Criminal defense in Texas
Choose a charge to learn how it works in Texas and what to do next.
In short: We handle criminal defense only: DWI, assault and family violence, felonies, drug charges, protective orders, theft, weapons, juvenile cases, expunctions and probation violations. Each guide below explains the Texas law, the penalty range and what to do next, with the statute cited. Choose the charge you are facing to start.
DWI / DUI
Breath or blood test, license suspension and the 15-day deadline.
Drug charges
Possession, possession with intent, and penalty groups.
Assault and family violence
Assault, family violence charges and protective orders.
Family violence
Assault, family violence charges and protective orders.
Theft
Shoplifting, theft by value, and related charges.
Weapons charges
Unlawful carrying and possession by a prohibited person.
Protective order defense
Served with a protective order or restraining order, or accused of violating one.
Parole hearings
Parole review, blue warrants and revocation hearings.
Probation violations
Motions to revoke and motions to adjudicate.
Misdemeanors
Class A and Class B misdemeanors in Texas.
Felonies
State jail through first-degree felonies, grand jury, bond and probation.
Juvenile cases
Cases in juvenile court for ages 10 to 16.
Expunction and nondisclosure
Clearing or sealing an arrest or case record.
Unsure what a court term means? Use our Texas criminal law glossary for plain-language definitions of bail, indictment, deferred adjudication and other terms.
How a Texas criminal case moves
- Arrest and magistration. The person must be brought before a magistrate without unnecessary delay and no later than 48 hours after arrest. The magistrate explains the charge and addresses bail if allowed by law; release is not automatic.
- Charging. Class A and Class B misdemeanors generally go to county-level courts. Fine-only Class C cases generally go to municipal or justice courts. Felony cases generally proceed by grand jury indictment in district court.
- Court settings. Your attorney reviews the evidence, files motions and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Resolution. Dismissal, a plea (sometimes with deferred adjudication or probation), or trial.
Criminal defense consultations are free.
If you are already on probation or deferred adjudication and the State has filed a motion to revoke or adjudicate, see probation violations in Texas.
Defense across North Texas
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This page provides general information about Texas law. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.