Houston Criminal Defense Blog

There is a persistent myth surrounding domestic violence. The media has — falsely — claimed for many years that domestic violence peaks around the holidays. This is not supported by evidence and actually does further harm to the victims, as domestic violence occurs year round.

Which is not to say that incidents of domestic violence don't ebb and flow in relationships. They do, based on myriad factors unique to the relationships.

When it comes to physical altercations, there is a lot of confusion among citizens in Texas regarding what criminal charges and penalties apply. Each situation is unique. However, the Texas Penal Code has clear rules regarding which charges individuals may face after a fight or similar situation.

Assault is the most common charge to result from a physical altercation. Of course, assault is a relatively broad term, which often includes verbal threats and physically threatening or intimidating behavior. The courts may consider any kind of unwanted physical contact assault.

A drug possession charge is a big deal, as a conviction is sure to alter your life both now and in the future. Depending on the severity of your crime, a conviction could result in a large fine, community service and/or prison time.

While there is no surefire way of knowing what will happen when your day in court arrives, it's important to note that there are several drug possession defense strategies you can employ. It's important to understand your options, including which one gives you the best chance of preventing a conviction.

• Unlawful search and seizure: The Fourth Amendment protects you against unlawful search and seizure, so this is something to think about should you come under arrest for any type of drug possession crime.
• The drugs aren't mine: It may be one of the more difficult strategies to employ, but it's possible you can prove that the drugs were not yours. Doing so will remove you from the line of fire, thus allowing you to avoid a conviction.
• Entrapment: You understand that police are permitted by law to set up sting operations with the idea of catching people who are breaking the law. However, law enforcement officials are not permitted to induce a suspect to commit a crime. Known as entrapment, you can use this defense strategy to prove your innocence.
• Planted drugs: It's not the easiest thing to prove, but with the right approach, you may be able to show the court that drugs were planted with the idea of making an arrest. In many cases, it will take one officer blowing the whistle on another for you to have the evidence you require to proceed with this strategy.

While much focus in the news has lately been on the deadly nature of opioid drugs, it's important to realize that Houston is still reeling from the scourge of methamphetamine-related deaths.

In fact, as reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS), there were more than 400 meth-related deaths in the state in 2014, a number that had been steadily rising since 2008. Those numbers won't abate unless and until the production of meth is eradicated.