You’ve just been accused of a crime.
In seconds, your life flips. Jail time. Crushing fines. A criminal record that brands you for life. Your job, your reputation, your relationships — all hanging by a thread.
The justice system doesn’t care if you’re innocent. It wants a conviction. Fast. And if you think staying quiet will save you, you’re already losing.
Now’s not the time to play nice. It’s time to fight.
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we don’t do sugarcoating. We do strategy, grit, and results. We’ve helped thousands beat charges and keep their future intact — and we’ll go to war for yours.
Because when everything’s on the line, you don’t need just a lawyer, you need a warrior.
Call (972) 528-0481 for a free case review now.
Why Choose Our Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers
Since 2002, the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy has been protecting the freedoms of men, women, and youths charged with misdemeanors, felonies, and DWI throughout Dallas County and surrounding communities in TX.
Our Firm’s Track Record: Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
- 35+ years of combined criminal defense experience in Dallas
- 1,000+ cases dismissed in the Dallas-Fort Worth area
- Serving 16+ counties across North Texas
- Hundreds of criminal cases resulting in “Not Guilty” verdicts
- 6,000+ criminal cases successfully handled
“When you are protecting someone’s freedoms and civil rights, you’re taking one of the most precious things and putting a shield of protection over it. You’re protecting this person from the onslaught of the awesome power of the government, and the only thing that is holding back that giant is a piece of paper written over 240 years ago.” – Richard C. McConathy
Who Needs a Criminal Defense Attorney in Dallas?
Our services are particularly valuable for:
- Individuals facing their first criminal charge
- Repeat offenders facing enhanced penalties
- Professionals whose careers could be jeopardized by a conviction
- Students whose educational opportunities could be affected
- Non-citizens concerned about immigration consequences
- Individuals charged with serious felony offenses
- Those accused of federal crimes carrying mandatory minimum sentences
What You Need to Know About Criminal Law in Texas
Facing criminal charges in Texas can be intimidating. The legal system moves fast, and prosecutors have a lot of resources behind them. That’s why having a strong defense matters — to protect your rights and fight for your future.
A criminal defense lawyer is your advocate. We’re here to challenge the case against you, make sure your rights are respected, and guide you through every step of the process.
Your Rights Under the Constitution
You have powerful rights under the U.S. Constitution. Here are some of the most important ones:
| Amendment | What It Means | Why This Is Good for You |
| Fourth Amendment | Protects you from illegal searches and seizures. The police need a valid reason to search you. | You’re not at the mercy of random or unfair searches — your privacy is protected. |
| Fifth Amendment | You can’t be forced to say anything that might get you in trouble, and you can’t be tried twice for the same crime. | You can stay silent without it being used against you — and you get one fair shot, not multiple tries. |
| Sixth Amendment | You have the right to a lawyer, a speedy trial, and to face the people accusing you. | You’re not alone in court, and you get a fair chance to defend yourself. |
| Eighth Amendment | Stops the court from setting unfairly high bail or handing out cruel or unusual punishments. | You’re protected from extreme penalties and can fight your case without being stuck in jail just because you can’t afford bail. |
What to Expect When You Hire Us: Step-by-Step Defense in Dallas County
Step 1: Free Consultation
We start by hearing your side. Then we review the arrest, police reports, video/audio, witness statements, and any other evidence.
Step 2: Immediate Action
We help with bond, demand evidence preservation, speak to witnesses while it’s fresh, and arrange expert evaluations if needed.
Step 3: Full Case Investigation
We dig into whether the stop or arrest was legal, if your rights were violated, whether key evidence helps you, or if the prosecution’s case has weaknesses.
Step 4: Strategy & Defense
We tailor a defense plan — this could mean filing motions to throw out bad evidence, challenging witnesses, presenting your side, negotiating, or prepping for trial.
Step 5: Fight for the Best Outcome
Our goal is always the best result: dropped or reduced charges, alternative sentencing, avoiding jail, or clearing your record when possible.
Criminal Charges We Handle: From DWI to Federal Defense Cases
Our legal team defends clients against a wide range of criminal charges in Dallas, some of which are listed below. You can view a comprehensive list of all of our Practice Areas here.
DWI Defense in Dallas County
First-time DWI, multiple offenses, DWI with child passenger, intoxication assault, intoxication manslaughter, boating while intoxicated, and drug-related DWI.
Texas Drug Crime Defense
Possession of controlled substances, trafficking, manufacturing, prescription drug fraud, and possession with intent to distribute.
Theft & Property Crimes
Theft/larceny, robbery, burglary, shoplifting, auto theft, and criminal mischief.
Traffic Crime Defense
Driving while license suspended, reckless driving, racing on a highway, and leaving the scene of an accident. We have specialized Texas Traffic ticket lawyers.
Domestic Violence Cases
Family violence assault, assault by strangulation, continuous violence against family, violation of protective orders, and child abuse allegations.
Federal Criminal Defense
Federal drug crimes, weapons offenses, white collar crimes, human trafficking, and internet crimes.
Client Testimonials
“The case was dismissed. It got expunged completely from my record. My life just went on. Richard made such an effort to prove my innocence and I couldn’t thank him enough for the hard work that he put in for my case.” – Former Client
“Richard’s team was tenacious. They told me they were gonna fight this to the end in court. I felt like he cared about me and my best interests and treated me like I was family. They were able to get the blood test dismissed and my case was dismissed. I can’t thank Richard and his team enough.” – Former Client
Real Case Results from Dallas Criminal Defense Attorney Richard McConathy
These are actual criminal cases our Dallas defense lawyers have successfully handled:
Felony Defense Results
- Aggravated Assault w/ Deadly Weapon, Dismissed, Dallas County, F1300346
- Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor, Dallas County, F1334337
- Theft (Felony), Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor, Dallas County, F1245325-W
- Criminal Mischief (Felony), Dismissed, Dallas County, F16-14883
Misdemeanor Case Outcomes
- Theft, Dismissed, Dallas Co., M1554025
- Possession of Marijuana, Dismissed, Dallas County, M13-39484
- Assault by Contact Family Violence, Dismissed, City of Dallas, C21550262
- Unlawful Carrying of Weapon, Dismissed, Dallas County, M13-65512
DWI Defense Successes
- DWI with a 0.164 breath test result: Not Guilty (Case MB0253138-B)
- DWI with a 0.17 breath test result: Case Dismissed (M0562263)
- DWI “passed out at the wheel”: Not Guilty (CR200707935)
- DWI 2nd, Reduced to DWI 1st, Dallas Co. M14-493-99
Contact Our Dallas Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you’ve been accused of a crime in Dallas County, time is of the essence.
Important deadlines begin immediately after your arrest, and crucial evidence may be lost if not promptly preserved.
Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 528-0481 for a free consultation about your criminal charge in Dallas.
Remember: An arrest is not a conviction. Many criminal cases can be successfully fought with the right legal strategy and representation.
Office Location
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
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges in Texas
Should I talk to the police if I’m innocent?
No. Even innocent people can say things that might be misinterpreted or taken out of context. Exercise your right to remain silent and speak with a criminal defense lawyer first.
How much does a criminal defense attorney in Dallas cost?
Fees vary based on the complexity of your case, the seriousness of the charges, and whether your case goes to trial. We offer a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.
Can a felony charge be expunged from my record in Texas?
In certain circumstances, yes. Texas law allows for expunction of records in cases of acquittals, dismissals, pardons, and certain other outcomes. We can help determine if you’re eligible.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in TX?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to one year in county jail. Felony offenses are more serious crimes punishable by more than one year in state prison and carry greater long-term consequences.
Should I accept a plea bargain from the prosecutor?
This depends on your specific case. While plea bargains can offer a quicker resolution with reduced penalties, they result in a conviction. We always evaluate whether we can achieve a better outcome through other means.
What happens at an arraignment in Dallas County?
An arraignment is your first court appearance where you’re formally charged and enter a plea. We can represent you at this hearing and help you understand the charges.