Federal Drug Crime Laws and Penalties

Facing drug charges can be overwhelming and difficult to deal with, especially if you are struggling to handle things on your own. When the drug charges you’re facing are federal, things can get even more complicated. You may not know exactly what to do next, and that’s okay. An experienced federal drug crime attorney can help you work out what to do. Understanding the federal drug crime laws and penalties that apply to your case may be beneficial.

As you navigate federal drug crime charges with a lawyer’s help, it’s vital to your case that you realize the long-term implications of a potential conviction. Having someone by your side who understands how a federal drug crime claim works can be one of the most crucial elements in your situation overall. If convicted, you may have a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life. Your record may come up when you apply for housing and interview for jobs.

Why Hire a Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer?

There are multiple reasons why you should reach out and hire a federal drug crimes lawyer. You want the right person by your side to navigate your case. At Greco Neyland, PC, we understand the various elements of a federal drug crime case. Our founding partners, Jeff Greco and Dustan Neyland, have considerable experience working with prosecutors and as defense lawyers. They understand both sides of the system and can provide a personalized approach.

Drug crimes in Texas are not rare. According to statistical information gathered by the United States Sentencing Commission, drug crimes account for almost 18% of all crimes reported in Texas throughout 2023. According to additional statistics from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the drug abuse arrest rate in Texas in 2020 was 302.6 arrests per 100,000 people. Certain drug crimes are charged at the federal level and can result in harsher penalties. Your lawyer can help you fight them.

It’s reasonable to feel scared or overwhelmed by federal drug charges. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help during overwhelming situations, including facing drug charges. You may want to consider reaching out to one of many local mental health support groups, like Clearhope Counseling or NAMI Connection. Having someone to talk to about everything you’re going through can be greatly beneficial, especially if they have dealt with something similar.

Federal Drug Crime Laws and Penalties

Throughout the country, including Texas, federal drug crime laws are largely governed by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This piece of federal legislation places all controlled substances under various schedules in accordance with the substance’s accepted medical use, potential for abuse, and dependence liability. The higher the schedule, the higher the potential for abuse and the larger the penalties.

The penalties you can face for federal drug crimes are largely dependent on many different contributing factors. Every drug crime case is unique, as not every case involves the same factors. Here are some of the more common factors that may be a significant part of a federal drug crime case:

• Quantity and type: One of the most significant elements of your case that can influence the penalties you face is the type of drug you are caught with and the quantity of that drug in your possession. The larger the quantity, the harsher the sentence. You could end up facing penalties for drug trafficking or possession with intent to sell.
• Criminal history: If you have any prior convictions, especially ones connected to drug crimes, you may face harsher penalties than if you were a first-time offender. Even if your past convictions were for state-level crimes and not federal, you could still face harsher penalties for future charges.
• Your role: Not every role in a federal drug bust is treated the same. The penalties you face may largely be dependent on what your role in the operation was. Typically, leaders and organizers of drug operations are given harsher sentences than those with minor roles. If you had a minor role, you may be able to qualify for a sentence reduction in exchange for your cooperation.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Sentence for a Federal Drug Case?

A: The sentence you may receive in a federal drug case can be dependent on a number of contributing factors unique to your case. Certain factors that may contribute to your sentencing are the type and quantity of the drug in question, your past criminal history, certain mandatory minimum sentences for some offenses, and any aggravating factors at play.

Q: What Makes a Drug Case Go Federal?

A: There are many different key factors that can make a drug case turn into a federal case. One of the most common factors is the crossing of state lines. Whenever a crime crosses state lines, it becomes a federal case. Additionally, if the case involves larger quantities of drugs than normal, took place on federal property, or has ties to organized crime, it can involve certain federal agencies.

Q: What Are the Three Major Federal Drug Laws?

A: Generally, the three major federal drug laws that influence national policy the most are:

• Controlled Substances Act. This act regulates the manufacture, possession, and use of controlled substances nationwide.
• Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970. This act significantly restructured federal drug laws by addressing abuse through treatment and various law enforcement initiatives.
• Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986. This act increased penalties for federal drug crimes and established mandatory minimum sentences.

Q: What Is a Penalty for Violating Federal Drug Abuse Laws?

A: One of the penalties for violating federal drug abuse laws is a permanent felony record. Having a federal drug crime conviction on your record can make it considerably harder to obtain housing, jobs, and even maintain healthy personal relationships. Once a potential partner learns of your felony record, it can make them wary of being a part of your life.

Reach Out Today

At Greco Neyland, PC, we know the most effective ways to help you fight federal drug charges. Contact us today to speak to someone about your case.