Drug Charges
Federal Drug Charges Defense Attorney in Houston
The Law Offices of James Alston
Federal drug charges are among the most aggressively prosecuted criminal offenses in the United States.
Investigations often involve federal task forces, wiretaps, confidential informants, surveillance, and large-scale conspiracy allegations. Convictions can lead to lengthy federal prison sentences, substantial fines, and permanent consequences for your future.
If you are under investigation or charged with a federal drug crime in Houston or the Southern District of Texas, early and experienced legal representation is critical.
James Alston is a Houston criminal defense attorney with more than 30 years of criminal law experience, including service as a former Assistant United States Attorney. He understands how federal prosecutors build drug cases—and he uses that knowledge to defend individuals facing serious federal drug allegations.
Former Federal Prosecutor With Extensive Federal Court Experience
Before entering private practice, James Alston served as an Assistant United States Attorney, prosecuting serious federal criminal cases. Today, he applies that insider perspective to the defense of clients charged with federal drug trafficking and conspiracy offenses.
He has:
- over 20 years of experience practicing in federal court
- handled over 400 federal criminal cases in Houston
- deep knowledge of federal investigations, grand jury practice, and sentencing guidelines
This experience allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategy and build strong, strategic defenses in complex federal drug cases.
Types of Federal Drug Charges We Defend
The Law Offices of James Alston represents clients accused of a wide range of federal drug offenses, including:
- Drug trafficking and distribution
- Conspiracy to possess or distribute controlled substances
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Importation or transportation of drugs
- Prescription drug and pill mill-related offenses
- Multi-defendant federal indictments
- Cases involving large drug quantities or enhanced penalties
Federal drug prosecutions frequently rely on conspiracy law, meaning a person may be charged even without direct possession of drugs. These cases require careful legal analysis and an aggressive defense strategy.
Federal Investigations and Early Intervention
Many federal drug cases begin months or years before an arrest, often involving:
- contact from federal agents
- search warrants and seizures
- wiretap investigations
- confidential informants
- grand jury subpoenas or target letters
What happens during this early stage can significantly influence whether charges are filed and how severe they become.
Early legal representation may help:
- protect constitutional rights
- limit statements to investigators
- challenge searches or surveillance
- position the case for reduced exposure or dismissal
Federal Sentencing Exposure in Drug Cases
Federal drug convictions are often governed by mandatory minimum sentences and federal sentencing guidelines, which can result in:
- multi-year or decades-long prison terms
- enhanced penalties based on drug quantity or prior history
- significant supervised release and financial penalties
Because the consequences are so severe, experienced federal criminal defense representation is essential from the beginning of the case.
Strategic Defense for Serious Federal Drug Allegations
Effective federal drug defense may involve:
- challenging unlawful searches, wiretaps, or seizures
- contesting conspiracy allegations
- attacking the credibility of informants or cooperating witnesses
- analyzing forensic and digital evidence
- negotiating favorable resolutions when appropriate
- preparing the case for federal trial when necessary
Every federal drug case requires a carefully developed, evidence-driven defense strategy.
Speak With a Houston Federal Drug Charges Defense Attorney
If you are under investigation or charged with a federal drug offense in Houston, do not wait to seek legal counsel.
Contact The Law Offices of James Alston
📞 (713) 280-5615
to schedule a confidential consultation.
Early action can make a critical difference in a federal drug case.
