When facing criminal charges, you need a legal advocate who understands the intricacies of the Texas legal system. At True Law Firm, our team of criminal appeal lawyers in San Antonio specializes in criminal defense, including DWI defense and alcohol-related offenses. With a dedication to justice and a proven track record, we’re here to help you secure the best possible outcome for your case.
What Constitutes Criminal Defense?
Criminal defense involves representing individuals accused of various offenses, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. It includes legal strategies and tactics to challenge evidence, question witnesses, and ensure that the accused’s rights are upheld throughout the legal process. Our commitment to justice means we fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for our clients, whether through negotiation, litigation, or trial. Trust True Law Firm to be your dedicated legal advocate in the face of criminal charges.
Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
DWI Defense
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense that can have far-reaching legal consequences. DWI charges typically result from driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, but even a first-time offense can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. Our experienced legal team of criminal appeal lawyers in San Antonio, led by Kristian Knapp, specializes in DWI defense, offering dedicated representation to safeguard your rights and work towards minimizing the impact of these charges on your life.
Alcohol Offenses
Alcohol-related offenses encompass a range of legal issues related to the use and misuse of alcohol, such as underage drinking, public intoxication, open container violations, and more. Even seemingly minor alcohol-related charges can have significant consequences, resulting in fines, driver’s license suspension, and a criminal record that may affect your future opportunities. Our legal team is well-versed in handling alcohol-related cases, offering strategic defense to protect your rights and minimize the impact of these charges on your life.
The Life-Altering Consequences of a Criminal Conviction:
- Potential incarceration
- Heavy fines and restitution
- Loss of employment opportunities
- Damage to personal and professional reputation
- Loss of civil rights (e.g., voting or firearm ownership)
- Immigration consequences (e.g., deportation)
- Strain on personal relationships
- Difficulty securing housing or loans
- Limited access to certain careers
- Challenges in obtaining custody or visitation rights
To schedule a consultation with our criminal appeal lawyers in San Antonio, contact us today!
Reasons to Hire an Attorney for Your Criminal Defense:
- Legal expertise and knowledge of Texas laws
- Protection of your rights and interests
- Effective defense strategy development
- Experience with negotiations and plea bargains
- Thorough investigation of your case
- Skilled courtroom representation
- Mitigation of potential penalties
- Guidance through complex legal processes
- Access to resources and expert witnesses
- Increased chances of a favorable outcome
You Are Always Innocent Until Proven Guilty
You are always innocent until proven guilty, regardless of the charges brought against you. At True Law Firm, we understand that the criminal justice system isn’t infallible. We’ve witnessed numerous cases involving state and federal crimes where law enforcement may have violated your rights or made errors in judgment.
With an unwavering commitment to your defense, our attorneys examine the evidence against you, pinpointing even the smallest mistakes and violations by law enforcement. We leave no stone unturned, seeking the best possible defense strategy to protect your rights and future.
When Facing Misdemeanor
or Felony Charges, You Must:
- Seek immediate legal counsel, consult with our criminal appeal lawyers in San Antonio to understand your rights clearly, and explore available options.
- Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination during police questioning.
- Collect relevant documents, witness information, or evidence to aid your defense.
- Appear at all court hearings and appointments as required by law.
- Comply with any bail or release conditions set by the court.
- Refrain from discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney.
- Listen to and follow the guidance of your legal counsel throughout the legal proceedings.
- Keep abreast of developments in your case and communicate regularly with your attorney.
- If necessary, prepare for trial, ensuring a strong defense strategy is in place.
Criminal Defense FAQs
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
In Texas, our San Antonio criminal appeal lawyers classify crimes into two primary types: misdemeanors and felonies.
- Misdemeanor: These are generally less serious offenses and are divided into three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Penalties can include fines, probation, and up to one year in county jail, depending on the class.
- Felony: Felonies are more serious crimes and are classified into five categories, ranging from State Jail Felonies to Capital Felonies. Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and lifelong consequences such as the loss of certain civil rights.
Do I need an attorney if I'm charged with a misdemeanor?
Yes, it is advisable to hire an attorney even if you’re facing misdemeanor charges. While misdemeanors may carry less severe penalties than felonies, a conviction can still have significant consequences, including a criminal record that can affect your future. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options, navigate the legal process, and work towards minimizing the impact of the charges.
What is the role of a criminal defense attorney in my case?
A criminal appeal lawyer in San Antonio plays a critical role in protecting your rights and interests throughout the legal process. Their responsibilities include:
- Providing guidance on your rights, potential defenses, and the legal process.
- Collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining the prosecution’s case.
- Advocating on your behalf in negotiations with prosecutors, in court, and/or during trial.
- Developing a defense strategy tailored to your specific case and goals.
- Ensuring that law enforcement and the prosecution follow proper procedures.
- Ensuring your constitutional rights are upheld.
Can a criminal defense attorney get my charges dismissed?
While no attorney can guarantee a dismissal of charges, an experienced criminal defense attorney will work diligently to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and explore legal avenues for dismissal. They may challenge evidence, question witnesses, and seek to have evidence excluded if it was obtained unlawfully. The goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, which may include a dismissal or reduction of charges.
What are the potential consequences of a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) conviction in Texas?
A DWI conviction in Texas can have significant repercussions. Consulting our criminal appeal lawyers in San Antonio can help guide you through the possible outcomes; these include:
- Your driver’s license may be suspended.
- You may be required to pay fines.
- Probation terms, including mandatory alcohol education classes and community service.
- Depending on the circumstances, you could face jail time, especially for repeat offenses.
- A permanent criminal record can impact employment, housing, and other opportunities.
How can a criminal defense attorney help with a DWI case?
An experienced DWI defense attorney can be instrumental in building a strong defense by:
- Carefully reviewing evidence such as breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and police procedures for any flaws or inaccuracies.
- Contesting the admissibility of evidence obtained through illegal stops or searches.
- Negotiating with prosecutors to secure reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
- Providing aggressive representation in court and defending your rights.
Contact True Law Firm
True Law Firm is committed to delivering justice and personalized legal support to our clients. If you’re facing criminal charges, DWI allegations, or any other legal issues, our team of dedicated attorneys is here to help. We genuinely care about your well-being and will advocate tirelessly on your behalf. We ensure our clients can maintain direct, unrestricted one-on-one contact with our attorney, ensuring they receive the attention and care they deserve. Schedule a consultation with our criminal appeal lawyers in San Antonio, and let us guide you through your legal challenges.
