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3 Key Tools in Texas Criminal Discovery: Subpoenas, Subpoenas Duces Tecum and Writs of Attachment

Texas criminal discovery rules are continually evolving and the best criminal defense lawyers in Houston and across the state will not overlook any of the tools that may help lawyers discover evidence favorable to their clients Three key tools for discovery are the subpoena, subpoena duces tecum and writ of attachment  A subpoena is simply an order to appear in court and give testimony A subpoena duces tecum...

Houston Crime Out-Smarts Officers

The Houston Chronicle reports that there is data showing that crime is "outpacing" Houston officers  Well, that is not exactly the problem Gary Blankinship, president of the Houston Police Officers Union said, "We have to learn to work smarter and try to use technology a little bit more"  That is not the problem either As a taxpayer, it is frustrating to see the Houston Police Department budget has...

Polygraph Exam – 3 Reasons to Not Take

Often referred to as a “lie detector test,” police officers generally utilize polygraph examinations to assist in their investigations Although the results from a polygraph are not admissible evidence in court, the police still employ these examinations as a way to get the accused talking False Positives and False Negatives The validity of polygraph exams has always been fairly contentious...

What is Regular Community Supervision?

In Texas, there are two basic types of supervision, following a plea of guilty or no contest: Deferred Adjudication Supervision and Regular Community Supervision The differences between the two types of supervision can have a significant affect on the outcome of a case and whether a person is eligible to have his or her criminal record sealed from public view Please refer to our blog post regarding Deferred...

How to Handle a False Accusation of Domestic Violence

While domestic violence offenses are a serious concern in our communities, it is also important to discuss the existence of false accusations and how to deal with them if accused First, it is important to know that only a verbal report of domestic violence can result in an arrest If a family member or loved one is falsely accusing you of domestic violence, do not continue to argue with police or attempt to...

A Quick Guide to Texas DWI Laws and Penalties

DWI laws across the United States are getting more complex and detailed every year, especially when it comes to dealing with first time offenses – and Texas is no exception While the nuances of Texas DWI laws are complex, we wanted to offer a general overview of the main laws and the major categories of DWI offenses and penalties you are likely to encounter in 2017 “Intoxicated” as Defined by Texas...

Charged with a First Offense DWI in Texas? What You Need to Know

The state of Texas takes DWI offenses extremely seriously, and the financial penalties are severe, even for first time offenders DWIs are the most commonly committed crimes in the United States, but most of the time they are committed by average ‘non-criminal’ citizens But make no mistake, if you are charged with a DWI, even if it is your first offense, you will be treated and prosecuted like a...

How to Choose a DWI Attorney in Houston, Texas: 3 Steps to Getting the Defense You Deserve

Being charged with a DWI offense in Texas can be a severely traumatic experience The financial penalties are harsh, the prospect of jail time is very real, and your reputation can be compromised with potential employers, insurance companies, and within the wider community Choosing the right attorney to represent you is a critical decision and one which could affect you for the rest of your life To help you...

The Sandra Bland Traffic Stop and What You Should Know About Your Rights During A Traffic Stop

In Texas Public Radio's story, "10 Things About The Sandra Bland Traffic Stop that Every Texan Should Know," Rhonda Fanning provides some useful information for Texas motorists But some of the statements in the article are inaccurate and some are just plain confusing For example, it is inaccurate to say that an officer has "no right" to instruct someone to get out of his/her car during a traffic stop, or that...

Guide to Contesting a DWI Charge

A DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge is typically considered a misdemeanor on the first offense in Texas; however, the consequences of a conviction can be far more serious than other misdemeanor charges A DWI conviction could mean jail time, fines, administrative fees, and a possible suspended license To help you avoid these harsh penalties, this guide to contesting a DWI charge aims to help you prepare...