- Stay Calm and Know Your Rights
At the Time of Arrest:
- Remain calm and do not resist arrest.
- Exercise your right to remain silent—anything you say can be used in court.
- You have the right to an attorney; request one immediately.
- Do not consent to searches unless a warrant is presented.
Important:
- Do not discuss your case with anyone but your attorney.
- Keep track of the details: time, place, and names of officers involved.
- Understand the Charges
Drug charges can vary widely based on:
- Type of substance (controlled substances are categorized by schedules)
- Amount possessed
- Intent (personal use vs. intent to distribute)
- Prior criminal history
Common charges include:
- Possession
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Manufacturing or trafficking
- Paraphernalia possession
Penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies, and consequences can include jail time, fines, probation, and mandatory treatment.
- Get Legal Representation
- Hire a criminal defense attorney with experience in drug cases.
- If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you.
- Your attorney will guide you through plea deals, diversion programs, or trial.
Ask your lawyer about:
- First-time offender programs
- Pre-trial diversion
- Expungement eligibility
- Treatment alternatives to incarceration
- Show the Court You're Serious About Change
Judges often consider proactive steps favorably. You can:
- Get a substance use assessment from a licensed provider
- Begin outpatient or inpatient treatment if appropriate
- Attend support groups (AA, NA, SMART Recovery, etc.)
- Start volunteering or participating in community service
- Maintain steady employment or school enrollment
- Stay clean and avoid new arrests
Document all efforts and bring proof to court.
- Understand the Legal Process
What to Expect:
- Arraignment – Enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Pretrial Hearings – May include motions or plea negotiations
- Trial – If you plead not guilty and your case proceeds
- Sentencing – If convicted or after a plea deal
Follow your attorney’s advice and show up to all court dates on time.
- Rebuilding After a Drug Charge
A drug charge doesn’t define your future. You can:
- Comply with probation conditions (check-ins, drug tests, curfew, etc.)
- Complete court-ordered classes or treatment
- Find stable housing and employment
- Repair relationships and build a support system
- Consider expungement or record sealing if eligible
Recovery and responsibility go hand in hand.
- How NexStep Can Support You
At NexStep, we provide holistic services to help you move forward:
- Court-ordered substance use assessments
- Outpatient counseling and recovery coaching
- Drug education and life skills classes
- Case management and advocacy for court
- Documentation for probation officers and judges
- Peer support groups and community connections
Whether it’s your first charge or part of a longer journey, we’re here to help you grow—not just get by.
- Additional Resources
- SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (24/7 treatment referrals)
- Local Legal Aid for help with expungement and criminal defense
- 211 Texas for housing, food, and employment resources
- Recovery Apps: Sober Grid, WEconnect, Reframe
Final Words
Facing a drug charge can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to define your life. With the right guidance, support, and mindset, this can be a turning point. At NexStep, we believe in second chances and walking with you every step of the way.
You have a future worth fighting for. Let’s take the next step together.