A Tenacious Attorney’s Defense For Houston Drug Violation Charges
Greg Gladden Attorney at Law represents people across the Houston metropolitan area charged with many types of drug crimes. Mr. Gladden is knowledgeable counsel who can fight drug possession, distribution and trafficking charges at the state and federal level. He has represented clients facing charges of all sizes, from misdemeanor possession to international drug smuggling.
As a board-certified criminal defense attorney, Mr. Gladden has over 45 years of experience and a commitment to fighting for his clients. He not only works to beat his clients’ criminal cases but can also help them with deferment and drug treatment programs. If the federal government seizes a person’s assets even though they were not convicted of a crime, Mr. Gladden will fight to get back their property.
What Makes Federal Drug Crimes Different?
Federal drug crimes involve violations of the federal Controlled Substances Act. Federal agencies such as the FBI and the DEA tend to investigate these crimes instead of local police departments; the Department of Justice prosecutes them rather than local district attorneys. Federal drug cases often involve:
- Large-scale trafficking
- Crossing state lines
- Crossing international borders
- Criminal activity on federal property
Unlike state cases, federal drug charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences. This means that judges have very little discretion to reduce prison time. Because federal agencies have vast resources, their investigations are extensive and have much higher conviction rates.
Mr. Gladden regularly defends clients before federal courts. Not every criminal defense lawyer does so. He knows the many fine differences between federal drug law and Texas law. When so much is at stake, you can count on him to defend you aggressively against federal charges.
How Can Drug Charges Impact A College Career?
A drug conviction can jeopardize a student’s entire academic and professional life. Most universities have a code of conduct that allows for suspension or expulsion, even if the activity occurred off-campus. Beyond school disciplinary actions, a permanent criminal record can disqualify students from professional licenses in fields such as nursing, teaching or law. While recent federal changes have eased some restrictions on FAFSA eligibility, many private scholarships and specific institutional grants still have zero-tolerance policies that can terminate financial support instantly. College students and their parents need to take immediate action by consulting a lawyer about how to protect the student’s future.
Common Penalties For Texas Drug Crimes
Texas is known for having some of the strictest drug laws in the United States. Penalties are determined by the penalty group of the substance and the specific aggregate weight found in an individual’s possession. These are some examples of criminal drug charges and their sentences:
- Class B misdemeanor: Possession of up to two ounces of marijuana; carries up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000
- State jail felony: Possession of less than one gram of a Group 1 substance (like cocaine or meth); carries 180 days to two years in a state jail
- Third-degree felony: Possession of one to four grams of Group 1 substances; punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000
- First-degree felony: Manufacturing or delivery of large quantities (e.g., over 400 grams); can result in 10 to 99 years or life in prison
Even a seemingly minor conviction in Texas can lead to a driver’s license suspension and a permanent felony brand. These long-term collateral consequences often make it difficult to secure housing or stable employment.
Addressing Civil Rights Abuses In Drug Cases
Mr. Gladden understands that the criminal justice system has systemic problems which can lead to civil rights abuse. He uncovers these abuses of powers and takes law enforcement to task for their misconduct. Mr. Gladden has received many awards for his focus on defending his clients’ rights.
Talk To A Seasoned Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer
Having an attorney guide a drug violation case from the beginning prevents mistakes and puts the defendants in the best possible position. Call Mr. Gladden at 713-880-0333 or send an email to schedule a free consultation. Se habla español.