Facing criminal charges in Texas can be a daunting experience, particularly given the state’s strict stance on drug and DWI cases. This is especially true in rural counties like Cooke and Grayson, where judges often enforce severe penalties, and proximity to Oklahoma casinos can lead to unique legal challenges. Our criminal defense firm is well-versed in handling cases across Texas, ensuring you have skilled representation tailored to your specific situation.
With extensive experience in defending clients statewide, including in both urban and rural areas, we understand the nuances of Texas law and the complexities of navigating county-specific practices. Whether you’re dealing with drug charges, a DWI, or another offense, our dedicated team is here to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you through this challenging time.
What Our Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Do For You
Our Texas criminal defense lawyers are committed to providing customized support for every client. Each step in our defense process is carefully designed to address the unique circumstances of your case, ensuring you receive a strategy tailored to your specific needs, whether you’re facing charges in urban centers or rural counties like Cooke or Grayson.
1. You Talk, We Listen
During our initial consultation, we’ll focus on understanding your story in detail. By listening to your perspective, we can identify crucial facts that could shape your defense. We’ll also explain the charges you’re facing, potential outcomes, and your options moving forward, ensuring you feel informed and confident as we build a tailored defense strategy together.
2. Build Evidence on Your Behalf
Providing expert counsel means leaving no stone unturned in collecting and analyzing evidence to build the strongest defense possible. We take a comprehensive approach to gathering and examining all relevant details in your case to uncover the truth and protect your rights.
Our evidence-building process includes:
- Examining Police Reports: We scrutinize arrest records for errors, omissions, or any improper actions, ensuring that law enforcement follows proper procedures.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: This includes verifying fingerprints, DNA, toxicology reports, or other scientific data for accuracy and reliability. We look for inconsistencies or flaws in how the evidence was collected or handled.
- Interviewing Witnesses: We conduct in-depth interviews with witnesses to uncover inconsistencies, biases, or unreliable testimony that could weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Reviewing Video Footage: Any available surveillance, dashcam, or bodycam footage is thoroughly reviewed to validate timelines, actions, and events from the scene.
- Obtaining Medical Records: In cases involving injuries, we assess medical records to verify the claims and determine if they align with the evidence presented.
- Consulting Expert Witnesses: We collaborate with specialists in various fields to provide expert testimony on technical or scientific aspects that may strengthen your defense.
Our strategic approach focuses on:
- Building a Strong Defense: Every piece of evidence we gather is used to create a defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
- Identifying Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Evidence: We work to expose contradictions, procedural errors, or other vulnerabilities in the prosecution’s case.
- Challenging Prosecution’s Arguments: By critically analyzing every aspect of their case, we create opportunities to dispute evidence, question witnesses, and argue for the dismissal or reduction of charges.
3. Seek a Plea Deal (Only if Suitable to Your Situation)
While we aim to build a strong case for trial, there are situations where a plea deal may serve your best interests. Plea negotiations can lead to reduced charges or lighter sentences, especially when the prosecution’s case relies on weak evidence or unreliable witnesses.
We approach each case uniquely, advising you on whether a plea deal aligns with your goals and the facts of your situation. Ultimately, the choice remains yours, and we will support you fully, regardless of your decision.
4. Represent You in Court
When it comes to defending you in court, our approach is thorough, strategic, and unwavering. We are committed to providing exceptional representation to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected at every stage of the process.
Here’s how we represent you effectively:
- Customizing Defense Strategies: Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand the specific details of your situation. By analyzing the charges, evidence, and circumstances, we create a tailored strategy that addresses your individual needs and objectives.
- Identifying and Exploiting Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Case: Our attorneys meticulously review every piece of evidence and testimony to uncover flaws, inconsistencies, or procedural errors. These weaknesses provide opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s claims and strengthen your defense.
- Highlighting Your Innocence: We focus on presenting facts and evidence that support your innocence. By emphasizing the strongest points of your case, we aim to cast doubt on the prosecution’s narrative and build a compelling argument in your favor.
- Drawing on Extensive Trial Experience: With years of courtroom experience across Texas, including rural counties like Cooke and Grayson where judges often impose strict penalties, we understand how to handle the intricacies of the justice system. Our attorneys are skilled at adapting to different court dynamics and advocating effectively on your behalf.
- Presenting Clear and Persuasive Arguments: Effective communication is key to a strong defense. Our attorneys craft compelling narratives that resonate with judges and juries, using logic, evidence, and persuasive tactics to make your case.
- Vigorously Protecting Your Rights: From pre-trial motions to closing arguments, we are relentless in safeguarding your rights. Whether it’s challenging unlawful evidence, objecting to unfair practices, or cross-examining witnesses, we leave no avenue unexplored in our pursuit of justice.
5. Get You Out on Bail and Pre-Trial Release
We know how crucial it is for you to be with your loved ones during this challenging time. That’s why we prioritize securing your release through bail or pre-trial arrangements, allowing you to focus on your defense and regain a sense of normalcy.
Here’s how we handle bail and pre-trial release for you:
- Explaining the Bail Process: We start by guiding you through the bail process step by step, providing clear and straightforward information about what to expect, your rights, and your options for release.
- Securing Prompt Release: Our top priority is minimizing your time in custody. We act quickly and strategically to present a strong case for your release as early as possible, reducing the stress on you and your family.
- Representing You at Bail Hearings: At your bail hearing, we present compelling arguments to the court, negotiating for the lowest possible bail amount or alternative release options. We emphasize your ties to the community, your character, and any mitigating circumstances to strengthen your case.
- Handling All Paperwork: The bail process can involve complex documentation and strict conditions. We take care of all the paperwork and ensure that every requirement is met, so you can focus on what matters most: your case and your loved ones.
- Advocating for Non-Monetary Release: In some cases, we may push for non-monetary release options, such as personal recognizance or pre-trial supervision, particularly when financial constraints make bail difficult.
- Maintaining Communication: Once you’re released, we stay in close contact to provide support, keep you informed of any developments, and ensure you fully understand and comply with the conditions of your release.
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Texas
Our firm is committed to defending clients across Texas, providing skilled representation for a wide variety of criminal charges. With deep knowledge of Texas law and extensive experience handling both urban and rural court systems, we tailor our defense strategies to meet the unique needs of each client and case.
Our familiarity with Texas legal procedures and our ability to adapt to the specific practices of different counties, including those with strict enforcement like Cooke and Grayson Counties, enable us to provide effective and results-driven representation.
We have extensive experience defending clients against DWI/DUI charges throughout Texas. Our approach includes analyzing every detail of your arrest, such as the validity of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and the conduct of law enforcement officers.
We investigate procedural errors, constitutional violations, and other factors to challenge the prosecution’s case. Whether the goal is reduced penalties, alternative resolutions, or outright dismissal, we fight to protect your driving privileges and ensure your rights are upheld.
When facing assault charges in Texas, our team focuses on presenting your side of the story while exploring defenses such as self-defense, lack of intent, or mitigating circumstances. We meticulously review evidence, interview witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s claims to build a compelling defense.
Whether the incident occurred in a densely populated urban area or a rural Texas county, we tailor our strategies to align with the nuances of local laws and court practices.
Our firm defends against all types of drug charges, from minor possession to serious allegations like trafficking or manufacturing. In Texas, where drug laws are strictly enforced, particularly in counties near state borders, we focus on uncovering unlawful searches, mishandling of evidence, and procedural violations.
By challenging the prosecution’s evidence and emphasizing your constitutional rights, we aim to achieve reduced charges or case dismissal.
We represent clients accused of theft and property crimes, including shoplifting, burglary, and robbery. Our approach involves identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, such as disputes over ownership or lack of intent.
By investigating the circumstances of your case and addressing procedural errors, we aim to protect your rights and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal, ensuring your future is not unnecessarily impacted by these allegations.
White-collar charges such as fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft require a strategic and detail-oriented defense. We meticulously review financial records and transactional data, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and scrutinize procedural compliance to build a robust defense.
In Texas, where economic crimes often carry severe penalties, our experience allows us to anticipate prosecution strategies and craft defenses tailored to achieve favorable outcomes.
Our firm also provides skilled representation for a variety of other criminal charges in Texas, 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 in Texas? Protect your rights with the expertise of our skilled Texas criminal defense lawyers. Don’t wait—get the aggressive defense you deserve by contacting us online today or calling (972) 528-0116
Our Texas Criminal Lawyers
Richard C. McConathy
Cynthia Gonzalez
Jocelyn Umanzor
We focus exclusively on criminal defense, leveraging over 35 years of experience representing clients across Texas in DWI cases and a wide range of criminal charges. Our attorneys have a deep knowledge of Texas criminal law and are dedicated to delivering strong, results-oriented advocacy for every client.
With a proven track record of successfully managing over 1,000 criminal cases—including more than 300 verdicts of “Not Guilty” or “Dismissed”—we handle each case with meticulous care. From gathering crucial evidence to negotiating with prosecutors, we ensure that our clients’ rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.
An Overview of Criminal Offense Penalties Under Texas Law
Criminal penalties in Texas vary widely based on the nature and severity of the offense. Below is an overview of potential consequences you could face if convicted:
- Community Service: For lesser offenses, courts may impose community service or require participation in educational programs. These alternatives to incarceration allow individuals to fulfill their legal obligations while contributing positively to the community.
- Fines: Financial penalties can range from minor fines, such as up to $500 for Class C misdemeanors, to substantial amounts reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars for serious crimes like drug trafficking or white-collar fraud.
- Jail/Prison Time: Misdemeanors, such as first-time DWIs or petty theft, typically carry up to one year in county jail. Felonies, including aggravated assault or drug trafficking, can result in multi-year sentences in state prison, depending on the specifics of the offense.
- Probation: Courts often grant probation for first-time or less serious offenses as an alternative to incarceration. Probation terms typically include regular check-ins, drug testing, or mandatory community service. Failure to comply with probation conditions may lead to more severe penalties.
What Can Influence Your Criminal Charges
Several factors can affect the severity of penalties for criminal charges under Texas law:
- Repeat Offenses: Prior convictions frequently lead to harsher penalties. For example, multiple DWI offenses escalate from misdemeanors to felonies, increasing jail time, fines, and long-term repercussions.
- Aggravating and Mitigating Factors: Aggravating circumstances, such as using a weapon, causing severe harm, or targeting a vulnerable individual, often result in stricter sentences. On the other hand, mitigating factors, like showing remorse or cooperating with authorities, may lead to reduced penalties.
- Sentencing Guidelines: While judges in Texas typically follow sentencing guidelines, the unique details of your case can influence the final penalties. Aggravating or mitigating factors can lead to outcomes above or below the standard recommendations.
Our Texas criminal defense attorneys have a comprehensive insight of state laws and court procedures, including how local variations can impact your case. Contact us today to explore your legal options and build a defense to protect your future
Your Rights That We Will Uphold
Our Texas criminal defense attorneys are committed to protecting your rights throughout every stage of your case. State and federal laws provide key protections to individuals facing criminal charges, and we ensure those rights are upheld to the fullest extent.
Here’s how we safeguard your rights:
- Right to Remain Silent: You are entitled to remain silent during a criminal investigation, preventing self-incrimination. We advise you to exercise this right when speaking with law enforcement, ensuring nothing you say is used against you. Silence is often critical to preserving a strong defense.
- Right to an Attorney: Texas law guarantees your right to legal representation at every step of the criminal justice process. Our attorneys stand with you from the initial investigation to trial, offering clear guidance and a dedicated defense.
- Right to Due Process: Due process protects you from unlawful actions such as illegal searches, property seizures, and arbitrary detention. We thoroughly examine law enforcement actions in your case to confirm they meet constitutional and legal standards, safeguarding your rights and ensuring fairness.
We are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and vigorous defense at every stage of your case. Contact us today to discuss how we can protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your situation.
Our extensive experience with Texas courts, including those in urban centers and rural counties, allows us to craft strategic, focused defenses tailored to the specific challenges of your case. Contact us at (972) 528-0116 to schedule a consultation and start building a robust defense with a dedicated team you can trust.
How Our Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect Your Rights
Our legal team is deeply experienced in addressing violations of constitutional rights, including unlawful searches, coerced statements, and improper detentions. We are committed to holding law enforcement accountable and ensuring your rights are upheld throughout every stage of the Texas criminal justice process.
- Challenging Unlawful Searches: We meticulously review the circumstances surrounding evidence collection to identify and challenge any violations of your Fourth Amendment rights. This includes scrutinizing searches conducted without valid warrants or probable cause. If evidence was obtained illegally, we file motions to suppress it, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case and improve your defense.
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- Preventing Coercive Questioning: Texas law mandates that confessions must be voluntary and free from coercion. Our attorneys ensure that law enforcement adheres to legal standards during questioning. If any statements were obtained through pressure, intimidation, or undue influence, we take action to have them excluded from the evidence, preserving the integrity of your defense.
- Reviewing Unlawful Detention: Unreasonable detention without valid cause violates your fundamental rights. We thoroughly examine the details of your arrest to determine if law enforcement had sufficient legal grounds for detention. If we uncover violations, we challenge the legality of the detention and work to have charges dismissed or reduced, protecting your freedom.
By leveraging the protections guaranteed under Texas law and the U.S. Constitution, our attorneys build a strong, rights-focused defense. We also address factors such as Texas’ “habitual offender” statute, advocating for reduced penalties and presenting mitigating evidence when applicable.
The Criminal Defense Process in Texas
Our Texas criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to guiding clients through every stage of the criminal justice process. With extensive experience handling state and federal cases across Texas, we focus on delivering customized defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.
Here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Arrest and Booking: When law enforcement in Texas makes an arrest, the process begins with booking. This involves recording the individual’s details, taking fingerprints, and formally filing charges. This step establishes the foundation of the case, and our attorneys promptly assess the situation to begin crafting your defense. In Texas, the speed and manner of this process may vary depending on the county or jurisdiction.
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- 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. Texas law provides for bail hearings, where judges determine conditions for release. Our skilled attorneys represent clients at these hearings, negotiating for the lowest possible bail or alternative arrangements such as personal recognizance, enabling clients to prepare for their defense outside of custody.
- Pre-Trial Investigations and Evidence Gathering: This critical phase involves an in-depth review of the prosecution’s case, including police reports, forensic evidence, and witness statements. Texas law places significant emphasis on ensuring evidence is obtained legally, so we carefully scrutinize every aspect of the evidence-gathering process for potential violations. Whether the case involves a misdemeanor, felony, or federal charge, we work to uncover inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments to build a robust defense.
- Court Proceedings and Trial Preparation: As the case advances, we collaborate closely with our clients to develop a comprehensive defense strategy. Our attorneys examine all evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge any procedural missteps to ensure your rights are fully protected. While we explore plea options if they offer a strategic advantage, we are always prepared to argue your case in court, leveraging our extensive trial experience to seek the best possible outcome.
- Sentencing and Potential Outcomes: If a plea agreement is reached or a conviction occurs, sentencing follows according to Texas guidelines. Penalties may include fines, probation, community service, or incarceration, depending on the nature of the offense and any prior criminal history. Our goal is to minimize these penalties by presenting mitigating factors and advocating for the most favorable resolution possible under Texas law.
With extensive knowledge of Texas courts and criminal statutes, our team is committed to providing exceptional representation at every stage of the process.
Why Choose Our Texas Criminal Attorney
With decades of experience and a proven record of success, our Texas criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. From dismissals and acquittals to favorable plea agreements, we work tirelessly to ensure every client receives the focused attention they deserve.
Customized Defense Strategies for Every Case: We understand that every client’s situation is unique, and we tailor our approach to address the specific details of your case. Here’s how we handle different types of charges:
- DWI/DUI: We scrutinize field sobriety tests, blood alcohol content (BAC) results, and police procedures to identify errors or violations. If the arrest or evidence is flawed, we fight for dismissal or reduced charges, protecting your record and driving privileges.
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- Assault: Our defense focuses on possible justifications, such as self-defense, lack of intent, or mistaken identity. We examine witness statements, physical evidence, and any available video footage to challenge the prosecution’s narrative and build a compelling case.
- Drug Charges: In Texas, where drug laws are strictly enforced, we focus on challenging unlawful searches and seizures. By identifying procedural errors or insufficient evidence, we aim to weaken the prosecution’s case and seek reduced penalties or dismissal.
- White-Collar Crimes: For fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes, we conduct thorough reviews of financial records and transactional data to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case. We often work with expert witnesses to clarify complex matters, emphasizing the absence of intent or procedural mistakes.
Committed to Protecting Your Rights: At every step of the legal process, we are vigilant in safeguarding your constitutional rights. Whether it’s challenging illegal searches, addressing coerced confessions, or ensuring due process, our attorneys are prepared to push back against any violations and demand fair treatment under Texas law.
Protect your legal rights when facing a crime in Texas. Our experienced Texas criminal defense lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward your defense.
Our Texas Criminal Attorneys Cover the Entire State
With decades of experience and a proven record of success, our Texas criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. From dismissals and acquittals to favorable plea agreements, we work tirelessly to ensure every client receives the focused attention they deserve.
Although we serve the entirety of Texas, our team has a particular focus on the following counties in The Lone Star State:
In Collin County, Texas, crime rates vary by region. The northwest areas experience higher crime rates, with approximately 26.95 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. Conversely, the southeast regions are considered safer, with lower crime rates, where the likelihood of being a crime victim is as low as 1 in 72.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Collin County, it’s crucial to have an experienced Collin County criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and handle the legal system effectively.
Our team of seasoned criminal defense attorneys is dedicated to providing personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique situation, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
In Dallas County, Texas, crime rates are notably higher than the national average, earning the county a D grade for safety. Dallas County ranks in the 17th percentile for safety, meaning that 83% of U.S. counties are safer, while only 17% are more dangerous. This analysis applies exclusively to Dallas County’s proper boundaries and does not reflect neighboring areas.
The overall crime rate in Dallas County is approximately 68.22 incidents per 1,000 residents during a standard year. Residents generally consider the southwest region of the county to be the safest, with lower crime rates compared to other parts of the county.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Dallas County, securing our experienced Dallas criminal defense lawyer is critical. Our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to providing customized defense strategies that address your specific circumstances, helping to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
In Denton County, crime rates vary across different regions. The county is in the 77th percentile for safety, indicating that 23% of U.S. counties are safer, while 77% are more dangerous.
The overall crime rate stands at approximately 28.34 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. Residents generally consider the northern part of the county to be the safest, with the likelihood of being a crime victim as low as 1 in 73. In contrast, the southeastern areas experience higher crime rates, with chances of victimization reaching up to 1 in 22.
Violent crime in Denton County is notably low, earning an A+ grade for safety. The county ranks in the 97th percentile for violent crime safety, meaning only 3% of counties are safer. The rate of violent crime is approximately 2.133 incidents per 1,000 residents per year.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Denton County, securing an experienced Denton County criminal defense lawyer is vital to protect your rights and effectively handle the legal system. Our team of seasoned criminal defense attorneys is committed to providing personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique situation, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
In Parker County, crime rates vary across different regions, with the county earning an impressive A+ safety grade due to its significantly lower crime rates compared to the national average. Parker County ranks in the 98th percentile for safety, meaning only 2% of U.S. counties are safer, while 98% are more dangerous.
The overall crime rate is approximately 17.48 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. Residents generally consider the eastern part of the county to be the safest, with the likelihood of being a crime victim as low as 1 in 101. In contrast, the western regions experience higher crime rates, with chances of victimization up to 1 in 36.
Violent crime in Parker County is notably low, also earning an A+ grade. The county ranks in the 99th percentile for violent crime safety, with a violent crime rate of approximately 1.934 incidents per 1,000 residents per year. This makes Parker County one of the safer regions in Texas for violent offenses.
If you are facing criminal charges in Parker County, it is essential to have a skilled and experienced Parker criminal defense lawyer by your side. Our dedicated legal team provides personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances, helping to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
In Tarrant County is in the 39th percentile for safety, indicating that 61% of U.S. counties are safer, while 39% are more dangerous. The overall crime rate is approximately 43.09 incidents per 1,000 residents annually.
Residents generally consider the northwest part of the county to be the safest, with the likelihood of being a crime victim as low as 1 in 83. In contrast, central areas experience higher crime rates, with chances of victimization up to 1 in 24.
Violent crime in Tarrant County is relatively low, with a rate of approximately 3.818 incidents per 1,000 residents per year. The county’s violent crime rate is lower than both the Texas state average and the national average. Residents generally consider the northern part of the county to be the safest for violent crimes, with the chance of being a victim as low as 1 in 517.
Contact Our Texas Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
Our experienced criminal defense lawyer team is ready to provide immediate, strategic support when you need it most. Taking swift action can make all the difference in your case, and we are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process.
Call us now at (972) 528-0116 to schedule a free consultation and discuss how we can help protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.