Going to an arraignment does not necessarily mean you are going to jail. An arraignment is a court appearance where you will learn about the specific details of the charges you face in your case. It could include a discussion about your bail or bond, or this could occur during a separate hearing. Sometimes, you …
A Class A misdemeanor is a criminal offense punishable by the following in Texas: Up to one year in jail A fine up to $4,000 However, there are other potential consequences that might apply in your situation. Talk to a Houston criminal defense lawyer for help. Keeping Innocent People Innocent® 713-225-1900 How Serious Is a …
Your arraignment hearing is the first court date following your indictment and arrest. You will hear the charges against you during this hearing and a judge may ask you to enter your initial plea. You have certain rights at that point but oftentimes it is just a formality. Thus, your arraignment is merely a step …
Being convicted of a DWI can result in various penalties, including the possibility of community service. Whether this is part of your sentencing depends on several factors, such as the circumstances of your case, any prior convictions, and the judge’s discretion. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a DWI, it is crucial to consider …
For the police to lawfully conduct a drug search, they need probable cause. This means that law enforcement has reasonable suspicion to believe that someone has illicit substances. For instance, if an officer pulls over a drunk driver, they could have reason to believe the motorist had drugs on their person and can perform a …
Your specific charge determines if you will go to jail after being convicted. Any charge that qualifies as a Class B misdemeanor or greater may result in jail time. You may face consequences beyond those assessed by the court. Additionally, you may have personal, financial, and professional problems stemming from a conviction in Texas. Keeping …
Can law enforcement lie to you during an interview? They most certainly can and often do. Therefore, the deeper question we explore here is: when can the police lie to you, and under what circumstances? Further, what steps can you take to protect your rights if the police authorities question you? The U.S Supreme Court …
If you are facing criminal charges, you should know the answer to this question: What is proof beyond a reasonable doubt? Proof refers to alleged proof of guilt. When one says there is “proof [of guilt] beyond a reasonable doubt,” they have no doubt that the defendant is guilty. A juror may have some doubt …
A diversion program is a program that offers sentencing alternatives to time in jail or prison. Diversion programs are often reserved for first-time offenders or people who committed minor crimes. These programs divert offenders from the court system into counseling, restitution, or community service instead of a more traditional court-ordered punishment. If you are being …
If you are accused of a crime or are under investigation for alleged criminal activity, you do not need to give a statement to the police. You have the right to remain silent and the right to have a lawyer present. Wanting to explain your version of events is a typical natural response; many believe …
Deferred adjudication is a type of probation that can only be granted by a judge. Instead of time spent in jail, deferred allows a defendant facing criminal charges to stay in the community and avoid a conviction provided they comply with certain conditions. The conditions are set by the court over a specified period and …
The age of consent in Texas is generally seventeen years. Many potential crimes concern Texas’ age of consent laws. Anyone facing potential criminal charges must know the law, hire a lawyer, and understand what may lie ahead of them. Keeping Innocent People Innocent® 713-225-1900 What Does Texas Law Say About the Age of Consent? TX …
What happens if you get a DWI while on probation will depend on the terms of your probation and the nature of the original case. The defendant may be subject to time in jail or prison, a fine, or both. Sometimes the judge suspends the imposition of imprisonment, confinement, or a fine and places the …
Texas considers the unauthorized manufacture, possession, or distribution of controlled or illicit substances to be a drug offense. Some forms of illegal substances include marijuana, narcotics, methamphetamine, opiates, hallucinogens, and cocaine. The Texas Controlled Substances Act applies to both prescription and “street” drugs. For example, it is illegal in Texas to possess someone else’s prescription …
No, you cannot be charged with a DWI without proof. If the arresting officer has no evidence to establish that you are guilty of drinking and driving, then it is impossible for the prosecution to build a successful case against you. Yet, just because you did not submit to a blood or breath test does …
The Texas State Bar notes that certain misdemeanor and felony charges can be expunged in Texas. The details and outcome of your offense will determine whether or not it can be removed from your criminal record. These details include the outcome of the case, how long ago the offense took place, whether you were a …
