Proven advocate handles a range of drug offenses

A drug crime generally refers to any offense that involves controlled substances. These may include illegal street drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine or marijuana as well as prescription drugs such as Xanax or Vicodin. Specific criminal offenses related to drug crimes that I handle in San Antonio include:

When the quantities of drugs are large enough, federal authorities including the DEA, FBI and U.S. Department of Justice generally exercise jurisdiction, and the case goes to federal court. Fortunately, I have extensive criminal defense experience in federal court and can ably represent you there.

Drug possession

01

Simple possession involves small amounts of a drug presumed to be for personal use.

Possession with intent to sell

02

Slightly larger volumes of drugs carry the presumption that the person in possession intended to sell the product to someone else.

Drug distribution and trafficking

03

When large quantities of a drug are found, authorities charge trafficking, a serious felony with lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines.

Prescription drug fraud

04

Certain drugs with valid medical use are still illegal without a valid prescription. Faking a prescription to deal these drugs is a serious crime.

Driving under the influence of drugs

05

DWI does not only refer to alcohol. A person under the influence of a drug, even a perfectly legal prescription, can be charged with DWI.

The type of drug

01

Illicit drugs are listed on Schedules from I to V, with Schedule I drugs (heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine) being the most strictly enforced.

The amount of drug

02

Small amounts of drugs are charged as simple possession, but larger amounts can create a presumption of intent to sell, and great amounts trigger trafficking charges.

Whether minors were involved

03

Drug sales to minors trigger penalty enhancements.

Where the offense occurred

04

Places like public parks and schools are protected zones, so drug crimes committed there receive enhanced treatment.

Whether violence or other crimes were involved

05

Violence or the use of a deadly weapon in a drug crime will bring enhanced penalties.

Factors that determine drug crime penalties

Whether a drug offense is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, and how severe the penalty might be, depend on a variety of factors, such as:

Prosecutors always look for circumstances that allow them to overcharge an offense, because this gives them leverage to compel a plea to a lesser charge. When I represent you, I can explain these and other tactics and counsel you against taking actions against your own interest.

Drug Conspiracy charges

One should take extra care in choosing a defense attorney when facing federal drug conspiracy charges. U.S. Attorneys rely heavily on conspiracy charges in drug cases. They do this because it gives them many advantages in court. They are able to rely on the testimony of fellow conspirators who are cooperating with the Government and it allows them to bring a wider range of evidence against you–even if you didn’t directly participate in such activities. Choose an attorney with the knowledge and experience to help you when facing federal drug conspiracy charges.

One should take extra care in choosing a defense attorney when facing federal drug conspiracy charges. U.S. Attorneys rely heavily on conspiracy charges in drug cases. They do this because it gives them many advantages in court. They are able to rely on the testimony of fellow conspirators who are cooperating with the Government and it allows them to bring a wider range of evidence against you–even if you didn’t directly participate in such activities. Choose an attorney with the knowledge and experience to help you when facing federal drug conspiracy charges.

Defenses available to drug charges in San Antonio

Physical evidence (drugs, drug paraphernalia, scales, packaging, fingerprints, DNA, etc.) plays a major role in any drug crime case. However, authorities cannot obtain such evidence through an illegal search and seizure. I challenge police tactics to get drug evidence excluded whenever possible. In cases of possession, the authorities must also prove you had “knowing” possession. This means you knew where the drugs were, and you exercised control over them. If the drugs were in your car or apartment without your knowledge, and someone else exercised control over them, I will fight the charge you face.

Physical evidence (drugs, drug paraphernalia, scales, packaging, fingerprints, DNA, etc.) plays a major role in any drug crime case. However, authorities cannot obtain such evidence through an illegal search and seizure. I challenge police tactics to get drug evidence excluded whenever possible. In cases of possession, the authorities must also prove you had “knowing” possession. This means you knew where the drugs were, and you exercised control over them. If the drugs were in your car or apartment without your knowledge, and someone else exercised control over them, I will fight the charge you face.

Contact a determined criminal defense attorney for drug charges in San Antonio

Contact a determined criminal defense attorney for drug charges in San Antonio

A drug crime conviction can bring severe and lasting consequences. Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C. has the skill and experience to defend your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.

To schedule a free consultation, call (210) 227-1500 or contact my San Antonio office online today.

A DWI arrest can damage your reputation, impose severe financial costs, and place you in jeopardy of incarceration. To pursue the best possible outcome, retain a proven defense lawyer as soon as possible.

To schedule a free consultation with Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C., call (210) 227-1500 or contact my San Antonio office online today.