Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Mark Diaz & Associates Texas Criminal Defense Attorneys ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://texascriminaljustice.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://texascriminaljustice.com/blog/) - [Science Has Proven That Innocent People Can Be Talked Into Confessing](https://texascriminaljustice.com/science-has-proven-that-innocent-people-can-be-talked-into-confessing/) - In Galveston County, knowing how false confessions happen is important for judging if a statement is reliable and for protecting the rights of the accused. - [Texas Child Abuse Charges: What Parents Need To Know Immediately](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-child-abuse-charges-what-parents-need-to-know-immediately/) - When child abuse allegations arise, understanding the law and protecting your rights immediately can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case. - [Drug Charges After A Police Search In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-charges-after-a-police-search-in-galveston-county/) - Whether the search involved a vehicle stop in Galveston County or in Houston, knowing your legal rights is often the first step toward protecting your future. - [Can You Go To Jail For A Probation Violation In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-go-to-jail-for-a-probation-violation-in-galveston/) - We help clients in Galveston with probation violation cases, and we know these cases can move fast once a motion to revoke or adjudicate is filed. - [How To Defend Against Domestic Violence Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-defend-against-domestic-violence-charges-in-galveston/) - If you are facing a domestic violence accusation in Galveston, it is important to know your legal rights and the possible defense strategies under Texas law. - [What To Do When Caught In A Sex Sting Operation In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-when-caught-in-a-sex-sting-operation-in-galveston/) - Sex sting operations can cause a lot of confusion. Many people are surprised to find out that the person they were talking to was actually an undercover officer - [Can Theft Charges Be Dismissed In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-theft-charges-be-dismissed-in-texas/) - In Galveston County and Houston, we often help people facing theft charges who want to know if their case can be dismissed. - [Self-Defense In Texas Murder Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/self-defense-in-texas-murder-cases/) - Knowing how Texas self-defense laws work is essential if a homicide investigation or murder charge involves claims of protection, survival, or fear of harm. - [What Happens During A Homicide Investigation In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-during-a-homicide-investigation-in-galveston/) - If you become the focus of a homicide investigation in Galveston or Houston, knowing what to expect can help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your defense. - [Capital Murder Vs. Murder In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/capital-murder-vs-murder-in-texas/) - Understanding the differences between murder and capital murder is critical because the charge itself often determines how prosecutors approach the case. - [Employee Theft Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/employee-theft-charges-in-galveston/) - In Galveston, employers often work with law enforcement, loss prevention teams, accountants, and private investigators when they suspect theft. - [How Long Does Record Sealing Take In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-long-does-record-sealing-take-in-texas/) - Knowing how the Texas record sealing process works can help you set realistic expectations and avoid mistakes that might slow down your case. - [What Happens After A Domestic Violence Arrest In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-after-a-domestic-violence-arrest-in-galveston/) - If you have been arrested for domestic violence in Galveston or Houston, learning what happens next is a key step to protecting your future. - [Why You Should Not Speak To Police During A Murder Investigation Without A Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-you-should-not-speak-to-police-during-a-murder-investigation-without-a-lawyer/) - If law enforcement wants to speak with you about a murder case, protecting your rights before answering questions is one of the most important decisions you will make. - [Prescription Drug Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/prescription-drug-charges-in-galveston/) - If you’ve been arrested for a prescription drug offense, learning how Texas law applies to your case is a key first step to protecting your future. - [Aggravated Robbery Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/aggravated-robbery-charges-in-texas/) - If you have been arrested or are being investigated for aggravated robbery, it is important to understand the law and act quickly to protect yourself. - [What If You Are Accused Of Violating A No-Contact Order?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-if-you-are-accused-of-violating-a-no-contact-order/) - If you have been accused of violating a no-contact order, it is important to know your rights and act quickly before things get worse. - [False Allegations In Texas Domestic Violence Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/false-allegations-in-texas-domestic-violence-cases/) - If you have been falsely accused, remember that an arrest is not the same as a conviction, and there are legal defenses that can help protect your rights. - [What Happens If You Are Accused Of Stealing From A Store In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-you-are-accused-of-stealing-from-a-store-in-galveston/) - If you are accused of stealing from a store in Galveston, it can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first time dealing with the justice system. - [Protective Orders After A Domestic Violence Arrest In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/protective-orders-after-a-domestic-violence-arrest-in-galveston/) - If you have been arrested for domestic violence, it is very important to understand how protective orders work and how they might affect your future. - [What Happens After A DWI Arrest In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-after-a-dwi-arrest-in-galveston/) - If you have been arrested for DWI in Galveston or Houston, knowing what to expect can help you make better choices and avoid expensive errors. - [What Happens When You Violate A No-Contact Order In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-when-you-violate-a-no-contact-order-in-texas/) - If you are accused of violating a no-contact order, acting fast and knowing your rights can make a big difference in your case. - [Why Was I Arrested When The Other Person Initiated The Fight?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-was-i-arrested-when-the-other-person-initiated-the-fight/) - People often think the person who throws the first punch in a fight will always be arrested, but Texas law doesn’t work that way. - [Boating While Intoxicated Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/boating-while-intoxicated-charges-in-galveston/) - If you have been arrested for Boating While Intoxicated (BWI), knowing your rights and acting fast can help protect your future. - [Can A Domestic Violence Charge Become A Felony In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-domestic-violence-charge-become-a-felony-in-texas/) - If you are facing domestic violence allegations in Galveston, knowing how Texas law works and acting quickly can make a big difference in your case. - [Understanding Your Rights When Police Ask To Search Your Phone During A Texas Child Pornography Investigation](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-your-rights-when-police-ask-to-search-your-phone-during-a-texas-child-pornography-investigation/) - It is important to know your rights before agreeing to a search, especially when investigators want access to a device that holds years of personal information. - [Theft Charges In Galveston: Misdemeanor Vs. Felony Consequences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/theft-charges-in-galveston-misdemeanor-vs-felony-consequences/) - Knowing the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor charge is important because the outcome can impact your future opportunities for years. - [Can Police Stop You For Suspected DWI Without Seeing Bad Driving?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-police-stop-you-for-suspected-dwi-without-seeing-bad-driving/) - Understanding when police can and cannot stop someone for suspected intoxication under Texas law is often key to defending a DWI case. - [What Is The Difference Between Theft, Burglary, And Robbery In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-difference-between-theft-burglary-and-robbery-in-texas/) - If you are accused of theft or a related crime, it is important to know what the State has to prove and what defenses you might have. - [Possession With Intent To Deliver In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possession-with-intent-to-deliver-in-texas/) - Many people in Galveston are surprised to learn that they can face a Possession With Intent To Deliver charge even when no actual drug sale occurred. - [Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped If The Alleged Victim Recants?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-domestic-violence-charges-be-dropped-if-the-alleged-victim-recants/) - Knowing how Texas prosecutors handle domestic violence cases is important for anyone facing family violence charges in Galveston County or Houston. - [DWI With A Child Passenger In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-with-a-child-passenger-in-galveston/) - Many people don’t realize that driving while intoxicated with a child passenger is not just a more serious misdemeanor—it’s actually a felony. - [Juvenile Crime Trends In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/juvenile-crime-trends-in-texas/) - Knowing the current trends and laws in Texas can help families make better decisions if their child enters the juvenile justice system. - [Hazing Laws And Criminal Liability In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/hazing-laws-and-criminal-liability-in-texas/) - In Galveston County and across Texas, prosecutors and schools often respond strongly to hazing, especially if someone is hurt or worse. - [Galveston County Criminal Court Process From Arrest To Trial](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-county-criminal-court-process-from-arrest-to-trial/) - Knowing how a criminal case moves through the Galveston County courts can help you make better choices and avoid mistakes that might harm your defense. - [What Happens At An Arraignment In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-at-an-arraignment-in-texas/) - If you are facing charges in Galveston County or the Houston area, knowing what to expect at arraignment can help you make better choices & protect your rights. - [Texas Prostitution and Solicitation Laws](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-prostitution-and-solicitation-laws/) - If you are facing prostitution or solictation charges in Galveston County or the Houston area, it is important to know your rights and legal options. - [Injury To A Child Or Elderly Person: What Prosecutors Look For](https://texascriminaljustice.com/injury-to-a-child-or-elderly-person-what-prosecutors-look-for/) - Facing a charge involving injury to a child, elderly person, or disabled individual in Texas is serious and can have lasting effects. - [Assault Family Violence vs Aggravated Assault](https://texascriminaljustice.com/assault-family-violence-vs-aggravated-assault/) - In Texas, the difference between Assault Family Violence and Aggravated Assault can mean facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony with long prison sentences. - [Houston Criminal Charges Process Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/houston-criminal-charges-process-explained/) - Learning how the Houston criminal charges process works under Texas law can help you make better choices and avoid mistakes that might hurt your defense. - [Texas Red Flag Laws And Firearm Restrictions](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-red-flag-laws-and-firearm-restrictions/) - Red flag laws let courts in some states temporarily take away a person’s access to firearms if there is evidence they might be a danger to themselves or others. - [Understanding State vs Federal Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/state-vs-federal-charges-texas/) - Mark Diaz and his team at TexasCriminalJustice.com provide expert guidance for navigating both state and federal criminal cases from their Galveston offices. - [Expunction vs Record Sealing: What’s the Difference?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/expunction-vs-record-sealing-whats-the-difference/) - Many people are surprised to find that even dismissed charges, arrests without convictions, and some deferred adjudications still show up on background checks. - [Who Qualifies for Non-Disclosure in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/who-qualifies-for-non-disclosure-in-texas/) - n some situations, Texas law allows individuals to seek an Order of Non-Disclosure, which can prevent certain criminal records from being visible to the public. - [Occupational Driver’s License After Suspension](https://texascriminaljustice.com/occupational-drivers-license-after-suspension/) - An occupational driver’s license is a license issued by a Texas court allowing a person with a suspended license to operate a motor vehicle for essential needs. - [How A Criminal Record Affects Employment In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-criminal-record-affects-employment-in-texas/) - Knowing how a criminal record in Texas can affect employment is important for anyone facing charges or dealing with the effects of a past case. - [How To Get An Expunction In Texas Step-By-Step](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-get-an-expunction-in-texas-step-by-step/) - Expunction offers a way to clear eligible criminal records and give you a fresh start, but the process is technical and strict under Texas law. - [How Magistrate Hearings Work In Texas Counties](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-magistrate-hearings-work-in-texas-counties/) - Knowing what a magistrate hearing is for and what legal issues are involved can help you protect your rights and make better choices early on. - [Plea Bargains In Texas: When To Accept Or Fight](https://texascriminaljustice.com/plea-bargains-in-texas-when-to-accept-or-fight/) - Before making any decisions in a Greater Houston or Galveston County criminal case, it is important to understand how plea bargains work under Texas law. - [What Is Discovery In Texas Criminal Cases?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-discovery-in-texas-criminal-cases/) - In Galveston County and the Houston area, discovery is central to how defense attorneys prepare for negotiations, hearings, plea talks, or trial. - [Jury Trials Vs Bench Trials In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/jury-trials-vs-bench-trials-in-texas/) - Understanding the advantages, disadvantages, and legal consequences of each option can help you make a more informed decision about your defense. - [Houston Criminal Defense: What Defendants Should Expect](https://texascriminaljustice.com/houston-criminal-defense-what-defendants-should-expect/) - Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony, knowing how the Texas criminal process works can help you make better choices and avoid mistakes. - [How Long Does A Criminal Case Take In Texas Courts?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-long-does-a-criminal-case-take-in-texas-courts/) - Getting arrested in Texas often leaves people with a lot of questions. Many clients in Galveston ask how long their criminal case will take. - [Street Racing Laws And Penalties In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/street-racing-laws-and-penalties-in-texas/) - Street racing allegations in Texas can lead to serious criminal charges, expensive fines, license suspensions, and even jail or prison time. - [School Threat Charges in Texas and Legal Consequences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/school-threat-charges-in-texas-and-legal-consequences/) - A school threat allegation can lead to immediate arrest, suspension, removal from school activities, and serious criminal charges under Texas law. - [Disorderly Conduct Charges Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/disorderly-conduct-charges-explained/) - A disorderly conduct charge often starts with a public argument, a misunderstanding, a loud disagreement, or an incident that escalated for only a few minutes. - [Travel Restrictions With A Criminal Record](https://texascriminaljustice.com/travel-restrictions-with-a-criminal-record/) - We often hear from people in Galveston who are denied entry to other countries, delayed at airports, questioned by customs, or restricted due to an open case. - [Castle Doctrine Vs Self-Defense in Texas: Key Differences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/castle-doctrine-vs-self-defense-in-texas-key-differences/) - In Texas, a person is justified in using force against another when and to the degree the person reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary. - [Public Intoxication Vs DWI: Key Differences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/public-intoxication-vs-dwi-key-differences/) - Call our Galveston DWI lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to for your free consultation about a public intoxication, DWI, or related charges. - [Harassment And Stalking Laws In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/harassment-and-stalking-laws-in-texas/) - An accusation of harassment or stalking in Galveston can damage a person’s reputation, career, family life, and future long before the case ever reaches trial. - [Early Termination Of Probation Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/early-termination-of-probation-explained/) - If you are meeting your obligations and want to regain full freedom sooner, it is important to understand how Texas law applies and what steps are required. - [Parole Vs Probation In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/parole-vs-probation-in-texas/) - If you are facing criminal charges or dealing with a conviction in Texas, you might wonder about the difference between parole and probation. - [What Happens After A Probation Violation?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-after-a-probation-violation/) - Judges in Galveston County and the Houston area take probation violations seriously, especially if there is a history of not following the rules or a new arrest - [Cell Phone Location Tracking And Privacy Laws](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cell-phone-location-tracking-and-privacy-laws/) - We regularly defend clients in Galveston County and the Houston area who are surprised to learn how their phone data is being used against them. - [Police Body Cameras And Defense Strategy](https://texascriminaljustice.com/police-body-cameras-and-defense-strategy/) - We do not assume the footage tells the full story. Instead, we evaluate what is shown, what is missing, and whether the recording aligns with the written report - [Social Media Evidence And Criminal Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/social-media-evidence-and-criminal-charges-in-texas/) - In Galveston County and throughout Texas, social media content is routinely used to investigate, charge, and prosecute criminal cases. - [Criminal Trespass Laws In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/criminal-trespass-laws-in-texas/) - Although trespass is often charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction can still cause problems with employment, housing, professional licensing & background checks. - [Cryptocurrency Crimes And Texas Prosecution](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cryptocurrency-crimes-and-texas-prosecution/) - If you are charged with a cryptocurrency-related offense in Galveston or anywhere in Texas, it's important to know how these cases are prosecuted. - [Understanding The Federal Pretrial Process](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-the-federal-pretrial-process/) - The federal court system has strict rules, determined prosecutors, and sentencing guidelines that can lead to serious penalties impacting your future. - [Online Fraud And Identity Theft Trends](https://texascriminaljustice.com/online-fraud-and-identity-theft-trends/) - If police or federal agents start looking into online fraud or identity theft, the impact can be serious, affecting your freedom, reputation, job, and future. - [Understanding Enhancements In Texas Criminal Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/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, prior - [Family Violence Protective Orders: What They Are and How They Affect Your Criminal Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-emergency-protective-orders-family-violence-law/) - Understand the difference between EPOs and restraining orders in Texas. Learn how automatic no-contact orders impact housing, bond, and potential new charges. - [How To Defend Against Gun Possession Charges In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-defend-against-gun-possession-charges-in-galveston-county/) - Contact our Galveston County gun crime lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [8 Common Texas Drug Crime Questions Answered](https://texascriminaljustice.com/8-common-texas-drug-crime-questions-answered/) - Do I need a lawyer for simple drug possession? You need a lawyer anytime you're going into court. Every time you go to court on a criminal case, you're dealing with a situation that could have an impact on you for the rest of your life. Possession of a drug is going to be - [Most Common Questions Asked by Potential Clients](https://texascriminaljustice.com/most-common-questions-asked-by-potential-clients/) - Mark Diaz & Associates represent people charged with a crime, contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers now at (409) 515-6170. - [Ways A Felony Conviction Can Affect Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/ways-a-felony-conviction-can-affect-your-life/) - If you are concerned about a felony, contact our League City criminal defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates for help at (409) 515-6170 for a case review. - [Can Law Enforcement Demand ID For Passengers During A Traffic Stop?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-law-enforcement-demand-id-for-passengers-during-a-traffic-stop/) - Contact our Galveston criminal defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Things To Avoid When You Are Being Accused Of Domestic Violence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/things-to-avoid-when-you-are-being-accused-of-domestic-violence/) - Arguments among spouses and other family members are not uncommon. Sometimes these arguments can get quite tense and emotional. But when a disagreement results in any form of physical violence, the law may end up getting involved. Domestic violence–or family violence, as it is formally known in the Texas Family Code–is classified as any assault - [Can A Domestic Violence Charge Be Dropped In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-domestic-violence-charge-be-dropped-in-texas/) - When domestic violence charges can be dropped in Texas, who has the authority to do so, and what factors matter most under Texas criminal law. - [Accused Of Domestic Violence In Galveston County? What Judges Look At](https://texascriminaljustice.com/accused-of-domestic-violence-in-galveston-county-what-judges-look-at/) - A domestic violence accusation in Galveston County is a serious matter that can impact your freedom, family relationships, and future opportunities. - [Domestic Violence In Texas Questions And Answers](https://texascriminaljustice.com/domestic-violence-in-texas-questions-and-answers/) - Common domestic violence questions. If you are facing charges contact our domestic violence lawyers in Galveston today at 409-515-6170 - [What Are Restrictions on Convicted Felons in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-restrictions-on-convicted-felons-in-texas/) - Our Galveston County felony defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates will all explore possible defenses to felony charges, please call 409-515-6170. - [What are the Penalties for Possession of a Controlled Substance in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-possession-of-a-controlled-substance-in-texas/) - Texas law classifies controlled substances into four penalty groups. Here is a breakdown. Call our Galveston drug crime defense lawyers at 409-515-6170 - [Choosing the Right Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Make All The Difference. Here’s What to Look For.](https://texascriminaljustice.com/choosing-the-right-texas-criminal-defense-lawyer-can-make-all-the-difference-heres-what-to-look-for/) - Choosing the Right Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Experience, Cost, and Results When you are caught up in the Texas criminal justice system, you’re faced with many choices that can impact the course of your ordeal: Should I speak with the police? How should I plead? Should I negotiate with prosecutors? Should I take the stand - [Leaving the Past Behind: Non-Disclosure of Criminal Records And Expunction in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/leaving-the-past-behind-expunction-and-non-disclosure-of-criminal-records-in-texas/) - Every day in Texas, citizens with criminal records are denied employment because of their criminal history. According to a recent study, 88% of employers conduct criminal background checks on applicants. Even misdemeanor convictions for acts as minor as petty theft or vandalism can cause a current or potential employer to pass you over for a - [U.S. Supreme Court: If You’ve Been Arrested, Police Cannot Search Your Phone Without a Warrant](https://texascriminaljustice.com/u-s-supreme-court-if-youve-been-arrested-police-cannot-search-your-phone-without-a-warrant/) - Given that 90% of Americans now carry cell phones, it is likely that the overwhelming majority of the 12 million people arrested in the U.S. every year have their phones on them at the time of their arrest. If you find yourself in that situation, the U.S. Supreme Court recently held that the police cannot - [You Are Entitled to a Public Defender. Why You Should Hire a Private Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Instead](https://texascriminaljustice.com/you-are-entitled-to-a-public-defender-why-you-should-hire-a-private-texas-criminal-defense-attorney-instead/) - The constitutions of the United States and the state of Texas provide that if you can’t afford a defense attorney when facing criminal charges, you are entitled to an attorney at no cost to yourself at every stage of a criminal proceeding. Attorneys that are appointed to represent you under those circumstances are referred to - [False Confessions by Juveniles: New Study Proposes Changes to Prevent Grave Injustices](https://texascriminaljustice.com/false-confessions-by-juveniles-new-study-proposes-changes-to-prevent-grave-injustices/) - Earlier this year, Daniel Villegas of El Paso was released after 18 years in prison. Villegas lost almost two decades of his life after being convicted of two murders he did not commit; a conviction that was based largely on a false confession he made when he was 16 years old. He made that confession - [Entrapment as a Defense in Texas: When Being “Set Up” Goes Too Far](https://texascriminaljustice.com/entrapment-as-a-defense-in-texas-when-being-set-up-goes-too-far/) - It is a staple of movies and TV shows: the police undercover operation or “sting.” From “To Catch a Predator” to “American Hustle,” we see law enforcement actively creating scenarios designed to catch a perpetrator in the act of committing a crime. Law enforcement officials throughout Texas regularly conduct undercover operations geared toward arresting “johns” - [New Texas Criminal Laws Take Effect September 1st](https://texascriminaljustice.com/new-texas-criminal-laws-take-effect-september-1st/) - A number of new criminal laws that were passed by the Texas legislature and signed by Governor Perry take effect on September 1st, 2014. These laws address a number of issues from drugs to sex crimes, establishing new offenses and imposing stiffer penalties. Here are a few of the changes to Texas criminal law: “Bath - [Texas Sex Offender Registration: A Life-long Consequence of Many Convictions](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-sex-offender-registration-a-life-long-consequence-of-many-convictions/) - In June of this year, the national conference of RSOL met in Dallas. RSOL stands for Reform Sex Offender Laws, and the participants from across the country were there to push for changes in sex offender registry laws which they argue do not make the public safer while at the same time imposing burdens on - [What is a Grand Jury? Perry Indictment Puts Process in the Spotlight](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-a-grand-jury-perry-indictment-puts-process-in-the-spotlight/) - As you likely know, Texas Governor Rick Perry was recently indicted on two felony charges of abusing his official powers. The indictment was made by a grand jury after four months of looking at evidence and hearing testimony from members of the governor’s staff. When we think of being charged with a crime, we typically - [Hack a Computer, Pick a Pocket, or Falsify Information: No Matter How You Do It, Credit Card Fraud is a Major Felony](https://texascriminaljustice.com/hack-a-computer-pick-a-pocket-or-falsify-information-no-matter-how-you-do-it-credit-card-fraud-is-a-major-felony/) - Once again, a major retailer has announced that it has been hacked and the credit card and personal information of its customers put at risk. Home Depot has become the latest in a long list of companies who have had their customer’s credit card and other payment information stolen and then sold to others who - [Adrian Peterson Indictment: Legal Parental Discipline or Criminal Act?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/adrian-peterson-indictment-legal-parental-discipline-or-criminal-act/) - Minnesota Vikings star running back Adrian Peterson was recently indicted by a Montgomery County, Texas grand jury on charges of Injury to a Child arising out of his use of a switch to spank or, in Peterson’s words, to “whoop” his four-year-old son. The indictment came after law enforcement was advised by a doctor that - [What is “Due Process” and Why Is It Important to You?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-due-process-and-why-is-it-important-to-you/) - One of the most fundamental and important rights that all of us have, “due process” has been in the news a lot recently. NFL players facing suspension or discipline for domestic violence or child abuse assert that there should be “due process” before they lose their jobs or incomes. Government officials, law enforcement, and college - [Arrest Warrants, Bench Warrants, and Traffic Warrants Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/arrest-warrants-bench-warrants-and-traffic-warrants-explained/) - Often when you are charged with a crime, it follows your arrest by the police, such as when you are pulled over and charged with DUI or if you are apprehended during or immediately after a crime such as a robbery or assault. Sometimes, though, individuals are arrested and charged with crimes well after the - [Don’t Make Things Worse: Four Things NOT to Do When Stopped or Arrested](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dont-make-things-worse-four-things-not-to-do-when-stopped-or-arrested/) - Two situations guaranteed to make you unhappy, uncomfortable, and uneasy (to say the least) are being pulled over by the police or placed under arrest. At those times, with the outcome of those interactions still very much uncertain, the choices you make can play a big role in determining whether the bad situation you are - [Plea Bargains are Often a Bad Deal](https://texascriminaljustice.com/plea-bargains-are-often-a-bad-deal/) - It may be tempting after an arrest to enter a guilty plea in hopes of a lighter sentence and a quick resolution to your ordeal. You want to move on with your life, maybe avoid paying some legal fees, and think that entering a plea is the answer to your current legal problems. However, a - [Will Texas Decriminalize Pot Possession in 2015?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/will-texas-decriminalize-pot-possession-in-2015/) - Make no mistake: marijuana is still illegal in Texas, and you will face harsh penalties if convicted of possession or distribution. But if a bill recently introduced in the Texas legislature becomes law next year, Texas may join 19 other states, the District of Columbia, and municipalities across the country in decriminalizing the possession of - [What is Hearsay? Can It Be Used By Prosecutors?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-hearsay-can-it-be-used-by-prosecutors/) - You may have heard the term “hearsay” before. In criminal proceedings, “hearsay” refers to testimony in which the witness is relaying information they received from a third party, and the statement allegedly made by that third-party is being offered as evidence to support either the prosecution or defense. For example, if a police officer testifies - [What is Disorderly Conduct in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-disorderly-conduct-in-texas/) - Spring Break season is here, and from South Padre Island to Daytona Beach, you can be sure that arrests for disorderly conduct will be part of the week for some folks. In Texas, "disorderly conduct" is a common criminal charge that covers a relatively broad range of behavior. It can take the form of sights, - [You May Wait a Long Time for Your “Speedy Trial”](https://texascriminaljustice.com/you-may-wait-a-long-time-for-your-speedy-trial/) - It is a sad fact of our criminal justice system that the wheels of justice often turn very slowly. If you’ve been charged with a crime and you desperately want to clear your name and move forward with your life, every day, week, and month that goes by before your trial can seem like an - [The Trouble(s) With Breathalyzers: New Law, Old Problems](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-troubles-with-breathalyzers-new-law-old-problems/) - Starting in September, Texas judges will have the authority to require first-time drunk drivers in Texas to install an ignition interlock device in lieu of a license suspension, pursuant to a bill just signed by Gov. Greg Abbott. For folks who ultimately find themselves subject to this new requirement, it is likely that it won’t - [Part of Federal Repeat Offender Law Struck Down by Supreme Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/part-of-federal-repeat-offender-law-struck-down-by-supreme-court/) - While most of the attention on the U.S. Supreme Court’s recently concluded term has been about its decisions involving the Affordable Care Act and marriage equality, there was a flurry of other rulings issued as well. One such case involved a federal law that provides for enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders. As is the case - [Knock, Knock: What to Do if Police Show Up With a Search Warrant](https://texascriminaljustice.com/knock-knock-what-to-do-if-police-show-up-with-a-search-warrant/) - There’s a loud knock on your front door, your dog starts barking, and you hear a stern voice outside proclaim: “This is the police. We have a search warrant for the premises.” At that moment, what should you do? Should you open the door? Invite the police in? Refuse them entry? Here are some do’s - [Three Steps to Take If You’ve Been Charged With Domestic Violence in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/three-steps-to-take-if-youve-been-charged-with-domestic-violence/) - Being arrested and charged with domestic violence in Texas can be a traumatic experience. In Texas, domestic violence is part of a criminal charge referred to as “family violence.” Under the Texas criminal code, family violence is an assault against a member of the accused’s household. This can be a spouse, child, or other individual - [4 Traffic Ticket Mistakes](https://texascriminaljustice.com/4-traffic-ticket-mistakes/) - A traffic ticket can quickly turn a good day into a rotten one if you make any of the traffic tick mistakes we discuss here. Most people have an opinion about how to handle a traffic stop or a police encounter. Unfortunately, there is a lot of inaccurate information online regarding your rights and what - [Forgery Is a Serious Crime](https://texascriminaljustice.com/forgery-is-a-serious-crime/) - If you have been charged with a counterfeiting crime or forgery in Texas, it's important to contact an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney right away. Forgery encompasses a wide variety of offenses and is generally defined as altering or signing a document for purposes of committing fraud or harming another individual. A person commits forgery - [What Should I Do If The Police Call Me?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-police-called-me-what-should-i-do/) - If the police call you there are important things you need to know to protect your rights. Getting a phone call from a police officer or detective can be a frightening experience. If you have been contacted by law enforcement authorities informing you that you are under investigation, it is important to contact a criminal - [What Are Miranda Rights?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-miranda-rights/) - “You have the right to remain silent…” It’s something most people can easily recite after seeing a few crime dramas on television. But what are Miranda rights, really? Where do they come from? When are you entitled to them? The answers may surprise you. Also known as a “Miranda warning,” Miranda rights originate from a - [Simple Assault Is Not Always So Simple](https://texascriminaljustice.com/simple-assault-is-not-always-so-simple/) - When you hear the words “simple assault,” you might picture a scuffle in a bar or a quick fight involving a couple of punches. The phrase doesn’t necessarily sound like a big deal, but simple assault can describe a wide variety of actions. In reality, a simple assault case can be quite complex, with serious - [Texas Open Carry Law](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-new-open-carry-law/) - You may have heard about The Texas Open Carry Law in Texas House Bill 910, which became effective on January 1, 2016. The new law makes it legal to openly carry handguns in Texas. If you plan to carry a weapon under the new law, it is very important to make sure you understand your - [What Is The Texas Three Strikes Law?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/does-texas-have-a-three-strikes-law/) - When most people hear the term “three strikes law,” they usually think of California, which has been the subject of much controversy over the years. What you may not know is that there is a Texas three strikes law as well, which punishes offenders for repeat penalties. After a third felony, offenders in Texas face - [Getting the Charges Against You Dropped or Dismissed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/getting-the-charges-against-you-dropped-or-dismissed/) - Just because you have been charged with a crime does not mean you are guaranteed to end up with a criminal record. Never assume your case is hopeless or a lost cause. Although an arrest can make you feel like there is no chance of reclaiming your life, it’s important to remember that prosecutors have - [Consult An Attorney Before Speaking With Police](https://texascriminaljustice.com/consult-an-attorney-before-speaking-with-police/) - The U.S. Constitution Gives You The Right To An Attorney During Police Interrogations The Fifth Amendment requires police to give criminal suspects in their custody Miranda warnings, including informing them of their right to an attorney, before questioning them. When a cop fails to warn a suspect of her Miranda rights, any information gained from - [What Should I Do If a Policeman Asks To Search My Vehicle?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-should-i-do-if-a-policeman-asks-to-search-my-vehicle/) - The U.S. Constitution Protects You From Unreasonable Vehicle Searches The Fourth Amendment guards citizens against unreasonable search and seizure. This means that a police officer needs permission to search your body and your property, including your vehicle unless he has sufficient and trustworthy facts suggesting that you are involved in criminal activity. By law, a - [Social Media Posts and Pictures Can and Will Be Used Against You in a Court of Law](https://texascriminaljustice.com/social-media-posts-and-pictures-can-and-will-be-used-against-you-in-a-court-of-law/) - It has been said by parents all over the country to their teenagers using the Internet and posting on social media sites: presume that everything you post can be seen by everybody and that it will be seen forever. Nevertheless, as social media use has exploded over the past decade, teenagers and adults alike continue - [Sex With a Minor: Consent Won’t Spare You From Serious Felony Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/sex-with-a-minor-consent-wont-spare-you-from-serious-felony-charges/) - With a few exceptions, if you are an adult in Texas and you have sex with someone under 17, you are a sex offender. It doesn’t matter if the sex was supposedly “consensual” because Texas law says that those under 17 don’t have the capacity to consent. You face serious prison time, registration on the - [Prescription Drug Abuse and Criminal Prescription Drug Possession in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/prescription-drug-abuse-and-criminal-prescription-drug-possession-in-texas/) - Prescription Drug Possession Prescription drug possession is a serious criminal offense in Texas when you are in possession of a prescription drug and it isn't prescribed to you. Most people associate drug crimes with street drugs, such as cocaine and heroin. Although these illicit substances make up a large portion of drug-related criminal activity, prescription - [Texas Test Time: What to Expect from Field Sobriety Tests if You’re Pulled Over](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-test-time-what-to-expect-from-field-sobriety-tests-if-youre-pulled-over/) - If you’ve been pulled over for suspicion of drunk driving, you will likely be asked to take some tests. At some point, you may be asked to provide breath, blood, or urine samples. But first, you will be asked to participate in the standardized field sobriety tests. These tests are intended to test a driver’s - [5 Facts about Cocaine](https://texascriminaljustice.com/5-facts-about-cocaine/) - Cocaine is a common recreational drug, but many people are unaware of its long and sometimes shocking history, below are 5 facts about cocaine you may not know. Although most people know cocaine is an illegal substance that is incredibly addictive and destructive, there are many facts about cocaine likely to surprise you. Here are - [How Common Is Assault Against Men?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-common-is-assault-against-men/) - Assault against men is more common than people think. In Texas, an individual can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony assault depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime. Under the Penal Code, a person can be charged with assault for intentionally or knowingly threatening another person, including a spouse, with imminent bodily injury. - [What Are the Most Common Federal Crimes?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-most-common-federal-crimes/) - Many criminal offenses are prosecuted at the state level, but the federal government has jurisdiction over certain common federal crimes. Because federal convictions often result in more severe sentences, it is very important to work with an experienced attorney knowledgeable about federal criminal defense if you are facing federal prosecution. With this in mind, here - [What Is Parole?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-parole/) - Watch any crime or legal drama on TV, and you are likely to hear the word “parole.” Many people have a vague idea of what it means, but they aren’t quite sure of the specifics. When a person is sentenced to prison, they are given a set amount of time behind bars. In certain cases, - [Drug Charges in Texas: What is Constructive Possession?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-charges-in-texas-what-is-constructive-possession/) - Drug possession is a serious criminal offense. Depending on the substance and the quantity, a defendant accused of drug possession could face felony charges, which carry considerable jail time. In Texas, there are two basic types of possession. Actual possession occurs when law enforcement finds illegal drugs in a defendant’s direct physical possession — often - [What to Do If You are Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault in Galveston, TX](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-falsely-accused-of-sexual-assault-in-galveston-tx/) - Being falsely accused of sexual misconduct is frightening, intimidating and overwhelming. If you are facing false accusations, you need to be ready to take immediate action to protect your rights, reputation and freedom. Under Texas law (Texas Penal Code § 22.011), sexual assault is usually charged as a second degree felony offense punishable by up - [Teens and Prescription Drug Possession in Texas: What Parents Need to Know](https://texascriminaljustice.com/teens-and-prescription-drug-possession-in-texas-what-parents-need-to-know/) - Prescription drug possession and the misuse of prescription drugs by teenagers have become a serious public safety problem. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, young adults are most susceptible to prescription drug abuse — with approximately eight percent of teenagers admitting they have used prescription drugs for non-medical purposes. If a teenager is - [Expunging a Felony in Texas: An Overview of the Process](https://texascriminaljustice.com/expunging-a-felony-in-texas-an-overview-of-the-process/) - Expunging a Felony in Texas allows a person a fresh start. If granted, an expunction allows a person to deny their arrest ever happened. - [Understanding Court Terminology](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-court-terminology/) - Understanding court terminology can keep you from making serious mistakes. Unfortunately, in some cases, people run into issues because they do not understand the meaning or implications of certain court terminology as it relates to a criminal case. If you were arrested and charged with a crime, it is crucial you have the information you - [Overview of the Criminal Defense Process in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/overview-of-the-criminal-process-in-texas/) - Being accused of a crime is stressful, frightening, and confusing, this is why you need to be informed on the criminal defense process in Texas. Even if you haven’t been arrested just yet, it is imperative you take immediate action. You do not want to fall behind law enforcement or the prosecution in defending your - [Do I Have to Take a Breathalyzer Test? An Overview of Texas Law](https://texascriminaljustice.com/do-i-have-to-take-a-breath-test-an-overview-of-texas-law/) - A refusal to take a breathalyzer test may not end the your ordeal and it can come with negative consequences that will affect your driver’s license. - [Collateral Consequences of Criminal Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/collateral-consequences-of-criminal-charges/) - A criminal conviction can have serious collateral consequences for the alleged offender, both direct and indirect. The direct consequences are generally found within the state and federal criminal codes. They include things like prison time, mandatory probation, and/or fines. The indirect consequences are often referred to as collateral consequences and oftentimes, they cannot be quantified, - [Cellphone Rights - What You Should Know About Illegal Police Searches](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cellphones-and-your-rights-illegal-police-searches/) - Your cellphone rights are protected by the Constitution. Under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, you are protected against unreasonable searches and seizures by governmental authorities. With the amount of sensitive information typically contained on a person’s cell phone, naturally, it is one of the most important things to protect from an illegal police - [Consequences of Violating Probation](https://texascriminaljustice.com/consequences-of-violating-probation/) - In Texas, probation is often referred to as “community supervision" but the consequences of violating probation can be severe. Under state law (Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 42A.001), community supervision is defined as an alternative to incarceration during which an offender can live in the community, in lieu of going to jail, and make restitution - [Drug Possession Charges in Texas and Their Cost](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-possession-charges-in-texas-and-their-cost/) - In Texas, drug possession is a serious criminal offense. Texas has some of the most stringent drug laws in the entire country. If you are arrested on Galveston drug possession charges, you may be facing significant penalties, potentially including jail time. The true cost of a conviction is even higher than most people realize. Here, - [Texas Cannabis Laws – How Harsh Are The Penalties?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-cannabis-laws-how-harsh-are-the-penalties/) - What You Need To Know About Texas Cannabis Laws Cannabis laws in Texas are harsh - even though it is a popular recreational drug despite the fact that it is classified as a prohibited “controlled substance” under federal and Texas state law. In recent years, a number of states have moved to decriminalize marijuana possession - [How Common Are False Charges In Domestic Violence Cases?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-common-are-false-charges-in-domestic-violence-cases/) - False Domestic Violence Charges Are Not Uncommon Every relationship has its ups and downs. Even happy, long-term marriages include a certain amount of disagreements and fighting. But when a relationship breaks down, it can lead to more serious conflicts, including allegations of domestic violence. We all know domestic violence is a serious problem. Here in - [What You Need To Know About Drug Manufacturing Laws In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-drug-manufacturing-laws-in-texas/) - What Are Drug Manufacturing Laws In Texas? It is one thing to get arrested for possessing a couple of marijuana joints. But it is quite another to be charged with a drug manufacturing crime. Under both federal and Texas state law, you can face severe penalties if prosecutors can prove you engaged in activities related - [What Federal Charges Are People That Stormed The United States Capitol Facing?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-federal-charges-are-people-that-stormed-the-united-states-capitol-facing/) - Many That Stormed The Capitol Are Facing Federal Charges On Jan. 6, 2021, a mob stormed the United States Capitol building in an attempt to prevent the certification of the 2020 presidential election. At least 5 people died during the attack, including a police officer, and more than 140 other officers were injured. There was - [Legal Questions Answered By Galveston Criminal Defense Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/legal-questions-answered-by-galveston-criminal-defense-lawyer/) - What should I do if I'm arrested? The first thing that you should do is bond out of jail. Once you've bonded out, you need to contact an attorney and start getting your defense together. With most criminal cases, it's important that you get started right away building your defense and working on what you - [Criminal Law Questions Answered By Galveston Attorney Mark Diaz](https://texascriminaljustice.com/criminal-law-questions-answered-by-galveston-attorney-mark-diaz/) - Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Answers Common Criminal Law Questions Do Criminal Law Attorneys have payment plans? Well, most do. It's going to depend on the complexity of the case, the amount that we're talking about, and the length of time it would take to resolve the case. We offer them here at my Galveston criminal - [Common Texas Criminal Defense Questions](https://texascriminaljustice.com/common-texas-criminal-defense-questions/) - Will I go to jail for a drug crime? There are a lot of factors that go into this. That's going to depend on the amount of drugs that were found, it's going to depend on the drug, whether you were selling, manufacturing, or possessing, and what you were accused of. It will also depend - [Texas Criminal Defense Questions Answered By Galveston Criminal Defense Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-criminal-justice-questions-answered-by-galveston-criminal-defense-lawyer/) - Texas Criminal Justice Questions Answered By Galveston Criminal Defense Lawyer. If you have questions call Mark Diaz at (409) 515-6170 - [How Different Is The Punishment For Drug Possession vs. Drug Trafficking?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-different-is-the-punishment-for-drug-possession-vs-drug-trafficking/) - Although public attitudes towards illicit drugs have softened in recent years, Texas still maintains some of the strictest anti-drug laws–and penalties–in the country. Even carrying a relatively small amount of a controlled substance may lead an overeager prosecutor to charge you with a drug trafficking offense. And these crimes are often prosecuted as felonies, meaning - [What Rights Can I Lose If Convicted Of A Felony?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-rights-can-i-lose-if-convicted-of-a-felony/) - When it comes to a felony charge, most defendants are only thinking about the potential fine or jail time they face if convicted. But a felony conviction carries a wide range of secondary consequences. Indeed, there are many legal rights you can lose as a convicted felon, and you may find they are not immediately - [What Happens If I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-i-refuse-a-breathalyzer-test-in-texas/) - If a driver refuses a breathalyzer test in Texas, then they can face a mandatory suspension of their driver's license. Call our Galveston DWI defense lawyers. - [What Is the Difference in Punishment for Burglary and Robbery?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-difference-in-punishment-for-burglary-and-robbery/) - One of the most fundamental principles of civilization is that stealing is wrong. Think back to the Ten Commandments in the Bible, which includes the admonition, “Thou shall not steal.” Even thousands of years ago, society understood the need to punish those who took things that did not belong to them. In present-day Texas law, - [Trying A Case During COVID And Sexual Assault Questions](https://texascriminaljustice.com/trying-a-case-during-covid-and-sexual-assault-questions/) - What is it like trying a case during the pandemic? How have covid protocols affected the court process? Last week, I was on a trial in the 405th District Court here in Galveston, judge Jared Robinson, presiding. I had an aggravated assault, causing serious bodily injury. Under the new protocols, we started the trial. Everything - [Common Questions On Drug Crime Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/common-questions-on-drug-crime-charges-in-texas/) - Should you let your child/teenager be interviewed by the police as a suspect in a crime? No. It's the same for a child or teenager as it is for an adult, you would not want to speak to investigators without the presence of an attorney. In any type of criminal investigation. I've said that many - [9 Common Legal Questions Asked Around Galveston Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/9-common-legal-questions-asked-around-galveston-texas/) - If you have been charged with a crime in the Galveston area call our Texas criminal defense lawyers for a free consultation at at (409) 515-6170 - [What Drug Laws In Texas Are The Harshest?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-drug-laws-in-texas-are-the-harshest/) - Drug laws in Texas can be tough so it is no surprise that Texas is often described as a state that is particularly harsh when it comes to illegal drug use. Although this reputation may not be completely accurate, it is impossible to deny the substantial legal penalties a person may face if convicted of - [What You Need To Know About Bail And Bail Bonds In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-bail-and-bail-bonds-in-texas/) - The Texas Penal Code defines a bail bond as “the security given by the accused that he will appear and answer before the proper court. - [8 Steps To Take If Pulled Over For Drunk Driving In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/8-steps-to-take-if-pulled-over-for-drunk-driving-in-galveston-county/) - You are driving home after having dinner at a restaurant in Galveston County. You had a couple of drinks with dinner but you still think you are well below the legal limit. Nevertheless, as you make your way home you suddenly see the light and sirens of a police car behind you. Maybe you committed - [Questions On Drug Manufacturing Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/questions-on-drug-manufacturing-charges-in-texas/) - The questions this week center on drug manufacturing charges and delivery, which is an enhancement from possession according to Texas Statutes. If there is any evidence that you are either manufacturing or delivering drugs, that is an enhancement. Whatever level of punishment you were at, an enhancement would bump it up to the next level. - [Common Questions On Homicide And Manslaughter In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/common-questions-on-homicide-and-manslaughter-in-texas/) - Homicide is one of the most serious crimes a person can be charged with. In this legal Q&A Galveston County criminal defense attorney answers common questions on homicide and manslaughter. Is it legal to kill for self-defense? I don't like the way that question is worded. When you say is it legal to kill for - [What Are The Top 5 Crimes In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-top-5-crimes-in-texas/) - If you Google "Top 5 Crimes in Texas," you will find that the top five crimes in Texas are drugs No. 1 - not a shocker. I wouldn't have had to Google it to find that out. No. 2 is theft. No. 3 is aggravated assault. No. 4 is burglary. No. 5 is robbery. According - [Why Is Due Process Important In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-is-due-process-important/) - If you are charged with a crime, all of the rights that protect you, from the right to counsel to the right to remain silent to the right to a jury, all fall under the umbrella of “due process.” It is “due process” that is designed to protect criminal defendants from passion and prejudice and - [What Are the Penalties for Possession of a Controlled Substance in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-possession-of-a-controlled-substance-in-texas-2/) - While any violation of Texas drug laws is an extremely serious matter, data indicates that the bulk of these cases involve possession charges. There are around 1.84 million arrests across the U.S. for various forms of illegal drug-related activity, and more than four-fifths are for possessing an illegal controlled substance. At the state level, the - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses Recent Criminal Events On The Island](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-recent-criminal-events-on-the-island/) - Crime in Galveston County runs the gamut from DWI and cannabis possession to breaking ann entering and murder. Here we are discussing some recent crimes on Galveston Island and elsewhere in the county. What are some of the issues you see in cases of minors in possession of marijuana? In cases of minors in possession - [Can a Felony be Expunged in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-felony-be-expunged-in-texas/) - You may qualify to have your felony expunged under certain circumstances, essentially erasing the arrest and the residual effects of it from your criminal record. - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses New Texas Open Carry Law](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-new-texas-open-carry-law/) - Texas New Open Carry Law Some people call it constitutional carry, some people call it open carry, I'm going to stay out of the politics of it, I don't know why gun legislation needs to be a political topic. I just want to talk about the actual legislation. It appears that Texas has decided that - [How Difficult Is Expungement In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-difficult-is-expungement-in-texas/) - If you were arrested and/or convicted on Texas criminal charges, served your sentence through incarceration, and paid all related fines and restitution, you probably think the criminal process is over. In truth, even though you paid your debt to society, there may be lingering implications for your life. For instance, a criminal conviction or arrest - [Reasons You Should Never Defend Yourself In Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/reasons-you-should-never-defend-yourself-in-court/) - If you are facing criminal charges in Texas, you will no doubt at least consider representing yourself as a pro se defendant at some point. There are a few reasons people in your position think about taking on the defense of their own criminal case, such as: When it is your first offense, you might - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Definition of Possession of a Controlled Substance And Due Process](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-definition-of-possession-of-a-controlled-substance-and-due-process/) - What does it mean to be found in possession of a controlled substance? While that is a very broad question, I can give you some general rules about possession. First, it has to be intentional and knowing to be in possession of something. You have to either have the intent to be in possession of - [DUI Treatment For First-Time Offenders What You Need to Know](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dui-treatment-for-first-time-offenders-what-you-need-to-know/) - Everybody knows it’s wrong to drink and drive. Not only is driving under the influence a crime, but it is also a grave threat to the safety of the driver and that of other people. While most first-time DUI offenses are categorized as misdemeanors, they can still carry with them severe short-term and long-term consequences. - [If You've Been Convicted of a Crime Stay Off Social Media](https://texascriminaljustice.com/if-youve-been-convicted-of-a-crime-stay-off-social-media/) - After being arrested and convicted of a crime in Texas, you probably assume that your experience with the criminal justice system concludes after you meet the requirements of your sentence. Once you serve your term of incarceration, pay the fines and/or restitution, and complete probation, it seems logical that the criminal conviction is behind you. - [How The New Constitutional Carry Law Could Affect Weapons Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-the-new-constitutional-carry-law-could-affect-weapons-charges-in-texas/) - Constitutional Carry The term constitutional carry is often used interchangeably with “open carry,” “permitless carry,” or “unconcealed carry,” but they all generally refer to the same concept. Individuals can legally possess a firearm in a public place, without a permit, and without the need to hide the gun on their person. Regardless of the stance - [What are the Most Common Crimes in Galveston County?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-most-common-crimes-in-galveston-county/) - Crime Statistics Crime statistics in Texas are interesting in terms of trends, demographics, recidivism, and related factors, but you have many other reasons to review this information if you were recently arrested. One of the most important things you will want to know is how many people charged with a criminal offense are eventually convicted, - [Are DWI Charges the Same for Adults and Minors?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/are-dwi-charges-the-same-for-adults-and-minors/) - DWI Charges In Texas It is no secret that Texas has enacted some of the strictest drunk driving laws among all US states, which are accompanied by a robust system of penalties and administrative sanctions. Even for a first-time arrest, a violation of laws on driving while intoxicated (DWI) could lead to at least three - [How Lighting Reduces Violent Crime](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-lighting-reduces-violent-crime/) - Crime rates in Texas and throughout the U.S. may fluctuate over time, but the law enforcement community is always seeking new tactics, methods, and strategies for apprehending suspects. Though many new solutions and innovations show promise, one approach to fighting crime involves technology that has been around since the 1750s and the days of Benjamin - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Assault and Its Consequences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-assault-and-its-consequences/) - Questions And Answers On Assault In Texas Misdemeanor Assault The most common type of assault that we see is a class A misdemeanor assault. Since it's a class A misdemeanor, the range of punishment is up to a year in the county jail, and a fine not to exceed $4,000. The reason that I say - [Galveston Defense Attorney Gives Reasons Not To Talk To The Police Without A Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-defense-attorney-gives-reasons-not-to-talk-to-the-police-without-a-lawyer/) - It would seem to me that this should be obvious enough. You would be surprised how often I get calls from people wanting to be questioned by the police, the police trying to set up an appointment to do so. They call me and say, should I talk to them? The answer is no about - [How Common Are Galveston Shooting Crimes?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-common-are-galveston-shooting-crimes/) - While it might seem like an easy process to review crime reports, assess data, and crunch the numbers to determine the frequency of Galveston shooting crimes, getting an accurate picture is somewhat challenging. There are numerous factors that lead to inconsistencies, particularly what constitutes a shooting crime when looking at US statutes versus Texas statutes, - [How Street Racing Can End in Serious Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-street-racing-can-end-in-serious-charges/) - There can be no doubt that Hollywood has attracted many to the need for speed through action-packed films that end with a victory lap and trophy for the winner. However, street racing is a crime in Texas, and it is one that police are cracking down on as the popularity of this dangerous activity increases. - [What Is The Difference Between Murder And Manslaughter?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-difference-between-murder-and-manslaughter/) - Murder vs. Manslaughter The simplest way to explain that is, one deals with intentional conduct, and one is not necessarily intentional, but more likely reckless. So murder, generally speaking, is when a person intentionally or knowingly causes the death of another person. Different Types Of Murder If you intended to commit serious bodily injury to - [The Status of The Galveston Courthouse After The July 10th Fire](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-status-of-the-galveston-courthouse-after-the-july-10th-fire/) - Galveston Courthouse Fire Every day, we get calls from clients about whether or not they have to appear. The answer is different for every court. Most of you know by now, that back on July 10th, there was a fire in the Galveston courthouse on the third floor. It's rumored to have started from a - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Court Appointed VS. Retained Counsel](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-court-appointed-vs-retained-counsel/) - What is the difference between a court-appointed vs a private attorney? I recently had an email exchange with a woman who wanted to retain new counsel for her husband, which brings up a discussion about court-appointed counsel versus retained counsel. We get a lot of people who have court-appointed attorneys themselves and want to know - [Galveston Federal Criminal Attorney Discusses Federal and State Criminal Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-federal-criminal-attorney-discusses-federal-and-state-criminal-court/) - The Difference Between Federal Versus State Criminal Defense Generally speaking, federal court and state court are just two completely different animals. Federal Court is very formal, very structured, and has specific rules to be followed. The calendar is established from the beginning. Charges are usually not fresh in federal court. Most federal drug cases are - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Do's and Don'ts Under a Restraining Order](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-dos-and-donts-under-a-restraining-order/) - What should you do if you are the subject of a restraining order? Before I get into that, it's not always just a restraining order. Sometimes it's bond conditions instead of a restraining order, sometimes it’s a temporary restraining order. In more extreme cases, there are restraining orders that last for years. These restrictions are - [Is Robbery a Misdemeanor or a Felony?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-robbery-a-misdemeanor-or-a-felony/) - Typically, when someone asks a question with two alternative answers, the proper response will be one or the other. Unfortunately, you may not get such a clear-cut reply when you ask whether robbery is a misdemeanor or felony in Texas. The reason comes down to confusion about definitions. Many people lump robbery into the many - [What Are the Penalties for Assault Causing Bodily Injury in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-assault-causing-bodily-injury-in-texas/) - Because Texas is harsh on assault, you can be sure police will enforce laws by making arrests, and prosecutors will aggressively pursue charges. - [Possession Of A Controlled Substance | Fighting Drug Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possession-of-a-controlled-substance-fighting-drug-charges-in-texas/) - What Actually Happens If A Texas Drug Charges Case Goes to Trial? On average, you can expect your Texas drug charges case to last around the one-year mark, from the time you are arrested to the time you formally go to trial. If the case is actually going to trial, what that looks like is - [How to Help Your Stepchild with Drug Addiction](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-help-your-stepchild-with-drug-addiction/) - Anything addiction-related is a complex thing to deal with. It becomes even more complex when your child or stepchild is involved. So, what are the steps you can take to help them on their journey towards sobriety? Let’s take a look... Learn More About Addiction and Treatment If you do not know how the addiction - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses Probation Violations](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-probation-violations/) - Probation Violations And How They May Affect You We've been getting a lot of questions lately about probation violations or potential probation violations, and what to do about them. The first thing that I need to make clear is that we use the term probation generally, to encompass community supervision and deferred adjudication. Probation is - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Texas Domestic Violence Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-texas-domestic-violence-charges/) - How Can I Prove My Innocence On A Domestic Violence Charge? When you're accused of a crime, you have nothing to prove as an accused. The state has the burden of proof in all criminal cases, it's the state's obligation to present evidence that a jury would use to enter a finding of guilt. In - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Common Arrests During Holidays or Events](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-common-arrests-during-holidays-or-events/) - What Are Some Common Offenses Charged On Holidays or During Events? It kind of depends on the holiday or type of event that's happening on Galveston Island or in Galveston County. Thanksgiving is coming up, which is a holiday weekend. On Thanksgiving weekends, we typically see a slight increase in two types of cases. One - [How Severe Are Drug Possession Charges in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-severe-are-drug-possession-charges-in-texas/) - Texas has a reputation for being tough on crime, and Texas drug possession laws are a prime example of how members of the criminal justice community crack down on offenders. Police and prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, so drug possession charges are most definitely a serious matter in the Lone Star State. In the context - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Impact of Pandemic on Criminal Justice System](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-impact-of-pandemic-on-criminal-justice-system/) - How Has the COVID Pandemic Affected Criminal Cases? And, you know, this topic came from an article that I read that tracked crime statistics across several large states in the United States, trying to determine what effect, if any, COVID had on those statistics. I'll talk about that a little bit, but I am also - [Implied Consent in Texas and How it Can Affect Your Criminal Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/implied-consent-in-texas-and-how-it-can-affect-your-criminal-case/) - Texas DWI Laws Even if you cannot recite the specifics, you know that Texas laws on driving while intoxicated (DWI) are harsh. You could be charged if you are operating your vehicle (or in other words, driving or any other action that enables the car to function) in violation of the statute. Police may arrest - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses White Collar Crime](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-white-collar-crime/) - What Is White Collar Crime? The easiest way to put it is that white collar crime generally involves some type of fraud. It generally has a financial motive. There are a lot of ways to commit what people call white-collar crimes. What is important to note is that white-collar crime isn't a section of law. - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses His Criminal Defense Law Practice](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-his-criminal-defense-law-practice/) - Mark Diaz and Associates I don't have a typical topic today like I often do. Usually, I'll take a question from someone and try to answer it in the context of criminal law. Today, I want to do something a little bit different. Which is to talk about our office, what it is that we - [Why You Need a Galveston DWI Lawyer If Charged With Drunk Driving](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-you-need-a-galveston-dwi-lawyer-if-charged-with-drunk-driving/) - It is not difficult to think of reasons people avoid retaining legal counsel for a Texas drunk driving case. Coming up with GOOD ones, however, is a challenge. Plenty will blame cost, while others believe they can go it alone when handling their defense. Plus, far too many individuals underestimate the severity of the charges - [In What Circumstances Can the State Prosecute Without a Victim?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/in-what-circumstances-can-the-state-prosecute-without-a-victim/) - Even if you do not have a background in law, you know that evidence plays a crucial role in the prosecution of a Texas criminal case. The prosecution needs it to obtain a conviction; Galveston County criminal defense lawyers require it to fight the charges. Evidence is so important that there are hundreds of provisions - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Gives Updates on Galveston County Courts](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-gives-updates-on-galveston-county-courts/) - Galveston County Court Updates As Of Thanksgiving Today, I thought I would give everyone an update on what's going on at the courthouse. The last time I discussed what was going on at the courthouse, it was right after the fire, which had sort of shut the building down for several weeks. That came on - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses If Weather Impacts Crime](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-if-weather-impacts-crime/) - Does The Weather Impact Crime? I got another question this week that I thought was kind of interesting. Do I think that weather, specifically during the winter, impacts crime? I looked into it a little bit, and it does. I guess if you think about it, it makes sense, when it's extremely cold outside, you're - [What Determines Whether A Crime Is Prosecuted By The State Or Federally?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-determines-whether-a-crime-is-prosecuted-by-the-state-or-federally/) - When you have been arrested or indicted for a crime, the distinction between state and federal charges is probably not the first thing on your mind. Article 1 of the US Constitution empowers the Legislative Branch to enact criminal statutes, and Congress has passed hundreds of laws that fall under US Code Title 18 Crimes. - [Which Weapons Charges Are Considered Serious Crimes In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/which-weapons-charges-are-considered-serious-crimes-in-texas/) - All criminal arrests carry serious implications, but the level of severity for Texas weapons charges is generally a question of how you view punishment. If you do not mind going to jail, paying fines, and facing other consequences, you might not consider gun crimes to be a big deal. For those who treasure their freedom - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses Michigan School Shooting Evidence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-michigan-school-shooting-evidence/) - Discussing The Fallout of the Oxford High School Shooter Tragedy Several people have asked me what I thought about that case in Michigan, the school shooting incident, where the shooter’s parents have now been arrested, in connection with his crimes. I guess part of that is, do we think, as defense attorneys, that this (someone - [What are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-drug-trafficking-in-texas/) - When you know that Texas has some of the toughest controlled substances laws in the U.S., you can guess the penalties for drug trafficking will be severe. The details depend on whether the charges involve a felony or misdemeanor under the Texas statute on drug trafficking. This statute makes it a crime to knowingly manufacture, - [How Severe Are Armed Robbery Charges In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-severe-are-armed-robbery-charges-in-texas/) - It may not be welcome news if you were recently arrested but, to put it bluntly, Texas armed robbery charges are among the most serious a person can face. Texas statutes use the term “aggravated robbery” when certain factors are present in a robbery scenario, and having a firearm or deadly weapon is one of - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses Domestic Violence Increase And COVID](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-domestic-violence-increase-and-covid/) - An Update On Criminal Law And Domestic Violence Increases During The COVID Pandemic I wanted to talk about some new things that have started coming up. I think I've talked about it before, but during the initial COVID shutdown, we saw an increase in domestic violence cases. It's pretty clear that it was because people - [What Percentage Of Domestic Violence Cases Get Dismissed?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-percentage-of-domestic-violence-cases-get-dismissed/) - When you know that Texas laws take domestic violence, or “family violence” as it is referred to in Texas very seriously, you probably expect that the percentage of cases that get dismissed will be pretty low. After all, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrests almost 225,000 offenders for family violence, which refers to - [Are Parents Responsible For Crimes Committed By Underage Children?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/are-parents-responsible-for-crimes-committed-by-underage-children/) - The Texas Family Code provides that parents can be held liable for crimes committed by underage children in some situations. - [Texas Drug Laws | What You Don't Know Can Hurt You](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-drug-laws-what-you-dont-know-can-hurt-you/) - It is no secret that state law enforcement cracks down on individuals who violate drug laws in Texas; in fact, Texas makes almost 89,000 arrests for drug abuse violations every year statewide. Texas drug laws define the four primary forms of criminal activity, including: Drug possession, i.e., having an illegal substance in your care, custody, - [What Is The New Expungement Law In Texas Passed In 2021?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-new-expungement-law-in-texas-passed-in-2021/) - To ensure the best possible outcome, it is critical to retain our experienced expungement lawyers in Galveston. Call (409) 515-6170 to schedule a consultation. - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney On Bail Bond Process & Bail Reform](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-on-bail-bond-process-bail-reform/) - Bonding Process in Galveston County Hey guys, I'm back here giving y'all another live session. I apologize for not being here last week, I was in a jury trial for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty for my client. This week, I thought that I would talk - [Can You Be Charged For Selling Drugs In The Past?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-be-charged-for-selling-drugs-in-the-past/) - It may not come as welcome news, but YES, due to Texas drug crimes law, you can be arrested for drug trafficking in Texas even if you engaged in the criminal activity some time ago. In cases where authorities conduct a lengthy investigation to obtain enough evidence to charge you, there might even be several - [Is It Possible To Avoid Jail Time For First Time Offense Of Possession Of A Controlled Substance?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-it-possible-to-avoid-jail-time-for-first-time-offense-of-possession-of-a-controlled-substance/) - Even though you are in a better position with no prior drug crime convictions, the punishment for possession of a controlled substance can be harsh. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that the offense could be charged as a serious felony according to the Texas Attorney General’s publication on Penal Code Offenses by - [Are Penalties Harsher for Drug Trafficking or Drug Manufacturing in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/are-penalties-harsher-for-drug-trafficking-or-drug-manufacturing-in-texas/) - For more information on defenses to drug possession, manufacturing, and trafficking charges in Texas, call Texas drug trafficking defense lawyers - [How Has the Texas Constitutional Carry Law Impacted Weapons Charges?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-has-the-texas-constitutional-carry-law-impacted-weapons-charges/) - If you were arrested for violating the statute, it is critical to retain a Galveston weapons charges attorney for assistance with your defense. - [How is the Amount of Bail Decided in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-is-the-amount-of-bail-decided-in-texas/) - Getting arrested for a crime in Texas is an overwhelming experience, but keep in mind that being charged is just the beginning of a case. There can be a long road ahead in the criminal process and, if given the opportunity, you would certainly wish to remain free until your trial date. The Texas Penal - [What You Need To Know About Drug Charges and Sentences in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-drug-charges-and-sentences-in-texas/) - Drug Charges And Sentences In Texas If you were recently arrested for a violation of controlled substances laws in Texas, you are wise to seek as much information as possible on drug charges and sentencing. The state treats drug crimes very seriously, and statistics indicate that law enforcement continues to aggressively pursue alleged offenders. In - [Can Felonies be Expunged in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-felonies-be-expunged-in-texas/) - Questions about whether you qualify for an expunction in Texas is important for those who have been arrested or convicted on felony charges. The answer to this question, unfortunately, is almost always not so black and white though. Whether you can clear a felony from your criminal record depends upon numerous variables under Texas law. - [Current Status of the Courts In Galveston County Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/current-status-of-the-courts-in-galveston-county-texas/) - Hello everyone. It has been a good while since I've been able to do one of these live Q&A sessions, this is mainly because the trials in Galveston County have opened back up. We'll talk a little bit about that during this live session that I'm doing to try to update you all. I've missed - [Can a Conviction Under Texas Three Strikes Law be Defended?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-conviction-under-texas-three-strikes-law-be-defended/) - In short, there are almost always defenses and strategies for fighting charges in Texas for your criminal case. The real question is what options are potentially available based upon the specific circumstances related to your case. There is no law in Texas specifically known as the “Three Strikes Law.” However, people generally refer to this - [What are the Chances of Getting Domestic Violence Charges Dropped in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-chances-of-getting-domestic-violence-charges-dropped-in-texas/) - Frustration, confusion, uncertainty, and helplessness are just a few of the emotions that could hit you hard when arrested for domestic violence in Texas. You are probably aware that the state treats these cases very seriously, imposing harsh imprisonment terms, fines, and other consequences for a conviction. Still, domestic violence is not a separate crime. - [What Happens if Charged with Violation of Bond Conditions in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-charged-with-violation-of-bond-conditions-in-texas/) - Now that you know what happens if you are accused of violating your bond conditions in Texas,, retaining skilled legal representation is a priority.. - [How Does Law Enforcement Prove Drug Trafficking in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-does-law-enforcement-prove-drug-trafficking-in-texas/) - Police do not have the burden of proof in the same way as a prosecutor, but there are certain standards law enforcement must meet to arrest someone for drug trafficking in Texas. To best understand them, it is first necessary to comprehend key definitions. Drug “trafficking” is actually a term of art. The Texas Controlled - [List of Drug Charges and Sentencing in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/list-of-drug-charges-and-sentencing-in-texas/) - The Lone Star State has some of the toughest controlled substances laws in the US, so you can expect that the list of drug charges and sentencing in Texas is a long one. In short, the nature of the offense depends upon the type of substance, its weight or volume, and the illegal acts the - [What You Need to Know About Texas Drunk Driving Laws](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-texas-drunk-driving-laws/) - Whether you were recently arrested for DWI, DUI or want to avoid charges, it is always helpful to know as much as you can about Texas drunk driving laws. You can be sure that law enforcement does, and they use their knowledge to crack down on offenders. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrests - [Ways a DWI Conviction Can Impact Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/ways-a-dwi-conviction-can-impact-your-life/) - For more information on DWI charges, please contact criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz. You can call 409-515-6170. - [Self Representation And The Dated Systems In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/self-representation-and-the-dated-systems-in-galveston-county/) - Galveston Misdemeanor Courts As most of you know, we handle felonies and misdemeanors in this office, and I don't often make it to the misdemeanor docket call. In the hierarchy of cases, you go to district court first, and then the lower courts. So usually, my mornings start in felony court on the third and - [How to Help Your Attorney Win Your Criminal Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-help-your-attorney-win-your-criminal-case/) - Getting arrested can leave you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated, and it may be one of the most anxiety-inducing experiences of your lifetime. Studies have shown that facing criminal charges is among the top stress factors that adults endure in their lifetimes, falling after the death of a spouse and divorce. Texas has a reputation for - [Recreational Use of Cannabis is Illegal in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/recreational-use-of-cannabis-is-illegal-in-texas/) - Cannabis is legal for recreational use in nearly twenty states in the U.S., in addition to Washington, D.C., and it is likely that many other states will be following their lead in the not-so-distant future. That being said, Texas will almost certainly not be one of those states following the rest’s lead in legalizing marijuana; - [Texas Gun Laws in 2022](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-gun-laws-in-2022/) - You might be aware that Texas gun laws are somewhat restrictive compared to statutes in other US states, but you may not realize that they also change on a relatively frequent basis. Whenever lawmakers are in session, members of both houses introduce bills, work through the legislative process, and eventually vote on them. Many of - [Why is There Such an Increase in Violent Crime During Summer?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-is-there-such-an-increase-in-violent-crime-during-summer/) - It may come as a surprise to learn that criminal offenses are seasonal in nature, but data indicates that rates tend to trend higher in the summer months. Some studies report that the increase in violent crime could be as much as 5% or higher on warmer days, and there are numerous theories as to - [Galveston County DA Office Seeking Budget Increase](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-county-da-office-seeking-budget-increase/) - Galveston County District Attorney Seeking Funds For More Prosecutors Hello everyone, I know I'm a little late on doing this live session, but I wanted to make sure I got it done. What I wanted to talk about was last Friday, in the Galveston County Daily News, an article came out about Galveston County elected - [Texas Gun Laws and the Upsurge of Mass Shootings](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-gun-laws-and-the-upsurge-of-mass-shootings/) - FBI officials define “mass shootings” as events in which at least four victims are murdered through the use of a firearm by a lone gunman in a public place. Texas has seen its fair share of incidents recently, and the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde is still fresh in the minds of many. - [Why You Should Never Accept a Plea Deal Without a Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-you-should-never-accept-a-plea-deal-without-a-lawyer/) - Texas ranks second among all US states in terms of population, so you probably expect arrest rates to be relatively high. However, the number of people who are charged with criminal offenses every year is still staggering. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reports that officials charged more than 530,000 individuals in 2020, but - [What is the Difference Between Assault and Aggravated Assault?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-difference-between-assault-and-aggravated-assault/) - We will fight any allegations of assault, call 409-515-6170 to schedule a free consultation with a Galveston County assault defense attorney. - [How Serious Are White Collar Crimes in Galveston County?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-serious-are-white-collar-crimes-in-galveston-county/) - You can search all you want in the Texas Penal Code for information on what constitutes a white-collar crime, but your efforts will be for naught if you use this terminology. There are no provisions that mention the schemes that are commonly associated with high-up executives and business leaders, which is where the phrase originates. - [How Likely is Cannabis Decriminalization in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-likely-is-cannabis-decriminalization-in-texas/) - It is a loaded question that is fraught with controversy. Still, more people than ever are asking if Texas cannabis laws will change as a result of national trends toward decriminalization. Data collected by the University of Texas reveals that voters advocate for a reduction in the severity of pot-related crimes. In a survey, 83% - [Aggravated Assault With Deadly Weapon Against Federal Agents](https://texascriminaljustice.com/aggravated-assault-with-deadly-weapon-against-federal-agents/) - Even if you do not have a legal background, there are some points of criminal law that are pretty straightforward and obvious when it comes to whether certain acts are a violation of the law or not. As such, the following information about aggravated assault with a deadly weapon against a federal agent may not - [What to Never Do if Pulled Over for DWI](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-never-do-if-pulled-over-for-dwi/) - To learn how our team can assist with your drunk driving case, please contact our DWI defense attorney Mark Diaz at 409-515-6170 - [How a Family Violence Conviction in Texas Can Impact Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-family-violence-conviction-in-texas-can-impact-your-life/) - Texas criminal laws include special provisions for family violence, viewing assault, threats, and other attacks as being more serious when they involve individuals living in a domestic arrangement. Unlawful acts can lead to misdemeanor charges, but you could be arrested for a felony under certain circumstances. A conviction in any family violence case may lead - [How Being On Sexual Offender Registry In Texas Can Impact Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-being-on-sexual-offender-registry-in-texas-can-impact-your-life/) - Like many crimes, being convicted of a sex crime can get you jail time, fines, probation, and more, including being identified as a sexual offender. However, after a convicted sex offender gets out of prison, you will need to register with the local sex offender registry. Being on a sex offender registry has devastating consequences - [How Violent Crimes Are Increasing In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-violent-crimes-are-increasing-in-texas/) - Murders roses at least 7% nationally in 2021, according to recent studies. In Texas, we have seen similar increases in violent crime in many cities. For example, Austin had 88 murders in 2021, a 90% increase from 47 in 2020. Other Texas’ biggest cities saw surges in homicides and other violent crimes: San Antonio: 25% - [Galveston Criminal Attorney Discusses Arrests During The Lone Star Rally](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-attorney-discusses-arrests-during-the-lone-star-rally/) - Lone Star Rally I decided to do another Facebook Live this week. I have more of a local topic that we can discuss. A lot of people ask me questions about the Lone Star Rally and arrests, I don't know if the city of Galveston has put out official numbers yet, but I know we - [In What Cases Are Minors Charged As Adults In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/in-what-cases-are-minors-charged-as-adults/) - Can you be charged as an adult in Texas if you are under 18? The short answer is yes; approximately 4.5% of the country’s juvenile criminal offenders in adult prisons are in Texas. A recent case involved a 16-year-old male in Houston accused of raping a mental health professional at a juvenile facility last year. - [Early Impacts From The New Texas Expunction Law](https://texascriminaljustice.com/early-impacts-from-the-new-texas-expunction-law/) - Most of us have made a mistake that caused negative consequences. Unfortunately, in some cases in Texas, one of those mistakes can lead to arrest, criminal charges, and even conviction. Unfortunately, most convictions cannot be removed from your record, but the law does allow an expunction in some cases. Find out below the early effects - [How Harsh Are Drug Charges For Minors In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-harsh-are-drug-charges-for-minors-in-texas/) - Parents may only know their children possess illegal drugs once they are called by law enforcement or the school about drug charges. If your child is facing a Harris County drug charge, it is essential to take care of the matter immediately. A drug crime conviction can prevent your child from going to college, renting - [Crimes Considered Assault That You May Not Be Aware Of](https://texascriminaljustice.com/crimes-considered-assault-that-you-may-not-be-aware-of/) - If you are charged with assault in Texas, there could be severe penalties. You could face years in prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record if convicted. However, it does not need to be this way. The assault lawyers in Chambers County at Mark Diaz & Associates can help provide the most vigorous defense against - [When Does Drug Trafficking Become A Federal Crime](https://texascriminaljustice.com/when-does-drug-trafficking-become-a-federal-crime/) - When someone is charged with drug trafficking, many assume it is a federal charge. Often, this is the case. However, many drug trafficking charges are tried at the state level in Texas. Whether a drug trafficking case is a state or federal matter depends on the circumstances. If it is a federal charge, there are - [Thanksgiving Weekend Crime in Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/thanksgiving-weekend-crime-in-galveston/) - Hey y’all, I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving holiday. What I want to do today on this Facebook live is similar to what I did after the biker rally, just go over the arrests that we had during the Thanksgiving holiday. It's about what I expected, maybe a little less than I expected. I - [How A DWI Guilty Plea Can Ruin Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-dwi-guilty-plea-can-ruin-your-life/) - If you are charged with a DWI in Galveston and plead guilty, it may have a devastating impact on your life. That is why hiring a Galveston DWI lawyer is essential to fight the charge with everything in their power. If you are considering pleading guilty to a DWI charge, read below about why that - [Arrests Over NYE Weekend - Innocent Until Proven Guilty](https://texascriminaljustice.com/arrests-over-nye-weekend-innocent-until-proven-guilty/) - New Year's Weekend Arrests In Galveston Hello, happy New Year y’all. I wanted to keep up with what I've been doing lately and look at some of the arrests over big holidays/event weekends. I suspected that we would see a lot of DWI arrests over New Year's Eve weekend, and in my opinion, we did. - [How Big Is The Drug Trafficking Problem In Galveston County?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-big-is-the-drug-trafficking-problem-in-galveston-county/) - Drug trafficking is a significant problem in Texas and is becoming particularly acute in Galveston County. Learn more about the drug trafficking issue in Galveston County and related information below. If you think you were wrongfully charged with drug trafficking, it is vital to take action immediately. The Galveston drug trafficking lawyers at Mark Diaz - [What Is Disorderly Conduct And How Serious Are The Charges?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-disorderly-conduct-and-how-serious-are-the-charges/) - Our Galveston criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to pursuing every legal option to aggressively fight your disorderly conduct charge. Call (409) 515-6170 - [Is Drug Trafficking In Texas Increasing?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-drug-trafficking-in-texas-increasing/) - The most important thing to remember is to only talk to the police with an attorney present. Please contact Mark Diaz & Associates today at (409) 515-6170. - [Galveston Arrests over Mardi Gras Weekend](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-arrests-over-mardi-gras-weekend/) - If you have been charged with DWI, drug possession, assault, or any other crime, call our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at (409) 515-6170. - [Assault With A Deadly Weapon Sentence In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/assault-with-a-deadly-weapon-sentence-in-texas/) - If you have been charged with assault, please call our Galveston County assault defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates for legal assistance at (409) 515-6170. - [Mark Diaz Discusses Mardi Gras Weekend Arrests In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/mark-diaz-discusses-mardi-gras-weekend-arrests-in-galveston/) - If you have been charged with a DWI in Galveston County, you need experienced legal representation now. Call our Galveston DWI defense lawyer at (409) 515-6170. - [What You Need To Know If Attending Spring Break In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-if-attending-spring-break-in-galveston/) - A DUI or drug possession conviction in Texas can ruin your life. Call our Galveston DWI lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates for legal assistance at (409) 515-6170 - [Preventing Unnecessary Shooting Deaths With Responsible Gun Ownership](https://texascriminaljustice.com/preventing-unnecessary-shooting-deaths-with-responsible-gun-ownership/) - You need an experienced criminal defense attorney fighting for you. Contact our League City homicide defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170 - [What Items Are Considered Drug Paraphernalia in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-items-are-considered-drug-paraphernalia-in-texas/) - If you've been charged with drug paraphernalia possession, contact our Galveston drug possession lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [What You Should Know Before Exercising Your Texas Open Carry Rights](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-should-know-before-exercising-your-texas-open-carry-rights/) - If you are being detained by law enforcement for an open carry violation, Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyer today at (409) 515-6170. - [First Time Drug Possession Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/first-time-drug-possession-charges-in-texas/) - If you've been charged with a crime, contact our League City drug possession defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 for a free consultation. - [Drunk Driving Can Impact More Than Your License](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drunk-driving-can-impact-more-than-your-license/) - If you have been charged with DWI in Galveston, ontact our experienced Galveston DWI attorney today at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling (409) 515-6170. - [Did You Know Prosecutors Can Lie To Defendants?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/did-you-know-prosecutors-can-lie-to-defendants/) - A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you. Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates today at (409) 515-6170. - [Weed May Be Legal Where You're From, Not In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/weed-may-be-legal-where-youre-from-not-in-texas/) - If you have been arrested on a cannabis possession charge, contact our Galveston County drug possession defense attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates. - [How A Domestic Violence Conviction Can Impact Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-domestic-violence-conviction-can-impact-your-life/) - Have you been charged with domestic violence in Texas? Contact our Galveston County domestic violence lawyers today at Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [Galveston Defense Attorney On Domestic Violence Charges and Punishments](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-defense-attorney-on-domestic-violence-charges-and-punishments/) - If you are facing criminal charges for a crime in Galveston County or elsewhere in the area don't try to represent yourself in court. Call Mark Diaz and Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [What Happens When You Jump Bail In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-when-you-jump-bail-in-texas/) - You need immediate legal assistance if you have been accused of jumping bail in Texas. Call our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at (409) 515-6170. - [List Of Drug Charges And Sentences In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/list-of-drug-charges-and-sentences-in-texas/) - If you have a drug charge in Texas, contact our Galveston County drug crime attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates today for help at (409) 515-6170. - [Go Topless Weekend Crime Recap From Mark Diaz](https://texascriminaljustice.com/go-topless-weekend-crime-recap-from-mark-diaz/) - If you've been charged with a crime in the Galveston County area, call our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at (409) 515-6170. - [What Crimes Increase In Summer?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-crimes-increase-in-summer/) - If you have been charged with a crime in the Galveston area, contact our League City criminal defense lawyers today at Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [Memorial Day Weekend Galveston Crime Statistics From Mark Diaz](https://texascriminaljustice.com/memorial-day-weekend-galveston-crime-statistics-from-mark-diaz/) - If you've been charged with a crime in Galveston County or the surrounding area contact Mark Diaz and Associates at (409) 515-6170 - [Texas Medical Cannabis Law Have And Recreational Cannabis](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-impact-will-texas-medical-cannabis-law-have-on-recreational-cannabis/) - If you have been charged with marijuana or drug possession in Texas call our drug possession lawyers in Harris County at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170. - [Serious Crimes That Can Result In Deportation](https://texascriminaljustice.com/serious-crimes-that-can-result-in-deportation/) - If you have been charged with a serious or violent crime and are a US immigrant, call our League City criminal defense attorney, Mark Diaz at (409) 515-6170. - [Reasons You Should Never Lie To Your Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/reasons-you-should-never-lie-to-your-lawyer/) - Remember, an experienced criminal defense attorney has seen it all, so it is always best to tell them the truth. Contact Mark Diaz at (409) 515-6170. - [What Happens When A DWI Becomes Vehicular Homicide?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-when-a-dwi-becomes-vehicular-homicide/) - Vehicular homicide involving DWI is a serious matter in Texas, call our Harris County DWI homicide attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [What To Know About Fentanyl As Galveston County Overdose Deaths Soar](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-know-about-fentanyl-as-galveston-county-overdose-deaths-soar/) - Our Galveston County drug crime attorneys will defend your rights if you've been charged with a crime, so please call Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [Why Probation Can Sometimes Be A Bad Idea](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-probation-can-sometimes-be-a-bad-idea/) - Regular probation or deferred adjudication can be good choices to resolve your case, our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers can help, call 409-515-6170. - [How Did The Supreme Court Miranda Ruling Impact Citizens' Rights?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-did-the-supreme-court-miranda-ruling-impact-citizens-rights/) - If you think your legal rights, including your Miranda rights, were violated, call our Harris County criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz at (409) 515-6170. - [Will A Medical Marijuana Card From Another State Protect Me In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/will-a-medical-marijuana-card-from-another-state-protect-me-in-texas/) - While medical marijuana is legal in Texas, you must have a valid medical marijuana prescription. Call our drug possession lawyer in League City at 409-515-6170 - [Is Assault On A Family Member A More Serious Crime?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-assault-on-a-family-member-a-more-serious-crime/) - Were you charged with assault against a family member? Contact our criminal assault lawyers in Galveston at Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170. - [How Long Do Bond Conditions Last In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-long-do-bond-conditions-last-in-texas/) - If you have been charged with a crime and have a bond, call our Galveston County criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz at (409) 515-6170 for a case review. - [Is Assault A Felony In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-assault-a-felony-in-texas/) - If you were charged with assault, contact our assault lawyers in Galveston with Mark Diaz & Associates at (409) 515-6170 for a case review. - [Things That Can Increase Sexual Assault Sentence In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/things-that-can-increase-sexual-assault-sentence-in-texas/) - Being charged with sexual assault in Texas is both terrifying and humiliating. This severe criminal charge can ruin your personal life, and career and devastate your reputation in the community. If you are convicted, you will face heavy fines, prison time, and sex offender registration. Because of the tremendous stigma of being a sex offender, - [The New Drug Tranq and Why It Is So Dangerous](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-new-drug-tranq-and-why-it-is-so-dangerous/) - If you were recently charged with a crime related to xylazine, Contact our Texas drug possession lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates for help at (409) 515-6170. - [Never Plead Guilty To DWI In Texas Without A Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/never-plead-guilty-to-dwi-in-texas-without-a-lawyer/) - Contact our League City DWI lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates who will advocate for you and offer the best defense, so call (409) 515-6170. - [How Serious Is Burglary of a Habitation In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-serious-is-burglary-of-a-habitation-in-texas/) - Our Galveston County burglary lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates will defend you to the best of their abilities. Schedule a consultation today at (409) 515-6170. - [Possible Defenses To A Battery Charge In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possible-defenses-to-a-battery-charge-in-texas/) - Assault and battery is a standard term in the US, making it sound like a single crime. In many states, assault and battery are separate offenses with different penalties and definitions. ‘Assault’ usually means threatening another party with violence, while ‘battery’ usually means the threatened act took place and the person made physical contact with - [How Severe Are Texas Marijuana Laws and Sentences?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-severe-are-texas-marijuana-laws-and-sentences/) - Mr. Diaz understands the seriousness of a drug possession charge and has dedicated his life to his clients’ criminal defense. - [Has There Been An Increase In Gun Violence With Open Carry Laws?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/has-there-been-an-increase-in-gun-violence-with-open-carry-laws/) - Gun charges in Texas are serious, with the new open carry, no permit law, you could be unfairly charged, call our Galveston criminal defense lawyer Mark Diaz. - [How The Texas Three Strikes Law Can Impact Your Sentence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-the-texas-three-strikes-law-can-impact-your-sentence/) - Our highly regarded League City criminal defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates can offer the best defense if you are facing habitual offender consequences. - [What Is the Mutual Combat Law in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-mutual-combat-law-in-texas/) - Learn more about the Texas mutual combat law here, and retain our Galveston assault lawyer Mark Diaz if you have been charged with a crime in the incident. - [What You Need To Know About New Texas Gun Laws](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-new-texas-gun-laws/) - If you have a firearms violation in Texas, you face serious consequences. Speak to one of our Galveston criminal defense attorneys today at (409) 515-6170. - [8 Ways A DWI In Texas Can Impact Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/8-ways-a-dwi-in-texas-can-impact-your-life/) - Speak to our Galveston County DWI lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates today at (409) 515-6170. While DWI is a serious charge, there are strategies to defend you. - [Why You Should Retain A Lawyer For Drug Paraphernalia Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-you-should-retain-a-lawyer-for-drug-paraphernalia-charges/) - If you have been charged with a drug crime you can speak to our Harris County drug possession lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling (409) 515-6170. - [Why You Need A Lawyer For First-Time Assault Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-you-need-a-lawyer-for-first-time-assault-charges-in-texas/) - Speak to one of our assault lawyers in Galveston County at Mark Diaz & Associates today for a free consultation about your case by calling (409) 515-6170. - [How Serious Are Family Violence Charges In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-serious-are-family-violence-charges-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston County criminal defense attorneys today at (409) 515-6170. The initial consultation is free and completely confidential. - [Is Assault a Felony Or Misdemeanor In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-assault-a-felony-or-misdemeanor-in-texas/) - If you've been charged with assault call our criminal defense attorneys today at (409) 515-6170. The initial consultation is free and completely confidential. - [What You Need To Know About Weed Laws In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-weed-laws-in-texas/) - If you are facing drug charges in Texas, you are facing serious legal consequences. Contact our criminal defense attorneys today at (409) 515-6170. - [Are Homicides Increasing In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/are-homicides-increasing-in-texas/) - Whether homicides are on the rise in Texas is not just a matter of statistical curiosity; it is a concern that has significant implications for public safety. - [What Are The Penalties For Assault By Contact In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-assault-by-contact-in-texas/) - If you've been arrested and charged with assault in Texas, you must act quickly, contact our Galveston County assault defense lawyer at (409) 515-6170 - [What To Know About Sex Offender Laws In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-know-about-sex-offender-laws-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston sexual assault defense lawyer at (409) 515-6170 for a free initial consultation. Our firm is available 24/7, call us right now! - [What Items Can Escalate Drug Possession Charges To Trafficking?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-items-can-escalate-drug-possession-charges-to-trafficking/) - Texas, known for its strict legal system, has comprehensive drug laws that rigorously address both the possession and trafficking of controlled substances. These laws, primarily outlined in the Texas Controlled Substances Act, categorize various drugs into different penalty groups, each with specific regulations and penalties. The distinction between possessing drugs and trafficking them is crucial - [Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses Arrests Made Over Mardi Gras Weekend](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-criminal-defense-attorney-discusses-arrests-made-over-mardi-gras-weekend/) - Galveston criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz discusses the impact of Mardi Gras on the local area as it pertains to arrests made during Mardi Gras celebration - [Weird Laws In Texas That Are Still Enforceable](https://texascriminaljustice.com/weird-laws-in-texas-that-are-still-enforceable/) - At Mark Diaz & Associates, our criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to defending you. Contact our Harris County criminal defense lawyers at (409) 515-6170 - [Are Minors Treated Differently For DWI Convictions?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/are-minors-treated-differently-for-dwi-convictions/) - If you're facing DWI charges, contact our Galveston County DWI attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Strategies for Fighting Drug Possession Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/strategies-for-fighting-drug-possession-charges-in-texas/) - Contact the drug possession lawyers in Harris County at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Gavleston Criminal Defense Attorney Discussing 2nd Weekend Mardi Gras Arrestst](https://texascriminaljustice.com/gavleston-criminal-defense-attorney-discussing-2nd-weekend-mardi-gras-arrestst/) - Last week, I shared with you the arrest statistics from the first weekend of Mardi Gras. Today, I'm here to update you on the numbers from the second weekend of the festivities. - [Situations Where the Texas Mutual Combat Law Can Be a Defense](https://texascriminaljustice.com/situations-where-the-texas-mutual-combat-law-can-be-a-defense/) - Contact the Galveston County assault and battery lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [The Legal Consequences of Committing Burglary of a Habitation in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-legal-consequences-of-committing-burglary-of-a-habitation-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston County burglary defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Texas Gun Laws: Understanding Constitutional Carry vs. License to Carry](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-gun-laws-understanding-constitutional-carry-vs-license-to-carry/) - Contact our Harris County gun crime defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [False Accusations and You: Protecting Yourself in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/false-accusations-and-you-protecting-yourself-in-texas/) - Domestic violence is a serious issue, and Texas takes a strong stance against it. However, there's a dark side: the possibility of false accusations. These accusations can have life-altering consequences, damaging your reputation, and relationships, and even landing you in jail. If you live in Texas and are concerned about this, here's what you need - [How You Can Be Charged with a Drug Crime Without Being in Possession](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-you-can-be-charged-with-a-drug-crime-without-being-in-possession/) - Texas enforces drug laws with a firm hand. While most people think drug charges require directly holding narcotics, the legal landscape gets more complex. In Texas, you can face drug-related offenses even if the drugs aren't physically on you. This article explores how different legal definitions of "possession" can land you in hot water. Drug - [Ways A Felony Assault Conviction Can Impact Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/ways-a-felony-assault-conviction-can-impact-your-life/) - Contact our Harris County assault defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Ways a Texas Traffic Stop Can Land You In Jail](https://texascriminaljustice.com/ways-a-texas-traffic-stop-can-land-you-in-jail/) - Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [How an Expunction Can Change Your Life in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-an-expunction-can-change-your-life-in-texas/) - Criminal records can cast a long shadow over an individual's life, impacting their opportunities for employment, housing, education, and even personal relationships. However, in Texas, the process of getting an expunction offers individuals the chance to clear their criminal records, providing them with a fresh start and a pathway to reclaiming their future. Our goal - [Understanding Drug Possession Charges For Underage Offenders](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-drug-possession-charges-for-underage-offenders/) - Contact our Galveston drug possession lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [How Drug Trafficking Charges In Texas Can Be Enhanced](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-drug-trafficking-charges-can-be-enhanced/) - Contact our Galveston drug trafficking attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Ways Pleading Guilty To A Crime Can Ruin Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/ways-pleading-guilty-to-a-crime-can-ruin-your-life/) - Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyer at 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation and take control of your defense today. - [Understanding the Conditions of Bail/Bond](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-the-conditions-of-bail-bond/) - Bail is money the defendant pays the court to secure his release. Bond is bail money paid by a bonding company, or a surety, on the defendant’s behalf. - [Texas Implied Consent Law and Refusal of Blood Test Requests](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-implied-consent-law-and-refusal-of-blood-test-requests/) - People ask about refusal of blood test requests. If you voluntarily provide a blood speciman, you can minimize your administrative penalties. - [Sealing DWI Conviction Records in Texas: What You Need to Know](https://texascriminaljustice.com/sealing-records-of-a-dwi-conviction-in-texas-what-you-need-to-know/) - Texas law allows certain people to seal their first time misdemeanor DWIs. Here's what you need to know to get your DWI conviction sealed in Texas. - [What Is the Difference Between Homicide And Manslaughter?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-difference-between-homicide-and-manslaughter/) - The first thing you need to know is that “homicide” is not actually a specific crime. Here is a brief primer on what these terms really mean. - [How Severe Is The Punishment For Weapons Charges in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-severe-is-the-punishment-for-weapons-charges-in-texas/) - Texas has some very strict weapons laws that need to be understood and followed to avoid weapons charges. Here's what you need to know. - [How An Assault Conviction Can Affect Your Life](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-an-assault-conviction-can-affect-your-life/) - Usually, assault refers to threatening someone with imminent bodily harm. Battery is actually making physical contact according to Texas law. - [5 Reasons to Never Speak to Police Without a Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/5-reasons-to-never-speak-to-police-without-a-lawyer/) - Miranda rights are the foundation of our criminal justice system. No matter what crime a person is suspected of, they have the right to remain silent and to consult with an attorney. - [What Is Considered A Controlled Substance In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-considered-a-controlled-substance-in-texas/) - What is considered a controlled substance in Texas is very important since state laws center on the type of drug involved. Call (409) 515-6170 - [Why You Need a Lawyer for Drug Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-you-need-a-lawyer-for-drug-charges-in-texas/) - Texas drug laws are among the strictest in the U.S. It's important to understand your rights, the laws and defense strategies used to help fight your case. - [What Are the Ramifications of the Texas Three Strike Law?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-ramifications-of-the-texas-three-strike-law/) - A summary of the Texas habitual offender statute may be helpful, but you will need skilled legal representation if you were arrested, so call (409) 515-6170 - [How to Get a Drug Paraphernalia Charge Dropped in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-get-a-drug-paraphernalia-charge-dropped-in-texas/) - You might have an opportunities to get drug paraphernalia charges dropped by exposing weaknesses in the evidence. Call us at (409) 515-6170. - [How to Prove Innocence in a Domestic Violence Case in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-prove-innocence-in-a-domestic-violence-case-in-texas/) - Individuals in Galveston County and greater Houston can call (409) 515-6170 to speak to a Texas domestic violence defense attorney. - [Aggravated Assault in Texas and the Penalties for It](https://texascriminaljustice.com/aggravated-assault-in-texas-and-the-penalties-for-it/) - Aggravated assault is a First Degree Felony. If convicted, the judge must sentence you to at least five years in prison and up to 99 years or life in prison. - [How to Get Charges Dropped for Domestic Violence in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-get-charges-dropped-for-domestic-violence-in-texas/) - It is also common for domestic violence charges to be based upon misrepresentations or false allegations to gain leverage in other legal matters. - [What are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-disorderly-conduct-in-texas/) - You could be arrested for disorderly conduct and face serious penalties for what you thought was nothing more than simple misbehavior. Call (409) 515-6170 - [Why Violating Probation is Always a Bad Idea](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-violating-probation-is-always-a-bad-idea/) - If you are facing allegations of violating probation, please contact Criminal Defense Attorney Mark Diaz right away at (409) 515-6170. - [What Are The Penalties For Aggravated Assault With A Deadly Weapon In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-aggravated-assault-with-a-deadly-weapon-in-texas/) - Aggravated assault is always a felony. A conviction could even lead to life behind bars, so you need to retain a Galveston County criminal defense lawyer. - [Who is Required to Register with the Sexual Offender Registry in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/who-is-required-to-register-with-the-sexual-offender-registry-in-texas/) - Texas law requires a person convicted of designated sex crimes to register with the local authorities in the area in which they reside. - [Are Breathalyzer Results Always Admissible in Court?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/are-breathalyzer-results-always-admissible-in-court/) - To learn more about the admissibility of the breathalyzer in Texas drunk driving cases, please contact Criminal Defense Attorney Mark Diaz at (409) 515-6170. - [How Serious is Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-serious-is-possession-of-drug-paraphernalia-in-texas/) - To learn more about defenses to possession of drug paraphernalia in Texas, please contact criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz at 409-515-6170. - [Penalty Group 1 of Texas Controlled Substance Penalty Groups](https://texascriminaljustice.com/penalty-group-1-of-texas-controlled-substance-penalty-groups/) - For more information on potential defense strategies for controlled substance charges, contact our Galveston criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz at 409-515-6170 - [How You Can Be Charged For Drugs Not In Your Physical Possession?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-you-can-be-charged-for-drugs-not-in-your-physical-possession/) - When you are charged with constructive possession of illegal drugs, many things may flash through your mind. Call (409) 515-6170. - [Does Assault On A Family Member Increase Charges In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/does-assault-on-a-family-member-increase-charges-in-texas/) - If you have been accused of domestic assault, you could face severe consequences. Our domestic violence attorneys can help. Call 409-515-6170 - [What Changes Drug Charge From Drug Possession To Trafficking?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-changes-drug-charge-from-drug-possession-to-trafficking/) - Whether you are arrested for drug possession or drug trafficking, it is a stressful and frightening experience. However, drug trafficking charges carry much more severe penalties, so it is essential to know the differences between these drug charges. Learn about drug possession vs drug trafficking below and talk to a drug possession defense attorney in - [What Are the Different Levels Of Assault Charges In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-different-levels-of-assault-charges-in-texas/) - If you were charged with assault in Galveston, you need an outstanding criminal defense immediately, our criminal assault lawyers in Galveston can help. - [How Texas Classifies Domestic Violence And Family Violence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-texas-classifies-domestic-violence-and-family-violence/) - Our Harris County domestic violence lawyers can assist you. Please contact Mark Diaz & Associates today at (409) 515-6170. - [Can A Drug Overdose Be Prosecuted As Homicide?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-drug-overdose-be-prosecuted-as-homicide/) - Our Galveston County Drug Possession lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates will protect your rights against these serious charges. Please call (409) 515-6170 today - [What Is The Jail Time For Aggravated Assault In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-jail-time-for-aggravated-assault-in-texas/) - If you're facing assault charges in Texas, contact our Galveston County assault defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates today for help at (409) 515-6170. - [Possible Defenses For DWI Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possible-defenses-for-dwi-charges-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston DWI defense attorneys at 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation and to take control of your defense today. - [Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Texas Can Land You in Jail](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possession-of-drug-paraphernalia-in-texas-can-land-you-in-jail/) - Contact our Galveston County drug crime defense lawyers at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation and let us defend you against drug charges. - [Examples of Disorderly Conduct and Possible Sentences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/examples-of-disorderly-conduct-and-possible-sentences/) - Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation and to take the first step toward defending yourself. - [Questions To Ask a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney](https://texascriminaljustice.com/questions-to-ask-a-texas-criminal-defense-attorney/) - Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [What To Know About Domestic Violence Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-know-about-domestic-violence-charges-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston County criminal defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive a free consultation. - [Factors That Can Increase Penalties For Drug Manufacturing in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/factors-that-can-increase-penalties-for-drug-manufacturing-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston drug manufacturing lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive a free consultation. - [How an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Get Charges Reduced](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-an-experienced-criminal-defense-lawyer-can-get-charges-reduced/) - Facing criminal charges can be one of the most stressful and overwhelming experiences in one's life. However, having a knowledgeable and dedicated advocate by your side throughout the legal process can provide comfort and support. As an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Galveston, Texas, I've seen firsthand how crucial this support is. I will now - [Circumstances That Increase Penalties for Assault in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/circumstances-that-increase-penalties-for-assault-in-texas/) - Contact our criminal assault and battery lawyers in Galveston at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation to discuss possible defenses for your case. - [List of Things Felons Can't Do Under Federal and Texas Law](https://texascriminaljustice.com/list-of-things-felons-cant-do-under-federal-and-texas-law/) - Call our Galveston felony defense lawyer at 409-515-6170 to receive a free consultation. We represent clients throughout Galveston, Brazoria, & Harris Counties - [What Determines A Vehicular Homicide Sentence From DWI?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-determines-a-vehicular-homicide-sentence-from-dwi/) - If you have been charged with homicide, contact our Galveston homicide attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [The Severity of Drug Possession Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-severity-of-drug-possession-charges-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston County drug possession defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [How to Challenge Breathalyzer and Blood Test Results in Texas DWI Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-challenge-breathalyzer-and-blood-test-results-in-texas-dwi-cases/) - Call our Galveston DWI attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation and start building a solid defense - [How To Defend Against a Burglary of a Habitation Charge in Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-defend-against-a-burglary-of-a-habitation-charge-in-galveston/) - Contact our Galveston burglary defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation - [What is the Texas Controlled Substances Act?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-the-texas-controlled-substances-act/) - Contact our Galveston drug possession lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Understanding Search And Seizure Laws In Texas Drug Possession Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-search-and-seizure-laws-in-texas-drug-possession-cases/) - In Texas, being charged with drug possession can usher in a tumultuous period filled with uncertainty and anxiety about the future. As an experienced drug possession lawyer in Galveston, Texas, I have encountered numerous individuals grappling with the complexities and potential consequences of their charges. Understanding Texas search and seizure laws is crucial not only - [When A Drunk Driving Charge Becomes A Serious Felony Offense](https://texascriminaljustice.com/when-a-drunk-driving-charge-becomes-a-serious-felony-offense/) - If you have been accused of a DWI in Texas, then you need to be aware that a DWI can certainly turn into a serious felony in the right facts and circumstances. In Texas, first-time DWIs are usually charged as misdemeanors; however, whether this is considered a misdemeanor or a felony hugely depends on prior - [Defending Against Protective Orders in Texas Domestic Violence Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-protective-orders-in-texas-domestic-violence-cases/) - Contact our Galveston protective order defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [False Allegations of Domestic Violence in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/false-allegations-of-domestic-violence-in-texas/) - We understand how to build a defense against false domestic violence charges, call our Galveston domestic violence defense attorney at 409-515-6170 - [How Proximity to Schools Can Enhance Penalties for Drug Offenses](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-proximity-to-schools-can-enhance-penalties-for-drug-offenses/) - Contact our Galveston drug possession defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Protective Orders In Texas Domestic Violence Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/protective-orders-in-texas-domestic-violence-cases/) - Contact our protective order defense lawyers in Galveston at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Defending Charges of Battery Against Public Servants in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-charges-of-battery-against-public-servants-in-texas/) - Contact our League City assault defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [The Real Costs Of A DWI Conviction In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-real-costs-of-a-dwi-conviction-in-texas/) - If you've been charged with DWI contact our Galveston DWI lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [What Can Enhance Criminal Charges In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-can-enhance-criminal-charges-in-texas/) - Criminal charges in Texas can escalate quickly, depending on the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. In many criminal cases, what starts as a relatively minor offense can become far more serious due to factors like prior convictions, the use of weapons, or the involvement of minors. At our firm, our attorneys have seen how these criminal offense - [How To Challenge BAC Chemical Test Results In Texas DWI Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-challenge-bac-chemical-test-results-in-texas-dwi-cases/) - Call our Galveston DWI lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation and to discuss how we can help with your defense. - [Understanding The Rising BAC Defense In Texas DWI Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-the-rising-bac-defense-in-texas-dwi-cases/) - When facing a DWI charge in Texas, it's important to understand that each case is unique, especially when it involves a defense based on rising “blood alcohol concentration" (BAC). The "rising blood alcohol concentration" defense hinges on the concept that BAC levels may not be stable immediately following the consumption of alcohol. Instead, they can continue to - [Why Talking To The Police Could Ruin Your Defense In A Criminal Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-talking-to-the-police-could-ruin-your-defense-in-a-criminal-case/) - For immediate assistance, contact our Galveston criminal lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [What Are The Penalties For A Felon With A Firearm In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-a-felon-with-a-firearm-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston gun possession lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Challenging Breathalyzer Accuracy In Galveston DWI Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/challenging-breathalyzer-accuracy-in-galveston-dwi-cases/) - Contact our Galveston DWI defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Defending DWI Charges for Commercial Drivers in Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-dwi-charges-for-commercial-drivers-in-galveston/) - In Texas, drivers with a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) face stricter penalties than non-commercial drivers if convicted of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). A conviction can result in the loss of your CDL, job termination, and long-term damage to your professional record. Texas law enforces a lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers and - [How to Challenge Evidence Obtained From Illegal Traffic Stops In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-challenge-evidence-obtained-from-illegal-traffic-stops-in-galveston/) - Contact our Galveston criminal defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Gun Possession In Prohibited Areas: Defending Firearm Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/gun-possession-in-prohibited-areas-defending-firearm-charges-in-galveston/) - Gun possession is a serious matter in Texas, especially when it occurs in prohibited areas. Texas has strict laws surrounding firearm possession, and when someone is caught carrying a firearm in a location where it is not allowed, they can face severe legal consequences. As Galveston defense attorneys who handle gun-related cases, we understand how overwhelming - [Can You Get Deferred Adjudication For A DWI In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-get-deferred-adjudication-for-a-dwi-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston DWI defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [How An Open Container Can Affect Your Texas DWI Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-an-open-container-can-affect-your-texas-dwi-case/) - Contact our Galveston DWI defense law firm at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [The Jury Selection Process In Texas Criminal Trials](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-jury-selection-process-in-texas-criminal-trials/) - Contact our Galveston criminal defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Federal vs. State Jurisdiction in Texas Gun Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-vs-state-jurisdiction-in-texas-gun-cases/) - Gun laws in Texas are complex and can involve both state and federal authorities. As criminal defense attorneys in Galveston, we know how critical it is for individuals facing gun-related charges to understand which laws apply and how jurisdiction affects their cases. Federal and state laws often overlap, but they also differ in important ways, - [Legal Basis For DWI Stops In Texas: Understanding Reasonable Suspicion](https://texascriminaljustice.com/legal-basis-for-dwi-stops-in-texas-understanding-reasonable-suspicion/) - Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges in Texas often begin with a routine traffic stop. However, law enforcement officers must have a legal basis to stop a vehicle before conducting a DWI investigation. This legal basis is known as reasonable suspicion, a key constitutional principle designed to protect individuals from unlawful searches and seizures under the - [Challenging A DWI Stop In Texas In A DWI Criminal Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/challenging-a-dwi-stop-in-texas-in-a-dwi-criminal-case/) - Contact our Galveston DWI defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Use Of Digital Evidence In Texas Criminal Trials](https://texascriminaljustice.com/use-of-digital-evidence-in-texas-criminal-trials/) - Digital evidence plays an important role in Texas criminal trials. It has become vital to law enforcement, with 66% of agency managers considering digital evidence more important than DNA.The use of electronic data, including surveillance footage, cell phone records, social media activity, GPS tracking, and forensic computer analysis, has become standard in criminal proceedings. While - [Disclosing Firearms During Traffic Stops In Texas: Legal Requirements and Recommendations](https://texascriminaljustice.com/disclosing-firearms-during-traffic-stops-in-texas-legal-requirements-and-recommendations/) - Contact our Galveston gun possession lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Can A DWI Cost Me My Job?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-dwi-cost-me-my-job/) - A Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge in Texas is not just a serious legal matter—it can also significantly disrupt your career and your future. If you're facing a DWI in Texas, it is essential to understand how this offense can impact your employment, professional licensing, education, and long-term career prospects. At Mark Diaz & Associates, - [What Are The Life-long Consequences Of A DWI Conviction?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-life-long-consequences-of-a-dwi-conviction/) - Do not face these serious charges alone. Contact our Galveston DWI lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [What Are Your Rights During A Police Search In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-your-rights-during-a-police-search-in-galveston/) - Contact Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170 to receive a free consultation with an experienced Galveston criminal defense lawyer. - [How To Defend Against Driving High In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-defend-against-driving-high-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston DWI defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170 to receive your free consultation. - [Can I Get A DWI For Sleeping It Off In My Vehicle In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-i-get-a-dwi-for-sleeping-it-off-in-my-vehicle-in-texas/) - If you've been arrested for sleeping in your car while intoxicated, call our Galveston DWI defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170. - [How Long After A Conviction Can It Be Expunged In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-long-after-a-conviction-can-it-be-expunged-in-texas/) - Contact our dedicated team of Galveston County expunction attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Can I Be Arrested For Felon In Possession Of A Gun If The Gun Belongs To A Passenger In My Car?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-i-be-arrested-for-felon-in-possession-of-a-gun-if-the-gun-belongs-to-a-passenger-in-my-car/) - Contact our Texas gun crime defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Can You Get A DWI In Texas If Your BAC Is Below 0.08%?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-get-a-dwi-in-texas-if-your-bac-is-below-0-08/) - When law enforcement pulls you over on suspicion of impaired driving, many people assume that they are safe if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08%. However, under Texas law, you can still face DWI charges even when your BAC registers below 0.08%. In our experience defending clients in Galveston - [What To Do If You’re Arrested For DWI With A Child Passenger In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-youre-arrested-for-dwi-with-a-child-passenger-in-texas/) - When law enforcement pulls you over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated with a child passenger, every detail counts. We understand how terrifying it can feel to see flashing lights in your mirror, especially knowing a minor is with you. In Texas, Penal Code § 49.045 makes it a state jail felony to operate a - [How A Traffic Stop Can Lead To Federal Drug Trafficking Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-traffic-stop-can-lead-to-federal-drug-trafficking-charges/) - Contact our team of Galveston federal drug trafficking attorneys at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [What Are the Consequences of Federal Gun Trafficking Charges in Texas After a Traffic Stop?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-consequences-of-federal-gun-trafficking-charges-in-texas-after-a-traffic-stop/) - Contact our Texas gun crime defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [License Suspension Hearings In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/license-suspension-hearings-in-galveston/) - If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Galveston or the Houston area, contact our Texas DWI attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170. - [Field Sobriety Tests In Galveston: Common Pitfalls And Defense Tips](https://texascriminaljustice.com/field-sobriety-tests-in-galveston-common-pitfalls-and-defense-tips/) - If you or someone you care about has been arrested after a field sobriety test, call our Texas DWI defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170. - [Plea Bargains In Galveston Criminal Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/plea-bargains-in-galveston-criminal-cases/) - Contact our Galveston criminal defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Defending Against Felon In Possession In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-felon-in-possession-in-galveston/) - If you've been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm in Galveston or anywhere in Houston, contact our Texas gun crime defense attorney at 409-515-6170. - [How A DWI Arrest In Texas Can Affect Your Out-Of-State Driver’s License](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-dwi-arrest-in-texas-can-affect-your-out-of-state-drivers-license/) - Contact our Galveston DWI attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation to discuss your case. - [Why A Drug Related Arrest Near A School Makes Charges Worse](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-a-drug-related-arrest-near-a-school-makes-charges-worse/) - Drug-Free Zones In Texas At Mark Diaz & Associates, we've defended countless individuals facing drug charges throughout Galveston and Houston, and one of the most common misunderstandings we encounter is how location affects the seriousness of a case. If you're arrested for a drug offense in Texas, where you were at the time matters, especially - [Can Police Search Your Car Without A Warrant During A Texas Traffic Stop?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-police-search-your-car-without-a-warrant-during-a-texas-traffic-stop/) - At Mark Diaz & Associates, we've handled countless cases where a simple traffic stop led to a search, an arrest, and serious criminal charges. One of the most common questions we hear from people is, "Can the police search my car without a warrant?" If you've been pulled over in Texas, and an officer asks - [How to Defend Against Driving Without a License Charges in Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-defend-against-driving-without-a-license-charges-in-galveston/) - If you or a loved one has been charged with driving without a license in Galveston or anywhere in Houston, contact our Galveston criminal defense attorney. - [What Happens If You’re Accused Of Sexual Assault In A College Setting In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-youre-accused-of-sexual-assault-in-a-college-setting-in-texas/) - Contact our Texas sexual assault attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [Can You Be Arrested For Texting Explicit Images In Texas? (Sexting & The Law)](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-be-arrested-for-texting-explicit-images-in-texas-sexting-the-law/) - Contact our Texas sexting attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation to dicuss your case. - [Understanding Jury Selection and Its Importance in Criminal Trials](https://texascriminaljustice.com/jury-selection-guide/) - Learn how attorneys use voir dire, psychological elements, and background checks to select an impartial jury (12 jurors + 1 alternate) for felony criminal trials. - [Navigating Deferred Adjudication: How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-criminal-defense-attorney-can-help/) - Learn how deferred adjudication works, who qualifies, and how a criminal defense attorney can help first-time offenders avoid a conviction. Understand eligibility, requirements, advantages, and consequences of violations. - [Overview of Gun Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/overview-of-gun-charges-in-texas/) - Facing a gun charge in Texas? Understand the laws on unlawful carry, felon possession, and self-defense. Get the facts on penalties & your need for an attorney. - [What To Do After Getting Arrested in Texas: First 72 Hours Critical Guide & FAQ](https://texascriminaljustice.com/after-arrest-texas-guide/) - Learn what to do in the first 72 hours after an arrest in Texas, including bail, choosing a criminal defense attorney, protecting your rights, avoiding common mistakes, and managing life after arrest. A practical, attorney-approved guide for defendants. - [Understanding Plea Deals in Texas Criminal Cases: A Comprehensive Guide](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-plea-deals-guide/) - Learn how plea deals work in Texas criminal cases, including the negotiation process, risks of going to trial, impact on criminal records, and why legal representation is essential. A comprehensive guide for defendants navigating Texas courts. - [Understanding Search and Seizure Rights in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide to Police Encounters](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-search-and-seizure-rights/) - Learn when Texas police can legally search your home, car, or person, and how to protect your constitutional rights. Understand consent, illegal searches, evidence suppression, and why legal representation is essential in search and seizure cases. - [What Happens If You're Caught With a Gun While Committing Another Crime in Texas? A Detailed FAQ With Criminal Defense Attorney Mark Diaz](https://texascriminaljustice.com/gun-charge-during-crime-texas/) - Learn what happens if you're caught with a gun while committing another crime in Texas. Understand added gun charges, penalties, LTC implications, stacking, defenses, prosecutor practices, and how details like firearm location affect your case. - [The Difference Between Murder, Manslaughter, And Criminally Negligent Homicide In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-difference-between-murder-manslaughter-and-criminally-negligent-homicide-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston homicide defense attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today by calling 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [What Happens After A First-Time DWI Arrest In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-after-a-first-time-dwi-arrest-in-texas/) - If you or someone you know has been arrested for a first-time DWI, contact our Galveston DWI defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170. - [Defenses To Murder Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defenses-to-murder-charges-in-texas/) - If you or a loved one has been charged with murder in Texas, don't wait. Contact our Texas criminal law attorney at Mark Diaz & Associates today at 409-515-6170 - [What To Do If You’re Arrested For Drug Trafficking In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-youre-arrested-for-drug-trafficking-in-texas/) - If you are under investigation or have been arrested for drug trafficking, contact our Texas drug trafficking attorney at 409-515-6170 - [How To Defend Against Domestic Violence Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-defend-against-domestic-violence-charges-in-texas/) - Domestic violence charges are not only about criminal penalties. They threaten your reputation, employment, and even your right to see your children. - [Defending Against Intoxication Manslaughter Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-intoxication-manslaughter-charges-in-texas/) - As Galveston DWI defense attorneys, we understand that few criminal accusations carry the same weight as intoxication manslaughter. - [What Happens If You Are Accused Of Possession Of Child Pornography In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-you-are-accused-of-possession-of-child-pornography-in-galveston/) - Texas imposes harsh penalties for child pornography possession, the knowing possession or promotion of visual material depicting a child under age 18. - [The Long-Term Impact Of A Sex Crime Conviction In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-long-term-impact-of-a-sex-crime-conviction-in-texas/) - Sex crime convictions may bring mandatory registration, employment restrictions, housing challenges, strained family relationships, and lifelong stigma. - [Defending Against Self-Defense Claims In Galveston Homicide Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-self-defense-claims-in-galveston-homicide-cases/) - Texas law recognizes that individuals have the right to protect themselves, but prosecutors are quick to challenge whether that right was exercised lawfully. - [What Happens If You Refuse A Breath Or Blood Test After A DWI Arrest In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-you-refuse-a-breath-or-blood-test-after-a-dwi-arrest-in-texas/) - Under Texas Transportation Code §724.011, every driver in Texas gives “implied consent” to chemical testing as a condition of operating a motor vehicle. - [Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Texas and How to Protect Yourself](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-domestic-violence-charges/) - Learn what domestic violence charges mean in Texas, how arrests work, potential consequences, and why staying silent until speaking with an attorney is critical. Understand your rights, gun restrictions, misdemeanor vs. felony charges, and how Mark Diaz helps protect the accused. - [How A Bar Fight Can Lead To A Felony Assault Charge In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-bar-fight-can-lead-to-a-felony-assault-charge-in-texas/) - While some bar fights may lead to misdemeanor assault charges in Texas, others can escalate into felonies carrying years of prison time. - [What Happens If You’re Accused Of Shoplifting In Texas Without Leaving The Store?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-youre-accused-of-shoplifting-in-texas-without-leaving-the-store/) - Police and prosecutors may claim that concealing merchandise, switching tags, or even moving items into a personal bag shows intent to steal. - [What Happens If You’re Charged With Credit Card Fraud In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-youre-charged-with-credit-card-fraud-in-texas/) - As criminal defense attorneys serving Galveston & Houston, we know how quickly investigators, banks, and prosecutors move once they suspect financial misconduct - [First-Time DWI In Texas: Is Jail Time Mandatory?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/first-time-dwi-in-texas-is-jail-time-mandatory/) - If you are facing a first-time DWI in Galveston or anywhere in Houston, the good news is that jail time is not automatically required in every case. - [Probation Violations and Revocations in Texas: What You Need to Know](https://texascriminaljustice.com/probation-violations-and-revocations-in-texas-what-you-need-to-know/) - Learn how probation violations work in Texas, the difference between technical violations and new offenses, revocation hearings, and how to avoid jail time. - [How Federal Investigations Start In Texas And When To Hire A Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-federal-investigations-start-in-texas-and-when-to-hire-a-lawyer/) - By the time you hear from a federal agency like the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF, they may have already spent months building a case. - [What To Do If You Missed Court In Galveston County And Now Have A Warrant](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-you-missed-court-in-galveston-county-and-now-have-a-warrant/) - If you missed court, a warrant may already be active for your arrest, affecting your freedom, your job, your driver’s license, and your pending criminal case. - [Why Hiring A Local Galveston Criminal Defense Lawyer Matters More Than You Think](https://texascriminaljustice.com/why-hiring-a-local-galveston-criminal-defense-lawyer-matters-more-than-you-think/) - Hiring a local Galveston criminal defense lawyer does not simply mean hiring someone close to you. It means working with a team that understands local courts. - [Arrested On Drug Trafficking Charges In Galveston County? What You’re Really Facing](https://texascriminaljustice.com/arrested-on-drug-trafficking-charges-in-galveston-county-what-youre-really-facing/) - Texas courts take drug trafficking cases seriously, especially in coastal regions like Galveston County, where law enforcement focuses heavily on drug cases. - [Is Your Texas Driver’s License At Risk After A DWI Arrest In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/is-your-texas-drivers-license-at-risk-after-a-dwi-arrest-in-galveston/) - In Texas, license suspension for a DWI often begins before a criminal case is resolved, and many drivers are caught off guard by how fast the process moves. - [What To Do if You Have an Active Warrant in Galveston, Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-you-have-an-active-warrant-in-galveston-texas/) - An active arrest warrant in Galveston creates immediate legal risk. It means a judge has authorized law enforcement to take you into custody at any time. - [Felony DWI In Texas: When A Drunk Driving Charge Becomes A Prison Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/felony-dwi-in-texas-when-a-drunk-driving-charge-becomes-a-prison-case/) - The Texas Penal Code and the Texas Transportation Code define several scenarios in which a DWI is elevated to a felony offense. - [When Does A Billing Error Become Federal Healthcare Fraud?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/when-does-a-billing-error-become-federal-healthcare-fraud/) - What might start as a minor documentation mistake or coding error can quickly trigger a federal investigation of possible healthcare fraud. - [Family Violence Strangulation Charges In Texas: Why These Cases Are Treated So Seriously](https://texascriminaljustice.com/family-violence-strangulation-charges-in-texas-why-these-cases-are-treated-so-seriously/) - Unlike many other domestic-related allegations, strangulation cases are treated as a distinct and dangerous category under Texas law. - [Galveston Domestic Violence Charges: What Happens After Police Are Called](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-domestic-violence-charges-what-happens-after-police-are-called/) - Our Galveston domestic violence lawyers represent individuals throughout Galveston and across Houston who are facing domestic violence allegations. - [Family Violence Allegations In Texas: Immediate Steps To Protect Your Rights](https://texascriminaljustice.com/family-violence-allegations-in-texas-immediate-steps-to-protect-your-rights/) - As criminal defense attorneys serving Galveston and the greater Houston area, we see firsthand how Texas family violence cases unfold in real time. - [How Texas Handles Assault Charges When Both People Were Fighting](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-texas-handles-assault-charges-when-both-people-were-fighting/) - Understanding how Texas handles assault cases involving mutual combat is critical to protecting your rights and your future after you've been charged. - [Drug Possession Vs. Possession With Intent In Texas: Key Differences](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-possession-vs-possession-with-intent-in-texas-key-differences/) - Two Texas drug crime charges that sound similar but carry very different consequences are drug possession and possession with intent to deliver. - [How CDL Drivers Can Defend Against A DWI In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-cdl-drivers-can-defend-against-a-dwi-in-galveston/) - When a CDL holder is stopped and arrested for DWI in Galveston, the consequences move quickly and on multiple tracks at the same time. - [How A Galveston DWI Conviction Can Affect Your Medical License](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-galveston-dwi-conviction-can-affect-your-medical-license/) - Many Texas doctors assume that a first DWI is a traffic matter that stays in criminal court. That assumption is often wrong. Our Galveston DWI lawyer explains. - [Arrested For DWI In Galveston? Your First 72 Hours And How A Lawyer Can Help](https://texascriminaljustice.com/arrested-for-dwi-in-galveston-your-first-72-hours-and-how-a-lawyer-can-help/) - The decisions made in the first 72 hours of a Texas DWI often shape the entire case, including whether critical evidence can be challenged or preserved. - [What A Galveston DWI Defense Lawyer Can Do Before You Ever Step Into Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-a-galveston-dwi-defense-lawyer-can-do-before-you-ever-step-into-court/) - Waiting for the court to act usually puts the defense on the back foot. Effective DWI defense begins immediately, often within hours of release from jail. - [Facing A Second Or Third DWI In Galveston County? Why You Need An Attorney Immediately](https://texascriminaljustice.com/facing-a-second-or-third-dwi-in-galveston-county-why-you-need-an-attorney-immediately/) - We represent people across Galveston County and throughout the Greater Houston area who are facing repeat DWI charges and know the seriousness of the charges. - [What Are The Penalties For A 2nd DWI In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-a-2nd-dwi-in-texas/) - Our DWI defense lawyers have represented individuals throughout Galveston and Houston who were shocked by how quickly a second DWI escalated. - [Federal Agents Executed A Search Warrant At My Home In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-agents-executed-a-search-warrant-at-my-home-in-texas/) - Contact our Galveston federal criminal defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates today at 409-515-6170 to schedule your free consultation. - [What Triggers A Federal Mail Fraud Investigation?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-triggers-a-federal-mail-fraud-investigation/) - Federal mail fraud investigations are typically initiated when investigators, regulators, or financial institutions identify specific concerns. In our experience representing clients in Galveston and Houston, many are surprised by how early government involvement can occur, often well before any arrest. Even a single mailing, billing practice, or business communication that appears deceptive or misleading may - [The DEA Sent Me A Letter About Buying Drugs Online - What Should I Do?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/the-dea-sent-me-a-letter-about-buying-drugs-online-what-should-i-do/) - We have represented many individuals in Galveston and across Houston who received DEA letters tied to alleged online drug purchases. - [Can I Be Charged With Conspiracy For Just Texting About Drugs?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-i-be-charged-with-conspiracy-for-just-texting-about-drugs/) - Individuals can be arrested based solely on phone records, text messages, or social media, which can be surprising when no drugs or money are involved. - [What Happens If A Firearm Is Found During A Federal Drug Investigation?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-a-firearm-is-found-during-a-federal-drug-investigation/) - Federal agents view firearms and drugs as a dangerous combination in Texas investigations, even if the gun is legally owned or stored away. - [Do I Need A Lawyer For Possession Of A Controlled Substance In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-possession-of-a-controlled-substance-in-galveston/) - We have represented people throughout Galveston County and Houston who were shocked to learn how aggressively Texas treats drug possession cases - [Do I Need A Lawyer For A Simple Assault Charge In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-a-simple-assault-charge-in-galveston/) - We represent individuals charged with assault in Galveston and Houston. Early legal involvement can significantly affect the outcome. - [How A Criminal Defense Lawyer Challenges Breath And Blood Tests In Galveston DWIs](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-criminal-defense-lawyer-challenges-breath-and-blood-tests-in-galveston-dwis/) - Many assume a reading over 0.08 ends the case, but Texas law requires strict adherence to constitutional, scientific, and technical standards. - [What To Do If You Have An Active Warrant In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-you-have-an-active-warrant-in-galveston-county/) - Under Texas law, an active warrant authorizes officers to arrest you. Your response can significantly affect your case and the time you spend in custody. - [Can You Be Federally Charged For Buying Drugs Online In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-be-federally-charged-for-buying-drugs-online-in-texas/) - In Texas, ordering controlled substances online can result in both state and federal criminal charges, leading to prison time and a permanent federal record. - [Pulled Over On I-45 And Arrested For DWI? How These Cases Are Handled In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/pulled-over-on-i-45-and-arrested-for-dwi-how-these-cases-are-handled-in-galveston-county/) - If you were arrested for DWI in Galveston County, contact our Galveston DWI defense lawyers at Mark Diaz & Associates by calling 409-515-6170. - [Charged With Assault In Galveston? How Evidence Is Used Against You And How A Lawyer Fights Back](https://texascriminaljustice.com/charged-with-assault-in-galveston-how-evidence-is-used-against-you-and-how-a-lawyer-fights-back/) - Understanding how Texas law defines assault and how prosecutors use evidence can help you defend your rights. Call Mark Diaz in Galveston before it's too late - [Defending Against Felony Drug Possession Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-felony-drug-possession-charges-in-galveston/) - At Mark Diaz & Associates, we represent individuals facing felony drug possession charges in Galveston County and the greater Houston area. - [Galveston Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Fraud Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/galveston-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-loan-fraud-lawyer/) - Federal authorities are actively investigating alleged Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan fraud throughout Texas, including Galveston and Houston. - [Defending Against A Felony DWI Charge In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-a-felony-dwi-charge-in-galveston-county/) - In Texas, most first and second DWI offenses are misdemeanors. However, repeat convictions or specific circumstances can elevate a DWI to a felony. - [Should I Hire A Lawyer Even If The Evidence Seems Strong?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/should-i-hire-a-lawyer-even-if-the-evidence-seems-strong/) - Even if the State’s case seems solid, there may be constitutional problems, weak evidence, or legal strategies that could change the outcome. - [How Galveston Judges Treat Probation Violations And How An Attorney Can Help](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-galveston-judges-treat-probation-violations-and-how-an-attorney-can-help/) - When a probation violation is alleged, judges in Galveston take these matters seriously and have broad authority to impose consequences. - [Understanding the Hitchcock Gambling Raids and the Charges Filed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/understanding-the-hitchcock-gambling-raids-and-the-charges-filed/) - Following the February 2026 Hitchcock gambling raids, Attorney Mark Diaz explains the felony and misdemeanor charges filed under Texas law. - [Should You Talk to Police After Being Arrested in Galveston County?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/should-you-talk-to-police-after-being-arrested-in-galveston-county/) - The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that no person shall be compelled to be a witness against himself in a criminal case. - [Felony Theft Charges In Galveston: How Prosecutors Try To Prove Their Case](https://texascriminaljustice.com/felony-theft-charges-in-galveston-how-prosecutors-try-to-prove-their-case/) - Prosecutors in Galveston and Houston treat theft cases seriously, especially when the value of the property is high. This can result in a felony. - [Charged With Evading Or Resisting Arrest In Galveston County? Defense Strategies That Work](https://texascriminaljustice.com/charged-with-evading-or-resisting-arrest-in-galveston-county-defense-strategies-that-work/) - If you have been charged with evading arrest or resisting arrest in Galveston County or anywhere in the Houston area, your next steps matter. - [How Body-Cam And Dash-Cam Footage Can Change A DWI Case In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-body-cam-and-dash-cam-footage-can-change-a-dwi-case-in-galveston/) - For many charged with DWI in Galveston County or Houston, video evidence can play a big role in whether the case is dismissed, reduced, or leads to a conviction - [Bank Fraud Investigation in Texas? Why Early Defense Matters](https://texascriminaljustice.com/bank-fraud-investigation-in-texas-why-early-defense-matters/) - We help individuals and business owners in Galveston and Houston who are being investigated for bank fraud and other serious financial crimes. - [DEA Investigation Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dea-investigation-warning-signs-you-should-not-ignore/) - DEA investigations often involve federal law and Texas laws. Sometimes, the case stays in federal court. Other times, charges are brought in Texas court. - [Out On Bond In Federal Court? Protect Yourself Before Trial](https://texascriminaljustice.com/out-on-bond-in-federal-court-protect-yourself-before-trial/) - If you are out on bond from federal court in Galveston or Houston, it’s just as important to protect yourself as it is to prepare your defense. - [Possession With Intent To Distribute In Federal Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possession-with-intent-to-distribute-in-federal-court/) - Unlike simple possession, the government doesn't need to prove an actual sale occurred. Instead, prosecutors must show that the defendant intended to distribute - [What Happens After You Become The Target Of A Federal Investigation](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-after-you-become-the-target-of-a-federal-investigation/) - Federal investigations often proceed quietly, and by the time you are notified, significant evidence may already have been collected. - [Federal Embezzlement Defense For Professionals In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-embezzlement-defense-for-professionals-in-texas/) - Even a single allegation of embezzlement may result in criminal charges, internal investigations, licensing issues, and lasting harm to a hard-earned career. - [Healthcare Fraud Federal Charges Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/healthcare-fraud-federal-charges-explained/) - If you are being investigated or charged with healthcare fraud in Galveston County or the Houston area, it's important to understand how these cases are handled - [FBI Knocked On Your Door In Texas? Know Your Rights](https://texascriminaljustice.com/fbi-knocked-on-your-door-in-texas-know-your-rights/) - If FBI agents knock on your door in Galveston County or the Houston area, remain calm and remember that you have rights under both federal and Texas law. - [What To Expect After A Federal Arrest Warrant Is Issued](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-expect-after-a-federal-arrest-warrant-is-issued/) - If you are facing federal charges in Galveston County or the Houston area, you must act quickly to learn about your legal options and start building a defense. - [Texas Drug Possession vs. Drug Distribution: How Prosecutors Decide](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-drug-possession-vs-drug-distribution-how-prosecutors-decide/) - What is the difference between drug possession and drug distribution under Texas law? Drug possession refers to having illegal substances for personal use, while drug distribution involves intending to sell or distribute drugs to others. The distinction is crucial as possession with intent to distribute carries harsher penalties, escalating a charge to a higher felony - [Medicare Fraud Defense Strategies](https://texascriminaljustice.com/medicare-fraud-defense-strategies/) - Prosecutors treat Medicare fraud allegations as serious threats to public funds and the healthcare system. Convictions for such crimes can lead to prision time. - [Defending Against Fentanyl Trafficking Federal Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-fentanyl-trafficking-federal-charges/) - If you are accused of fentanyl trafficking in Galveston, Houston, or elsewhere in Texas, immediate action and a well-planned defense are essential. - [Interstate Drug Trafficking Investigations](https://texascriminaljustice.com/interstate-drug-trafficking-investigations/) - Anyone under investigation or charged with interstate drug trafficking should understand Texas law and the importance of a strong legal defense. - [Online Enticement Federal Investigations](https://texascriminaljustice.com/online-enticement-federal-investigations/) - An online conversation may quickly become a federal criminal investigation if law enforcement suspects an attempt to entice a minor online. - [PPP Loan Fraud Defense In Federal Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/ppp-loan-fraud-defense-in-federal-court/) - If the government says someone gave false information on a PPP loan application or used the funds the wrong way, the consequences can be serious. - [DEA Drug Bust: What Happens After Arrest](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dea-drug-bust-what-happens-after-arrest/) - In Galveston County and the Houston area, drug charges, especially those involving distribution or trafficking, are treated very seriously. - [How Informants Are Used In Federal Drug Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-informants-are-used-in-federal-drug-cases/) - If you are dealing with federal drug charges in Texas, it is important to know how informants are used and how their information is judged. - [Internet Sex Sting Defense In Federal Court](https://texascriminaljustice.com/internet-sex-sting-defense-in-federal-court/) - Internet sex sting investigations are now among the most common federal criminal cases in Texas, and we see many of these cases in Galveston and Houston. - [Federal Weapons Charges After A Traffic Stop](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-weapons-charges-after-a-traffic-stop/) - A routine traffic stop in Galveston County can escalate into a serious criminal investigation if law enforcement discovers a firearm or weapon in a vehicle. - [How To Defend Against Federal Cryptocurrency Fraud Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-to-defend-against-federal-cryptocurrency-fraud-charges-in-texas/) - If you are facing a federal crypto fraud investigation, call our Galveston white collar crime defense lawyer at Mark Diaz & Associates at 409-515-6170. - [Dark Web Investigations By Federal Agents In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dark-web-investigations-by-federal-agents-in-texas/) - Federal investigations tied to the dark web have become more common across Texas, including in Galveston County and the greater Houston area. - [Defending Against Identity Theft Federal Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-identity-theft-federal-charges-in-galveston/) - Identity theft charges are typically prosecuted under federal law when the conduct involves interstate activity, financial institutions, or federal agencies. - [Charged With a Felony in Galveston County? What to Do Before Your First Court Date](https://texascriminaljustice.com/charged-with-a-felony-in-galveston-county-what-to-do-before-your-first-court-date/) - A felony charge in Galveston County, or elsewhere in Southeast Texas is a serious matter that can impact your future, family, and reputation. - [Clearing Your Criminal Record in Texas: Expunctions and Non-Disclosures](https://texascriminaljustice.com/clearing-your-criminal-record-in-texas-expunctions-and-non-disclosures/) - Learn how expunctions and non-disclosures work in Texas, which criminal records can be cleared, timelines, common mistakes, and why legal help matters. - [Arrested In Texas? What To Expect In The First 24 Hours](https://texascriminaljustice.com/arrested-in-texas-what-to-expect-in-the-first-24-hours/) - As criminal defense lawyers, we want you to understand that the first 24 hours matter, and the decisions made during this window can affect the entire case. - [What Happens If Someone Violates Probation In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-someone-violates-probation-in-texas/) - Our goal here is to explain what happens when probation is violated in Texas and why having legal representation is critical during this stage of a case. - [Will You Go To Jail After A First-Time DWI In Galveston?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/will-you-go-to-jail-after-a-first-time-dwi-in-galveston/) - A first-time DWI arrest in Galveston is frightening, confusing, and filled with uncertainty about what comes next. Many people assume jail is automatic. - [Arrested While Visiting Galveston as a Tourist?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/arrested-while-visiting-galveston-as-a-tourist/) - An arrest while visiting Galveston can feel overwhelming, especially when you live in another state and are unsure how Texas courts handle non-residents. - [Felony Drug Possession Charges In Galveston County: Your Defense Options](https://texascriminaljustice.com/felony-drug-possession-charges-in-galveston-county-your-defense-options/) - Whether a drug possession charge is a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the substance, amount involved, and how the substance is classified under Texas law. - [Federal Charges In The Southern District Of Texas: What Happens After Indictment](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-charges-in-the-southern-district-of-texas-what-happens-after-indictment/) - An indictment is not a conviction, but it means a grand jury has approved formal charges, and the government believes it has enough evidence to move forward. - [CDL Drivers Arrested For DWI In Galveston: How To Protect Your Career](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cdl-drivers-arrested-for-dwi-in-galveston-how-to-protect-your-career/) - What CDL drivers in Galveston should know after a DWI arrest, what the State must prove, what happens to CDL, and how a strong defense can change the outcome. - [Defending Texas Physicians Accused Of Prescription Or Pharmacy Fraud](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-texas-physicians-accused-of-prescription-or-pharmacy-fraud/) - When it comes to allegations of prescription or pharmacy fraud, the consequences can be severe—not only criminally, but also professionally and financially. - [How A Texas Protective Order Can Affect Housing, Work, And Gun Rights](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-texas-protective-order-can-affect-housing-work-and-gun-rights/) - Here, we explain how Texas protective orders work, what they can restrict, and how they commonly affect housing, work, and gun rights under Texas law. - [Felony Vs. Misdemeanor In Texas: Why The Difference Matters For Your Future](https://texascriminaljustice.com/felony-vs-misdemeanor-in-texas-why-the-difference-matters-for-your-future/) - The real-world difference between misdemeanors and felonies under Texas criminal law, the punishment ranges, and why the classification matters for your future. - [How A DWI Conviction In Galveston Can Affect Professional Licenses](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-a-dwi-conviction-in-galveston-can-affect-professional-licenses/) - How a DWI conviction in Galveston can affect professional licenses, what Texas law says about DWI offenses, and why early legal action can make a difference. - [What To Do If There Is A Warrant For Your Arrest In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-do-if-there-is-a-warrant-for-your-arrest-in-texas/) - An arrest warrant does not mean you are guilty. It means a judge has authorized law enforcement to take you into custody based on sworn information. - [Defending Against Shoplifting Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-shoplifting-charges-in-galveston/) - Texas treats shoplifting as a theft offense, and the penalties depend on the value of the merchandise and a person’s prior record. - [College Students Charged With Crimes In Texas: How Criminal Cases Affect Education And Careers](https://texascriminaljustice.com/college-students-charged-with-crimes-in-texas-how-criminal-cases-affect-education-and-careers/) - We represent college students and families who are dealing with Texas criminal charges in Galveston and across the Houston area. - [Expunction And Record Sealing In Texas: Who Qualifies And How It Works](https://texascriminaljustice.com/expunction-and-record-sealing-in-texas-who-qualifies-and-how-it-works/) - Expunction and record sealing are not automatic. Eligibility depends on how a case was resolved, the offense, and whether certain deadlines & conditions are met - [What Happens After Failing A Breath Test Or Blood Test In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-after-failing-a-breath-test-or-blood-test-in-texas/) - In Texas, chemical test results trigger a series of administrative and criminal processes, each with its own rules, deadlines, and defenses. - [First-Time DWI In Texas: Penalties, Court Process, And Defense Options](https://texascriminaljustice.com/first-time-dwi-in-texas-penalties-court-process-and-defense-options/) - Our goal is to help you understand what you are facing and how first-time DWI cases in Galveston and surrounding areas are actually handled in Texas courts. - [DWI In Texas: License Suspension, Jail Risk, And What To Do Next](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-in-texas-license-suspension-jail-risk-and-what-to-do-next/) - Understanding how the Texas DWI law works is the first step toward protecting yourself and making informed decisions about your life. - [Texas Gun Charges: Unlawful Carry, Felon In Possession, And Defense Strategies](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-gun-charges-unlawful-carry-felon-in-possession-and-defense-strategies/) - Gun laws in Texas have changed significantly over the past several years, and many people are confused about what is legal and what can still lead to an arrest. - [What To Know Before Talking To Police After A Texas Arrest](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-to-know-before-talking-to-police-after-a-texas-arrest/) - What you say after an arrest can shape the entire direction of your case in ways you never intended. We see this every day in Galveston and across Houston. - [Defending Against Wire Fraud Through Online Scheme Criminal Charges in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defending-against-wire-fraud-through-online-scheme-criminal-charges-in-texas/) - If you are charged in Galveston County or the Greater Houston area, it is essential to understand both federal and Texas law to protect your future. - [Search Warrant Executed At Your Home Or Business? What Comes Next](https://texascriminaljustice.com/search-warrant-executed-at-your-home-or-business-what-comes-next/) - Having a search warrant executed at your Galveston County or Houston area home or business is a serious development in any Texas criminal investigation. - [Do Not Talk To Federal Agents Without Counsel: What You Must Know](https://texascriminaljustice.com/do-not-talk-to-federal-agents-without-counsel-what-you-must-know/) - Agents from the FBI, DEA, ATF, or DHS typically approach in a calm and professional manner, stating they want to “ask a few questions” or “clear something up.” - [Commercial Driver DWI Charges In Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/commercial-driver-dwi-charges-in-galveston/) - A DWI charge is serious for any driver, but for commercial drivers in Galveston, the consequences are often more severe and can impact your livilhood. - [DWI Involving An Accident In Galveston County](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-involving-an-accident-in-galveston-county/) - A DWI involving an accident in Galveston County is one of the most serious situations a driver can face under Texas criminal law. - [Facing Felony DWI Charges in Galveston County?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/facing-felony-dwi-charges-in-galveston-county/) - Being arrested for a felony DWI in Galveston County can leave you feeling uncertain about what comes next. Many people assume a DWI is always a misdemeanor, but Texas law allows certain circumstances to elevate the charge to a felony offense with much more serious consequences. A felony DWI can affect your freedom, your employment, - [DWI With A Child Passenger In Galveston, Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-with-a-child-passenger-in-galveston-texas/) - A DWI arrest involving a child passenger is one of the most serious intoxication-related charges a person can face in Galveston County. - [Drug DWI Defense In Galveston County, Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-dwi-defense-in-galveston-county-texas/) - A DWI involving an accident in Galveston County is one of the most serious situations a driver can face under Texas criminal law. - [What Is Tampering With Physical Evidence Under Texas Penal Code §37.09?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-tampering-with-physical-evidence-under-texas-penal-code-§37-09/) - In Galveston County and the Houston area, prosecutors often pursue tampering cases aggressively, especially if they think someone tried to hide wrongdoing. - [Step-By-Step: What Happens After An Arrest In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/step-by-step-what-happens-after-an-arrest-in-texas/) - Understanding what happens after an arrest in Galveston County and throughout Texas can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions. - [Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) Laws In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/boating-while-intoxicated-bwi-laws-in-texas/) - Law enforcement in Galveston County enforces boating safety, and Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) arrests are common, particularly during holidays and summer. - [Stand Your Ground Laws In Texas Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/stand-your-ground-laws-in-texas-explained/) - Texas's Stand Your Ground law is not found in a single statute. Instead, it is based on several provisions of the Texas Penal Code governing self-defense. - [Bond Conditions in Texas: What They Really Mean and How to Avoid Violations](https://texascriminaljustice.com/bond-conditions-in-texas-what-they-really-mean-and-how-to-avoid-violations/) -  What do bond conditions actually refer to under Texas law for someone released on bond after being arrested? Bond conditions in Texas refer to the specific requirements or restrictions imposed by a judge when a person is released on bond after being arrested. These conditions can vary widely but commonly include things like drug - [Can A Private Attorney Help Me Reduce My Bond?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-a-private-attorney-help-me-reduce-my-bond/) - Hiring a private criminal defense lawyer can play a critical role in seeking bond reduction and improving release conditions under Texas law. - [Top 10 Reasons Why You Need A Lawyer For Your First Hearing](https://texascriminaljustice.com/top-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-lawyer-for-your-first-hearing/) - The first hearing under Texas criminal law often addresses bond conditions, probable cause review, and appointment of counsel, as outlined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure - [How Federal Prosecutors Build Criminal Cases](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-federal-prosecutors-build-criminal-cases/) - Agencies such as the FBI, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation, and ATF often collaborate to gather evidence. - [Federal Conspiracy Drug Charges Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-conspiracy-drug-charges-explained/) - We represent individuals facing federal conspiracy drug charges in Texas who are unsure of their rights, the government's case, or next steps. - [When Does Evading Arrest Become A Felony In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/when-does-evading-arrest-become-a-felony-in-texas/) - Understanding when evading arrest becomes a felony under Texas law is essential if you or someone you care about is facing this type of charge. - [Continuous Violence Against The Family: Why Charges Are More Severe](https://texascriminaljustice.com/continuous-violence-against-the-family-why-charges-are-more-severe/) - Facing allegations of continuous violence against the family in Texas is one of the most serious situations a person can encounter under Texas criminal law. - [What Is Deadly Conduct With a Firearm in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-deadly-conduct-with-a-firearm-in-texas/) - Being accused of deadly conduct with a firearm in Texas is serious and can result in felony charges, prison time, and long-term consequences. - [What Is Hindering Apprehension Or Prosecution In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-hindering-apprehension-or-prosecution-in-texas/) - Many people are surprised to learn that helping a friend, family member, or acquaintance after an alleged crime can lead to criminal charges. - [Organized Retail Theft Laws And Penalties In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/organized-retail-theft-laws-and-penalties-in-texas/) - An accusation of organized retail theft in Texas is a serious matter that can result in felony charges and lasting consequences. - [Criminal Mischief Charges Based On Property Value In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/criminal-mischief-charges-based-on-property-value-in-texas/) - Criminal mischief charges in Texas can range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, primarily based on the value of the alleged property damage. - [Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) vs Theft](https://texascriminaljustice.com/unauthorized-use-of-a-motor-vehicle-uumv-vs-theft/) - Understanding how UUMV compares to theft under Texas law is critical if you want to protect your record, freedom, and future. - [Forgery Under Texas Law: What Counts As Intent To Defraud?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/forgery-under-texas-law-what-counts-as-intent-to-defraud/) - Forgery is governed by Texas Penal Code §32.21. Under this statute, a person commits forgery if they forge a writing with the intent to defraud or harm another. - [Texas Terroristic Threat Laws Explained](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-terroristic-threat-laws-explained/) - In Texas, a terroristic threat charge can come from just one comment, a heated exchange, or even an online message. Many are surprised by how broad the law is - [Unlawful Possession Of A Firearm By A Felon In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/unlawful-possession-of-a-firearm-by-a-felon-in-texas/) - An arrest for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon in Texas carries significant and enduring consequences that can impact every area of your life. - [Possession With Intent To Deliver in Texas: How It’s Proven](https://texascriminaljustice.com/possession-with-intent-to-deliver-in-texas-how-its-proven/) - In Galveston County and Houston, law enforcement often files charges for possession with intent to deliver, which is much more serious than simple possession. - [What Is Burglary Of A Habitation In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-burglary-of-a-habitation-in-texas/) - Facing a burglary of a habitation charge in Texas is a serious situation with potentially life-changing consequences that can impact your freedom and future. - [What Is A Motion To Suppress Evidence?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-a-motion-to-suppress-evidence/) - Many criminal cases rely on physical evidence, statements, or test results. If evidence is thrown out, the prosecution might not be able to prove its case. - [What Is Engaging In Organized Criminal Activity?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-engaging-in-organized-criminal-activity/) - Texas law lets prosecutors go after anyone who is believed to have worked with others, planned together, or benefited from certain crimes. - [How Grand Juries Decide Felony Charges In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/how-grand-juries-decide-felony-charges-in-texas/) - Understanding how grand juries function in Texas can help you make informed decisions at a time when every move matters to protect your rights. - [Pretrial Diversion Programs In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/pretrial-diversion-programs-in-texas/) - In Galveston County and throughout Texas, pretrial diversion can be the difference between having a criminal record and getting a fresh start. - [Bench Warrants In Texas: What To Do Immediately](https://texascriminaljustice.com/bench-warrants-in-texas-what-to-do-immediately/) - A bench warrant means a judge has ordered law enforcement to take you into custody, often because of a missed court date, a bond violation, or failure to comply - [What Happens If You Miss Court In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-happens-if-you-miss-court-in-texas/) - If you have missed court or are worried you might, it is important to know how Texas law works and what you can do to reduce the impact. - [What Is a Bond Hearing and How Is Bail Set in Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-a-bond-hearing-and-how-is-bail-set-in-texas/) - An arrest in Galveston County can be sudden and overwhelming. One of the first concerns is how to secure release and what a bond will cost. - [Can You Seal A Felony Record In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/can-you-seal-a-felony-record-in-texas/) - In Texas, the process is not usually called sealing,, it is known as an Order of Nondisclosure. If granted, this order limits who can view your criminal history - [Assault vs. Aggravated Assault in Texas: What Separates a Misdemeanor from a Felony](https://texascriminaljustice.com/texas-assault-vs-aggravated-assault-legal-guide/) - Understand the difference between assault and aggravated assault in Texas. Learn about serious bodily injury, deadly weapons, and self-defense. - [Online Solicitation Of A Minor: What The State Must Prove](https://texascriminaljustice.com/online-solicitation-of-a-minor-what-the-state-must-prove/) - In Galveston County and the Greater Houston area, prosecutors treat online solicitation of a minor cases with urgency and often act quickly. - [Credit Card Abuse Vs Fraud: Key Differences In Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/credit-card-abuse-vs-fraud-key-differences-in-texas/) - The distinction between these charges influences whether a case is classified as a misdemeanor or felony, the prosecution's approach, and available defenses. - [What Is Abuse Of Official Capacity In Texas?](https://texascriminaljustice.com/what-is-abuse-of-official-capacity-in-texas/) - Abuse of official capacity is a primary criminal charge for such conduct, often involving government employees, law enforcement, and elected officials. ## Pages - [Home](https://texascriminaljustice.com/) - Mark Diaz & Associates provides criminal defense in a variety of matters, including DWI/DUI, drug charges, homicide, assault, theft, and more. Call 409-515-6170 - [Homicide](https://texascriminaljustice.com/homicide/) - Charged with murder, manslaughter, or homicide? Mark Diaz & Associates defends serious criminal cases in Texas. Call for a free consultation today. - [Sexual Assault](https://texascriminaljustice.com/sexual-assault/) - Facing sexual assault charges in Galveston or Harris County? Mark Diaz & Associates provides experienced criminal defense. Call for a free consultation. - [Domestic Violence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/domestic-violence/) - Accused of domestic violence in Galveston or Harris County? Mark Diaz & Associates protects your rights. Free consultation. - [Assault and Battery](https://texascriminaljustice.com/assault-and-battery/) - Charged with assault in Galveston County? Mark Diaz & Associates defends misdemeanor and felony assault cases throughout Galveston County & Harris County. - [Drug Possession](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-possession/) - Charged with drug possession in Galveston or Harris County? Mark Diaz & Associates defends misdemeanor and felony drug cases. Free consults available. - [Drug Manufacturing](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-manufacturing/) - Accused of drug manufacturing in Texas? Mark Diaz & Associates defends serious felony drug crime allegations. Call today for a free consultation. - [Drug Trafficking](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-trafficking/) - Facing drug trafficking charges in Texas? Mark Diaz & Associates defends serious state and federal drug crime cases. Call now for a free consultation. - [Federal Criminal Defense](https://texascriminaljustice.com/federal-criminal-defense/) - Facing federal criminal charges or an investigation? Mark Diaz & Associates defends clients in complex federal cases. 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He was an exceptional attorney and an invaluable member of our firm. - [Tyler Alley](https://texascriminaljustice.com/team_member/tyler-alley/) - Tyler Alley is a Galveston criminal defense attorney with 10 years as a prosecutor, known for thorough case analysis and client-focused defense. - [Benjamin Shabot](https://texascriminaljustice.com/team_member/benjamin-shabot-of-counsel/) - Benjamin's commitment to his clients goes beyond mere representation; he is passionate about helping them navigate the intricacies of the legal system. - [Dulce S. Salazar Valle](https://texascriminaljustice.com/team_member/dulce-salazar-valle/) - As an experienced attorney and former prosecutor, Dulce understands the high stakes and negative impact individuals face when confronted with criminal charges. - [Jessica Ebbs](https://texascriminaljustice.com/team_member/jessica-ebbs/) - Jessica Ebbs is an award-winning felony defense lawyer in Galveston, Texas. She received her law degree from South Texas School of Law. Call 409-515-6170 - [Our Team](https://texascriminaljustice.com/our-team/) - Our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys represent clients in Galveston County, Harris County, and throughout the Greater Houston area. - [Contact Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney: Mark Diaz](https://texascriminaljustice.com/landing-form/) - Get in touch with Mark Diaz Criminal Defense Attorney. Fill out the form below to receive a free initial consultation. Call (409) 515-6170 - [About Us](https://texascriminaljustice.com/about-us/) - Mark A. Diaz is an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney. For over two decades, Mr. Diaz has fought to protect and defend the rights of the accused. - [Sitemap](https://texascriminaljustice.com/site-map/) - [Sexual Assault Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/sexual-assault-lawyer/) - Being charged with sexual assault is a humiliating experience that can destroy relationships, ruin job prospects, and inflict irreparable damage on reputation. - [Marijuana Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/marijuana-charges/) - Arrested on marijuana charges in Galveston or Harris County? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates defends misdemeanor and felony marijuana cases. - [Cocaine Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cocaine-charges/) - Facing cocaine possession or trafficking charges? Mark Diaz & Associates provides experienced criminal defense. Free consultations available. - [Methamphetamine Charges](https://texascriminaljustice.com/methamphetamine-charges/) - Charged with a methamphetamine offense? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates defends drug crime cases throughout Galveston & Harris Counties. Free consults. - [DWI With a Child Passenger](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-child-passenger/) - Facing a DWI with a child passenger charge? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates defends these serious felony DWI cases. Free consultation. - [Underage DWI](https://texascriminaljustice.com/underage-dwi/) - Charged with underage DWI in Texas? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates helps protect your future. Free consultation available. - [Commercial Driver DWI](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cdl-dwi/) - A DWI can threaten your CDL and career. Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates defends commercial drivers facing DWI charges. - [Felony DWI](https://texascriminaljustice.com/felony-dwi/) - Charged with felony DWI in Galveston or Harris County? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates defends serious DWI cases. Free consultation. - [DWI Penalties in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-penalties-texas/) - Learn about Texas DWI penalties, including jail, fines, license suspension, and how an attorney may help protect your rights. - [DWI and Prescription Drugs](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-prescription-drugs/) - Accused of DWI after taking prescription medication? Mark Diaz & Associates defends complex drug-related DWI cases. Free consultation. - [Refusing a Breath Test in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/refusing-breath-test-texas/) - Refused a breath test in Texas? Learn about license suspension, implied consent laws, and your legal options. - [Third DWI Offense in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/third-dwi-offense-texas/) - Facing a third DWI charge? Mark Diaz & Associates defends felony DWI cases throughout Galveston and Harris County. - [Second DWI Offense in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/second-dwi-offense-texas/) - Charged with a second DWI in Texas? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates defends repeat DWI charges. Call now for a free consultation. - [First Time DWI in Texas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/first-time-dwi-texas/) - Arrested for your first DWI in Texas? Learn how Mark Diaz & Associates can protect your rights and future. Call now for a free consultation. - [Violent Crimes](https://texascriminaljustice.com/violent-crimes/) - Accused of assault, homicide, domestic violence, or another violent crime? Mark Diaz & Associates is ready to defend your rights. Free consults available. - [Drug Crimes](https://texascriminaljustice.com/drug-crimes/) - Charged with a drug crime in Galveston or Harris County? Mark Diaz & Associates defends drug possession, trafficking, manufacturing, and related offenses. - [Practice Areas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/practice-areas/) - Explore the criminal defense services offered by Mark Diaz & Associates, including DWI, drug crimes, violent crimes, and federal defense. - [Free Consultation](https://texascriminaljustice.com/free-consultation/) - Free Consultation Texas Assault and Battery Explained Assault and battery are two of the most frequently misunderstood criminal charges. Because state laws vary widely on what constitutes an assault or a battery, most people have only a vague understanding of what these crimes mean. In Texas, assault and battery fall under the same section of - [Thank You](https://texascriminaljustice.com/thank-you/) - Thank You Your form has been submitted. - [DWI Charges Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/dwi-charges-lawyer/) - A DWI Charge Can Put Your Life on Hold When it comes to DWI in Texas, even a criminal charge alone can derail your life. A single arrest can seriously jeopardize your job, your freedom, and your reputation. If you have been arrested for drunk driving, you can’t afford to delay your defense. Because the - [Domestic Violence Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/domestic-violence-lawyer/) - False Domestic Violence Charges Are Very Common Domestic violence charges in Texas are part of a criminal charge referred to as “family violence.” Under the Texas criminal code, family violence is an assault against a member of the accused’s household. This can be a spouse, child, or other individuals who live in the home. Although - [Disclaimer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/disclaimer/) - Disclaimer The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send - [Assault and Battery Lawyer](https://texascriminaljustice.com/assault-and-battery-lawyer/) - Penalties For Assault and Battery Vary Depending on the Severity of the Assault Assault and battery are considered very serious crimes. The penalties for assault range from Class C misdemeanors to second-degree felonies. In cases where the accused merely threatened the victim, a conviction will most likely result in a Class C misdemeanor. This same - [Video Blog](https://texascriminaljustice.com/video-blog/) - Video Blog - [Testimonials](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/) - Testimonials - [Terms of Use](https://texascriminaljustice.com/terms-of-use/) - Terms of Use Mark Diaz & Associates These Terms of Use govern your access to and use of the website operated by Mark Diaz & Associates. By accessing or using this website, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use. If you do not agree, please do not use this website. Website Use - [Terms of Service](https://texascriminaljustice.com/terms-of-service/) - Terms of Service 1. Terms By accessing this web site, you are agreeing to be bound by these web site Terms and Conditions of Use, all applicable laws and regulations, and agree that you are responsible for compliance with any applicable local laws. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you are - [Team Member](https://texascriminaljustice.com/team_member/) - Team Member - [El Robo y el Hurto](https://texascriminaljustice.com/el-robo-y-el-hurto/) - El Robo y el Hurto El robo, el robo y el robo son más comunes entre aquellos en nuestra sociedad que sufren económicamente o se sienten desesperados. Todos cometemos errores. Las dificultades financieras, los contratiempos de salud y las circunstancias de la vida a menudo desesperan a las personas. Las situaciones difíciles pueden llevarlos a - [El tráfico de Drogas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/el-trafico-de-drogas/) - Defender su caso de narcotráfico de inmediato Debido a que las leyes de tráfico de drogas de Texas imponen algunas de las penas más duras del país, incluso un cargo de tráfico relativamente menor puede tener consecuencias graves. Por eso es importante comenzar a construir su defensa desde el momento en que se le acusa - [Homicidio](https://texascriminaljustice.com/homicidio/) - El homicidio es el delito más grave del Código Penal de Texas Si ha sido acusado de una forma de homicidio, es posible que ya haya sido condenado en el tribunal de opinión pública. Aunque el sistema de justicia estadounidense asume que las personas acusadas de delitos son inocentes hasta que se demuestre lo contrario, - [La Fabricación de Drogas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/la-fabricacion-de-drogas/) - La fabricación de drogas implica sanciones severas La ley de Texas impone varias sanciones por delitos relacionados con las drogas, incluida la posesión, el tráfico y la fabricación de drogas. La fabricación de drogas incluye cultivar, cultivar y producir sustancias controladas para venderlas ilegalmente. Debido a que la fabricación de drogas normalmente implica la producción - [Las Sanciones por Agresión](https://texascriminaljustice.com/las-sanciones-por-agresion/) - Las Sanciones por Agresión y Agresión Varían Dependiendo de la Severidad de la AgresiónLas sanciones por asalto van desde delitos menores de Clase C hasta delitos graves de segundo grado. En los casos en que el acusado simplemente amenazó a la víctima, lo más probable es que la condena resulte en un delito menor de - [Agresión Sexual](https://texascriminaljustice.com/agresion-sexual/) - Un cargo de agresión sexual puede costarle más que su libertad Ser acusado de agresión sexual es una experiencia humillante que puede destruir relaciones, arruinar perspectivas de empleo e infligir un daño irreparable a la reputación de una persona. Incluso si finalmente se desestiman los cargos, las personas acusadas de delitos sexuales a menudo son - [Cargos por DWI](https://texascriminaljustice.com/cargos-por-dwi/) - Un cargo de DWI puede poner su vida en espera Cuando se trata de cargos por DWI en Texas, incluso un cargo penal por sí solo puede descarrilar su vida. Un solo arresto puede poner en grave peligro su trabajo, su libertad y su reputación. Si ha sido arrestado por conducir ebrio, no puede permitirse - [Defensa Penal Federal](https://texascriminaljustice.com/defensa-penal-federal/) - Defensa Penal Federal La mayoría de las personas que terminan en el sistema de justicia penal lo hacen a nivel estatal, pero existe una clase separada de delitos federales que requieren un abogado defensor penal federal. En algunos casos, un caso que comienza a nivel estatal o local puede terminar en un tribunal federal. Otras - [Delito de Cuello Blanco](https://texascriminaljustice.com/delito-de-cuello-blanco/) - ¿Qué es un “Delito de Cuello Blanco”? Debido a que numerosas personas de alto perfil han sido condenadas por delitos de cuello blanco en los últimos años, muchas personas creen que debe ser una celebridad o un magnate de Wall Street para enfrentar este tipo de cargos. En realidad, los delitos de cuello blanco son - [Violencia Doméstica](https://texascriminaljustice.com/violencia-domestica/) - Los cargos falsos de violencia doméstica son muy comunes En Texas, los cargos de violencia doméstica son parte de un cargo penal denominado “violencia familiar”. Según el código penal de Texas , la violencia familiar es una agresión contra un miembro de la familia del acusado. Puede ser un cónyuge, un hijo u otras personas - [Posesión de Drogas](https://texascriminaljustice.com/posesion-de-drogas/) - Defensas a la Posesión de Drogas En muchos casos, los cargos por drogas se presentan como resultado de registros inadecuados e incautaciones ilegales. Si ha sido acusado de posesión de drogas, necesita un abogado que sepa cómo detectar las debilidades en el caso de la fiscalía. Como abogado defensor penal con experiencia, estoy bien versado - [Pricing Plans](https://texascriminaljustice.com/pricing-plans/) - Pricing Plans Flat Fee Great for big cases $3,500 per case Plan Features 24/7 Access to lawyer phone Upfront cost and expectancy Payment plans available No overcharges Plan Description A real thought, broad. And got high that a be is an a the if leather assisted law, length of up events, fees, the could are - [Privacy Policy](https://texascriminaljustice.com/privacy-policy/) - Your privacy is very important to us. Accordingly, we have developed this Policy in order for you to understand how we collect, use, communicate and disclose and make use of personal information. ## Testimonials - [AMAZING Office](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/amazing-office/) - AMAZING office. Hired Jess & had the case dismissed in a week. - [Wrongful Charges Dismissed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/wrongful-charges-dismissed/) - I was wrongfully charged with ACBI Family violence. I went to Mark Diaz's office and hired his colleague Thomas Overhouse. He was so great he won my case and got a dismissal before it even hit court. - [Dismissal Obtained for Daughter](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/dismissal-obtained-for-daughter/) - Jessica Ebbs took over for my daughter and obtained a dismissal. She went above and beyond. - [Grateful for Jessica Ebbs](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/grateful-for-jessica-ebbs/) - I have no words to say how grateful I am for having Jessica Ebbs and her team on my side representing me. - [Exceeded Expectations](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/exceeded-expectations/) - Mark Diaz and his team exceeded our expectations and got all charges dropped. - [Case Dismissed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/case-dismissed/) - Case dismissed. Professional, hard-working, honest, caring individuals. - [Outstanding Job](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/outstanding-job/) - Jessica Ebbs and Matt Sloan obtained dismissal. Outstanding job! - [Amazing Job](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/amazing-job/) - Jessica Ebbs in Mark Diaz's office did an amazing job for me. - [NOT GUILTY Verdict](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/not-guilty-verdict/) - Self-defense case went to trial and the verdict was NOT GUILTY. - [Positive Experience](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/positive-experience/) - Jessica Ebbs had a positive attitude and provided great reassurance throughout my case. - [Professional Service](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/professional-service/) - Professional Service: direct, clear, affordable, knowledgeable, upfront, and easy to deal with. - [Reduced Sentence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/reduced-sentence/) - Went to trial, dropped from 7yrs TDC to class a misdemeanor. - [Professionalism](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/professionalism/) - Private Investigator praising Mark's professionalism and his team. - [Assault Dismissal](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/assault-dismissal/) - My attorney was Jessica Ebbs she got a dismissal for my assault in a week and was very easy to work with. I would like to thank her and this office for being so professional! - [Best Around](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/best-around/) - Thank you Mark and Jessica for everything! I would definitely recommend to anyone in need of an attorney, they are the best around! They are professional, hard-working, honest, and caring individuals, VERY AFFORDABLE. They were by my side every step of the way and went above and beyond. They truly care about their clients. I - [True Well-Wishers](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/true-well-wishers/) - As an international, I was extremely panicked when I faced my case. I didn't know where to turn or who to trust. After speaking with some local friends, I was guided to Mark Diaz's office. From my very first meeting with Jessica and the team, I felt truly welcomed. They listened carefully, understood my situation - [Thomas Overhouse is Awesome](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/thomas-overhouse-is-awesome/) - Thomas Overhouse is awesome. Thomas gave me consultation on my case that needed to be modified, that no other attorney wanted to touch. - [Legal Grand Slam](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/legal-grand-slam/) - Jess and the entire team were so incredibly helpful and supportive every step of the way. They believed in us and fought hard to uncover and bring forth the truth, resulting in a legal grand slam home run! Case 'no billed'. Worth every penny! - [Truly Exceptional Attorney](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/truly-exceptional-attorney/) - Thank You, Jessica – A Truly Exceptional Attorney. I want to express my deepest gratitude to Jessica for her unwavering support. - [Went Above and Beyond](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/went-above-and-beyond/) - This entire team was absolutely wonderful to work with. Where other attorney teams refused to listen, the Mark Diaz team stepped up. Not only did they take on my case, but they went out and fought for me. - [Best Law Firm in Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/best-law-firm-in-galveston/) - The best Law firm in Galveston, Texas. - [Dream Result](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/dream-result/) - I don't know where to begin with Jessica Ebbs. All I can say is what you see is what you get. She is sharp, responsive, and aggressive. She turned a very bad situation around with a dream result. My family and I owe her the world! - [Right Lawyer for Me](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/right-lawyer-for-me/) - I reached out to Thomas regarding my unique case, and from our very first conversation, I knew he was the right lawyer for me. He was not only positive and reassuring throughout the process, but he also excelled at communicating and explaining every step. - [Exceptional Service](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/exceptional-service/) - Mark Diaz and his team are exceptional. They handled my case with professionalism and got my charges reduced significantly. - [Incredible Attorney](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/incredible-attorney/) - Jessica Ebbs is an incredible attorney. She was always available to answer my questions and fought hard for my case. - [Knowledgeable and Caring](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/knowledgeable-and-caring/) - Thomas Overhouse helped me with a difficult case. He was knowledgeable, caring, and got me the best possible outcome. - [Case Dismissed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/case-dismissed-2/) - I was facing serious charges and Mark Diaz's team saved me. They were professional, caring, and got my case dismissed. - [Highly Recommend](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/highly-recommend/) - The entire staff at Mark Diaz & Associates treated me with respect and dignity throughout my case. Highly recommend! - [Above and Beyond](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/above-and-beyond/) - Jessica Ebbs went above and beyond for my family. She got our case dismissed and we couldn't be more grateful. - [Attorney Recommends Mark Diaz](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/attorney-recommends-mark-diaz/) - As an attorney myself, I recommend Mark Diaz to anyone needing criminal defense. His expertise and dedication are unmatched. - [Amazing Experience](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/amazing-experience/) - Thomas Overhouse was amazing. He was honest about what to expect and delivered beyond those expectations. - [Professional Handling](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/professional-handling/) - Mark Diaz's office handled my case professionally. They kept me informed every step of the way and achieved a great result. - [Fought Hard for Me](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/fought-hard-for-me/) - I was scared and confused until I met with Jessica Ebbs. She explained everything clearly and fought hard for me. - [True Professionals](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/true-professionals/) - Great law firm! They treat you like family and fight for the best outcome. Highly recommend Mark Diaz. - [Gave Us Hope Again](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/gave-us-hope-again/) - The team at Mark Diaz & Associates are true professionals. They got my son a dismissal and gave us hope again. - [Powerhouse in Courtroom](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/powerhouse-in-courtroom/) - Jessica Ebbs is a powerhouse in the courtroom. She defended me fiercely and got me the best possible result. - [Best in Galveston](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/best-in-galveston/) - Mark Diaz and his team are the best in Galveston. They were caring, professional, and got my case dismissed. - [There When Needed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/there-when-needed/) - I can't thank Thomas Overhouse and the team enough. They were there for me when I needed them most. - [Exceptional Service](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/exceptional-service-2/) - From the first consultation to the final resolution, Mark Diaz's office was exceptional. They truly care about their clients. - [Amazing Attorney](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/amazing-attorney/) - Jessica Ebbs is an amazing attorney. She fought hard and got my charges dropped. Forever grateful! - [True Advocates](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/true-advocates/) - Mark Diaz & Associates are true advocates. They stood by me and fought until we got a dismissal. - [Best at What They Do](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/best-at-what-they-do/) - Professional, knowledgeable, and caring. This team is the best at what they do. Highly recommend! - [Incredible Thomas Overhouse](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/incredible-thomas-overhouse/) - Thomas Overhouse was incredible. He was honest, upfront, and got me the best possible outcome. - [Handled with Excellence](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/handled-with-excellence/) - Mark Diaz's office handled my case with excellence. They were always available and kept me informed. - [Lifesaver](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/lifesaver/) - Jessica Ebbs is a lifesaver! She got my case dismissed and gave me a second chance. - [Got My Case Dismissed](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/got-my-case-dismissed/) - I was referred to Mark Diaz by a friend and I'm so glad I went. They got my case dismissed! - [Fought Hard for My Family](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/fought-hard-for-my-family/) - The entire team was wonderful. They fought hard for me and my family. Forever grateful! - [Not Guilty Verdict](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/not-guilty-verdict-2/) - Mark Diaz is an aggressive defender of his clients. He got me a not guilty verdict! - [Exceptional Team](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/exceptional-team/) - Jessica Ebbs and the team were exceptional. They truly care about their clients and fight for them. - [Best Criminal Defense](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/best-criminal-defense/) - Best criminal defense lawyers in Galveston! They got my son a dismissal. - [Amazing Thomas Overhouse](https://texascriminaljustice.com/testimonial/amazing-thomas-overhouse/) - Thomas Overhouse was amazing. 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