Fort Worth Ecstasy Defense Lawyer

What is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, remains one of the most popular recreational drugs in the world despite its illegal status worldwide. The Dallas/Fort Worth area ranks well above the national average in emergency room visits related to club drugs such as Ecstasy. While most of the MDMA continues to be manufactured in Europe there is an increase in this drug's production in Mexico. As we are located in an active drug trafficking corridor this leads to a higher availability sale and use which in turn leads to a much higher level of law enforcement to stem its distribution and use.

What is the Punishment for Simple Possession of Ecstasy or MDMA?

If you have arrested and charged with simple possession of Ecstasy (MDMA) then the punishments under the Texas Health and Safety Code, Section 481, are based upon weight:

• Possession of under a 1 gram is a state felony, which carries a mandatory minimum of 180 days and a maximum of 2 years in county jail. The fines can go up to $10,000.
• Possession of 1 gram and up to 4 grams becomes a 3^rd degree felony. This carries a mandatory 2 year term and can go up to 10 years. The fines can go up to $10,000.
• Possession of 4 grams and up to 400 grams becomes a 2^nd degree felony. This has a mandatory 2 year sentence but can go up to 20 years. The fines can go up to $10,000.
• Possession of 400 grams or more carries a mandatory 5 year term but can be given up to life imprisonment.

What is the Punishment for Possession of Ecstasy (MDMA) with Intent to Distribute?

Under Texas Health and Safety Code, Section 481, the penalties become stiffer if manufacturing MDMA or the intent to distribute is deemed to be present. The main difference is that the minimum mandatory terms become longer.

For example:

• Under a 1 gram is a state felony and its punishment remains as above.
• For an amount of 1 gram up to 4 grams the maximum term can go up to 20 years.
• From 4 grams to up to 400 grams becomes a 1^st degree felony and the minimum term is 5 years and the maximum can be life imprisonment.
• At 400 grams or more the minimum mandatory term becomes 10 years.