Recent Blog Posts
How Reliable Is Eyewitness Identification In A Criminal Trial?
When an eyewitness points to someone in court and says they are the accused, it can be a powerful moment. Jurors might think that someone who sounds sure must remember things correctly. However, identification evidence needs to be looked at closely because memory is not perfect, and being confident does not always mean being… Read More »
Expunction vs. Nondisclosure in Texas: Which Can Clear or Seal Your Criminal Record?
A criminal record can affect your life long after your case is over. Employers, landlords, licensing agencies, lenders, and others may find arrest or court information in a background check, even if you were not convicted. In Texas, there are two main ways to get relief: expunction and an order of nondisclosure. These are… Read More »
What Happens After A Fatal Fight Leads To Manslaughter Charges In Galveston?
A fight that lasts just a few seconds can have life-changing consequences. If someone dies after being punched, kicked, pushed, hit with an object, or hurt during a fight, police may treat what seemed like an assault as a homicide. Even if the accused says there was no intent to kill, Texas prosecutors can… Read More »
Can You Be Charged With A Crime For Accessing Someone Else’s Computer In Texas?
Accessing someone else’s computer without their permission might not seem the same as breaking into a house or stealing something, but Texas law can treat it as a crime. The details are important. Just because you know a password doesn’t always mean you’re allowed to use it, and having permission for one thing doesn’t… Read More »
When A Drug Possession Charge Becomes A Federal Crime
If you are arrested with drugs in Galveston, it does not mean you will automatically face federal charges. Most possession cases start under Texas law, but some situations draw the attention of federal agencies and prosecutors. When that happens, the case can become much more serious. Federal drug cases can involve different charges, mandatory… Read More »
What Evidence Do Prosecutors Need To Prove Intent To Deliver Drugs?
Just being near illegal drugs does not mean someone planned to sell them. In Texas, though, prosecutors can bring more serious charges if they think the evidence points to drugs being held for distribution, not just personal use. They do not have to see a drug sale, find a buyer, or uncover a written… Read More »
How Federal Sentencing Guidelines Affect Criminal Cases
Sentencing can dramatically change the course of a federal criminal case. The sentence is not just based on the maximum punishment listed in federal law. Instead, federal judges follow a detailed framework that looks at the offense, the defendant’s actions, criminal history, role in the crime, acceptance of responsibility, and other factors. In Galveston… Read More »
What Do I Do When Federal Search Warrant Is Executed At Your House?
When federal agents execute a search warrant at your home or business, your life can change quickly. Agents might arrive early, secure the area, separate people, take phones and computers, photograph rooms, and collect business records. They may leave with evidence that could be used in a criminal case in Galveston. Just because agents… Read More »
Refusing A Breath Test In Galveston: Does It Help Or Hurt Your Defense?
If you are asked to take a breath test during a DWI investigation, it can be a tough decision. You might worry that giving a sample will help the police build a case against you, but refusing can also bring its own legal issues. In Texas, saying no to a breath or blood test… Read More »
Can A Texas DWI Charge Be Dismissed Because Of An Illegal Traffic Stop?
A DWI investigation usually starts before an officer asks a driver to get out of the car. It begins when the officer turns on the emergency lights and pulls the car over. This step is important because police cannot stop someone just to check if they have been drinking. The Fourth Amendment of the… Read More »
