Facing criminal charges or a DWI arrest in Hunt County can feel overwhelming. Texas takes criminal offenses seriously, and the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years—affecting your employment, housing, and personal relationships. Early legal representation can make the difference between conviction and dismissed charges.
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy has protected clients throughout Hunt County since 2002, bringing more than 35 years of combined experience to every case. Our criminal defense attorneys understand the local court system and work aggressively to protect your rights and your future. Call (972) 528-0116 or contact us online to discuss your case today.
Why You Need a Hunt County Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
Texas criminal laws carry some of the harshest penalties in the nation. Once you’re arrested, law enforcement and prosecutors begin building a case against you—and they have significant resources at their disposal. Without experienced legal representation, you’re at a serious disadvantage.
Our attorneys can:
- Protect your constitutional rights during questioning and court proceedings
- Challenge illegal police procedures that may have violated your Fourth Amendment rights
- Gather and preserve evidence that supports your defense
- Negotiate with Hunt County prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Build a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that could lead to dismissal
Our firm represents clients throughout North Texas, including those who need an experienced criminal defense lawyer Dallas or a trusted criminal defense lawyer Plano when their cases involve courts across the greater Dallas–Fort Worth region.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—speak with a criminal defense lawyer now.
What To Do After Being Arrested in Hunt County
Your actions immediately following an arrest can significantly impact your case. Follow these steps to protect your legal rights:
1. Remain Calm and Do Not Resist Arrest
Even if you believe the arrest is unjust, resisting can result in additional charges such as resisting arrest or assault on a peace officer. Stay calm, comply with officers’ instructions, and save your defense for court where it matters.
2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
You have the constitutional right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. Police may try to engage you in conversation or claim that “talking will help your case.” Anything you say can and will be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions beyond providing your basic identification information.
3. Avoid Discussing the Case With Anyone
Don’t discuss your arrest with cellmates, friends, or family members beyond telling them you need an attorney. Jail calls are recorded, and conversations can be subpoenaed as evidence. Wait until you speak with your lawyer in a confidential setting.
4. Request an Attorney Immediately
Clearly state to law enforcement: “I am invoking my right to an attorney and will not answer questions without my lawyer present.” This stops interrogation and protects you from self-incrimination.
5. Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Call the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy at (972) 528-0116 as soon as possible. We can often secure your release, begin investigating your case immediately, and ensure your rights are protected from the start.
Understanding the Hunt County Arrest and Court Process
If you’ve been arrested in Hunt County, understanding what happens next can reduce anxiety and help you prepare.
Hunt County Jail and Booking
Most arrests in Hunt County result in booking at the Hunt County Detention Center located at 2801 Stuart Street in Greenville. The booking process typically includes:
- Fingerprinting and photographing
- Background check and warrant search
- Personal property inventory
- Health screening
- Classification and housing assignment
Booking can take several hours, especially during busy periods. If arrested for DWI, you’ll also face an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing deadline—you have only 15 days from arrest to request this hearing to challenge your license suspension.
Setting Bond in Hunt County
After booking, a magistrate will set your bond amount based on:
- The severity of charges
- Your criminal history
- Flight risk assessment
- Community ties
Common Hunt County Bond Amounts:
| Charge Type | Typical Bond Range |
|---|---|
| First DWI | $500 – $2,000 |
| Second DWI | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Third DWI (Felony) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Felony Drug Possession | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Assault Family Violence | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Felony Theft | $2,500 – $15,000 |
You can post bond through cash payment, property bond, or a bail bondsman. Several bail bond companies operate near the courthouse on Lee Street in downtown Greenville. We can help coordinate your release and ensure you meet all bond conditions.
Your First Court Appearance (Arraignment)
Your arraignment typically occurs within 48 hours of arrest (72 hours if arrested on a weekend). At the Hunt County Courthouse, you’ll:
- Appear before a judge
- Hear the formal charges against you
- Enter a plea (we strongly recommend pleading “not guilty” initially)
- Receive information about your rights
- Have bond conditions reviewed or modified
Critical: Do not plead guilty at arraignment without consulting an attorney. Once you plead guilty, you’ve waived your right to challenge the charges. Having legal representation at your first appearance protects your options moving forward.
How Our Hunt County Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help
When you hire our firm, you’re getting a dedicated team that treats your case like it’s our own. We’ve successfully defended thousands of criminal cases across North Texas, including Hunt County. Here’s what we provide:
- Immediate Legal Guidance: We’re available to answer your questions and provide counsel 24/7
- Constitutional Rights Protection: We ensure law enforcement and prosecutors respect your rights throughout the legal process
- Police Procedure Review: We scrutinize every aspect of your arrest, from the initial traffic stop to evidence collection
- Evidence Analysis: We identify problems with the prosecution’s evidence that can lead to suppression or dismissal
- Prosecutor Negotiation: Our relationships with Hunt County prosecutors allow us to negotiate effectively for reduced charges or case dismissal
- Aggressive Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, we bring decades of courtroom experience and a proven track record
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all defense strategies—every case receives the individual attention it deserves.
Criminal Cases Our Hunt County Defense Attorneys Handle
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy defends clients against the full spectrum of criminal charges in Hunt County. Our practice areas include:
DWI Defense
Texas takes driving while intoxicated extremely seriously. Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, you can be charged with DWI if you operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated—defined as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or lacking normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or drugs.
Different BAC thresholds apply to commercial drivers (0.04% BAC) and drivers under 21 (any detectable amount under zero tolerance policy). First-time DWI convictions carry penalties including up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $2,000, and driver’s license suspension. Subsequent offenses dramatically increase these penalties. Our Dallas DWI lawyer team has successfully defended hundreds of DWI cases, from first offenses to felony intoxication assault charges.
Drug Crimes
Drug offenses in Texas range from simple possession to trafficking, with penalties varying based on the type and amount of controlled substance. Even small amounts of certain drugs can result in felony charges under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.
We defend clients charged with possession of marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, other controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute, drug manufacturing, and prescription drug fraud. We challenge illegal searches, question the validity of drug testing, and work to get charges reduced or dismissed.
Assault and Violent Crimes
Assault charges range from simple assault (a Class A misdemeanor) to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (a first-degree felony). We handle simple assault (intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury), domestic violence (assault against family members or dating partners, which carries enhanced penalties and protective orders), and aggravated assault (causing serious bodily injury or involving a deadly weapon).
Texas assault laws are found in Penal Code § 22.01 and § 22.02. Felony assault convictions can result in decades in prison. Our defense strategies often involve challenging witness credibility, establishing self-defense, and demonstrating lack of intent.
Theft and Property Crimes
Property crimes include offenses where someone unlawfully takes or damages another person’s property. Common charges include theft (unlawfully appropriating property), burglary (entering a building with intent to commit theft, assault, or another felony), robbery (theft involving force or threat of force), and fraud (deception for financial gain, including credit card fraud and identity theft).
The Texas Penal Code § 31.03 establishes penalties ranging from Class C misdemeanors (for theft under $100) to first-degree felonies (for theft exceeding $300,000). We work to challenge the valuation of allegedly stolen property, demonstrate lack of intent, and negotiate reduced charges.
Felony Charges
Felony convictions carry long-term consequences beyond prison time. In Texas, felonies are classified as:
| Felony Class | Prison Sentence | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years | $10,000 |
| Third-Degree Felony | 2 – 10 years | $10,000 |
| Second-Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years | $10,000 |
| First-Degree Felony | 5 – 99 years or life | $10,000 |
| Capital Felony | Life without parole or death penalty | N/A |
Felony convictions result in loss of voting rights, firearm ownership rights, and professional licensing. Many employers refuse to hire convicted felons. Given these serious consequences, aggressive defense is essential. We’ve successfully reduced felony charges to misdemeanors and secured dismissals even in cases that seemed impossible.
Contact our attorneys today to discuss your felony defense options.
Types of DWI Cases We Defend in Hunt County
DWI laws in Texas are complex, with penalties escalating based on prior convictions, aggravating factors, and the circumstances of your arrest. Our firm handles all types of DWI cases:
First-Time DWI Offense
Even a first DWI is a Class B misdemeanor carrying serious penalties: up to 180 days in county jail, fines up to $2,000, driver’s license suspension for 90 days to 1 year, annual surcharges of $1,000-$2,000 for three years to maintain your license, and possible ignition interlock device requirement. Many first-time offenders qualify for pretrial diversion programs or probation.
Second DWI Offense
A second DWI within five years of the first becomes a Class A misdemeanor with enhanced penalties: up to 1 year in county jail (minimum 30 days), fines up to $4,000, license suspension for 180 days to 2 years, mandatory ignition interlock device for at least one year, and higher insurance rates. Second offenses carry mandatory minimum jail time unless we can negotiate alternative sentencing.
Third or Subsequent DWI
A third DWI is a third-degree felony in Texas, regardless of how much time has passed since previous convictions:
- 2 to 10 years in state prison
- Fines up to $10,000
- License suspension for up to 2 years
- Permanent felony record affecting employment and civil rights
Even serious repeat DWI charges can be successfully defended with the right legal strategy and thorough case preparation.
DWI With a Minor Passenger
Under Texas Penal Code § 49.045, driving while intoxicated with a passenger under 15 years old is automatically a state jail felony, even for first-time offenders. This carries 180 days to 2 years in state jail, fines up to $10,000, potential child endangerment charges, and involvement from Child Protective Services.
Commercial Driver DWI
Commercial drivers face stricter standards under federal regulations. A BAC of 0.04% or higher while operating a commercial vehicle results in DWI charges—half the limit for regular drivers. Additionally, a DWI conviction in a personal vehicle can result in loss of your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and your livelihood.
We understand the unique challenges commercial drivers face and work aggressively to protect your CDL and your career.
Intoxication Assault
When a DWI results in serious bodily injury to another person, prosecutors charge intoxication assault under Penal Code § 49.07. This third-degree felony carries 2 to 10 years in prison, fines up to $10,000, and restitution to victims for medical expenses. Intoxication assault cases require immediate attention and a comprehensive defense strategy. We work with accident reconstruction experts, challenge toxicology evidence, and thoroughly investigate every aspect of the arrest and testing procedures.
Intoxication Manslaughter
The most serious DWI-related charge, intoxication manslaughter occurs when a DWI causes another person’s death. This second-degree felony carries 2 to 20 years in prison, fines up to $10,000, and civil liability for wrongful death. These cases require immediate, aggressive defense with accident reconstruction experts and thorough challenges to toxicology evidence.
DWI Defense Strategies Used by Our Firm
We analyze every detail of your arrest to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common approaches include challenging the traffic stop legality (police must have reasonable suspicion), breathalyzer calibration and maintenance errors, improper field sobriety test administration, blood test chain of custody issues, rising blood alcohol defense (BAC continues to rise for 30-90 minutes after drinking), medical conditions affecting test results, and lack of probable cause for arrest.
We’ve successfully demonstrated in numerous cases that officers lacked sufficient evidence to justify arrest, leading to case dismissals.
Get legal help today by calling (972) 528-0116.
Why Choose Our Hunt County Criminal Defense Lawyers
Local Court Knowledge
Hunt County has its own legal culture, with specific judges, prosecutors, and court procedures. We’ve appeared in Hunt County courts countless times and understand how local prosecutors approach different types of cases.
Hunt County Courthouse:
2507 Lee Street
Greenville, TX 75401
Located in downtown Greenville, just blocks from the Greenville Police Department on Washington Street. Criminal cases are heard in the Hunt County Courts at Law and Justice of the Peace courts within the courthouse complex.
Our local knowledge allows us to predict prosecutor strategies, leverage relationships to negotiate favorable outcomes, navigate local court procedures efficiently, understand individual judges’ tendencies, and guide you through the specific Hunt County booking and arraignment process.
Experienced Criminal Defense Team
Since 2002, the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy has focused exclusively on criminal defense and DWI cases. We’ve handled over 6,000 criminal cases and secured more than 1,000 dismissals in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, including Hunt County.
Dedicated Client Advocacy
When you hire our firm, your case becomes personal to us. We treat every client like family and fight as aggressively for your freedom as we would for our own. As Attorney McConathy states:
“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.”
We provide 24/7 availability for urgent questions, regular communication about case progress, personalized attention from experienced attorneys (not paralegals), and aggressive advocacy both in negotiations and at trial.
Areas We Serve in Hunt County
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy represents clients throughout Hunt County, Texas, including:
- Greenville – The county seat and largest city in Hunt County, home to the Hunt County Courthouse and Detention Center
- Commerce – Home to Texas A&M University-Commerce; we handle student-related offenses and DWIs near the campus area
- Royse City – Growing community in the western part of the county along I-30
- Quinlan – Small town near Lake Tawakoni where weekend DWIs and boating while intoxicated charges are common
- Lone Oak – Rural community in Hunt County served by both local and state law enforcement
- Caddo Mills – Eastern Hunt County town along Highway 36
- West Tawakoni – Lakeside community along Lake Tawakoni; we defend BWI and DWI charges from lake-area arrests
We also defend clients arrested by:
- Greenville Police Department
- Commerce Police Department
- Hunt County Sheriff’s Office
- Texas Department of Public Safety (Highway Patrol on I-30, Highway 380, and Highway 69)
- Royse City Police Department
Whether you were arrested on Interstate 30 heading toward Sulphur Springs, stopped on Highway 380 near the Collin County line, or pulled over in downtown Greenville near the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum, our team is ready to defend you.
About Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy was founded on the principle that every person deserves a vigorous defense when facing criminal charges. Our family has a long tradition of service—Attorney McConathy’s grandfather served four years in Indochina, and his father was a combat veteran of Vietnam.
This legacy drives our approach: over 35 years of combined criminal defense experience, more than 1,000 cases dismissed in the DFW metroplex, 6,000+ criminal cases handled across North Texas, and service to 16+ counties including Hunt County. Our motto—”Liberty or Death”—reflects our commitment to fighting for every client’s freedom.
Contact a Hunt County Criminal Defense & DWI Lawyer Today
Early legal intervention can mean the difference between conviction and freedom. The prosecution is already building their case against you—don’t face them without experienced legal counsel. Criminal charges can affect your employment, housing, education, and relationships. Don’t let one mistake define your future.
Take the first step toward protecting your rights. Call (972) 528-0116 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your case and begin building your defense immediately.
FAQs About Criminal Defense in Hunt County
What should I do after being arrested in Hunt County?
Remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and request an attorney immediately. Do not answer questions beyond basic identification information, and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy at (972) 528-0116 as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights and building your defense.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Texas?
Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of your case, the charges you’re facing, and whether your case goes to trial. We offer consultations to discuss your case and provide transparent pricing information. Many clients find that investing in experienced legal representation saves money in the long run by avoiding convictions, reducing charges, or securing dismissals. Call us to discuss payment options.
Can a DWI charge be dismissed in Texas?
Yes. We’ve secured hundreds of DWI dismissals across North Texas, including Hunt County. Dismissals can occur when we successfully challenge the legality of the traffic stop, demonstrate problems with breath or blood testing, prove police procedural errors, or negotiate with prosecutors. Each case is unique, but many DWI charges have valid defenses that can lead to dismissal.
Will a criminal conviction stay on my record?
Most criminal convictions in Texas remain on your record permanently unless you qualify for expungement or an order of nondisclosure. Expungement completely removes the arrest and charges from your record, while nondisclosure seals records from public view. Avoiding conviction in the first place is the best way to protect your record. If you’re convicted, we can advise you about eligibility for record sealing or expungement based on your specific circumstances.
How long do DWI cases take in Texas?
DWI cases in Hunt County typically take several months to resolve, though timelines vary based on case complexity, court schedules, and whether your case goes to trial. Early involvement of an attorney can sometimes expedite resolution through favorable negotiations. More complex cases involving blood tests, accident reconstruction, or serious injuries may take longer. We keep clients informed throughout the process and work efficiently to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring the best outcome.
What happens at my arraignment in Hunt County?
Your arraignment takes place at the Hunt County Courthouse at 2507 Lee Street in Greenville. You’ll appear before a judge who will formally read the charges, inform you of your rights, and ask for your plea. We strongly recommend pleading “not guilty” at arraignment—this preserves all your legal options and allows time to investigate your case and negotiate with prosecutors. Bond conditions may also be reviewed at this hearing. Having an attorney present ensures your rights are protected from the very beginning.
Can I get my license back after a DWI arrest in Hunt County?
Yes, but you must act quickly. Texas law requires you to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within 15 days of your arrest. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your license will be suspended. We can represent you at the ALR hearing, which often takes place at the State Office of Administrative Hearings or via telephone. Even if your license is suspended, you may qualify for an occupational driver’s license that allows you to drive to work, school, and essential