Harris County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Attorney in Harris County, TX

Facing charges or accusations of criminal activity in Texas can be daunting, especially if this has not happened to you before. These cases can be difficult to navigate on your own and can result in serious consequences. If you have been accused of or charged with a criminal offense, hire a skilled Harris County criminal defense lawyer to build a solid defense strategy for you.

Criminal defense is integral to the United States’ justice system. The right to a fair trial is considered a human right that is provided for in both the Sixth Amendment and many international law statutes. If you have been accused or charged with a crime, your representation matters.

Surginer Stewart, PLLC

At Surginer Stewart, PLLC, we understand how difficult it is to face criminal charges and accusations. Our skilled team is dedicated to securing justice for our clients. With over 30 years of combined litigation experience, our attorneys are prepared to handle your criminal offenses, no matter how complex or serious they might be.

Attorney David Stewart is a former Chief Prosecutor with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. This allows him unique insight into your case as he has seen every angle of a criminal court case. He has represented clients in both criminal and civil cases, providing him with a broad skill set to bring to your case.

Attorney Justin Surginer is committed to his client’s satisfaction. As a born and raised Houston native, he is familiar with the many nuances of Texas’s complex legal system and legislation relevant to your case. He is devoted to pursuing the optimal outcome for his clients, which has earned him many not-guilty verdicts and charge dismissals.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime or are currently under investigation, it is imperative to seek legal counsel immediately. The sooner you hire a criminal defense lawyer, the more likely you are to achieve the desired outcome in your case. If you have not yet been charged but believe yourself to be under criminal investigation, it is never too early to obtain a lawyer.

DWI and DUI Violations

In Texas, DWIs carry heavy penalties, especially for repeat offenders. If you are over 21 and driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher, you may be charged with a DWI. If you are under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol while driving can result in a DUI.

From 2019 to 2023, it was reported that 30% of traffic fatalities in the county were due to DUI. This is higher than both the state and national average, indicating the prevalence of DUIs in the area. If you are facing a DUI in Harris County, you are not alone. However, with these high numbers, prosecutors will seek harsh penalties. Exceptional defense is crucial.

Assault Offenses

Assault in Texas does not have to explicitly involve physical harm. This may include threatening someone verbally or with a weapon. Assault charges are also applicable to intentional physical assault. The prosecution must prove that the actions or threats were intentional or reckless in nature.

Drug-Related Offenses

Drug charges in Texas are serious crimes. Depending on the type of drug and the amount, they can result in jail time and large fines. A Harris County criminal defense attorney well-versed in Texas’s drug laws can advocate for you throughout your case or investigation.

Family Violence

Domestic violence charges, called family violence in Texas, can be brought when there is physical harm or the threat of harm to another person in the household or family. These charges can be misdemeanors or felonies that could result in prison sentences, fines, protective orders, loss of custody and visitation, or your right to own firearms being revoked.

Sex Crimes

Charges for sex crimes are serious and can affect your freedom, rights, employment, and reputation. These charges can include sexual assault, indecent assault, aggravated assault, rape, indecency with a child, and more. A conviction can result in prison, fines, and mandatory registration on the Texas Sex Offender Registration Program.

These are only some examples of the charges our seasoned criminal defense attorneys can help with. Reach out to our team to discuss the defense strategies we can utilize to help you get your charges dismissed or penalties mitigated.

FAQs

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Texas?

The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Texas depends on many factors. The severity of the charges, time spent in court, and the experience of your attorney can all influence the cost. Some attorneys may charge flat rates or by the hour, depending on the situation. To receive more information about our legal fees, contact our office today.

What Are Common Criminal Defense Strategies?

In criminal defense cases, there are several common strategies used by attorneys. Some include self-defense, alibi, mistaken identity, innocence, constitutional violations, entrapment, or lack of evidence. Attorneys will also review the evidence obtained against you to verify if it is admissible in court. If evidence is unlawfully obtained, the whole case may be dismissed. Your attorney can advise on the most suitable defense for your unique circumstances.

What Should I Do if I am Arrested in Harris County?

If you are arrested in Harris County, try to comply calmly with law enforcement, invoke your right to remain silent as soon as possible, and request your lawyer’s presence immediately. Avoid answering questions, as anything you say can and will be held against you in court. Continually request your lawyer until they are present, then allow them to communicate for you.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor in Harris County?

Yes, even a misdemeanor case in Harris County can benefit from hiring a private attorney. Even though misdemeanors are less serious than other criminal charges, they can still be sentenced with hefty fines and jail time. By hiring an attorney, you minimize the risk of suffering these punishments. They may be able to get charges dropped, cases dismissed, or negotiate a plea deal.

Contact Surginer Stewart, PLLC, Today

At Surginer Stewart, we are prepared to take on any criminal case. Our seasoned legal team regularly represents clients at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center, and can confidently support you every step of the way if your case proceeds to trial. We are committed to supporting our clients and keeping them informed through every stage of the criminal process. For more information and to receive a consultation, please contact our team today.