The Woodlands Criminal Defense Lawyer

The Woodlands Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges can be incredibly stressful and create a lot of worry for the future, whether it is your first time being arrested or you have a previous history of convictions. A defense lawyer’s job is to make sure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. If you are facing criminal charges, The Woodlands criminal defense lawyer team at Surginer Stewart PLLC can ensure you obtain the most positive outcome possible in your case.

The legal team at Surginer Stewart PLLC has over thirty years of combined experience, and their goal is to offer excellent legal counsel and representation to each client, whether on misdemeanor, felony, or federal criminal charges. We approach each case with compassion and a focus on the client. Our dedicated team takes the time to understand your specific circumstances so we can develop a personalized defense strategy.

What to Look for in a Defense Lawyer

The most important quality of a good defense lawyer is a proven record of successful outcomes in their clients’ cases. This shows the lawyer has extensive experience, strong knowledge of criminal and case law, and strong skills in communicating and negotiating. A skilled defense lawyer has the ability to find elements that may otherwise be overlooked and foster an understanding of what it takes to successfully defend a client, which can be a huge advantage.

Experience also means the attorney is familiar with the legal process and understands the rules, procedures, and other requirements of criminal courts. Criminal law also requires reliable attention to detail, skills to research and investigate thoroughly, and adherence to moral and ethical standards such as client confidentiality and avoiding a conflict of interest. Professional behavior and respect in all interactions indicate a commitment to excellence.

Common Charges in The Woodlands

While it is possible to handle some minor legal problems, such as traffic tickets on your own, when you are facing misdemeanor, felony, or federal charges in The Woodlands, you need an attorney with extensive experience in criminal law. Some common criminal charges include:

• DWI – Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a common offense in Texas, and even first-time convictions can lead to steep fines, jail time, suspension of driving privileges, and other penalties. There can be significantly harsher penalties for subsequent DWI convictions or injuring someone as a result of a DWI.
• Assault and battery – Violent offenses such as assault and battery, which are separate charges that are often filed together, can be serious. They can include high fines, restitution, or even years in prison.
• Drug-related crimes – Charges like possession of a controlled substance can be misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the kind of drug and whether the defendant has prior drug charges. More serious crimes like possession with intent to sell are often felonies and have significantly longer jail sentences and high fines.
• Sex crimes – Being convicted of a sex crime can be punished with jail time, fines, and being added to the sex offender registry, which can have an additional adverse impact on the defendant’s life even if charges are reduced.
• Gun offenses – While Texas is often considered a gun-owner-friendly state, there are still laws in place to regulate the safe use of guns and other firearms. There are also federal regulations that have to be followed. Violating gun laws can lead to serious penalties and even revoking your gun rights.

Consequences of a Criminal Record

There is a wide range of penalties that can come with a criminal conviction, including fines, restitution to victims, jail or prison incarceration, parole, community service, or diversion programs like substance abuse treatment or anger management classes. In some cases, there may also be other penalties as well.

After an offender has completed their sentence, a criminal record can still have a long-lasting impact on their professional and personal life. For example, a conviction can lead to job loss and make it difficult to get another job. A criminal record can also affect a person’s ability to get and keep a professional license, driver’s license, housing, loans, and other benefits and negatively impact child custody and visitation.

FAQs

Can You Defend Yourself Against a Cop in Texas?

In general, it is wise not to use physical force or violence against a law enforcement officer, even if you feel threatened. If you are in Texas, it is always preferable to comply with officers’ instructions. Refusing to do so can result in additional charges like assault on a police officer or resisting arrest, which can have their own serious penalties, even if the initial charges are dismissed.

What Are the Hardest Cases to Defend?

There is no single charge that makes a case harder for a criminal defense attorney to defend. In general, the hardest cases to defend are those that have a lot of evidence, such as financial crimes, or those that involve a lot of emotional bias in society, such as serious violent crimes.

What Tactics Do Lawyers Use?

Lawyers use a variety of legal tactics to represent and defend clients against criminal charges. These rely on a deep understanding of criminal and case law, legal language, the procedures used in the criminal justice system, communication and negotiation skills, and many other factors. Because each case is unique, a skilled defense attorney will utilize a wide range of knowledge and proven techniques to draw from and apply them to the individual’s circumstances.

What Can a Defense Attorney Not Do?

A defense attorney cannot break any law or violate the ethical boundaries expected of all attorneys. For example, a defense attorney cannot knowingly offer false evidence or statements or hide evidence. If a defense lawyer breaks the law or their ethical boundaries, they can face serious consequences, including criminal charges or losing their license to practice law.

Defending Your Rights – The Woodlands Criminal Defense Law Firm

At Surginer Stewart, PLLC, our focus is on protecting our client’s interests, freedom, and future. Our seasoned legal team will advocate tirelessly for a successful outcome in your case. If you or a loved one have been arrested or are being investigated for a criminal act, contact our office right away to set up a consultation and get started on your case.