Depending on the penalty group and class of offense of a drug conviction, you may make payments and complete your sentence in a few months. However, the penalties don’t necessarily end with those imposed by a Texas court. You may find that a felony on your record prevents you from achieving your life goals.
Penalty Group 2 includes the following controlled substances: amphetamines, such as Adderall and Vyvanse, THC oil/wax and MDMA. According to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice, you may receive a prison sentence of up to 99 years and have fines up to $50,000 for a Texas felony drug conviction.
Direct consequences of a drug conviction
The penalties imposed by your conviction depend on a variety of factors, including the controlled substance, its weight, previous criminal record and aggravating factors. If your conviction also includes intent to distribute or enhancements such as theft or assault, the penalties may be more severe. The punishment and penalties handed down by the court are only the direct consequences of your conviction.
Collateral consequences of a felony drug conviction
Collateral consequences are the regulatory and legal restrictions and limit your civil liberties and prohibit you from accessing opportunities previously available. They may include the following:
- Loss of voting rights
- Prohibition on owning firearms, fireworks or hunting gear
- Ineligibility for certain state or federal jobs
- Loss of drivers’ license
- Inability to travel out of the United States
- Ineligibility for certain federal student loans and housing
These consequences can affect you even if you accept a plea deal or have no jail time. Not all drug charges result in a felony conviction. Depending on your case, you may get the charges reduced or dismissed. Understanding the nuances of the law is critical for minimizing the long-term consequences and help you move forward with your life.