Mesquite Criminal Defense Lawyer

Mesquite Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges can be an overwhelming experience, but having the right legal team can make a huge difference in avoiding the common pitfalls. This is why many hire a Mesquite criminal defense lawyer as soon as they are aware of the charges, as the earlier you engage legal representation, the quicker you can start to collect evidence and build your defense. Your lawyer will supervise the entire process to ensure no one takes advantage of your rights.

At Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC, our team of former prosecutors brings decades of experience to the table, helping us provide a level of personalized support and effective defense that is difficult to replicate. We understand how worried you may be about the impact criminal allegations can have on your life. From day one, we commit to doing everything in our power to uncover evidence that will maximize the chances for a charge reduction or dismissal.

What Should I Do After Being Charged With a Crime in Mesquite, Texas?

While being charged with a crime can be frightening, the steps you take immediately after can make a difference in the outcome of your case. This includes:

Remain Silent and Exercise Your Right to an Attorney

One of the most important steps to take after being charged and arrested is to remain silent. Law enforcement officers might try to ask questions to dig deeper into the alleged crime. Anything you say in these moments can be used later in court. It is wise to wait until you have been able to consult with an attorney who can guide you on what to say and how to say it. This can help avoid making any mistakes that would inadvertently harm your case.

Understand the Charges Against You

Criminal charges in Texas can range in severity from misdemeanors to serious felonies. The penalties will vary based on where your crime sits in this spectrum. It’s important to work with your Mesquite Criminal Defense Lawyer to understand the exact nature of what you have been charged with. Ask about what potential consequences are on the table and what different legal defenses could help combat the prosecution’s arguments. This can help you make more informed decisions about your defense.

Attend All Court Appearances

Once you have posted bond and been released from jail, it is very important that you attend all scheduled court settings. If you miss a hearing, it could result in even more legal consequences to deal with, including a warrant for your arrest. If you are unsure if you need to attend a specific hearing or not, consult with your Mesquite Criminal Defense attorney to stay prepared.

Gather Evidence and Witness Information

As soon as you can, work with your defense lawyer to start collecting any evidence that will strengthen your defense arguments. This can include documents, photos, text messages, and the contact information of witnesses who can testify to what happened. After this collection period, your lawyer will review all relevant evidence and determine what can be used and how to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Know That an Arrest Does Not Mean a Conviction

While it might not feel this way, it’s important to remember that a charge does not mean you are automatically convicted. Being charged is just the beginning. Next, the prosecution will need to prove you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. You also have a right to combat these charges, whether that’s arguing for a case dismissal, suppressing unlawfully obtained evidence, or negotiating a plea deal to help minimize the penalties you face.

FAQs About Mesquite, TX Criminal Defense Laws

Q: What Is the Mistake of Fact Defense in Texas?

A: The mistake of fact defense in Texas is when a defendant is able to show how they behaved under an incorrect but honest and reasonable belief about a fact that negates criminal intent. For example, they may have genuinely thought they had permission to take someone else’s property.
Texas law recognizes mistakes as valid if it is largely believed by the courts that any average person would have made the same type of mistake in the same situation.

Q: What Types of Questions Would a Defense Lawyer Ask?

A: Defense lawyers are known to ask a lot of questions that target the elements of the prosecution’s case. Their goal is to uncover as many inconsistencies as possible to establish a reasonable doubt. For example, they might question how law enforcement officers obtained certain pieces of evidence to see if there was any break in the chain of custody. If so, they could file a motion to suppress those pieces of evidence. If you choose to testify as a defendant, your lawyer will ask questions in court that give you a chance to present your side of the story.

Q: What Is the Burden of Proof in Self-Defense in Texas?

A: Whenever a defendant claims self-defense in Texas, they have the initial burden to produce evidence that supports this position. Once this is complete, the burden will shift to the prosecution. At this point, they must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant did not act in self-defense. It is crucial for the defense to be ready to combat their allegations and show how the force they used was proportional to the threat they faced.

Q: How Long After a Crime Can You Be Charged in Texas?

A: The length of time someone has to file a criminal charge in Mesquite, Texas is known as the statute of limitations and varies based on the type of crime committed. Most misdemeanors give prosecutors two years to file from the date of the alleged incident. Misdemeanor family violence assault recently moved to a three year statute of limitations. Some felonies carry anywhere from a three to ten-year statute of limitation, depending on the severity of the crime. The most serious crimes, such as murder and human trafficking, have no statute of limitations.

Contact Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC Today

If you have been charged with a crime in Mesquite and are unsure where to turn, contact our firm today. We know what it takes to produce a robust criminal defense and would be honored to apply our skills to improve the outcome of your case.