Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in College Station, TX

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in College Station, Texas?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in College Station, Texas, is (979) 764-3600.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in College Station, Texas?

  To get a copy of police report for incidents related to your case in College Station, Texas, you may visit the City of College Station Police Department or request by mail.

• What penalties do minors in College Station face for an alcohol-related offense?

  Minors below the legal age of 21 and accused of alcohol-related offenses, such as consumption, purchase, or attempt thereof, could face underage drinking charges. They may face penalties, including community service, driver’s license suspension, and mandatory participation in alcohol awareness class. Penalties may increase for repeat offenders aged 17 years and older.

• What acts can be charged as domestic violence in College Station?

  According to Texas laws, acts that are considered as domestic violence are assault, battery, child abuse, and stalking. A person may be charged with such crime even if the accused did not intend to harm another or injured the individual through reckless actions. Domestic violence may pertain to either physical acts, such as kicking or slapping, or violent threats that cause fear to a family member.

• Do penalties for persons charged with first-time drug felonies in College Station differ from those faced by repeat offenders?

  Unlike repeat offenders, persons charged with first-time drug felonies may be given lighter sentences or have their charges reduced, depending on the circumstances of their case. In addition to imposing lesser penalties, the state of Texas have put certain programs in place to assist them, such as the First Time Offender Felony Change Act, which allows defendants to participate in alternative sentencing programs ordered by the court, including community service, drug counseling, and rehabilitation.

• What are possible defenses for persons charged with violent crimes in College Station?

  Some of the possible defenses for individuals charged with violent crimes in College Station are defense of others and property and self-defense. A criminal defense lawyer may also claim that the accused did not act knowingly or have the required mental ability to understand that the offense was violent in nature. The attorney may also invoke justification to defend situations where the person may have committed the offense to prevent an injury in an emergency situation.

• What should you do if your driver’s license has been suspended after a DWI case in College Station?

  A driver charged with DWI should request an administrative license revocation hearing within 15 days of arrest. If the accused fails to do so, the person may get his license suspended after a period of 40 days. The individual has the right to file an appeal regarding the administrative judge’s decision within 30 days of the start of suspension date. If the court determines that the suspension should be reversed, the Texas Department of Public Safety will reissue the driver’s license.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.