Don't Let a "Ticket" Ruin Your Record.
In Austin and other Texas cities, police may issue a citation for marijuana instead of arresting you. Be careful: This is NOT just a traffic ticket. It is a criminal drug charge that requires a strong legal defense to keep off your permanent record.
Actor Portrayal
Main Content: The "Cite and Release" Trap
Texas law has evolved. Many counties now use a “Cite and Release” policy for low-level marijuana possession (under 4 oz). Instead of taking you to jail, the officer gives you a piece of paper that looks like a speeding ticket and a court date.
Do not be misled.
Legally, you have been arrested and charged with a Class B Misdemeanor. If you simply pay the fine or plead guilty, you will have a drug conviction on your permanent record forever.
At Saffold Law, we treat every cannabis citation with the seriousness of a criminal trial. Our goal is not just to keep you out of jail, but to get the case dismissed and your record expunged.
The Consequences of a Conviction
Even a small amount of cannabis can have massive long-term effects if you are convicted:
- Criminal Record: A “Possession of Marijuana” conviction shows up on every background check.
- Student Aid: You may lose eligibility for federal financial aid (FAFSA).
- Housing: Many apartment complexes automatically reject applicants with drug convictions.
- Employment: It can disqualify you from jobs requiring security clearances or professional licenses (nursing, teaching, etc.).
- Driver’s License: A conviction can lead to a suspension of your driver’s license.
Our Defense Strategy: The "Hemp" Defense
Since the legalization of Hemp (Farm Bill) in Texas, the prosecution faces a new hurdle.
Hemp is legal. Marijuana is not.
The only difference is the THC concentration (0.3%). Most police field tests cannot tell the difference between legal CBD flower and illegal marijuana.
We challenge the state’s evidence:
- Lab Testing: We demand that the state prove the substance is actually illegal marijuana through expensive lab testing, which many counties are reluctant to pay for on minor cases.
- Probable Cause: Did the officer have a legal reason to search your car? “Smelling marijuana” is becoming a weaker justification for searches due to legal hemp.
Comprehensive Cannabis Services
1. Possession of Marijuana (POM)
Defending against charges for possession of flower, edibles, or concentrates. (Note: Concentrates/Vapes are often charged as a FELONY in Texas—we handle these high-stakes cases aggressively).
2. Paraphernalia Citations
Fighting tickets for pipes, grinders, or other accessories. While these are Class C misdemeanors, they still create a drug-related record.
3. Pre-Trial Diversion
Negotiating with prosecutors to get you into a diversion program. If you complete the requirements (classes, community service), the charges are dropped.
4. Expunction & Non-Disclosure
If we get your case dismissed, our job isn’t done. We file a petition to Expunge (erase) the arrest from your record entirely, so you can legally say “I have never been arrested.”
What We Fight For (Your Outcomes)
Dismissal
Getting the prosecutor to drop the charges completely.
Actor Portrayal
No Conviction
Ensuring you do not have a final guilty adjudication.
Actor Portrayal
Record Cleaning
Removing the arrest data from public databases.
Protect Your Future.
A marijuana charge doesn’t have to derail your life. Contact Saffold Law to fight your citation and keep your record clean.
Actor Portrayal