San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney

A: Not all criminal defense cases will go to trial, but most do to some extent. One of the most effective ways to prevent your case from going to trial before a judge or jury is to allow a criminal defense lawyer to intervene as soon as possible. Our attorneys might be to convince the prosecutors to drop the case against you before it ever goes to court, which can also help keep your criminal record clean.

A: 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.

A: 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.

A: 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.

A: 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.

A: 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.

A: A criminal defense case can end in one of many ways. The “best possible” outcomes will usually include a dismissal of the case and all charges, a not guilty verdict from a judge or jury, or a plea deal that lessens your sentencing requirements considerably.

A: Following an arrest and processing for certain criminal violations, a judge may approve a bail amount for the charges. You can pay the bail amount to be released from jail while your case is pending. If you appear at all future court proceedings and follow other bail requirements, then you will be repaid the bail amount when your case concludes. If you do not, then the bail is forfeited to the state.