Attorney
Being charged with drug trafficking in Texas is one of the most serious criminal accusations you can face. Although “Drug Trafficking” is the colloquial term, Texas Law refers to it as manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent. In Fort Worth and throughout Tarrant County, prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, and convictions carry severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and steep fines.
However, being charged does not automatically mean you will be convicted. With the right defense strategy, it is sometimes possible to have drug trafficking charges reduced or even dismissed entirely. At Daniel Collins Law, we focus on building strong, strategic defenses for clients facing serious drug crimes in Fort Worth.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Texas
In Texas, drug trafficking involves the manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver controlled substances. The severity of the charge depends on:
- The type of drug (for example, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, or THC products)
- The quantity involved
- Any prior criminal history
- Aggravating factors, such as the involvement of minors or the use of weapons
Because drug trafficking often falls under both state and federal jurisdiction, penalties can be especially harsh.
Defense Strategies That May Lead to Dismissal
To achieve a dismissal, your defense attorney must carefully analyze every detail of your case. Common defense strategies include:
- Challenging the legality of the stop and search: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, any evidence obtained may be excluded, weakening the prosecution’s case.
- Questioning probable cause: Officers must have a valid reason to stop your vehicle, search your property, or arrest you. Without probable cause, charges may not hold.
- Attacking the chain of custody: Evidence must be properly handled and documented. Any gaps or errors can cast doubt on the reliability of the evidence.
- Lack of intent to distribute: Prosecutors must prove that you intended to sell or distribute the drugs, not just possess them. Demonstrating a lack of intent can reduce or dismiss charges.
- Lab testing and identification errors: Drugs must be tested by a certified lab. Errors in testing or misidentification of substances can lead to dismissal.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement pressured or coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have committed, this may form the basis of a defense.
Each case is unique, which is why a tailored defense strategy is essential.
How the Dismissal Process Works
Dismissals do not happen automatically; they must be fought for. Typically, the process involves:
- Investigation of the arrest and evidence: Your attorney examines police reports, witness statements, and lab results.
- Filing pretrial motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges can be powerful tools for weakening the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: If the evidence is weak, prosecutors may agree to drop or reduce charges.
- Court hearings: A judge will review motions and arguments to determine whether the charges can proceed.
By aggressively challenging the prosecution’s case at every stage, your lawyer can increase the chances of dismissal or a significant reduction of charges.
FAQs About Drug Trafficking Dismissals in Texas
Can drug trafficking charges really be dismissed in Texas?
Yes. While not common, charges can be dismissed if evidence was obtained unlawfully, if prosecutors lack sufficient evidence, or if pretrial motions succeed.
Will I automatically go to prison for drug trafficking in Fort Worth?
No. Prison is possible, but dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing may also be options with the right defense strategy.
What if the drugs weren’t mine?
Prosecutors must prove possession and intent. If your attorney can show a lack of knowledge or ownership, it may weaken the case against you.
How long does it take to get charges dismissed?
It depends on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule. Some dismissals happen early in the process, while others take months.
Do federal charges change the process?
Yes. Federal trafficking cases carry harsher penalties and require a defense attorney with experience handling both state and federal courts.
Why You Need a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney
Drug trafficking charges in Fort Worth require a defense attorney who understands both Texas drug laws and local court procedures. Attempting to face these charges without skilled representation can leave you vulnerable to the harshest penalties.
At Daniel Collins Law, we bring more than 15 years of criminal defense experience to every case. We know how to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, protect your constitutional rights, and pursue every avenue for dismissal.
Take Action Immediately
If you or a loved one has been arrested for drug trafficking in Fort Worth or Tarrant County, time is critical. The earlier you involve an experienced defense lawyer, the stronger your chances of having charges reduced—or dismissed altogether.
Contact Daniel Collins Law today for a confidential consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and begin building the aggressive defense you need.