There are a few common drug offenses that are considered to be serious enough that they often lead to life sentences in Texas. You can get a life sentence of up to 99 years if you possess 200 to 400 grams of cocaine, which can also be accompanied by a fine of up to $10,000 because it’s considered to be a third-degree felony.
Possessing 200 to 400 grams of cocaine is a first-degree felony that carries a fine of up to $10,000 and 10 to 99 years in jail. Delivering 400 grams of cocaine is punishable with a prison sentence of 15 to 99 years. Manufacturing cocaine can also come with a $250,000 fine or 15 to 99 years in jail.
How to fight drug charges that come with life sentences
You can fight drug charges if you can prove you were not in possession of the drugs if they were planted. You may also be able to prove entrapment to avoid criminal charges. There are even cases in which you can prove that law enforcement performed an unlawful search and seizure, abused their power and didn’t have a reasonable cause to search you. Law enforcement may also not have followed the proper protocols in the arrest.
Who can you contact for legal assistance?
If you’re dealing with drug charges, contact an attorney who has handled similar cases to ensure that he or she can inform you of your rights and review the details and evidence of the case. A lawyer can work hard to beat your charges and help protect your professional reputation. Legal professionals are also available to help you with similar matters that include DWI charges.