafficking Cases in Stephenville

• Personalized strategy: We tailor our approach to your needs, factoring in your goals and the facts of your case.
• Open, clear communication: You receive regular updates and honest answers—no surprises or legal jargon.
• Experience with local courts: Our familiarity with Stephenville courts and judges helps us manage your case efficiently and keep you informed.
• Accessible support: We prioritize your peace of mind, staying available when you need us.

For an aggressive defense against drug trafficking accusations, contact the Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton. We offer free consultations and bilingual services to begin your defense today. Call a proven drug trafficking attorney in Stephenville at (888) 246-6869.