How Marijuana Charges Are Handled in Fort Worth Courts in 2025

 Posted on June 05, 2025 in Drug Crimes

As of 2025, weed laws in Texas remain complex and often misunderstood. Despite growing national trends toward legalization, marijuana possession and distribution are still criminal offenses in Texas. If you are facing marijuana charges in Fort Worth, you need to understand how local courts handle these cases and what legal options you may have. You do not have to do this alone; our Tarrant County, TX drug crimes defense lawyer is here to help you.

Texas Marijuana Laws in 2025

While many states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use, Texas law continues to classify most marijuana-related offenses as criminal. Under the Texas Controlled Substances Act, marijuana is considered a Schedule I substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use under state law.

The law says:

• Possession of less than two ounces is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine).

• Possession of between two and four ounces is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine).

• Possession of more than four ounces is a felony, with escalating penalties based on weight.

• Possession of THC concentrates (e.g., vape cartridges, edibles) is a felony, even in small amounts.

How Fort Worth, Texas Courts Handle Drug Charges for Weed

In Fort Worth, how your marijuana charge is handled can depend on several factors like your criminal history, the amount involved, and whether prosecutors believe there was intent to distribute.

First-Time Offenders May Qualify for Diversion Programs

Tarrant County offers diversion programs such as the Deferred Prosecution Program (DPP) and First Offender Drug Program (FODP), which allow qualifying individuals to avoid jail and keep their records clean if they complete counseling, community service, and drug testing.

Marijuana Charges Can Lead to License Suspensions

Even if you are not convicted, simply being charged with marijuana possession can lead to a driver’s license suspension under Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) rules. This is particularly relevant for minors and college students.

THC Oils and Edibles Mean Felony Charges

Many Fort Worth residents are surprised to learn that THC oils, waxes, and edibles are prosecuted more harshly than marijuana flower. Under Texas law, these are considered penalty group 2 controlled substances, often leading to state jail or third-degree felony charges, even if the actual amount of THC is small.

Will Texas Laws About Weed Change? 

While some Texas cities like Austin have moved toward decriminalization or "cite and release" policies, Tarrant County has not formally adopted these practices. Marijuana reform efforts continue at the state level, but as of 2025, Texas still lags behind much of the country.

Advocates and legal professionals continue to push for change. You can follow updates through groups like Texas NORML and Texans for Responsible Marijuana Policy.

Call a Fort Worth, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer if You’ve Been Charged with Marijuana Possession

If you are facing marijuana-related charges, the most important step is to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. The legal team at The Dameron Law Firm has helped hundreds of clients fight and resolve drug charges and we offer free consultations.

Our Tarrant County marijuana crimes defense attorney will evaluate whether your case qualifies for dismissal, diversion, or suppression based on unlawful search and seizure. We understand how local judges and prosecutors think and we use that insight to protect your rights. Call 817-222-0624 now.