Category Archives: Criminal defense attorney
Bench Warrants & Failure To Appear: What Happens Next In A Texas Criminal Case
What Is A Bench Warrant And How Is It Commonly Used? A bench warrant is typically issued when someone misses a court appearance. It can also be used to ensure a prisoner appears in court as a witness in another case. However, most people associate bench warrants with missed court dates. Do All Courts… Read More »
Understanding Enhancements In Texas Criminal Cases
What Are Enhancements In Texas Criminal Cases? Enhancements in Texas criminal cases refer to the increase in severity of charges or punishments due to specific factors. For example, if someone with a previous DWI conviction is charged again, the charge escalates to a DWI second. Additional offenses can elevate it to a felony. Likewise,… Read More »
What Happens If You’re Caught With a Gun While Committing Another Crime in Texas? A Detailed FAQ With Criminal Defense Attorney Mark Diaz
What happens if someone is caught with a gun during another crime in Texas, such as DWI or drug possession? If you’re caught committing a crime like driving while intoxicated (DWI) or drug possession and you also have a firearm in your possession, you’re likely to face an additional charge—unlawful carrying of a weapon…. Read More »
Understanding Search and Seizure Rights in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide to Police Encounters
What exactly is search and seizure under Texas law? Search and seizure refers to law enforcement’s authority to search your property, person, house, or car to find evidence that could be used against you in legal proceedings. It’s a critical aspect of law enforcement operations but comes with specific rules and limitations. When can… Read More »
Understanding Plea Deals in Texas Criminal Cases: A Comprehensive Guide
What exactly are plea deals and how common are they in Texas courts? Plea bargaining is the primary method of resolving most criminal cases in Texas courts. While certain cases like capital murder typically don’t receive plea offers, almost every other type of case involves some form of plea negotiation. Without plea deals, the… Read More »
What To Do After Getting Arrested in Texas: First 72 Hours Critical Guide & FAQ
How important is posting bail after an arrest? The first priority after an arrest is to get out of jail by posting bond. Once released, immediately begin searching for a qualified attorney to represent your case. What should you look for when choosing a criminal defense attorney? Visit several lawyers in their offices for… Read More »
Understanding Jury Selection and Its Importance in Criminal Trials
Jury selection is a crucial step in any criminal trial, and the process can significantly influence the outcome of a case. In felony cases, attorneys typically bring in 60 to 65 potential jurors, who are then questioned and narrowed down through a process called “voir dire” (jury selection). The judge asks preliminary questions to… Read More »
What Are Restrictions on Convicted Felons in Texas?
Texas has some of the toughest criminal laws of all US states, so you can expect that the implications of a conviction for any offense will be harsh. Felonies, the most serious of the types of crimes, most definitely carry significant restrictions. The Texas penal code establishes three categories of misdemeanor offenses, as well… Read More »
5 Reasons to Never Speak to Police Without a Lawyer
“You have the right to remain silent.” This famous statement is part of the Miranda warning that every police officer must give to a criminal suspect who is under arrest. Yet, despite the fact that all of us are at least familiar with the concept of the right to remain silent, many suspects ignore… Read More »
Are Homicides Increasing In Texas?
The question of whether homicides are on the rise in Texas is not just a matter of statistical curiosity; it is a pressing concern that has significant implications for public safety, policymaking, and the overall well-being of communities. In recent years, the Lone Star State, like many parts of the United States, has witnessed… Read More »
