Right now, prosecutors are building a case to destroy your life. A criminal conviction means explaining to your kids why you can’t coach anymore. Watching jobs slip away. Whispers at the grocery store.
Your reputation. Your career. Your family’s future. All hanging by a thread.
Here’s the good news: We’ve handled 6,000+ criminal cases and achieved 1,000+ dismissals in 35+ years. We know Frisco and Collin County’s judges, their procedures, and how to find fatal flaws in their case.
👇 Simply call. We’ll take it from there.
If you are under investigation or have been arrested in Plano, don’t face the criminal justice system alone. Contact our trusted Plano criminal defense lawyer to fight for your rights and build a strong defense.
Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy – Criminal Defense & DWI Attorney in Plano, TX
The law office will also work with individuals who may have already been convicted and are accused of violation of probation, or if they need their arrest record sealed or expunged. You can rest assured, that no matter what the case, you will be well represented by the aggressive and professional attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy.
Plano Crime Trends and Statistics
According to the Plano Police Department and FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, Plano consistently ranks among cities with relatively low violent crime rates, but property crimes such as theft and burglary remain notable concerns.
In 2023, property crimes accounted for approximately 85% of reported offenses in the area. These statistics highlight the importance of having a skilled defense attorney who understands local crime trends and how to address them effectively.
If you would like to discuss the details of your criminal or DUI case with our Plano DUI lawyers at the Law Offices Of Richard C. McConathy, call (972) 805-8855 or contact us online to schedule a free and confidential initial consultation. The legal team is committed to protecting your rights while making certain you are treated fairly during this difficult process.
The Arrest Process in Plano
If arrested in Plano, you’ll be initially processed at the Plano Police Department (909 14th Street) before being transported to the Collin County Detention Center (4300 Community Ave, McKinney, TX 75071). The facility operates 24/7, but visiting hours are limited to specific times throughout the week.
The booking process typically takes 2-6 hours and includes:
- Fingerprinting and photographing at the detention center
- Background check for outstanding warrants across Texas
- Medical screening and housing assignment
- Initial bail consideration (if charges allow pre-trial release)
- Arraignment scheduling within 48 hours (usually at Collin County Courthouse)
Arraignment Location & Details: Your first court appearance will be at the Russell A. Steindam Courts Building (2100 Bloomdale Road, McKinney, TX 75071). The courthouse operates Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with phone number (972) 548-4100.
🅿️ Parking & Directions: Free parking is available in the Collin County Administration Building parking lot. If traveling from Plano/Dallas area, take U.S. 75 North, exit Bloomdale Road (42B), follow the service road north, then turn left onto Bloomdale Road for about 0.4 miles. The courthouse will be visible on your right.
Bail considerations in Collin County depend on:
- Severity of the charges (misdemeanor bonds typically $500-$5,000)
- Your criminal history and failure-to-appear record
- Flight risk assessment and community ties
- Employment status and family responsibilities in the area
Don’t wait to get help. Call our Plano criminal lawyers now at (972) 528-0478 for urgent assistance.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle In Plano
Plano DWI Defense Services
Driving while intoxicated charges in Texas carry mandatory consequences that many people don’t realize until it’s too late. Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearings must be requested within 15 days of arrest or you automatically lose your driving privileges.
| DWI Offense | Jail Time | Fine | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st DWI | 3-180 days | Up to $2,000 | 90 days – 1 year |
| 2nd DWI | 30 days – 1 year | Up to $4,000 | 180 days – 2 years |
| 3rd DWI (Felony) | 2-10 years prison | Up to $10,000 | 180 days – 2 years |
Our defense strategies focus on challenging every aspect of the state’s case, from the initial traffic stop to the administration of field sobriety tests and chemical testing procedures.
Our Plano DWI attorneys defend people accused of various driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses, including:
- Boating while intoxicated
- Commercial vehicle DWI
- Drug related DWI
- DWI with bac over .15
- DWI with child passenger
- DWI with property damage
- Felony DWI
- Flying while intoxicated
- First DWI
- Impaired driving
- Intoxication assault
- Intoxication manslaughter
- Juvenile or underage DWI
- Second DWI
- Third or subsequent DWI
We assist clients with:
- Bail bonds
- Deferred adjudication
- The driver responsibility program
- Driver’s license procedures
- DWI community supervision
- DWI penalties
- DWI record expunging
- DWI reduction
- DWI roadblocks or checkpoints
- DWI testing
- DWI trials
- Motions for nondisclosure
- Pretrial diversion programs
- SR-22 or motor vehicle insurance
Plano Drug Case Defense
Common kinds of drug cases in Plano we handle include:
- Cocaine charges
- Drug conspiracy
- Drug manufacturing
- Drug trafficking
- Felony drug possession
- Fentanyl crimes
- Heroin charges
- Internet drug sales
- MDMA or ecstasy arrests
- Methamphetamine crimes
- Possession of a controlled substance (drug possession)
- Possession of a dangerous drug
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession with intent to sell
- Prescription drug fraud
- Synthetic drugs
>> Contact our Drug Possetion Lawyer in Plano,TX
Family Violence
Family violence cases our Plano DWI attorneys handle include
- Aggravated domestic assault
- Assault by strangulation
- Bigamy
- Child abandonment or endangerment
- Child abuse
- Continuous violence against the family
- Domestic violence
- Endangering a child
- Harassment
- Injury to a child
- Interference with 911
- Interference with child custody
- Leaving a child in a vehicle
- Protective order hearings
- Stalking or aggravated stalking
- Strangulation
- Violations of protective orders
Federal Cases
We handle various federal cases in Plano, including:
- Federal drug crimes
- Federal internet crimes
- Federal kidnapping
- Federal sex crimes
- Federal weapons crimes
- Federal white collar crimes
- Human trafficking
- Sex trafficking
- Three strikes law cases
Firearms and Weapons
Our common Plano firearms and weapons cases often include:
- Unlawfully carrying a weapon
- Firearm smuggling
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Possession of a firearm while intoxicated
- Unlawful possession of a firearm
Property crimes
Property crimes we assist people with include:
- Arson
- Burglary
- Burglary of a vehicle
- Criminal mischief
- Criminal mischief charge
- Criminal trespass in Plano
Sex Offenses
Our Plano DWI attorneys also handle sex offenses such as:
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Child pornography
- Child sexual abuse
- Continuous sexual abuse of a child
- Disclosure of intimate material
- Failure to register as a sex offender
- Improper relationship between educator and student
- Indecency with a child, indecent exposure
- Invasive visual recording, obscenity
- Online solicitation of a minor
- Prohibited sexual conduct
- Prostitution or solicitation
- Public lewdness
- Rape
- Revenge porn
- Statutory rape
- Sexual assault
- Sexual coercion
- Voyeurism
Thefts
Property crime penalties in Texas depend heavily on the value of allegedly stolen items:
| Property Value | Offense Level | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Under $100 | Class C misdemeanor | Fine only |
| $100-$750 | Class B misdemeanor | Up to 180 days jail |
| $750-$2,500 | Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year jail |
| $2,500-$30,000 | State jail felony | 180 days-2 years prison |
| Over $30,000 | 3rd degree felony | 2-10 years prison |
Shoplifting cases often involve more complexity than people realize. Retail theft prevention officers must follow specific procedures when detaining suspected shoplifters. Violations of these procedures can lead to civil rights violations and case dismissals.
> > Shoplifting Lawyer in Plano
Burglary charges require proving intent to commit a crime inside the building. We often successfully argue that our clients had permission to be present or lacked criminal intent.
Theft offenses our Plano DWI attorneys handle include:
- Auto theft
- Robbery or aggravated robbery
- Shoplifting or retail theft
- Shoplifting instruments
- Theft or larceny
- Theft by check
- Theft of services
Traffic crimes
We also handle such traffic crimes as:
- Aggravated assault with a motor vehicle
- Driving while license suspended
- Failure to stop
- Fleeing and eluding
- Habitual traffic violator
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Racing on a highway
- Reckless driving
- Vehicular homicide or manslaughter
Violent crimes
We handle such violent crimes in Plano as:
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated kidnapping
- Assault charges
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Deadly conduct
- Disorderly conduct
- Endangering a child
- False accusations of violent crimes
- Injury to a child elderly individual or disabled person
- Injury to an elderly or disabled person
- Kidnapping
- Manslaughter
- Robbery
- Terroristic threats
- Unlawful restraint
>> Contact our Plano Assault Lawyer now
White collar crimes
White collar crimes we handle include:
- Bad check
- Credit card fraud
- Forgery
- Identity theft
- Insurance fraud
- Medicaid fraud
- Money laundering
Domestic Violence Defense
Domestic violence accusations in Plano hit families hard. Maybe it was an argument that got out of hand at your apartment, or neighbors called police after hearing raised voices.
These cases often lead to protective orders that can kick you out of your own home or keep you from picking up your kids at school.
We dig into what really happened – listening to 911 recordings, talking to witnesses, checking medical reports. We know how Plano cops handle these calls and we’ll fight to keep your family together.
Expunction & Non-Disclosure
That old arrest is haunting you every time you apply for a job at Toyota, Frito-Lay, or even the school district.
In Texas, you might be able to wipe it clean through expunction or seal it with non-disclosure. We handle the paperwork whether it’s a ticket from Plano Municipal Court or something bigger from the county courthouse.
Getting your record cleared opens doors that have been slammed shut – and in Plano’s job market, you need every advantage you can get.
>> Clear your record with Plano Expunction a Non-Disclosure Lawyer
Probation Violation Lawyer
Missing a probation meeting or failing a drug test can land you right back in jail. Maybe you got caught up with something near Legacy West or just couldn’t make it to your appointment.
We jump on these cases fast because time matters.
We know the probation officers here in Collin County and can often work things out without you losing your job or going back inside.
Sometimes life happens – we help you deal with it.
Warrants & Jail Release
Living with a warrant over your head is no way to live.
You can’t renew your license, can’t travel for work, and you’re always looking over your shoulder.
Whether it’s an unpaid ticket or missed court date, we help you turn yourself in safely and get bonded out quickly.
We’re available around the clock because getting arrested on Preston Road at rush hour isn’t going to wait for business hours.
Juvenile Defense
When your teenager gets in trouble, their whole future is on the line. Whether it happened at the mall, a house party, or just kids being stupid, juvenile charges can follow them to college and beyond.
We work with the juvenile courts here in Collin County to keep cases sealed and focus on getting kids help instead of punishment. Sometimes good kids make bad choices – we make sure one mistake doesn’t ruin their life.
Felony Defense
Don’t let anyone tell you misdemeanors don’t matter. They can still put you in jail and wreck your job prospects. Maybe you got caught shoplifting at Legacy West or got into it with someone at a bar.
These charges stick around and pop up on background checks. We work to get these cases dismissed or find alternatives that keep your record clean so you can keep working and living your life in Plano.
Misdemeanor Defense
Why Choose Us as Your Plano Criminal Attorney?
Proven Experience in Plano & Collin County Courts
Experience matters in criminal defense. Our attorneys have appeared thousands of times in both Plano Municipal Court and Collin County District Courts, developing relationships with judges, prosecutors, and court staff that benefit our clients.
Local courthouse familiarity provides concrete advantages:
📍 Plano Municipal Court (900 E 15th Street):
- Experienced in this court’s specific procedures and local practices
- Court hours vary by day: Monday/Wednesday/Friday (7:30 AM-4:30 PM), Tuesday (7:30 AM-5:30 PM), Thursday (8:30 AM-4:30 PM)
- Parking: Limited street parking on E 15th Street and nearby streets—arrive early during busy court sessions
- Security screening required for entry—plan extra time
🏛️ Collin County Courts (2100 Bloomdale Road, McKinney):
- Free parking in the administration building lot, but arrive early for major hearing days
- Security requirements: Plan for security screening similar to airport procedures
- Court hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (phone: 972-548-4100)
- Multiple district and county courts handle different case types—we know the specific procedures for each courtroom
Logistical Knowledge Saves Time and Stress:
- Which elevators access different floors fastest
- Where family members can wait during hearings
- How to access court records and case information online via Collin County’s e-filing system
- Best arrival times: 30 minutes early for routine appearances, 45 minutes for jury selection days
Recognized Legal Excellence
Our track record demonstrates our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for clients:
- Over 35 years of criminal defense experience
- 6,000+ criminal cases handled throughout North Texas
- 1,000+ dismissals achieved in the DFW area
- 300+ “Not Guilty” verdicts in contested trials
Awards and recognition include:
- Selected by Expertise.com as Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Dallas, Texas (2021)
- Member of prestigious organizations including Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Our Plano Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Here To Help!
A pending criminal charge can bring with it worry, anxiety, and stress. But having our competent and committed Collin County criminal defense lawyer at your side will make this process much easier to deal with.
Our attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy are experienced in all different types of criminal and DUI cases and will bring this knowledge and understanding with them while they develop a defense strategy that effectively argues your case.
Arrested in Plano? Contact our experienced Plano criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today. Call (972) 805-8855 for a free consultation.
Plano Criminal Law Office Information
Address: 5055 W Park Blvd #400 Plano, TX 75093
Phone: (972) 805-8855
Hours of Operation:
- Monday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
*Meetings at all locations available only by appointment
Our Plano office is conveniently located near key landmarks and accessible roadways, ensuring you can easily reach out for consultations and case discussions with our Plano criminal attorney.
Plano Criminal Defense FAQs
What happens after a criminal arrest in Plano?
After arrest, you’ll be transported to the Collin County Detention Center (4300 Community Ave, McKinney) for booking. You’ll typically appear before a magistrate within 48 hours for arraignment at the Russell A. Steindam Courts Building (2100 Bloomdale Road, McKinney), where formal charges are read and bail is set.
What to bring to court: Photo ID and any paperwork from your arrest. What to expect: Security screening similar to an airport, with metal detectors and bag searches. Parking: Free parking in the administration lot, but arrive early as spaces are limited.
This is when having legal representation becomes vital—your attorney can argue for reasonable bail and begin investigating your case immediately.
How much does a Plano criminal defense lawyer cost?
Legal fees vary based on case complexity, charges involved, and anticipated court time. We offer flexible payment arrangements and accept major credit cards. During your free consultation, we’ll provide a clear fee structure with no hidden costs. Remember: the cost of experienced legal representation is far less than the lifetime consequences of a criminal conviction.
Will I have to go to court for a misdemeanor in Texas?
Most misdemeanor cases require at least one court appearance, but your attorney can often appear on your behalf for routine hearings. Class C misdemeanors (like traffic tickets) in Plano Municipal Court (900 E 15th Street) sometimes allow attorney-only appearances, while Class A and B misdemeanors at the Collin County Courthouse typically require personal appearances for plea hearings and sentencing.
Helpful tip: Plano Municipal Court has varying daily hours, so confirm your appearance time. Dress code: Business casual attire is recommended—courts maintain professional dress standards.
Can a lawyer get my charges dropped?
Yes, charges can be dismissed for various reasons including:
- Insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt
- Constitutional violations during investigation or arrest
- Witness credibility problems
- Procedural errors by police or prosecutors
- Successful plea negotiations
Our firm has achieved hundreds of dismissals by identifying these issues and presenting compelling arguments to prosecutors and judges.
What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor in TX?
Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000. Felonies carry potential prison sentences exceeding one year and much higher fines. Felony convictions also result in loss of voting rights, firearm ownership rights, and many professional licenses. The distinction significantly impacts your future opportunities and requires experienced legal representation.
Plano, TX Resources
Whether you’re seeking information on public safety, local government services, or recreational opportunities, the following resources can help you stay informed and engaged.
- City of Plano — Find resident information, business resources, parks, recreation, and public safety details.
- Police | Plano, TX — Access crime prevention tips, traffic safety information, and crime statistics.
- Crime Statistics | Plano, TX — Understand Plano’s crime trends with data provided by the Plano Police Department and FBI reports.
- Collin County Courthouse: Just minutes from our Plano office, this courthouse handles legal proceedings for residents of Plano and surrounding areas.