Prosecutors and Judges show little to no patience for those charged with drug trafficking. While simple possession can sometimes be blamed on issues of addiction, trafficking in narcotics is seen as more sinister. A conviction can result in substantial prison time, a permanent record, disqualification from future employment and more. If you or a loved one have been arrested for trafficking then it is crucial that you retain an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Jose Tellez is a Laredo lawyer who handles such charges. Contact our office today to speak with an attorney.
Laredo attorney assisting those who have been charged with drug trafficking by the state of Texas
Texas divides illegal narcotics into four “schedules” of drugs. The greater the difference between a substance’s addictive nature and its medicinal value then the higher the schedule it is assigned to. Schedule one narcotics are considered to have no medicinal value. These substances include heroin, methamphetamine, and others. Schedule two drugs include cocaine, morphine, oxycodone, and more. Schedule three and four substances include Peyote, sedatives, and stimulants. If a defendant is charged in state court then penalties can range from a state jail felony (which carries a sentence of 180 days to two years) to a first degree felony (which carries a potential life sentence). The level of charges will depend on the amount and type of substances involved.
Drug trafficking charges begin when the prosecution gains an Indictment from the Grand Jury. The defendant will enter a plea of “not guilty” and a trial date will be set. Such cases often hinge on whether or not police found the drugs by violating the defendant’s right against an unreasonable search or seizure. If defense counsel believes that such a violation occurred then he or she will file a Motion to suppress any unlawfully seized evidence. Depending on the circumstances such a Motion may lead to the charges being dismissed. If a dismissal is not possible then the matter will resolve either through plea negotiations or a trial. The prosecution will have the burden of showing that the accused knowingly possessed the narcotics and intended to distribute them to others. Trial in such matters can be very complex and it is important that you retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer to assist you.
Joey Tellez is a Laredo attorney who handles drug trafficking charges. Joey will use your initial consultation to hear how you were stopped by the police and how they came to discover narcotics. He will quickly request all discovery from the prosecution. This will include arrest reports, surveillance footage, and other evidence which the prosecution must disclose pursuant to the U.S. Supreme Court’s Brady decision. If Joey believes that your rights were violated then he will file a Motion to exclude the drugs from evidence and he will aggressively examine the officers at an evidentiary hearing. Should trial be necessary then he will regularly meet with you to ensure that you are prepared for the process. We understand the impact that a conviction will have on your future. We will work to ensure that your rights remain protected.
Lawyer providing personal service to Laredo defendants who face drug trafficking charges
Joey founded our office with the idea that everyone is entitled to quality service and respect. This is one of the reasons why he handles all matters in our office personally. When you retain our firm you will be dealing with Joey directly and not an associate lawyer. He regularly gives clients his cell phone number, he promptly responds to messages, and he will meet with you as often as necessary to address your concerns. It is our honor to serve the Laredo area and we strive to provide the highest level of representation. We handle matters throughout south Texas.