Being charged with a crime—no matter how minor or how serious—is a very grave matter which can benefit from the experience of a criminal defense attorney in Texas. The potential penalties which can come from a criminal conviction are extensive; jail or prison time, a permanent blot on your criminal record, the loss of future job prospects, the inability to obtain a government college loan, a professional license or rent an apartment and the possible inability to work with children or even own a firearm. A Texas criminal defense attorney is able to explain the legal process while ensuring your rights are fully protected every step of the way. Speaking with a criminal defense attorney in Texas gives you a comprehensive overview of the seriousness of your crime, your options, and the likely outcome. Having this information takes at least a bit of the fear out of having criminal charges filed against you.
How to Find a Criminal Defense Attorney in Texas
There are many ways you can find the best criminal defense attorney in Texas for your particular situation. In the Houston and Harris County area, you may want to start by asking for referrals from friends and family regarding their suggestions for a criminal defense attorney in Texas. Of course in some instances you may not want to advertise the fact that you have been arrested and charged with a criminal offense to friends, family or co-workers therefore looking online for a Texas criminal defense attorney may be your best choice.
Once you have narrowed your list, you should speak with each potential Texas criminal defense attorney on the list in order to find an attorney you feel comfortable with. You should trust your Texas criminal defense attorney, he or she should have patience with your questions, and an appealing personality never hurts, particularly if your case could end up in front of a jury. Of course you will want to find out a few things up front from your criminal defense attorney in Texas. You want an attorney who is comfortable in front of a jury, has lots of experience handling similar cases, will provide references and is up front about his or her attorney fees.
Criminal Offenses Defended by a Criminal Defense Attorney in Texas
In addition to more minor—yet still serious—criminal charges, your chosen criminal defense attorney in Texas may defend clients against more violent crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, burglary, murder, manslaughter, hit and run, child abuse, sex crimes, serious drug crimes and assault. These crimes definitely require an aggressive advocate in your Texas criminal defense attorney. Those people who decide to skip hiring a criminal defense attorney in Texas following criminal charges should be aware that the state of Texas has a definite financial advantage when prosecuting those charged with a crime. For starters, the state has access to extensive staff resources, highly advanced crime labs and access to expensive experts. In order to obtain positive results following your criminal charges, your criminal defense attorney in Texas will have to be able to fight aggressively to counteract the resources of the state.