Facing criminal charges in Collin County presents unique challenges, especially given the area’s firm stance on offenses like drug crimes and DWIs. Collin County’s legal system is known for its thorough prosecution, making it essential to have a defense team familiar with the local courts, procedures, and nuances of the area. Our criminal defense firm is deeply committed to guiding you through this process with the skill and dedication you need during this difficult time.
With extensive experience handling criminal cases in Collin County, we customize our defense strategies to fit the specifics of each case, ensuring your rights are protected and pursuing the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been accused of a crime, reach out to our Collin County criminal defense team for a free consultation and dependable legal support.
What Our Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Do For You
1. Listen to Your Story
Our Collin County criminal defense lawyers are committed to understanding your unique situation. During your initial consultation, we’ll listen to your account in detail, giving you a chance to share your side of the story without judgment. This conversation sets the foundation for a tailored defense strategy by exploring the charges you’re facing and potential consequences.
From there, we’ll guide you through the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Together, we’ll craft a defense plan designed to address the specifics of your case and achieve the best possible outcome.
2. Seek Evidence to Build Your Case
Building a strong defense begins with a thorough investigation. We leave no stone unturned, proactively seeking evidence to support your case. Our process includes:
- Reviewing police reports for inaccuracies or procedural violations.
- Analyzing forensic evidence like DNA, fingerprints, and toxicology results for credibility.
- Interviewing witnesses to identify inconsistencies or biases.
- Obtaining surveillance footage or photos from the scene to corroborate your account.
- Consulting expert witnesses for technical insights relevant to your case.
By focusing on uncovering weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, we aim to create a solid defense that challenges their claims and positions you for success:
- Building a Strong Defense Strategy: We craft a tailored defense plan by analyzing the charges, preparing counterarguments, and presenting a narrative that supports your case.
- Identifying Inconsistencies in the Prosecution’s Evidence: We scrutinize every piece of evidence to uncover contradictions, gaps, or errors that undermine the prosecution’s case.
- Challenging Prosecution’s Arguments: We dispute the validity of their claims by exposing flaws in evidence, questioning witness credibility, and highlighting procedural errors.
3. Recommend a Plea Deal (Only if Suitable to Your Situation)
Plea bargains can be a strategic tool in certain cases, offering the chance to reduce charges or penalties. While we don’t automatically pursue plea deals, we evaluate them when the circumstances favor such an approach, such as:
- Weak evidence or procedural errors by law enforcement.
- Unreliable or inconsistent witness testimonies.
Ultimately, we provide you with a professional recommendation, but the decision to accept a plea deal is always yours. Our focus is on achieving the best resolution for your unique situation, whether through negotiation or trial.
4. Represent You in Court
Our representation in court is thorough and focused on achieving the best outcome for you. We approach every case with:
- Customizing Defense Strategies: We design a defense plan that aligns with the unique facts and circumstances of your case, ensuring every angle is explored to support your position.
- Fighting to Protect Your Rights and Freedom: From start to finish, we remain steadfast in safeguarding your rights, opposing unfair practices, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
- Focusing on Your Innocence: We emphasize the facts and evidence that work in your favor, constructing a defense around the strongest aspects of your case to demonstrate your innocence.
- Leveraging Extensive Court Trial Experience: With years of courtroom expertise, our attorneys bring proven strategies and insights to every trial, using their experience to your full advantage.
- Pinpointing Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Case: Our attorneys meticulously review evidence to uncover flaws, inconsistencies, and procedural errors that create opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Using Clear and Persuasive Tactics: Our legal team presents arguments in a way that resonates with judges and juries, delivering your defense clearly, logically, and convincingly.
At every stage, we fight tirelessly to safeguard your future, ensuring that your voice is heard and your case is handled with care and precision.
5. Seek Bail and Pre-Trial Release
Being with your loved ones during this challenging time is important, and we work to secure your release swiftly. Our approach includes:
- Explaining the bail process and your options in clear terms.
- Representing you at bail hearings to argue for the lowest possible amount.
- Handling paperwork to expedite your release.
- Advocating for conditions that allow you to remain free while preparing your defense.
Throughout the process, we provide continuous support and updates, ensuring you remain connected to your case and your family.
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Collin County
Our firm is dedicated to defending clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in Collin County. With extensive experience in Texas law and the local court system, we are equipped to provide knowledgeable and effective representation tailored to your unique circumstances.
Our familiarity with Collin County’s legal procedures and established relationships within the local court system enable us to craft defense strategies that align with the area’s specific practices and standards.
Our team is experienced in defending against drunk driving charges, providing a thorough and strategic approach to your case. We carefully analyze every aspect of your arrest, including the validity of breathalyzer results, the administration of field sobriety tests, and any procedural errors made by law enforcement officers.
By identifying weaknesses or violations in the process, we aim to protect your rights and build a robust defense. Our ultimate goal is to explore every option to reduce the charges, secure an alternative resolution, or have the case dismissed entirely, helping you move forward with confidence.
We represent clients charged with assault and battery, leveraging our experience to craft a defense that highlights your side of the story. Our approach often focuses on justifications such as self-defense, lack of intent to harm, or other mitigating factors.
We thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, gather evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s claims to build a strong and compelling case. Our goal is to protect your rights, minimize potential penalties, and secure the best possible outcome for your situation.
We have extensive experience handling a wide range of drug-related charges, from minor offenses like simple possession to serious allegations such as trafficking and intent to distribute.
Our defense strategies often center on identifying unlawful searches, procedural violations, and insufficient evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case. By carefully examining the circumstances of your arrest and the handling of evidence, we work to protect your rights, reduce penalties, and pursue the most favorable outcome for your situation.
We represent clients facing charges for theft and property crimes, including shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and other related offenses. Our defense strategies are tailored to challenge the prosecution’s case by addressing issues such as lack of intent, disputes over ownership, and inconsistencies in the evidence.
By thoroughly investigating the circumstances of your case and identifying procedural errors or weaknesses, we aim to protect your rights and work toward reducing charges, negotiating alternatives, or achieving a dismissal.
Our defense for white-collar crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and other financial offenses, involves a meticulous review of complex financial records and transactional data. We focus on questioning the prosecution’s interpretation of intent, challenging the credibility of their evidence, and exposing any procedural missteps.
With extensive experience in Collin County’s law enforcement practices and court protocols, our attorneys have the insight needed to anticipate how such cases may be approached locally. This knowledge allows us to craft a defense strategy that aligns with the expectations and standards of Collin County courts.
Additionally, our firm also covers a variety of other criminal cases, including:
- College Student Arrests
- Criminal Conspiracy
- Family Violence Charges
- Federal Charges
- Felony Charges
- Firearm / Weapon Offenses
- Juvenile Crime
- Marijuana Offenses
- Misdemeanor Charges
- Out-of-State Visitor Arrests
- Record Sealing / Expunging
- Sexual Offenses
- Texas Criminal Process
- Traffic Offenses
- Violation of Probation
- Violent Crime
Need legal representation? Protect your rights with the expertise of our skilled Collin County criminal defense lawyers. Don’t wait—get the defense you deserve by contacting us online today or calling (972) 805-8855!
Meet Our Collin County Criminal Lawyers
Richard C. McConathy
Cynthia Gonzalez
Jocelyn Umanzor
We focus exclusively on criminal defense, bringing over 35 years of experience to clients facing a wide range of charges in Collin County, including DWI and other serious offenses. Our attorneys have a deep knowledge of Texas criminal law and are dedicated to delivering strong, results-oriented representation.
With a proven track record of successfully handling over 1,000 criminal cases, including more than 300 “Not Guilty” or “Dismissed” verdicts, we approach every case with meticulous attention. From collecting vital evidence to negotiating with prosecutors, we ensure your rights are protected and your defense is built on a solid foundation.
Information on Criminal Offense Penalties Under Texas Law
Criminal penalties in Texas vary based on the severity of the offense. Below is an overview of potential consequences if convicted:
- Community Service: Courts may require community service or participation in educational programs for lesser offenses. This alternative to jail allows individuals to give back to the community while addressing their legal responsibilities.
- Fines: Financial penalties range significantly depending on the offense. Minor misdemeanors may result in fines up to $500, while serious crimes like white-collar fraud or drug trafficking can incur fines in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Jail/Prison Time: Sentences for misdemeanors, such as DWI or petty theft, typically result in up to one year in county jail. More severe crimes, like assault or drug trafficking, often lead to multi-year sentences in state prison.
- Probation: Probation is a common alternative to incarceration for first-time or less serious offenses. It requires compliance with court-ordered conditions, such as regular check-ins, drug testing, or community service. Failure to adhere to probation terms can result in stricter penalties.
Texas law considers various factors when determining the penalties for criminal charges. These include:
- Repeat Offenses: Prior convictions often result in harsher penalties. For instance, subsequent DWI offenses can escalate from misdemeanors to felonies, leading to increased jail time, higher fines, and more severe long-term consequences.
- Aggravating and Mitigating Factors: Aggravating circumstances, such as using a weapon during a crime or targeting a vulnerable individual, can lead to stricter sentences. Conversely, mitigating factors, like demonstrating remorse or cooperating with authorities, may reduce penalties.
- Sentencing Guidelines: While Texas judges follow sentencing guidelines, unique case circumstances—such as aggravating or mitigating factors—can result in penalties exceeding or falling below the standard recommendations.
Our Collin County criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to safeguarding your rights from the moment we take on your case. Texas and federal laws provide individuals facing criminal charges with essential protections, and we are committed to ensuring these rights are upheld at every stage of the process.
Here’s how we ensure your rights are fully protected:
Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination during any criminal investigation. We advise exercising this right when interacting with law enforcement to prevent statements that could be used against you. Silence can be a critical tool in preserving the strength of your defense.
Right to an Attorney: Under Texas law, you are entitled to legal representation throughout your criminal case. Our Collin County criminal defense attorneys stand by your side from initial questioning to trial, offering informed guidance and working tirelessly to protect your rights.
Right to Due Process: Due process ensures fair treatment under both Texas and federal law, safeguarding you from unlawful searches, property seizures, and arbitrary detention. We meticulously review law enforcement actions to confirm compliance with constitutional standards and uphold justice in your case.
Our priority is to provide comprehensive legal support while vigorously defending your rights at every step. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your future.
Our familiarity with Collin County courts and legal procedures allows us to craft targeted and effective defense strategies for every stage of your case. Contact us at (972) 805-8855 to schedule a consultation and start building your defense with a dedicated and experienced legal team by your side.
How Our Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect Your Rights
Our legal team is highly experienced in addressing violations of constitutional rights, including unlawful searches, coerced statements, and improper detentions. We are dedicated to holding law enforcement accountable and ensuring your rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process.
- Challenging Unlawful Searches: We carefully scrutinize all evidence gathering to identify and challenge Fourth Amendment violations, such as searches conducted without a valid warrant or probable cause. If evidence was obtained illegally, we file motions to suppress it, significantly weakening the prosecution’s case.
- Preventing Unfair Questioning: Texas law requires that any confession be given voluntarily and without coercion. Our attorneys ensure police questioning adheres to legal guidelines and work to exclude any statements obtained through pressure or undue influence, safeguarding the fairness of your defense.
- Reviewing Unreasonable Detention: Detention without valid cause is a clear violation of your rights. We thoroughly examine the circumstances of your arrest to determine whether proper legal grounds existed. If detention was unreasonable, we challenge it and seek the dismissal of charges to protect your freedom.
By leveraging the protections of the Texas Penal Code and federal constitutional rights, our Collin County defense attorneys build a strong foundation for your case. We also address aggravating circumstances, such as the “habitual offender” statute, presenting mitigating evidence to argue for reduced sentencing when applicable.
The Criminal Defense Process in Collin County
Our Collin County criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to guiding clients through every stage of the criminal justice process. With extensive experience in state and federal cases across Collin County, we focus on delivering tailored defense strategies for each client facing criminal charges.
Here’s what you can expect during the process:
Arrest and Booking
When law enforcement in Collin County makes an arrest, they proceed to booking, where the individual’s details are recorded, fingerprints are taken, and formal charges are filed. This step establishes the foundation of the case, and our attorneys begin assessing the situation immediately.
Arraignment and Bail Hearings
At the arraignment, defendants are informed of the charges against them and enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Our skilled attorneys represent clients at bail hearings, working to secure the lowest possible bail or alternative release options to allow time to prepare a robust defense.
Pre-Trial Investigations and Evidence Gathering
This critical phase involves reviewing police reports, consulting with forensic experts, and interviewing witnesses to identify inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. We thoroughly investigate all aspects of the case, whether it involves misdemeanors, felonies, or federal offenses, to build a solid defense strategy.
Court Proceedings and Trial Preparation
As the case moves toward trial, we collaborate closely with our clients, examining every detail and ensuring their rights are upheld at every step. While we explore plea options if beneficial, we are fully prepared to argue the case in court, focusing on achieving the best possible outcome.
Sentencing and Potential Outcomes
If a plea agreement is reached or a conviction occurs, sentencing follows based on Texas guidelines. Penalties may include fines, probation, or prison time, depending on whether the charges are misdemeanors or felonies. Our goal is to minimize penalties and secure the best resolution for our clients.
With extensive experience in Collin County courts and a deep understanding of Texas law, our team is committed to providing unparalleled representation and leaving no detail overlooked in your defense. Contact us online today, or by calling (972) 805-8855!
Why Choose Our Collin County Criminal Lawyers
When you’re facing criminal charges in Collin County, having experienced legal representation is critical to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome. Our criminal defense lawyers bring many years of experience and a proven track record of success in handling a wide range of cases.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Proven Results: From dismissals and acquittals to favorable plea deals, we fight tirelessly for each client, ensuring every case receives the personalized attention it deserves.
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Tailored Defense Strategies: We recognize that each client’s situation is unique. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, we adapt our approach to fit the specifics of your case.
How We Handle Different Types of Charges:
- DWI/DUI: We meticulously review field sobriety tests, BAC results, and police procedures to identify flaws. If the evidence or arrest is questionable, we work toward reduced charges or a dismissal.
- Assault: For assault charges, we explore possible defenses like self-defense or mistaken identity. Our team examines witness statements, physical evidence, and available video footage to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Drug Charges: In drug-related cases, we focus on issues with searches and seizures. If evidence was obtained unlawfully, we fight to have it excluded, often resulting in reduced or dismissed charges.
- White-Collar Crimes: For charges like fraud or embezzlement, we analyze financial records, question the evidence, and expose procedural mistakes. By demonstrating a lack of intent or flaws in the prosecution’s case, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome, often with the support of expert witnesses.
We are committed to safeguarding your rights at every step of the legal process. If there’s a violation of due process—such as illegal searches or unfair questioning—we push back to ensure you receive a fair trial.
Although we serve the entirety of Texas, our Texas criminal defense lawyers have a particular focus on the following cities in Collin County:
Contact Our Collin County Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
Our skilled criminal defense lawyers are ready to provide prompt and strategic support when it matters most. Taking action quickly can significantly impact your case, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Contact us today at (972) 805-8855 to schedule your free consultation and secure the representation you need.