SAN ANTONIO DRUG CRIMES ATTORNEY – POSSESSION AND DELIVERY OF CRYSTAL METH

In Texas, crystal meth possession carries severe penalties, with the severity depending on the amount found in your possession. The penalties are as follows:

• Less than 1 gram: This is a state jail felony, punishable by 6 months to 2 years in a state jail and fines up to $10,000.
• 1 to 4 grams: A third-degree felony, leading to 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• 4 to 200 grams: This is a second-degree felony, with a potential sentence of 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• 200 to 400 grams: A first-degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison, along with fines up to $10,000.
• Over 400 grams: An enhanced first-degree felony, which can result in life imprisonment and fines up to $100,000.

Given these harsh penalties, it's critical to consult with a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our team of experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and build a strong defense against your charges.

Under Texas law, possession of crystal meth is defined as having "care, custody, control, or management" of the substance. This can include:

• Actual possession: The drug is found on your person, such as in your pocket or purse.
• Constructive possession: The drug is found in a place you control, like your home or vehicle, even if it's not physically on you.

Possession charges do not require ownership; mere access or control over the substance is enough for law enforcement to bring charges. The prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed the drug. This is where a skilled crystal meth possession lawyer and drug crimes attorney from the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock can make a significant difference in your defense, challenging the evidence and the prosecution's case.

If crystal meth is found in a place you share with others, such as a home or vehicle, you can still face possession charges. However, the prosecution must prove that you had knowledge of and control over the drug. Factors that might be considered include:

• Proximity: How close you were to the drug.
• Control over the area: Whether the drug was found in an area you control, such as your bedroom or personal vehicle.
• Other evidence: Items like paraphernalia, large amounts of cash, or text messages linking you to the drug.

In these situations, it's essential to have an experienced drug defense lawyer by your side to challenge the prosecution's case. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock specializes in these complex scenarios, ensuring your rights are protected and building a robust defense.

To prove delivery of crystal meth, the prosecution must present specific evidence, including:

1. Substance Identification: Proof that the substance in question is indeed crystal meth.
2. Intent to Deliver: Evidence showing that you intended to deliver the drug, which can include large amounts of the substance, packaging materials, or communication indicating a transaction.
3. Actual Transfer or Offer: Witness testimony, undercover operations, or other direct evidence showing you delivered or offered to deliver the drug.
4. Circumstantial Evidence: Items such as scales, baggies, or cash that suggest involvement in drug distribution.

For those facing such charges, a knowledgeable crystal meth delivery lawyer from the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock can be instrumental in challenging the evidence and crafting a strong defense to fight these serious accusations.

When facing crystal meth charges, there are several potential defenses that a San Antonio criminal law attorney might explore, including:

• Lack of Possession: Arguing that you did not have care, custody, or control over the drug.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: Challenging the legality of how the evidence was obtained. If your rights were violated, the evidence could be suppressed.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence is lacking, your charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Mistaken Identity: This can be a strong defense if you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed, this might be a viable defense.

Every case is unique, and the best defense will depend on the specifics of your situation. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our experienced drug crime lawyers are dedicated to examining every detail of your case to determine the most effective defense strategy, ensuring your rights are upheld in court.