While attitudes toward marijuana are evolving in many states, Texas remains steady in its stance on marijuana use. All forms of marijuana are illegal under state law, with a limited exception for individuals with intractable epilepsy. Although legislative changes may occur in the future, current Texas laws enforce criminal marijuana charges for possession or delivery.
A marijuana charge in Texas is a criminal offense. It can lead to substantial consequences, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and revoked driving privileges. A conviction can also create restrictions on future career pursuits. When confronted with serious potential penalties, seeking the guidance of our experienced marijuana defense lawyers becomes crucial.
Marijuana Laws in Texas
The Texas Controlled Substances Act categorizes drugs into penalty groups based on factors such as potential misuse, danger to the public, and medicinal uses. Marijuana offenses are their own penalty group. As such criminal charges have penalties that may be less severe compared to other drugs.
As per Texas Health and Safety Code § 481.002(26), marijuana is defined to include the cannabis sativa plant, its seeds, and certain derivatives. Notably, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and THC-containing compounds, mixtures, or preparations are explicitly excluded from this definition. Consequently, products containing THC, such as oils, edibles, and extracts, face different penalty groups with more severe consequences.
Cannabis Possession and Delivery
Marijuana possession penalties are determined by the weight of the drug in possession. Generally charges incur less severe consequences for smaller amounts. The penalties for possession based on weight are as follows:
- Less than two ounces – Class B misdemeanor
- Two to four ounces – Class A misdemeanor
- Four ounces to five pounds – State jail felony
- Five to 50 pounds – Third-degree felony
Possession of 50 to 2,000 pounds is a second-degree felony, and possession of over 2,000 pounds is a first-degree felony with the potential for life imprisonment.
Delivery of marijuana charges align with possession penalties but escalate at smaller quantities. Misdemeanor offenses may have alternative resolutions, but felony charges require careful consideration and consultation with one of our marijuana defense attorneys located throughout Texas.
Marijuana Products Containing THC
THC-containing products are treated more severely under Texas law. These products fall into Penalty Group 2 controlled substances. If someone is found with less than one gram of a THC product in Texas, they can face serious state jail felony charges. The punishment for this offense can include a jail sentence of up to 180 days, according to Texas Health and Safety Code § 481.116.
The severity of charges for THC-containing substances is influenced by the aggregate weight of the product, not just the THC weight. Facing charges related to THC substances emphasizes the importance of consulting one of our experienced marijuana attorneys to navigate the legal complexities.
Consult with Texas Criminal Defense Group
Today
We are a team of highly skilled and experienced lawyers at your disposal. Our goal is always to get your assault on an officer case dismissed, and we use our large docket and experience to your advantage in that regard.
At Texas Criminal Defense Group, cost-of-trial is always included in our fees should that be an advantageous route for your case, and our dedication to the pursuit of Justice shows in over 500 5-star reviews from our hundreds of satisfied clients.
With offices conveniently located throughout Texas, our law firm ensures accessibility for individuals facing charges across the state.
Contact us today to begin your free consultation.