Principal Office
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 528-0478
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 528-0478
Years Defending Texans
Cases Dismissed
Criminal Cases Handled
Counties Served Across Texas
Available | Serving All of Texas
Facing criminal charges in Dallas means your story is already being written.
And it’s not in your favor.
Reports, statements, assumptions—turned into “facts” that are hard to undo.
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we don’t just defend cases—we dismantle them. With 35+ years in Dallas courts, we know where they break.
Call now for a free case review before their version sticks.
The moment you’re arrested, the clock starts ticking. Every minute you wait gives prosecutors more time to build their case. Police will question you, gather evidence, and file charges—all while you’re trying to figure out what to do next.
Anything you say to police can and will be used against you, even if you think you’re helping your case. Officers are trained to extract incriminating statements during seemingly casual conversations. Without legal representation, you may inadvertently:
Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget details. Video footage gets deleted. The sooner we start investigating your case, the better positioned we are to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect your rights.
Richard C. McConathy and his team respond immediately to client calls. We’ll advise you on what to say (and what not to say), ensure police follow proper procedures, and start building your defense from day one.
If you’ve been arrested in Dallas, you’ll interact with multiple facilities and courts. Knowing where you’re going and what to expect reduces confusion during an already stressful time.
Most arrests in Dallas result in booking at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center, located at 111 West Commerce Street in downtown Dallas. This is Dallas County’s primary detention facility with a capacity of over 7,100 inmates. Booking typically takes 4-6 hours and includes:
If you’re arrested in certain Dallas County cities, you may initially be held at municipal jails before transfer to Lew Sterrett:
| City | Jail Location | Typical Transfer Time |
|---|---|---|
| Garland | 1900 W. State Street | 24-72 hours |
| Irving | 305 N. O’Connor Road | 24-72 hours |
| Mesquite | 777 N. Galloway Ave | 24-72 hours |
| Richardson | 140 N. Greenville Ave | 24-72 hours |
| Carrollton | 2025 E. Jackson Road | 24-72 hours |
Finding someone in jail: Use the Dallas County Jail Lookup System online, or call (214) 761-9025. Note: Newly arrested individuals may not appear in the system for several hours after booking.
Within 48 hours of arrest, you’ll appear before a magistrate judge at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. The magistrate will:
This is NOT your trial. You won’t argue your case or present evidence. The magistrate simply ensures you understand the charges and your rights while making initial bail decisions.
Dallas County criminal courts are housed primarily in the Frank Crowley Courts Building at 133 N. Riverfront Boulevard. This facility sits near the intersection of Riverfront Boulevard and Commerce Street, adjacent to Dealey Plaza and the Old Red Museum.
Misdemeanor cases (Class A, B, and C) are handled in Dallas County Criminal Courts at Law (Courts 1-10) on floors 3-4.
Felony cases (state jail through first-degree felonies) are heard in Criminal District Courts (Courts 1-7) on floors 5-6.
Parking: Expect to pay $10-15 for all-day parking. Arrive at least 30 minutes early—courthouse security lines can be long, especially during morning docket calls.
Bail allows you to be released from custody while your case proceeds. Dallas County judges consider:
Three types of bail release:
Bond conditions you must follow:
Violating bond conditions can result in bond revocation—meaning you return to jail until trial.
Arraignment is your formal court appearance where charges are officially presented. This typically occurs within 1-3 weeks of arrest if you’ve posted bail, or within 72 hours if you remain in custody.
During arraignment, the judge will:
We recommend pleading “not guilty” at arraignment. This preserves all your legal options and gives us time to investigate, review evidence, and negotiate. You can always change your plea later if we reach a favorable agreement.
What to wear: Dress respectfully in business casual attire—collared shirts, slacks, modest dresses. Having family members present demonstrates community ties and support, which can favorably influence bail decisions.
Most criminal cases never go to trial—they’re resolved during the pretrial phase through negotiations, motions, and case investigation.
Discovery review: We obtain and analyze all prosecution evidence—police reports, dash cam and body camera footage, witness statements, lab results, and 911 calls.
Motion practice: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, dismiss charges based on insufficient evidence, reduce excessive bail, and compel prosecutors to provide missing discovery.
Plea negotiations: We negotiate with Dallas County prosecutors to pursue charge reductions, dismissals in exchange for completing programs, deferred adjudication (avoiding conviction on your record), or alternative sentencing.
Pretrial hearings happen regularly—typically every 2-4 weeks. You must attend every pretrial setting.
Trial preparation begins months in advance. We interview witnesses, hire expert witnesses (forensic specialists, accident reconstructionists), prepare cross-examination strategies, and conduct mock trials to test jury reactions.
Dallas County jury trials occur at the Frank Crowley Courts Building. Misdemeanor trials are before 6-person juries; felony trials use 12-person juries. We’ve tried hundreds of cases in these courtrooms and know the judges, prosecutors, and jury tendencies.
Your actions immediately following an arrest can make or break your case:
From the moment you hire us, we become your shield against the prosecution:
We’ve appeared in Dallas County courtrooms thousands of times. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and how the local system works. We understand which prosecutors are open to negotiation and which require aggressive litigation. We know judicial preferences for sentencing and procedural matters.
According to the Texas Judicial Branch, Dallas County handles over 100,000 criminal cases annually. Understanding this high-volume system requires experience and local knowledge that out-of-town or inexperienced attorneys simply don’t have.
Many criminal defense attorneys avoid trial at all costs. Not us. Richard C. McConathy and his team are experienced trial lawyers who aren’t afraid to take your case before a jury. Prosecutors know we’re prepared to try cases, which often leads to better plea offers because they’d rather negotiate than risk losing at trial.
You’re not just a case number to us. We limit our caseload to ensure every client receives personal attention from an attorney—not just a paralegal or assistant. You’ll have Richard C. McConathy’s direct cell phone number, and he responds to client calls personally.
We explain the law in plain language, keep you informed throughout the process, and involve you in every strategic decision.
These results demonstrate our commitment to fighting for clients facing all types of criminal charges in Dallas County and surrounding areas. While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, they reflect our experience and dedication.
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy has protected Dallas-area residents since 2002. Our firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense, allowing us to develop deep expertise in Texas criminal law and local court procedures.
Richard C. McConathy earned his Juris Doctor from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Texas. He’s a certified Criminal Law Specialist and former Treasurer of the Dallas Bar Association Criminal Law Section (2004-2006). He belongs to:
Our philosophy is simple: we fight aggressively for every client. Whether you’re facing a first-time misdemeanor or a serious felony charge, we bring the same level of dedication and strategic thinking to your defense.
With over 6,000 criminal cases handled and a track record spanning 16 counties in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, we have the experience and resources to defend you effectively.
Every case requires a customized defense strategy. We analyze the specific facts, evidence, and circumstances of your case to develop the strongest possible defense:
Illegal search and seizure: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches. If police searched your vehicle, home, or person without probable cause or a valid warrant, we’ll file a motion to suppress evidence.
Hypothetical scenario: Police pull over a driver for a minor traffic violation and ask to search the vehicle. The driver consents, and officers find drugs. However, if the initial traffic stop lacked probable cause or the officer coerced consent, that evidence may be suppressible.
Lack of evidence: The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We identify gaps in their case and argue insufficient evidence.
Constitutional violations: We examine whether officers read Miranda rights before questioning, conducted proper lineups or photo arrays, maintained proper chain of custody for evidence, and obtained warrants based on truthful information.
Witness credibility challenges: We investigate witness backgrounds, prior statements, and potential biases.
Plea negotiation vs. trial strategy: Sometimes the best outcome involves negotiating a favorable plea agreement—reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or deferred adjudication that keeps a conviction off your record. Other times, taking the case to trial is the right move. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each approach and let you make the final decision.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges threaten your license, your freedom, and your future. Texas law defines DWI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, or while impaired by drugs or alcohol. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, One person in Texas dies every eight hours and 31 minutes in a DUI-alcohol related traffic crash.
Penalties: First-offense DWI is a Class B misdemeanor carrying up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $2,000. Second offenses increase to Class A misdemeanors with up to one year in jail. A third DWI becomes a third-degree felony with 2-10 years in prison.
Our approach: We challenge every aspect of DWI cases—from the initial traffic stop to breathalyzer calibration to field sobriety test administration.
| DWI Offense | Classification | Jail Time | Fines | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First DWI | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $2,000 | 90 days to 1 year |
| Second DWI | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $4,000 | 180 days to 2 years |
| Third DWI | 3rd Degree Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $10,000 | 180 days to 2 years |
| DWI with Child | State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years | Up to $10,000 | 90 days to 1 year |
–> Learn more about our DWI defense services.
Drug charges range from simple possession to trafficking and manufacturing. The Texas Controlled Substances Act classifies drugs into penalty groups that determine punishment severity.
Common offenses:
Penalties: Simple marijuana possession (under 2 oz.) carries up to 180 days in jail, while cocaine possession can result in state jail felony charges with 180 days to 2 years imprisonment.
Our approach: We examine whether police had probable cause to search and seize drugs. Many drug cases involve unconstitutional vehicle searches or questionable warrant applications.
See how we defend drug and narcotics charges in Dallas.
Assault charges encompass a wide range of offenses under Texas Penal Code § 22 from simple assault to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Types of assault:
Penalties: Simple assault carries up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Aggravated assault is a second-degree felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison.
Our approach: We investigate witness credibility, self-defense claims, and whether the alleged injury meets the legal definition of bodily harm.
Hypothetical scenario: Two individuals get into an argument at a bar that escalates into a physical altercation. One person throws the first punch, and the other responds in self-defense, causing injury. The person who responded is arrested for assault—but Texas law recognizes the right to defend yourself when faced with unlawful force.
Get a defense strategy for assault or violent crime allegations.
Theft involves unlawfully appropriating property with intent to deprive the owner. Texas categorizes theft by property value, with penalties ranging from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies.
Common theft offenses:
| Property Value | Classification | Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| Under $100 | Class C Misdemeanor | Fine up to $500 |
| $100 – $750 | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000 |
| $750 – $2,500 | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year jail, fine up to $4,000 |
| $2,500 – $30,000 | State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years, fine up to $10,000 |
| $30,000 – $150,000 | 3rd Degree Felony | 2-10 years prison, fine up to $10,000 |
Our approach: We challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent. Theft requires proof you intended to permanently deprive the owner of property—not just borrow or mistakenly take it.
See how we defend theft and property crime charges.
Domestic violence (also called family violence) involves assault against spouses or former spouses, dating partners, family members, or household members.
Penalties: Even a first-offense misdemeanor conviction carries serious consequences beyond jail time. You’ll face firearm restrictions under federal law, making it illegal to own or possess guns. Employment opportunities diminish, especially in fields requiring background checks.
Our approach: Domestic violence cases often involve false accusations stemming from custody disputes or relationship conflicts, exaggerated injury claims, and lack of independent witnesses. We investigate the alleged victim’s credibility, examine medical records, and challenge the prosecution’s version of events.
Understand your options if you’re facing violence allegations.
Texas gun laws are complex, and violations carry serious penalties. Common weapons offenses include:
Penalties: Unlawful carrying charges range from Class A misdemeanors to third-degree felonies. Felon in possession is a third-degree felony carrying 2-10 years in prison.
Our approach: We examine whether you had legal authority to carry, whether police had probable cause to search, and whether the weapon meets the legal definition of a prohibited item.
Get help defending against weapons charges.
White collar crimes involve financial fraud or deception. These cases often involve complex financial records and require attorneys who understand both criminal law and financial analysis.
Common offenses: Fraud, embezzlement, forgery, identity theft, and money laundering.
Our approach: We work with forensic accountants and financial experts to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. White collar cases often hinge on proving intent to defraud—we examine whether transactions were mistakes, authorized, or legitimate business practices.
Learn more about our white collar crime defense services.
Minors (under 17) accused of crimes face the Texas juvenile justice system. While this system focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, serious offenses can result in certification as an adult and adult criminal penalties.
Our approach: We fight to keep cases in juvenile court where rehabilitation options exist. We advocate for alternative programs, counseling, and community service rather than detention. Protecting a young person’s future is paramount—a juvenile record can affect college admissions, scholarships, and employment.
See how we defend juvenile crime cases.
If you’re accused of violating probation terms, you face serious consequences including revocation and imprisonment for the original offense. Common violations include failing drug tests, missing meetings with probation officers, committing new offenses, and failing to complete community service.
Our approach: We argue for probation continuation or modification rather than revocation. We present evidence of your compliance efforts and advocate for additional chances when violations stem from circumstances beyond your control.
Texas criminal law divides offenses into misdemeanors and felonies based on severity.
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses punishable by jail time (not prison) and fines:
Felonies are serious crimes punishable by state prison:
Criminal convictions in Texas trigger multiple penalties:
Incarceration: Jail (county facility for misdemeanors) or prison (state facility for felonies).
Fines: Range from $500 for Class C misdemeanors to $10,000 for felonies. Courts may also order restitution to victims.
Probation: Community supervision as an alternative to or following incarceration. Conditions include regular meetings with probation officers, drug testing, community service, and avoiding further offenses.
Criminal record: Convictions remain on your record permanently unless expunged or sealed. Criminal records are accessible to employers, landlords, and licensing agencies.
License suspension: DWI and certain drug convictions trigger driver’s license suspension ranging from 90 days to multiple years.
Community service: Courts often order defendants to complete hours of unpaid work for nonprofit organizations.
A criminal conviction follows you long after you’ve served your sentence:
Employment limitations: Many employers conduct background checks and refuse to hire individuals with criminal records. Professional licenses often require clean criminal histories.
Housing difficulties: Landlords frequently reject rental applications from individuals with criminal records.
Firearm restrictions: Felony convictions and domestic violence misdemeanors prohibit gun ownership under federal and state law.
Immigration consequences: Non-citizens convicted of crimes may face deportation, inadmissibility, or denial of naturalization.
Education barriers: Some colleges and universities ask about criminal history on applications. Students with drug convictions may lose federal financial aid eligibility.
Reputation damage: Criminal records are public information. Anyone can search your name and find conviction information.
These consequences underscore why fighting your charges with an experienced attorney is so important. Even if you believe the evidence is strong, we may be able to negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing that minimizes long-term impact.
Every day you wait to contact an attorney is a day the prosecution uses to build their case against you. Don’t face criminal charges alone. Richard C. McConathy and his team are ready to fight for your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Call (972) 528-0478 now to speak with our criminal defense attorneys. We offer free consultations and are available 24/7.
Serving 16 counties in North Texas: We defend clients throughout Dallas County and surrounding areas including Tarrant, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall Counties.
Contact us online for a free case evaluation. The sooner we start working on your defense, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
A criminal defense lawyer protects your constitutional rights and fights criminal charges on your behalf. We investigate your case, analyze evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court. Our job is to achieve the best possible outcome—whether that’s case dismissal, not guilty verdict, reduced charges, or favorable plea agreements.
Legal fees vary based on case complexity and charges severity. Misdemeanor cases typically cost less than felony cases because they require fewer court appearances and less investigation. At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we offer transparent pricing and free initial consultations.
No—you should exercise your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and request an attorney. Police are not your friends during criminal investigations. Their job is to gather evidence and obtain confessions, not to help you. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Invoking your right to remain silent cannot be used against you at trial. Tell officers politely but firmly: “I’m invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak with my attorney.”
After arrest, police will book you into jail—recording personal information, taking fingerprints and photographs, and searching your person and property. Within 48 hours, you’ll appear before a magistrate judge who informs you of charges and sets bail. If you post bail, you’re released pending trial. Your attorney will receive discovery (evidence against you) and begin investigating your case. Court dates will be scheduled for pre-trial hearings, plea negotiations, and potentially trial.
Yes—prosecutors can dismiss charges at any time before trial. Common reasons for dismissal include insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt, successful motion to suppress evidence due to constitutional violations, witness credibility problems or unavailable witnesses, and negotiated agreements where charges are dropped in exchange for completing programs or paying restitution.
We’ve secured pre-trial dismissals in numerous Dallas County cases by identifying fatal weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and negotiating with district attorneys. The earlier we begin working on your case, the better positioned we are to seek dismissal.
Don’t gamble with your freedom. The criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy have protected clients’ rights for over 35 years with proven strategies and aggressive advocacy.
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
Phone: (972) 233-5700
Toll-Free: 888-283-9394
Hours of Operation
Monday | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
Tuesday | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
Wednesday | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
Thursday | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
Friday | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | Closed |
*Meetings at all locations available only by appointment
Whether you're facing a felony charge or fighting a traffic ticket, every case deserves serious attention. Get an experienced defense team in your corner now.
