Penalties for Criminal Charges in Texas

All crimes committed in Texas carry some sort of penalty (and usually more than one). Convictions and/or the negotiation of plea deals lead to penalties that may vary based on a number of factors and specific circumstances.

Some of the factors that Texas courts consider when ordering penalties include the following:

• Age of the defendant
• Seriousness and nature of the crime
• Criminal record of the defendant
• Whether this is a first or repeat offense
• Age of victim(s)
• And more

Common criminal penalties and practical effects associated with various crimes include the following:

• Monetary fines
• Prison sentences (in addition to the reinstatement of any suspended sentences on file)
• Probation
• Loss of employment and/or irreparable career damage
• Financial problems
• Inability to volunteer at schools and other organizations
• Travel restrictions
• Damage to relationships with loved ones and friends
• Loss of driver’s license
• Loss of professional licenses (or an outright bar to obtaining certain licenses in the future)

What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction?

A criminal conviction in Texas can have serious collateral consequences that follow someone through their life. The consequences are not only limited to jail or probation but can extend much further. The collateral consequences of a conviction may include the restrictions of certain rights such as voting, custody of children, and access to public benefits. Additionally, a criminal conviction can make finding employment exceedingly difficult as employers can opt not to hire based on a criminal history. Furthermore, there may be significant financial penalties applied in addition to the official penalty for a crime in TX; for example, the loss of a professional license or paying a higher auto insurance rate due to a DUI conviction. Ultimately, collateral effects from one's criminal history are often long-lasting and must be taken into consideration when determining how best to deal with a criminal allegation.

What Are My Rights After an Arrest?

Your "Miranda rights" require the police officers to inform you of your rights before questioning you. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to have a lawyer present during questioning, and alerting you that anything you say can be used against you in a court of law. Additionally, you should be alerted to the fact that an attorney will be appointed for you if you cannot afford one.

How Can I Properly Invoke My Rights? 

Invoking your rights is easy so long as you know what to say. Let the arresting officer know that you would like to speak to an defense attorney in Denton and that you will not answer any questions. Then reach out to our firm for representation.

What is a Defense Attorney?

A criminal defense attorney is a lawyer who specializes in defending individuals and organizations charged with criminal activity. They are responsible for protecting the rights of their clients and providing legal advice throughout the legal process. 

The primary objective of a criminal defense attorney is to secure an acquittal or, if that isn’t possible, a reduction in charges or sentencing. They may also provide assistance during plea negotiations, participate in pre-trial hearings, question witnesses and evidence, work on appeals if necessary, and conduct research into relevant laws and precedents. By understanding the law and carefully advocating on behalf of their client’s best interests, a skilled Denton County criminal defense attorney can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome for their client.

In addition to representing their client in court, criminal defense attorneys may also provide advice on how to avoid situations that might lead to criminal charges. They can help people understand their rights and obligations under the law and advise them on the proper steps to take if they find themselves facing allegations of criminal activity. 

In conclusion, a good defense attorney Denton is an invaluable resource for anyone who is accused of a crime. With their knowledge, skill, and experience, they can help ensure the best possible outcome in any situation. 

Why Should I Hire My Own Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Hiring your own attorney gives you the advantage of having a personal touch and being able to choose a firm with relevant experience. At our Denton criminal defense law firm, we are committed to protecting our clients' rights, including keeping you informed every step of the way. Once we understand the specifics of your case, we can answer your questions in more detail.

Can My Criminal Record Be Expunged in Texas?

We will need to review your case and your criminal history to determine if your record can be expunged. There are specific crimes which are eligible for expungement in Texas while others are excluded. We can work with you to establish whether your record is eligible.

What Is the Strongest Type of Defense to a Criminal Charge?

The most powerful defense to criminal charges in Texas is an argument of innocence. This defense strategy involves proving that an accused individual had no role in the commission of any crime and is thus entirely innocent of any wrong doing. For this defense to be successful, defense attorneys need to provide persuasive evidence of their client's innocence, such as alibis or even DNA evidence. Put simply, unless compelling evidence can be provided by the defense team that proves an individual did not commit a crime, it will be difficult for them to convince a judge or jury of their innocence. Therefore, being able to prove one’s innocence beyond a reasonable doubt is the strongest defense that can be offered by a defense team when contending with criminal charges in Texas.

Will My Criminal Case Go to Trial in Texas?

If you've been charged with a criminal case in Texas, then the answer to whether your criminal case might go to trial depends on multiple factors. The criminal charge and its severity will establish what kind of punishment could be applied, for example if it is a minor or major crime and how it has been classified under Texas law. Furthermore, the office in charge of prosecuting criminal charges may decide based on your specific criminal case if going to trial is necessary. Ultimately, understanding what kind of criminal case you are facing and having knowledge about current criminal justice regulations in Texas can help determine if a criminal case may end up as a trial process.

Choosing The Right Criminal Attorney in Denton County

In order to properly defend your case, we must create strategies that take into consideration the specific facts of your situation and the law as it applies to those facts. Our Denton criminal defense attorneys create highly specialized defense strategies narrowly tailored to your unique case.

Our defense strategies may include one or more of the following elements:

• Knowing when to negotiate and when to leave it up to the judge or jury
• Raising challenges to the validity of your arrest as well as any related searches and seizures conducted by law enforcement
• Intense cross-examination of witnesses offered by the prosecution
• Relying on our experts and investigators

Call the Goline & Roland Law Firm at (940) 400-0475 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our Denton criminal defense lawyers. 

Texas Criminal Law FAQ

What should I do if I am arrested?

If you are arrested, it is important to remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss your case with law enforcement without your lawyer present.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?

The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Denton can vary based on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and other factors. It is best to discuss fees and payment plans during your initial consultation.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

Misdemeanors are less severe offenses that typically result in shorter jail sentences and smaller fines, while felonies are more serious crimes that can lead to longer prison terms and larger fines.

Can I get my charges reduced or dismissed?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, it may be possible to get charges reduced or dismissed through negotiation, plea deals, or by challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Your lawyer will work to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.