Knowing your rights when it comes to police search and seizure is extremely important. An illegal search or seizure can make a huge difference in the outcome of a criminal case, potentially leading to dismissed charges. Unfortunately, understanding search and seizure...
Criminal Defense
Don’t discount the long-term effect of a criminal conviction
If you can avoid getting a criminal record, it is always worth doing so. Even if you think your chances of beating a charge are minimal, or that the sentence or penalties for a conviction are not that big a deal, you should explore your defense options. A criminal...
Collateral consequences of a criminal conviction
As a college student, you’re considered an adult in the eyes of the justice system. So, if you’re charged with a criminal offense, the stakes can be high. There’s a good chance that you’ll be offered a plea deal in your case, but before even considering one, you need...
Do you have to let the police inside?
Private property is certainly an important concept in Texas. At the same time, so is authority. People know that they are supposed to follow the law and that police officers are in a position of authority. But these two issues can collide if police officers arrive at...
Can you bring legal marijuana into Texas?
While recreational and medical marijuana use is still illegal in Texas (except for CBD oil for some people), some neighboring states take a more lenient view on things. It is legal for recreational use in New Mexico and for medical use in Oklahoma, Arkansas and...
How should I act when stopped by police?
Being around police officers makes many people nervous. You be stopped by the police almost anywhere outside of your home, including in your vehicle, on the streets or at a public event. Interacting with police officers in Texas can be particularly scary when you do...
Dabs, extracts and marijuana vape pens can lead to felony charges
Unlike many other states, Texas has yet to legalize or decriminalize marijuana in any meaningful sense. There have been discussions about reform, but no major changes to state law in recent years. However, marijuana use has become incredibly popular and much more...
What is the Fifth Amendment?
The police have the right to pull over drivers who are acting in a way that might suggest they committed crimes, will commit crimes or are committing crimes. The police then have a right to ask drivers questions and even perform tests that may help them gather...
How Brady vs. Maryland can help your defense
If you are facing criminal charges, the potential consequences of a conviction can feel overwhelming. However, the Supreme Court decision in Brady vs. Maryland can assist in your defense. The landmark 1963 decision ensures that due process is upheld and your rights...
1 major difference between Texas DWI cases for alcohol or drugs
Texas police officers can arrest people for a driving while intoxicated (DWI) offense based on alcohol intoxication or impairment caused by drugs. In many ways, DWI charges are largely the same regardless of what substance affects someone's driving ability. A judge...