Being charged with drug manufacturing in Texas is an incredibly serious matter. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, and a conviction could result in decades in prison, steep fines, and permanent damage to your reputation and future. Even if you never completed the manufacturing process, you can still be charged based on possession of certain chemicals or equipment with the intent to produce controlled substances.
At Daniel Collins Law, we understand the high stakes involved in drug manufacturing cases. With over 15 years of experience in criminal defense in Fort Worth and Tarrant County, we provide strategic and aggressive representation for clients facing these complex and often misunderstood charges.
What Is Drug Manufacturing Under Texas Law?
In Texas, drug manufacturing refers to the production, preparation, compounding, conversion, or processing of controlled substances, either directly or indirectly. This includes:
- Growing marijuana
- Operating a meth lab
- Extracting THC from cannabis plants
- Converting precursor chemicals into illegal drugs
- Packaging or labeling illegal substances for distribution
The law also considers individuals guilty of manufacturing if they possess the chemical precursors or equipment necessary for drug production, along with evidence of intent to use them illegally.
Drug manufacturing is covered under the Texas Health & Safety Code § 481, and the severity of the charge depends largely on the type of drug involved and the quantity.
Common Drug Manufacturing Charges in Fort Worth
Law enforcement agencies throughout Fort Worth and Tarrant County frequently bring manufacturing charges related to:
- Methamphetamine (meth labs, possession of pseudoephedrine or anhydrous ammonia)
- THC oil or concentrates (extraction labs, possession of butane or processing tools)
- LSD or MDMA production
- Synthetic drugs or pills pressed with illicit substances
- Marijuana grow operations (hydroponic or otherwise)
You do not need to be caught “in the act” to be charged. Police may arrest you based on possession of lab equipment, chemicals, or other materials if they believe you intended to use them to produce drugs.
Penalties for Drug Manufacturing in Texas
Drug manufacturing charges are prosecuted as felonies in almost all cases. Penalties depend on the drug’s Penalty Group classification and the weight or quantity involved.
For example, under Penalty Group 1 (which includes meth, cocaine, and heroin):
- Less than one gram: State jail felony (six months to two years)
- One to four grams: Third-degree felony (two to 10 years)
- Four to 200 grams: Second-degree felony (two to 20 years)
- 200 to 400 grams: First-degree felony (five to 99 years or life)
- Over 400 grams: Enhanced first-degree felony (10 to 99 years or life, fines up to $100,000)
If you’re accused of manufacturing drugs near a school, playground, or youth center, enhanced penalties may apply. Federal charges may also come into play, especially for large-scale operations or interstate activity.
Defending Against Drug Manufacturing Charges
At Daniel Collins Law, we build custom defense strategies based on the facts of your case and the way law enforcement handled the investigation. Defenses to drug manufacturing charges may include:
- Unlawful search and seizure: If your rights were violated during a search of your home, car, or property, any evidence found may be suppressed.
- Lack of intent: You may have had chemicals or tools for lawful purposes unrelated to drug manufacturing.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove that you had the intent and capability to manufacture illegal drugs.
- False accusations or mistaken identity: We investigate whether you were wrongly identified or linked to the crime through unreliable testimony.
- Lack of knowledge: If you were unaware of the drug manufacturing activity occurring on your property, this can be a valid defense.
Our goal is always to have the charges reduced, dismissed, or defeated at trial. We will fight to protect your freedom and your future every step of the way.
Why Choose Daniel Collins Law?
Clients across Fort Worth and Tarrant County turn to Daniel Collins Law because we offer:
- Over 15 years of focused criminal defense experience
- A deep understanding of Texas drug laws and local court procedures
- One-on-one attention and direct access to your attorney
- A track record of results in complex felony drug cases
When your future is on the line, you deserve a legal team that treats your case with urgency, skill, and personal care. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start building your defense.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Future
If you’ve been charged with drug manufacturing in Fort Worth, the consequences can be devastating, but you still have options. The sooner you involve an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of fighting the charges and moving forward with your life.
Contact Daniel Collins Law today for a confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and create a plan to defend you against even the most serious drug allegations.