Defending Accused Persons Throughout Cameron County
In the state of Texas, drug charges are taken very seriously. Even relatively minor offenses can be harshly punished, and serious drug offenses can result in life sentences and six-figure fines. If you have been accused of a drug crime, contact our experienced drug crime attorneys as soon as possible. The quicker you contact an attorney, the more options you have for your defense. Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers has years of combined legal experience, fighting hard in the courtroom, and producing results.
Call us at (956) 368-0000 to begin discussing your case with a Brownsville drug crime lawyer during a consultation.
Types of Drug Charges We Handle
Our experienced Brownsville drug crime attorneys have successfully defended clients against a wide range of drug-related charges, including:
- Drug Possession: For substances like marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and prescription drugs without authorization.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute: Charges involving larger quantities of drugs or items like baggies, scales, and large sums of cash.
- Drug Trafficking and Distribution: High-stakes cases involving the transportation or sale of controlled substances.
- Manufacturing and Cultivation: Producing illegal substances such as methamphetamine or cultivating marijuana without proper licensing.
- Drug Paraphernalia Possession: Charges related to items like pipes, syringes, or rolling papers used with illegal drugs.
- Prescription Drug Fraud: Obtaining prescription medications through forgery or false representation.
Texas Controlled Substances Act
The war on drugs has been a widespread response to the issue of drug addiction, designed to scrutinize the use and sales of drugs in America. As a result, the majority of drug offenses can lead to significant fines and years in prison. The Texas Controlled Substances Act of 1973 was a response to drug use becoming more prevalent in the country. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) thus categorizes drugs into different well-known schedules.
The following are the schedules for drugs:
Penalty Group 1 : High Risk of Abuse
Drugs or substances that have no currently accepted medical use in the United States and have a high potential for abuse. There are no over-the-counter medications available that are coincidentally associated with such List I substances.
Such substances maintain a high risk of dependency on the individual. Heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), peyote, N-ethyl-3-piperidyl benzilate, and gamma hydroxybutyric acid all fall under Schedule I.
Penalty Group 2 : High Risk of Abuse
Drugs or substances that: have a high potential for abuse; have a currently accepted medical use or treatment with severe restrictions; and have a potential for severe psychological and physical dependency. Opioids, such as hydrocodone and morphine, and their respective salts all fall under this regulation.
Stimulants, such as methamphetamine, also fall under this class.
Penalty Group 3
Drugs or substances that have a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. Substance containing less than 15 milligrams of hydrocodone per dose unit (Vicodin), products containing not more than 90 milligrams of codeine per dose unit (Tylenol w/codeine), ketamine phenobarbital, and anabolic steroids are categorized under Schedule III.
Penalty Group 4: Low Risk of Abuse
Drugs or substances that are less dangerous than those substances listed in Schedule III and have a low potential for abuse. Xanax, Soma, Darvon, Darvocet, Valium, Ativan, Talwin, Ambien, and other similar substances fall under this category.
Building a Strong Defense
At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we employ proven strategies tailored to your specific case. These may include:
- Challenging Evidence: Examining how evidence was collected and whether your rights were violated during a search or arrest.
- Proving Lack of Knowledge: Demonstrating you were unaware of the presence of the controlled substance.
- Disputing Intent: Arguing against claims of intent to distribute or traffic drugs.
- Exploring Diversion Programs: Negotiating for alternatives such as rehabilitation or pre-trial diversion programs for first-time offenders.
Why Choose Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers?
- Experienced Representation: Our Brownsville drug attorneys have deep knowledge of both state and federal drug laws.
- Personalized Approach: We develop customized defense strategies to fit your case’s unique circumstances.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We fight relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or courtroom litigation.
Contact Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers Today
Don’t face drug crime charges alone. Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers are here to provide the aggressive and knowledgeable defense you need. Let us fight to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Call us at (956) 368-0000 to begin discussing your case with a Brownsville drug crime lawyer during a case consultation.
Cameron County, Texas Drug Crime FAQs
What is the difference between possession and trafficking charges in Cameron County?
Possession involves having a controlled substance for personal use, while trafficking refers to selling, distributing, or transporting drugs. Trafficking carries more severe penalties.
In Cameron County, can I be charged for drugs found in a shared space, like a car or apartment?
Yes, but the prosecution must prove you had knowledge and control over the drugs. We can challenge this evidence to protect your rights.
Are there alternatives to jail for first-time offenders in Cameron County?
Yes, Texas offers diversion programs such as drug treatment or probation for eligible first-time offenders. We can help you explore these options.
Can a drug conviction in Cameron County be removed from my record?
Some convictions may qualify for expungement or record sealing under Texas law. Our attorneys can assess your case for eligibility.
How does federal involvement affect my drug case in Cameron County?
Federal charges typically involve larger quantities of drugs or trafficking across state lines. Penalties are more severe, and federal cases require experienced legal defense.
Resources for Drug Crime Defense in Brownsville, TX
To help you navigate a drug charge in Brownsville and Cameron County, Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers has compiled the top local and state resources for criminal defense, court records, legal aid, and diversion programs:
Law Enforcement & Court Records
• Brownsville Police Department – Non-emergency line: (956) 548‑6000;
• Brownsville Municipal Court – Dockets, payments,
• Cameron County District Clerk – Access and file criminal case records
Statewide Criminal Procedure & Records
• Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal history and fingerprinting services
• Texas Legislature Online – Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, including rules on drug possession and search
• Texas Judicial Branch – Court rules, self‑help guides, and local court locators
Legal Aid & Criminal Defense
• Rio Grande Legal Aid – Free or low‑cost defense for qualifying residents
• Texas Defender Services – Training, resources, and referrals for defense attorneys
• Cameron County Bar Association – Find experienced Brownsville criminal defense lawyers
Treatment, Diversion & Support
• Texas Health and Human Services – Certified substance use treatment and pretrial diversion programs
• Cameron County Pretrial Services – Diversion eligibility, risk assessment, and bond supervision
How to Use These Resources
- Report your arrest and obtain the official report from Brownsville PD or court clerk.
- Review criminal history and procedural rules to understand your rights and timelines.
- Contact Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers at (210) 893‑0000 for a free consultation.
- Explore treatment or diversion programs to strengthen your defense and minimize consequences.
Bookmark this page and share it with others facing drug charges in Brownsville. For aggressive, trial‑ready defense and local knowlege, call Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers at (210) 893‑0000—available 24/7.
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We’ll review every detail of your case
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Not just support staff.
Comprehensive Personal Injury Legal Solutions in Brownsville
When a commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the damage is rarely minor. These are high-impact, high-consequence events—often leaving victims with severe injuries, long-term medical needs, and overwhelming financial stress. Lives can change in an instant, and recovering what you’ve lost isn’t something that happens automatically.
At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we represent individuals and families across Texas who have suffered injury or loss due to trucking accidents involving 18-wheelers, dump trucks, cement mixers, delivery fleets, and other commercial vehicles.
These aren’t simple fender benders. Trucking companies and their insurers move quickly to minimize liability, shift blame, and protect their bottom line. As trial attorneys with backgrounds in both plaintiff litigation and insurance defense, we know the tactics they use and how to defeat them.
Call Our Experienced Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Attorneys
Whether facing a criminal charge or dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury, our attorneys will fight for you every step of the way. Retaining a skilled attorney is vital to safeguarding your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.
For personal injury victims, the journey to recovery can be daunting. Health complications, disability, and lifestyle changes can negatively impact you and your loved ones. Our mission is to seek the compensation you deserve, and alleviate financial burdens, so you can focus on your recovery.