First Court Date for Drug Possession in Texas: What to Expect

A drug possession charge is enough to rock anyone’s world, as not only can drug offenses carry serious penalties should an individual be found guilty, but they also leave lasting effects on a person’s reputation, ability to secure employment, and day-to-day quality of life. The anxiety that comes with such a daunting predicament has the power to jeopardize your future, so it’s important that you first educate yourself on the next steps that lie ahead, and then hire a seasoned, proven criminal defense attorney to ensure no effort is spared.

What Is an Arraignment?

Once you’ve already gone through the arrest and booking stages, you’ll receive a notice of arraignment by mail if you didn’t already receive one at the time of your arrest. A critical step in the legal process, the arraignment is your first court hearing,

This step will begin with the judge reading the specific charges against you, then he or she will ask you to enter a plea of “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” Consulting with an attorney before making this decision is paramount, as it’s the most significant choice you’ll make throughout your entire case. 

Next, the judge may set bail, which entirely depends on the details of your case—the severity of the charge, any criminal history, and so on. Your attorney can argue on your behalf for the judge to set a more favorable bail amount or conditions. The court will then schedule future dates for your case, including pretrial hearings, motions, and the trial itself. But whatever you do, make sure to stay organized and punctual, as not complying with bail conditions or attending required court appearances can lead to further legal complications.

How to Prepare

First and foremost, the first thing you need to do is hire a dependable criminal defense attorney. The legal maze is disorienting, so having someone knowledgeable in your corner to give advice, break down the specifics of the charges and their attached range of penalties, develop a strategy for the best outcome, and represent you in court is a must. This is your future at stake, so don’t try to take any shortcuts. 

Next, with the help of your attorney, gather any relevant documents or evidence that may support your case—medical records, prescriptions, character references, or anything else that could help mitigate the charges or demonstrate your innocence.

And finally, dress appropriately. Presenting yourself in a respectful, positive manner can only have a positive influence on the judge’s perception of you.