325-241-2868Southlake, TX Criminal Attorneys
Aggressive Defense Strategies for Criminal Charges
Being charged with a crime is something no one wants to experience. In Texas, a criminal record can result in serious consequences, including the loss of professional licenses, issues with child custody, finding gainful employment, and the inability to vote and own or possess firearms.
Barrett Legal PLLC is a law firm that is passionately committed to helping clients who find themselves entangled in the Texas criminal justice system. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, contact our Southlake criminal defense lawyers today to schedule a consultation.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?
You should hire a defense attorney immediately after being arrested or charged with an offense. If you are under investigation or believe that an arrest is imminent, you cannot afford to wait to seek legal representation. Hiring an attorney as soon as possible, preferably while you are being investigated, before any criminal charges are filed, can ensure that you do not inadvertently incriminate yourself.
If You are Being Investigated
Often, police will try to question you if you are under investigation. If law enforcement contacts you, it is essential to have an attorney present who will advise you of your rights during questioning.
Upon Being Arrested
If taken into custody, refuse to answer questions until an attorney is present. Remember, no matter what the police say, you have the right to remain silent and have your attorney present during questioning.
When Facing Criminal Charges
If you have been charged with a crime, contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney will need sufficient time to professionally assess your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Criminal defense attorneys also perform other legal services for clients who have already been convicted, such as filing appeals or seeking to have records expunged for eligible offenses.
What are the ‘Collateral Consequences’ of a Conviction?
Aside from the stiff criminal penalties, such as being sentenced to jail or prison time, and hefty fines, you will most likely have to deal with the collateral consequences of a conviction.
Collateral consequences can extend far beyond guilty verdicts and include restrictions or legal repercussions that result from a criminal conviction. Some of the most common issues that can negatively impact your ability to achieve your life goals include:
- Challenges in obtaining employment, loss of security clearances, and revocation or denial of a professional license.
- The inability to find suitable housing, as most rental agencies and landlords run standard background checks and are unwilling to rent to people with criminal records. Additionally, those who have a criminal conviction are generally ineligible for public housing.
- Those convicted of sex offenses are legally obligated to register as sex offenders, restricting where they can live and work.
- A criminal conviction, such as those in domestic violence cases, can negatively impact child custody arrangements, as courts will always make decisions based on what is in a child’s best interests.
- Loss of civil rights, such as the right to serve on a jury or legally own and possess firearms.
When Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped or Reduced?
Texas law allows criminal charges to be dropped or reduced if several factors apply. For example, a DWI charge may be dropped if the evidence shows that the police officer lacked probable cause to initiate the traffic stop.
Other common reasons why charges are dismissed or reduced include that the prosecutor has insufficient evidence to prove their case, or the evidence obtained was obtained illegally, violating your Fourth Amendment rights.
Other examples include procedural errors made by the police when you were arrested or being questioned. In other instances, a prosecutor may agree to reduced charges if they do not believe they have sufficient evidence to support the current charges. It is worth emphasizing that even though reduced charges often seem like a good deal, any potential plea bargain should always be reviewed by a criminal defense attorney to ensure it is in your best interests.
What are the Legal Benefits of Hiring a Defense Attorney?
If you have been charged, failing to seek competent legal counsel can put your future at risk. An experienced criminal defense attorney understands the Texas criminal law and the complex legal process involved in defending clients.
Protect Your Legal Rights
Once you hire an attorney, their first step will be to protect your rights, whether you are being questioned by law enforcement or pressured to give a statement. One of the most significant advantages of having a criminal defense attorney is that they will act as your advocate throughout the legal process. Your attorney will ensure that you understand your rights, handle all legal paperwork, and review evidence.
Negotiate With Prosecutors
Most importantly, your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor to obtain a plea deal in which you can plead guilty or no contest to a lesser charge and receive a lighter sentence, or have other charges dismissed. If they identify instances where your rights have been violated or evidence was obtained illegally, they can argue that your charges should be dropped or reduced.
Take Your Case to Trial
If the state is unwilling to negotiate a plea bargain, your attorney can build a robust defense case when presenting evidence and arguments to a judge or jury.
No matter what legal issues you may be facing, our Southlake criminal defense attorneys are ready to advocate on your behalf.
Contact Our Southlake Criminal Defense Lawyers Today So We Can Get Started on Your Case
Barrett Legal PLLC in Southlake, Texas, is a criminal defense law firm dedicated to vigorously defending your rights. Our criminal defense lawyers strongly believe that everyone deserves a second chance and are committed to achieving a favorable outcome for your case.
Our Southlake, TX lawyers and criminal defense team are ready to fight to help you resolve your legal issues quickly and efficiently so you can resume your life. Contact our law office today at 325-241-2868 to schedule a consultation to discuss your defense strategy.