When facing a felony charge in Texas, your freedom and future hang in the balance. A felony conviction carries severe consequences including substantial prison time, hefty fines, and the permanent loss of fundamental rights such as voting and firearm ownership.
In Arlington’s Tarrant County courts, prosecutors aggressively pursue felony cases, making experienced legal representation essential from the moment of arrest.
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we understand the gravity of felony charges and their impact on our clients’ lives.
With over 35 years of combined experience defending clients throughout North Texas, our legal team has successfully handled thousands of felony cases in Arlington and surrounding communities. Led by a respected criminal defense lawyer in Arlington, we are dedicated to protecting your freedom and future.
Don’t face felony charges alone. Contact our Arlington felony lawyers today at (972) 528-0478 for a confidential consultation and immediate legal protection.
Types of Felony Charges We Defend
Our Arlington criminal defense lawyer team has extensive experience defending clients against all categories of felony charges. We understand that each case requires a tailored defense strategy based on the specific circumstances and evidence involved.
Drug Offenses
Texas drug laws impose harsh penalties for felony-level drug offenses, including:
- Possession of controlled substances in amounts exceeding specified thresholds
- Drug trafficking and distribution charges involving large quantities
- Manufacturing of illegal substances including methamphetamines and synthetic drugs
- Possession with intent to distribute based on quantity, packaging, or other evidence
Violent Crimes
Violent felony charges carry some of the harshest penalties in Texas, including:
- Aggravated assault involving serious bodily injury or deadly weapons
- Robbery and aggravated robbery with threats or use of force
- Assault causing serious bodily injury to family members or others
- Homicide charges including murder and manslaughter
- Kidnapping and unlawful restraint offenses
Our firm has achieved numerous successful outcomes in violent crime cases, including dismissals of serious charges and not guilty verdicts at trial.
White Collar Crimes
Financial crimes often involve complex evidence and lengthy investigations including embezzlement, identity theft and credit card fraud, money laundering and financial institution fraud, insurance fraud, and tax evasion.
Sexual Offenses
These sensitive cases include sexual assault of adults or children, indecency with a child charges, online solicitation of minors, and possession of child pornography.
Weapons Charges
Firearm-related felonies in Texas include unlawful carrying of weapons in prohibited locations, felon in possession of firearms, deadly conduct involving firearms, and armed robbery using deadly weapons.
Penalties for Felonies in Texas
Texas law classifies felonies into five distinct categories, each carrying increasingly severe penalties:
| Felony Class | Prison Term | Fine | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years | Up to $10,000 | Drug possession, credit card abuse |
| Third-Degree Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Stalking, deadly conduct |
| Second-Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Aggravated assault, robbery |
| First-Degree Felony | 5 – 99 years or life | Up to $10,000 | Aggravated robbery, murder |
| Capital Felony | Life without parole or death | Up to $10,000 | Capital murder |
Beyond incarceration and fines, felony convictions result in permanent consequences including loss of voting rights, inability to possess firearms, disqualification from professional licenses, housing and employment discrimination, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Understanding the specific classification of your charges is vital for developing an effective defense strategy. Learn more about the serious nature of a 3rd-degree felony in Texas and how it could affect your future.
What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with a Felony in Arlington
Don’t Talk to Police Without Legal Counsel
Your Miranda rights exist for a reason. Whether you’re questioned at the Arlington Police Department on Division Street or during transport to the Tarrant County Corrections Center at 100 N Lamar Street, law enforcement officers are trained to obtain confessions that can be used against you.
Invoke your right to remain silent immediately and request an attorney. Police must cease questioning once you clearly invoke these rights.
Arlington Booking Process: After arrest, you’ll typically be taken to Arlington PD for initial processing before transport to the Tarrant County Corrections Center at 100 N Lamar Street. The booking process can take 4-8 hours depending on the severity of charges and current jail population.
Understand the Charges Against You
Felony indictments in Tarrant County contain complex legal language that requires experienced interpretation. At the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center (401 W Belknap Street), your case will be assigned to one of ten felony courts on different floors of the building.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights
Time is critical in felony cases. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and procedural deadlines can limit your defense options.
🏛️ What to Expect at Your Arraignment (typically held within 48-72 hours):
- Location: Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center courtroom
- Parking: No free parking available – budget $15-25/day for garage parking between Throckmorton and Houston Streets
- Security: Allow 30+ minutes for metal detector screening during busy periods
- Proceedings: Judge will read charges, set bond conditions, and schedule future court dates
How Our Arlington Felony Defense Lawyers Can Help
Local Court Expertise: We practice regularly in the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center and understand the individual court procedures and local practices. This local knowledge provides strategic advantages in plea negotiations and trial preparation.
Note: Some judges recently transitioned – for instance, former Judge Robb Catalano stepped down from Criminal District Court No. 3 to become First Assistant District Attorney under Phil Sorrells in January 2023, with Judge Douglas A. Allen now presiding over that court.
Our comprehensive defense approach includes thorough case investigation, constitutional rights protection by challenging unlawful searches and seizures, discovery and motion practice through Tarrant County’s mandatory e-filing system, skilled plea negotiations with experienced prosecutors, aggressive trial representation, and 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters.
Arlington-Specific Services:
- Bond hearings coordination with Tarrant County Magistrates
- Arlington Police Department Records Division: (817) 459-5680
- Pre-trial intervention program applications when available
- Expunction and nondisclosure filings for eligible cases
Practical Court Information for Clients:
- Courthouse Address: 401 W Belknap Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196
- Parking: Limited paid parking available – arrive 45 minutes early during peak times
- Building Access: Enter through main security entrance on Belknap Street
- Court Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by court)
Why Choose Our Law Firm for Felony Defense in Arlington?
Proven Track Record: With over 1,000+ criminal cases handled and decades of experience, our results demonstrate our commitment to aggressive defense representation.
Local Court Experience: Our attorneys practice regularly in Tarrant County courts and maintain professional relationships with local prosecutors and judges. This familiarity with Arlington’s legal landscape provides strategic advantages for our clients.
Board Certification: Attorney Richard C. McConathy is Board Certified in Criminal Law, demonstrating the highest level of expertise recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
🏆 Three Generations of Legal Excellence: The McConathy family has provided criminal defense representation for over 75 years, building a legacy of protecting clients’ rights and freedoms.
Get in touch with our experienced felony attorneys in Arlington today by calling (972) 528-0478.
Speak With a Felony Defense Attorney in Arlington Today
Felony charges threaten everything you’ve worked to build – your career, relationships, and freedom. In Tarrant County’s courts, prosecutors have significant resources and experienced attorneys working against you. Don’t face these serious charges without equally skilled legal representation.
The Reality of Tarrant County Prosecutions: The Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office employs over 270 prosecutors who handle thousands of felony cases annually. They have access to advanced forensic labs, experienced investigators, and substantial budgets. You need an equally prepared defense team.
Local Court Advantages We Provide:
- Daily presence in Tim Curry Justice Center courtrooms
- Professional relationships with court coordinators and clerks
- Knowledge of local procedures including Tarrant County’s specific e-filing requirements
- Understanding of judge preferences for plea negotiations and sentencing
- Familiarity with prosecutor strategies and common case dispositions
Protect your freedom and future – call the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy now at (972) 528-0478 for a comprehensive case evaluation. We’re available 24/7 for urgent legal matters and offer confidential consultations.
Court Directions from Arlington: Take I-30 West to downtown Fort Worth, exit at Summit Avenue, and follow signs to the Tim Curry Justice Center. Allow 45-60 minutes travel time during peak hours and plan for paid parking ($15-25 for full day).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a felony in Texas?
A felony is any criminal offense punishable by imprisonment in state prison for more than one year. Texas felonies range from state jail felonies (180 days to 2 years) to capital felonies (life imprisonment or death). Common examples include drug trafficking, aggravated assault, robbery, and white collar crimes involving significant financial losses.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Texas?
Yes, in certain circumstances. Through skilled plea bargaining, we may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors. Additionally, some first-time offenders may qualify for deferred adjudication, which can prevent a final felony conviction if probation is successfully completed.
What happens after a felony arrest in Arlington?
Following arrest in Arlington, you’ll be processed at the Arlington Police Department (620 W Division Street) before transport to the Tarrant County Corrections Center at 100 N Lamar Street. The typical timeline includes:
Initial Processing (0-4 hours):
- Booking at Arlington PD
- Fingerprinting and photographing
- Initial paperwork processing
Transport to County Jail (4-12 hours):
- Transfer to Tarrant County facility
- Medical screening and classification
- Assignment of inmate number
Magistrate Hearing (Within 48 hours):
- Video appearance before Tarrant County Magistrate
- Formal reading of charges
- Bond amount determination
- Appointment of counsel if indigent
Bond Information:
- Bond desk phone: (817) 884-3000 (Inmate Information Line)
- Alternative bond desk: (817) 884-1216 or (817) 884-3116 (multiple sources show different numbers)
- Typical felony bonds: $5,000-$100,000+ depending on charge severity
- Payment locations: Bond desk at 100 N Lamar Street accepts certified funds or approved bail bondsman payments
- Release processing: Additional 2-4 hours after bond payment
📍 Important Locations for Family Members:
- Tarrant County Jail Visitation: 350 W Belknap Street (separate from courthouse)
- Parking: Limited metered parking along Belknap Street ($2/hour)
- Nearby amenities: Multiple restaurants and coffee shops within walking distance on Main Street
Will a felony conviction stay on my record forever?
Not necessarily. Texas law provides limited opportunities for record sealing through nondisclosure orders and, in rare cases, expungement. Eligibility depends on factors such as the specific offense, completion of probation, and your criminal history. We can evaluate whether your case qualifies for these remedies.
Can I get bail for a felony charge?
Most felony defendants are entitled to reasonable bail under the Texas Constitution. Tarrant County Magistrates typically set bonds within 24 hours of arrest based on severity of the alleged offense, criminal history and flight risk, community ties and employment status, and public safety considerations.
Common Arlington-Area Bond Amounts:
- State Jail Felony: $2,500-$15,000
- 3rd Degree Felony: $10,000-$25,000
- 2nd Degree Felony: $15,000-$50,000
- 1st Degree Felony: $25,000-$100,000+
Bond Reduction Hearings: Our firm can file bond reduction motions and appear before the assigned judge to argue for lower bond amounts. We’ve successfully obtained significant bond reductions in serious felony cases by presenting evidence of community ties and stable employment.
Payment Options:
- Cash bond: Full amount paid to Tarrant County
- Surety bond: 10% premium paid to licensed bondsman
- Property bond: Real estate collateral (requires appraisal)
- Personal recognizance: Release on promise to appear (rare for felonies)
Local Bondsman Resources: Multiple licensed bail bondsmen maintain offices near the Tim Curry Justice Center on Weatherford Street and Commerce Street for quick processing.