San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney

Serious Charges Require Serious Representation

The criminal justice system can be cruel to the accused. Don’t let police officers or prosecutors violate your legal rights – retain aggressive representation from our trusted San Antonio criminal defense lawyer at The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC.

Our criminal defense firm proudly stands up for the criminally accused to protect their rights and ensure that they are treated fairly at every stage of their criminal case. Our defense lawyers are ready to fight for the positive resolution you are seeking and will stop at nothing to see your criminal case through to a favorable conclusion.

Contact us online or by calling (210) 702-2203 to request a free and confidential consultation with our San Antonio, TX criminal defense attorney.

At Our Firm, We Fight to Win

Criminal charges threaten to upend your life and leave you bearing the burden of a conviction for years to come. Hiring the right defense lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your criminal case. Representation is vital – don’t try to defend against these charges alone.

At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, our San Antonio defense lawyers have extensive experience navigating the criminal justice system and guiding clients forward.

Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges, you can count on Attorney Derek S. Ritchie to stand by your side diligently. With poise and professionalism, our law firm goes to bat for the criminally accused regardless of the circumstances of the situation.

Our San Antonio criminal defense attorneys defend against many types of crimes, including:

Assault: We defend against all kinds of assault no matter how severe the charges may be.
Burglary. We can help you fight back against burglary charges and pursue a positive outcome in your case.

DWI: Whether it is your first or third criminal offense, we know how to present your DWI case to minimize penalties and protect your driving privileges.
Drug crimes. We’ll relentlessly defend your rights as you work through your drug crimes case.
Domestic violence. A domestic violence charge can change your life. We’ll do everything in our power to ensure you receive the legal counsel you deserve.
Expunction. Getting your record expunged enables you to live a life free of your past. We can help you get there.
Felony charges. Felonies charges are reserved for the most serious crimes. We’ll defend your rights and best interests throughout your felony case.
Firearm offenses. We’re committed to defending your rights in a firearm offense case, ensuring can navigate your dispute more easily.
Intoxication manslaughter. Facing an intoxication manslaughter charge can make an already daunting situation even more challenging. We’re here to help.
Misdemeanor charges. If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, you can trust our San Antonio defense lawyers to fight for you in or out of court.
Murder. We’ll provide the legal representation you need to pursue an ideal outcome in your murder case.
Non-disclosure agreements. Violating an NDA can come with significant penalties. We have the tools to defend your interests.
Pretrial violations. A pretrial violation charge could throw a serious wrench in your violation case. We’ll help you deal with pretrial violation charges.
Probation violations. Violating probate could impact your life negatively. We’ll work to ensure you receive the treatment you deserve.
Protective order. We can help ensure that you receive the appropriate legal counsel for your case, helping you find the best path forward to contest the order.
Sex crimes: We take the time to thoroughly investigate sex crime cases to ensure that no stone is left unturned and that all relevant evidence in your favor is uncovered.
Theft: A theft conviction can carry substantial penalties. Let our theft crimes lawyers help you fight for a positive outcome to protect your future.

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Reasons to Hire an Experienced Defense Attorney

Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer in San Antonio can provide a multitude of advantages when facing criminal charges in Texas. Here are some key benefits:

Legal Expertise: Our San Antonio criminal defense lawyers possess a deep understanding of Texas criminal laws, court procedures, and local regulations. Our expertise is invaluable when building a robust defense.
Case Evaluation: We thoroughly assess the details of your case, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities to challenge the prosecution's evidence.
Defense Strategy: Attorneys craft a tailored legal strategy, including the selection of defenses, plea negotiations, or trial preparation, based on the unique circumstances of your case.
Protecting Your Rights: Our skilled lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process, preventing any potential violations.
Negotiation Skills: Our experienced defense lawyers can negotiate with the prosecution to secure reduced charges, plea bargains, or alternative sentencing options, potentially minimizing penalties.
Court Representation: If your case proceeds to trial, we provide strong courtroom representation, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making compelling legal arguments.
Emotional Support: Facing criminal charges can be emotionally draining. Attorneys offer support and guidance, helping you navigate the stress and uncertainty that often accompanies such situations.
Alternative Sentencing: We can explore options like diversion programs or rehabilitation to address underlying issues, potentially leading to more lenient sentencing.
Avoiding a Criminal Record: In some cases, experienced lawyers can help you avoid a criminal record or work to expunge or seal your record if eligible.

Hiring our experienced criminal defense lawyer is a strategic move to protect your rights, build a strong defense, and work toward the best possible legal outcome. Our expertise and guidance are essential during the challenging process of navigating criminal charges in San Antonio.

Contact us online or by calling (210) 702-2203 to request a free and confidential consultation with our San Antonio, TX criminal defense attorney.

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Our Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Answers From Our Experienced Attorneys

Are misdemeanors and felony charges different?

Yes, misdemeanors are not the same as felonies. Misdemeanors are used to describe and penalize “less serious” crimes like drug possession, nonviolent theft crimes, and so on. A felony charge relates to “more serious” crimes like sexual assault, robbery, grand theft, and more. However, do not be mistaken. A conviction for a misdemeanor or felony can be severely damaging to your future freedom, finances, and reputation.
Do I need an attorney if I am innocent?

Everyone needs an attorney once they are arrested or charged with a crime. You might know you are innocent, but the state thinks you are guilty and will try to prove it in court. Do not give the prosecution an early advantage by failing to work with a criminal defense lawyer.
Who should I call using my ‘one phone call’ in jail?

When you are provided a chance to call someone after being placed in county jail following an arrest, use the phone call to reach an attorney and no one else. All calls, outbound and inbound, are recorded in jail. Prosecutors will listen to what you said later if you called a family member or friend. If you call an attorney, though, then your lawyer will immediately advise you to watch your word choice and talk as little as possible.
Should I use my Miranda Rights if I am arrested?

Yes, if you are placed under arrest or are detained, then you can and should invoke your Miranda Rights. You should speak clearly and say something like, “I am officially invoking my Miranda Right to remain silent.” At that point, the officer should understand that you want to speak to your attorney or be provided one before talking. If they pressure you to talk after invoking your right to remain silent, then they are violating your Constitutional rights and the entire case against you could be voided.
What should I say to the police?

You should never feel compelled to speak to the police or an investigator in an unofficial setting, such as after they pull you over or knock on your door. If the police are talking to you about a crime, then they think you are a suspect. Be careful with what you say. You should only provide the necessary identifying information. If the police press you for answers, then inform them that you would like to talk to an attorney first.

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Hear From Our Happy Clients

Reviews & Testimonials

At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

"I Couldn't Have Asked for Better Representation"
The whole firm was very caring and empathetic towards the situation and I couldn’t have asked for better legal representation!

- Former Client
"Considerate and Knowledgeable"
I was super pleased with Mr. Ritchie’s services. He was extremely considerate and very knowledgeable. He made a difficult situation for me easier to manage.

- Karl J.
"Knowledgable and Sympathetic"
Derek was very knowledgeable and sympathetic to my situation. He answered all my questions and I feel much better about the journey I have ahead of me.

- Taylor M.
"I Would Highly Recommend This Practice"
He listens to you, returns your calls, knows who to call in Bexar County, does what he says promptly, and on top of that, both he and his office manager Vanessa are SUPER friendly and empathetic.

- John W.
"Highly Recommended"
Highly recommended! Very responsive & handled our legal situation in a timely, professional, & caring manner.

- Former Client
"Everyone Was Compassionate"
My experience was a great one, from the moment I picked up that phone to having a next-day free consultation!. They were so helpful, respectful, and professional throughout the whole thing!

- Ashley C.
"A Great Experience"
Derek Ritchie is a professional and very reliable attorney. A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders once he took on my case. It was a great feeling to know that I had him on my side.

- Diana C.
"They Gave Us Peace and Hope of a Future"
He went above and beyond what we expected. We will forever recommend his law firm. Mr. Ritchie and Mrs. Vanessa were so much help they kept us informed... just when we thought we knew all the information they gave us more.

- Former Client
"Very Direct and Professional"
Wonderful attorney, he is very direct and professional. Will fight for your defense to be heard, and for a very swift ruling in your favor.

- Taylor M.

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We're With You Every Step of the Way

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What Sets Us Apart?

Work Directly With Your Attorneys

Derek and his team will work directly with you through every step of your case. It’s important to us that your case receives highly personalized attention. You instilled your trust in us and we will work to meet and exceed your expectations.
We Fight to Win

We’re competitive by nature and have a versatile legal style. We always seek an amicable outcome among different parties. We’re also prepared and ready to take your case to trial.
Complimentary Consultations

We strive to create an environment where you feel safe and protected. We recommend starting with a complimentary consultation to review your case together. Evening and weekend consultations are available by appointment only.