What to Do if Your Child Is Charged with a Drug Crime in Texas

The teen years are marked by increased curiosity and a desire to experiment. Many teens also fall victim to peer pressure, which may lure them to drugs and alcohol. If your child was recently arrested for drug possession, manufacturing, trafficking, or any related crime, make sure you take the right course of action to ensure one mistake doesn’t deride a promising future.

Here are the things you must do if your child is charged with a drug crime in Texas:

1. Stay Plugged In

As a parent, you need to understand what your child is going through and participate in the decision-making process. Consult an experienced lawyer who specializes in drug crimes. Understand the ins and outs of the case and what your child’s options are. Your child needs support, reassurance, and guidance. Make sure you fully understand the process, the legal ramifications of the case, and the different options before your child so that you can provide wise counsel to them as well.

Under Texas law, drug crimes are classified as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors refer only to possessing small quantities of prescription drugs or marijuana. Drug crimes of a more serious nature are classified as felonies. If your child commits a misdemeanor drug crime, they could face various penalties, including probation or maybe even jail time. Be careful, speak with your lawyer, do your own research, and stay informed.

Recommended Read: Penalties for Juvenile Drug Possession in Texas

2. Don’t Castigate Your Child

Like you have probably done, your child has made a mistake. They’re likely under a lot of pressure or they simply weren’t thinking. As a parent, avoid placing even more pressure on them. Yes, help your child understand where they messed up, but make sure you’re there for them.

Don’t chastise them. Your child is already feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, and frustrated with themself. If you add to these feelings, their mental health will suffer immensely. Be considerate, not cold. Your child needs you the most right now.

3. Be Rigorous When Looking for a Lawyer

Your child’s future and freedom are at stake. A conviction could either bar them from the university of their choice or get them kicked off campus. If your child committed a serious drug crime, they might be incarcerated. Make sure you take your time and find a qualified, experienced, and detail-oriented criminal defense attorney who can build a strong, effective defense.

Attorney JL Carpenter has extensive experience in successfully handling juvenile drug possession cases. JL’s practice areas also include DWI, domestic violence, family violence, and BWI, among others. She also has children herself and understands firsthand the challenges that parents face.

JL serves clients across the Greater Houston area, including in Friendswood, Clear Lake, League City, Galveston, and Webster, among other areas. Click here to contact her today.