If you’ve been arrested for drug possession in Pasadena, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and your future. Texas takes drug crimes seriously, and a conviction can lead to long-term consequences—such as a permanent criminal record, jail time, and even immigration problems for non-citizens.
At Ceja Law Firm, we help clients throughout Pasadena and Harris County fight drug possession charges strategically and effectively. Whether you were charged with marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, or prescription drugs, we work to get your charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved in a way that protects your record.
Why Hire Ceja Law Firm?
Attorney Jose Ceja is a former prosecutor who is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization—an achievement earned by fewer than 5% of Texas attorneys. Mr. Ceja is also recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer. He has successfully defended hundreds of drug possession cases in Harris County, including many arising out of Pasadena.
We understand the legal, personal, and immigration consequences that drug charges can bring—especially for first-time offenders and members of the Hispanic community. Our firm offers strategic, discreet, and client-focused representation at every stage of your case.
Common Drug Possession Charges in Pasadena
Drug possession charges in Pasadena often involve the following substances:
Although attitudes toward marijuana have changed across the country, possession of any amount remains illegal in Texas. Even possession of under two ounces is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by jail time and a fine. However, many marijuana cases can be resolved through dismissal or pre-trial diversion, especially for first-time offenders.
Possession of cocaine—even in small amounts—is a felony under Texas law. A person caught with less than one gram can face state jail felony charges, which carry up to two years in jail. Defending cocaine cases often involves challenging the search, the evidence, or proving lack of knowledge or intent.
Meth charges are aggressively prosecuted in Harris County. Methamphetamine is classified as a penalty group 1 drug, meaning that possession of even a trace amount is a felony. These cases often involve traffic stops or searches of homes, and there may be Fourth Amendment defenses available if police acted unlawfully.
Possession of ecstasy is also a felony in Texas, regardless of amount. Many ecstasy arrests happen during traffic stops or at festivals and parties. If your rights were violated during the stop or search, or if the drugs weren’t actually yours, we may be able to challenge the charges and seek a dismissal.
Consequences of a Drug Possession Conviction
The penalties for drug possession vary depending on the type of substance, amount, and your criminal history. Consequences may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- Permanent criminal record
- Loss of employment or professional licenses
- Immigration consequences, including deportation or denial of legal status
- Ineligibility for housing or federal financial aid
Even a misdemeanor marijuana conviction can seriously affect your future. That’s why it’s critical to get an experienced defense attorney involved right away.
Defenses to Drug Possession Charges
At Ceja Law Firm, we build your defense based on a detailed review of the facts, police conduct, and available evidence. Common legal defenses include:
- Illegal stop or search – The arrest may be invalid if police violated your constitutional rights
- Lack of knowledge – You didn’t know the drugs were present in your car, home, or belongings
- Insufficient evidence – Weak or circumstantial evidence can be challenged
- Chain of custody issues – Evidence must be properly handled and tested
Many drug cases in Pasadena can be resolved through dismissal, pre-trial intervention, or reduction to a lesser charge—especially when legal or factual issues are identified early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Possession Charges in Pasadena, TX
Can I be arrested for a very small amount of drugs?
Yes. In Texas, even a trace amount of substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, or ecstasy can result in felony charges. Pasadena police and Harris County prosecutors routinely file charges for less than one gram of a controlled substance.
What if I didn’t know the drugs were in my car or bag?
The State must prove that you knowingly and intentionally possessed the drugs. If someone else had access to the area where they were found, we may be able to argue that you weren’t legally in possession.
Can I be prosecuted if the drugs weren’t mine?
Yes. In Texas, you can be charged with drug possession even if the drugs didn’t belong to you—as long as the State believes it can prove you had “care, custody, or control” over them. However, we may be able to challenge the charge by showing you didn’t know the drugs were present or didn’t have access to them. These types of cases often come down to who else had access to the area and whether the State can prove actual or constructive possession.
Can I be deported for a drug possession charge?
Yes. A drug conviction can have serious immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of permanent residency, or loss of DACA status. Even some dismissed cases may affect immigration if not handled correctly. We take these risks seriously and tailor your defense accordingly.
Where will my case be handled if I was arrested in Pasadena?
- Misdemeanors may be filed in Pasadena Municipal Court
- Felonies and some misdemeanors are prosecuted in Harris County Criminal Courts located in downtown Houston
We handle cases in both court systems and are familiar with how prosecutors and judges handle drug offenses in each.
What happens if this is my first offense?
You may qualify for:
- Pre-trial intervention (PTI)
- Deferred adjudication
- Dismissal through motions or plea negotiations
These options can help you avoid a conviction and, in many cases, protect or clear your record.
Can I get my drug arrest off my record?
If your case is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may be eligible for an expunction, which permanently removes the arrest from your record. If you complete deferred adjudication, you may qualify for a non-disclosure, which seals the case from most background checks.
Do I still need a lawyer if I already admitted to having the drugs?
Yes. Confessions don’t automatically lead to convictions. We may be able to challenge how the confession was obtained, suppress evidence from an illegal search, or find weaknesses in the case that could lead to dismissal or reduction of charges.
Arrested for Drug Possession in Pasadena? Call Ceja Law Firm Today.
If you’ve been charged with drug possession in Pasadena, don’t face the system alone. Ceja Law Firm offers free, confidential consultations and will work to protect your rights, your record, and your future. Whether this is your first arrest or you’ve been through the system before, we’re ready to help.
