Drug Charge in Texarkana? Experienced Drug Defense Attorney on Your Side

Drug arrests happen in all walks of life—students, working parents, professionals, and visitors passing through Texarkana. Whether you’re accused of possessing a small amount of marijuana or facing serious allegations like distribution or trafficking, a conviction can derail your plans and your future.


As a Texarkana drug possession lawyer, Anderson Law Firm defends clients in both Texas and Arkansas against a wide range of narcotics charges. We work to get charges dismissed when possible, to reduce felonies to misdemeanors, and to pursue alternatives to jail such as treatment or diversion programs when the circumstances allow.

Types of Drug Cases We Handle

Drug cases vary widely in seriousness, but all deserve a careful defense. We represent clients charged with:


  • Simple possession of marijuana or other controlled substances


  • Possession of controlled substances in Penalty Groups or Schedules (such as methamphetamine, cocaine, prescription medications, opioids, and other narcotics)


  • Possession with intent to deliver or distribute, including cases involving baggies, scales, or larger quantities


  • Drug manufacturing allegations, including labs, grow operations, and pill-related offenses


  • Prescription fraud, doctor shopping, and related prescription cases


  • Delivery or distribution of controlled substances, including alleged sales near schools or other protected areas


Whether your case involves street drugs, prescription medications, or alleged trafficking, we treat it as a serious threat to your freedom and your record.

Texas & Arkansas Drug Laws – Why Local Knowledge Matters

Texarkana sits on the Texas–Arkansas border, and the two states approach drug crimes differently. The exact charge and potential penalties depend on the type of drug, the amount, and any prior record.


In general:


  • Texas organizes many drugs into “penalty groups,” and even relatively small amounts of certain substances can lead to felony charges with significant prison exposure.


  • Arkansas classifies drugs by schedules and weights, with penalties that increase as the amount and seriousness of the substance increase.



  • Both states treat certain factors—like distribution to minors, possession near schools or public housing, or involvement of firearms—as aggravating circumstances that can enhance penalties.


Because Anderson Law Firm is licensed in Texas and Arkansas, we understand how each state’s classification system works, how prosecutors typically charge cases in Bowie and Miller Counties, and what strategies are most effective in each court system.

How We Defend Drug Possession and Distribution Cases

A drug charge is not automatic proof of guilt. Many cases can be significantly improved—or even won—by attacking the way evidence was obtained or how the state is trying to connect that evidence to you. Our defense approach often includes:

Challenging the Stop and Search

Reviewing whether officers had a legitimate reason to stop your vehicle, approach you, or enter your home; examining whether consent was valid; and challenging searches that exceeded legal limits. If a stop or search was unlawful, key evidence may be suppressed.

Questioning “Possession” Itself

An arrest does not automatically mean the drugs were legally in your possession. We examine where the substances were found, who had access to the area, and whether the state can prove you knew about the drugs and had control over them.

Attacking Intent to Deliver Allegations

In cases involving baggies, scales, or cash, prosecutors often charge “intent to distribute” or trafficking. We challenge assumptions about intent and require the state to prove more than just proximity or association.

Reviewing Lab Testing and Chain of Custody

We analyze lab reports for errors, delays, or inadequate documentation. Breaks in the chain of custody or questionable handling of substances can weaken the state’s proof that the seized material is what they claim it is.

Negotiating for Reductions or Alternatives

When dismissal is not realistic, we look for ways to reduce felonies to misdemeanors, avoid jail time, and protect your record through probation, treatment-based options, or deferred outcomes where available.

First-Time Offenders, Youthful Clients, and Drug Court Options

Many people facing a drug charge have never been in trouble before. Others may be dealing with addiction and need help, not just punishment. Courts in and around Texarkana recognize this in various ways, including:


  • Diversion or first-offender programs for certain low-level drug cases



  • Specialty “drug courts” or treatment-focused dockets that emphasize rehabilitation


  • Conditional discharge or deferred outcomes that can reduce the impact on your record if you successfully complete the program requirements


We explore whether you may qualify for these options and, if so, help you present your case in a way that emphasizes treatment, stability, and a commitment to moving forward. For minors and young adults, we also consider how juvenile court or youthful offender options might protect future opportunities.

Drug Charges FAQ

  • Will I go to jail for a first offense drug possession in Texas or Arkansas?

    Jail is a possibility in both states, but it is not inevitable. Much depends on the type of drug, the amount, your prior record, and the specific county where you are charged. For many first-time simple possession cases, probation or other alternatives may be available, especially if you are proactive about treatment and legal representation. Our job is to push for the outcome that keeps you out of jail whenever the law and facts allow.

  • What are the penalties for drug possession?

    Penalties range from fines and short jail terms for lower-level misdemeanors to lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines for more serious felonies. The severity is influenced by the drug category, quantity, presence of weapons, proximity to schools or children, and prior convictions. We review the exact statute you are charged under and explain the realistic penalty range for your specific case.

  • Can drug charges be dropped or reduced?

    In some cases, yes. Drug charges may be reduced or dismissed when evidence is suppressed, witnesses are unreliable, or when treatment and other mitigating factors support a more lenient outcome. We regularly negotiate with prosecutors for charge reductions, diversions, and more favorable plea agreements, and we are prepared to take a case to trial if that is the best path.

  • Do I really need a lawyer for a small amount of marijuana or other drugs?

    Even a “small” case can leave you with a permanent record and consequences that go far beyond a fine. Employers, landlords, schools, and licensing boards may all see a drug conviction on a background check. A lawyer can often work to avoid a conviction, keep the charge off your record when possible, or minimize penalties. For non-citizens, even minor drug convictions can create serious immigration problems, which makes legal representation especially important.

  • What is drug court, and could I be eligible in the Texarkana area?

    Drug court is a specialty court or program that focuses on treatment and supervision instead of traditional punishment. Participants typically agree to regular testing, counseling, and court check-ins in exchange for the possibility of reduced charges or dismissal upon successful completion. Eligibility depends on the type of charge, your record, and local program rules. We can help determine whether a drug court or similar program is available in your case and advocate for your participation if it is in your best interest.

  • Will this drug charge show up on background checks forever?

    Without relief, many drug convictions do appear on future background checks. Depending on the state, type of offense, and outcome, there may be options later to seal, expunge, or limit access to your record. While those remedies are not guaranteed and often have waiting periods, we keep future record-cleaning possibilities in mind when advising you about plea options now.

Confidential, Judgment-Free Drug Defense in Texarkana

Being charged with a drug offense can feel embarrassing and isolating. Remember that you are presumed innocent, and you have rights in both Texas and Arkansas courts. You deserve a legal team that treats you with respect, keeps your information confidential, and focuses on solutions rather than judgment.



Anderson Law Firm is ready to review your case, explain what you are really facing, and start building a strategy to protect your freedom and your future.