Someone pulls what looks like a handgun, points it at you, and threatens to shoot. You react because, in that moment, you believe you are about to be seriously hurt or killed. Later, police pick up the weapon and discover that it was an airsoft gun, replica, BB gun, or even a realistic … [Read more...] about Can You Be Charged in Texas If the Gun Used Against You Turned Out to Be Fake?
Is Going to Trial Ever the Better Option for Defendants?
When you face criminal charges, a plea agreement can seem like the safer option. You know what you are agreeing to, you avoid the uncertainty of a jury, and the case may end much sooner. That does not mean accepting a plea is always the right decision. Going to trial can sometimes be the better … [Read more...] about Is Going to Trial Ever the Better Option for Defendants?
What Happens If No Lawyer Is Willing to Represent My Criminal Case?
Being charged with a crime is stressful enough without hearing one attorney after another say they cannot take your case. What happens if no lawyer is willing to represent my criminal case? In Texas, the answer depends on why private attorneys are declining and whether you qualify for … [Read more...] about What Happens If No Lawyer Is Willing to Represent My Criminal Case?
Is It Illegal to Lie to the Police During Questioning?
Police questioning can make people nervous, even when they haven't been arrested. The urge to explain, minimize what happened, or give a less damaging answer can be strong. But is it illegal to lie to the police during questioning? In Texas, certain false statements to law enforcement can lead to … [Read more...] about Is It Illegal to Lie to the Police During Questioning?
Does the Defense Have to Turn Over Evidence to the Prosecution?
Many defendants believe their attorneys can withhold any and all evidence, witnesses, and strategies from prosecutors until right before trial. While defendants do have certain rights under the Constitution, they are typically required to turn over evidence under Texas law if certain conditions are … [Read more...] about Does the Defense Have to Turn Over Evidence to the Prosecution?
Choosing Between Public Defenders vs. Private Attorneys
If you are facing criminal charges, at some point you will be asked if you would like to have a public defender or an attorney represent you. This decision is often one of the first choices you’ll have to make after being charged with a crime. For many defendants, this decision comes at one of the … [Read more...] about Choosing Between Public Defenders vs. Private Attorneys
Can You Be Charged for a Crime You Didn’t Personally Commit?
It’s a common belief that criminal charges only apply to the individual who commits a crime. Suppose someone else carried out the act. In that case, many people figure they won’t be arrested or charged with a crime themselves. However, criminal laws are rarely that cut-and-dry. In many instances, … [Read more...] about Can You Be Charged for a Crime You Didn’t Personally Commit?
Why Would a Prosecutor Refuse a Plea Deal and Go to Trial?
If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges, one question often comes up early in the process: “Why would a prosecutor refuse a plea deal and go to trial?” After all, most cases in the United States are resolved through negotiated agreements rather than courtroom battles. Trials take … [Read more...] about Why Would a Prosecutor Refuse a Plea Deal and Go to Trial?
Can Police Lie to You During an Investigation?
If you have ever watched a crime show or heard stories from friends, you might have wondered, “Can police lie to you during an investigation?” Sure, it’s a fair question, and the answer is not as black and white as most people think. The reality is that law enforcement officers are allowed to use … [Read more...] about Can Police Lie to You During an Investigation?
Can You Fire Your Criminal Defense Attorney Mid-Case?
Facing criminal charges can be one of the most stressful experiences of a person’s life. When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, the relationship you have with your criminal defense attorney becomes extremely important. Your lawyer is responsible for protecting your rights, … [Read more...] about Can You Fire Your Criminal Defense Attorney Mid-Case?
