Synthetic Marijuana Facts and Penalties in Texas

In September 2011, the Texas legislature amended the Texas Controlled Substance Act by making synthetic marijuana and "bath salts" illegal in the state. Called a "designer drug," synthetic marijuana is made up of natural herbs which are sprayed with synthetic chemicals. These chemicals mimic the effects of marijuana. The drug has various names, such as Spice, K2, and is often called herbal incense. Bath salts are also a synthetic drug, a cocaine-like synthetic with exotic street names as well. Possession of both synthetic marijuana and bath salts is a crime in Texas which can lead to criminal charges such as possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute, as well as drug manufacturing.

Possession of synthetic marijuana is classified in Penalty Group 2-A which can be charged as a Class B misdemeanor all the way up to a felony, depending on the amount of drug involved. As a Class B misdemeanor, it carries penalties of up to 180 days in jail and / or a fine of up to $2,000. If charged as a Class A misdemeanor, the penalties increase to up to a year in jail with fines of up to $4,000. When charged as a state jail felony of drug possession, it is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and / or fines of up to $10,000. A third-degree felony of drug possession is punishable by a prison sentence of two to 10 years with fines of up to $10,000. When charged as a second-degree felony of drug possession, it carries penalties of two to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Finally, a first-degree felony of drug possession is punishable by five to 99 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000.

Drug Crime Defense Attorney in Houston

As seen above, being convicted for possession of synthetic marijuana is a serious matter in Texas. As these drugs continue to make news in regards to the harmful, often psychotic effects they create, law enforcement is increasingly driven to identify and punish those who violate controlled substances laws related to them. Retaining the services of a qualified attorney who will fight the charges is imperative for those who wish to obtain the best case results. Individuals arrested and charged with this drug crime or any other drug offense in the Houston area can turn to Mark Morasch, Attorney at Law.

As a former prosecutor for six years, Mr. Morasch has keen insight into how prosecutors operate and develop cases. This gives his clients an added advantage when it comes to creating viable legal strategies in drug defense. If you are facing drug charges or if you are under a criminal investigation into illegal drug activity, you should contact his offices immediately to get the skilled legal guidance you need. His firm is available 24/7 to answer your call. Schedule a consultation to find out what you are up against and how Mr. Morasch and his legal team can help you.