Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in McAllen, TX

FAQs

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

  You can contact 956-682-4321, the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in McAllen.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for incidents related to a case in McAllen through fax, online, or in person. The Crime Records Unit is located at 1601 N Bicentennial Blvd in McAllen. You can file an online request through the city's Public Information site.

• What is the criminal statute of limitations in McAllen?

  Generally, the criminal statute of limitations in McAllen is up to three years for felonies while two years for misdemeanors. Theft, kidnapping, robbery, and burglary have a five-year statute of limitations in most states. Manslaughter, murder, sexual assault under Penal Code 22.011(a)(2), and human trafficking have no statute of limitations. It is advisable to contact a McAllen criminal defense attorney if you were accused of crimes.

• What skills and qualities do McAllen criminal defense attorneys need to have?

  Analytical skills, attention to detail, research, problem-solving, and logical reasoning are some of the skills and qualities McAllen criminal defense attorneys need. Lawyers must also have resilience, self-confidence, perseverance, and communication skills. Some of the necessary qualities of a lawyer include a strong personality, outstanding public speaking ability, and persuasive speaking abilities. Criminal defense attorneys form connections with their clients by determining their legal needs, providing advice, and assisting them in understanding their legal choices.

• What amount of proof is required to determine guilt in a criminal case in McAllen?

  Court must convene in order to declare an individual guilty of a crime, and no one can be convicted until each element of the crime is proven beyond a reasonable doubt—considered the highest degree of proof. Everyone is deemed innocent entering criminal trials, and so the State must show the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If you have been accused of a crime in McAllen, it is strongly advised that you consult a criminal defense attorney.

• What are the questions you should ask before hiring a McAllen criminal defense attorney?

  When selecting a McAllen criminal defense attorney, inquire about the attorney's experience with criminal defense cases, area of specialization, and communication strategies. In a criminal defense case, a competent lawyer should be able to look at the fundamental facts of the case, examine the evidence, and give insight into probable next steps. Ask about how frequently legal firms have handled cases similar to yours.

• What conduct is unethical for McAllen criminal defense lawyers?

  Charging excessive fees and stealing or misplacing the client's money are some examples of unethical conduct. Breach of confidentiality, settling the case without the client's permission, and failing to respond to the client's correspondence are ethics violations. Attorneys have an obligation to protect their client's legal interests during the legal process. If you are facing accusations of criminal conduct, it is advisable to contact a McAllen criminal defense attorney.

• 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.