CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Facing criminal charges? Learn how we can help.

We may be well known for our DWI defense but we're just as experienced and well versed in all areas of criminal defense. If you're in trouble our team of veteran trial lawyers can put together a formidable defense to protect you. Whether you are charged for a drug offense, a weapons crime, an act of violence, or anything in between contact our skilled litigators and find out what we can do for you.

REQUEST YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION

After an arrest a rush of questions probably are swarming in your head. Will I be able to go out on bond? Will these charges affect my career or personal life? What happens next? It’s natural to be nervous and overwhelmed when facing criminal charges. A criminal conviction on your record can alter your life tremendously. If you’re convicted, you could find yourself drowning in fines, being put on probation and even serving time behind bars. You may also suffer from the negative social stigma from having criminal allegations. Some employers or educational institutions are wary of people who have criminal charges. Even if you were never convicted.

Criminal Defense Attorneys in Harris County, Texas

The Texas criminal process is complicated. It’s easy to miss important information or not have time to implement a strong defense while you are also juggling your daily life. However, you have options. You can hire a skilled criminal defense attorney for legal representation. Find an attorney today with Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc.. We have a strong focus on criminal defense and have years of practice under our belt. Our attorneys are always up to date with the most innovative and effective defenses that win cases. We will address all aspects of your case to create a strong defense plan for you. Call us today at (713) 224-5529 for a free consultation. Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. accepts clients throughout Harris County including Tomball, Houston, Bellaire, Pasadena and Uptown.

Overview of Criminal Defense

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Bail/Bonds
Penalties for a Criminal Conviction
DWI Offenses in Texas
Texas Drug Crimes
Violent Crimes in Texas
Texas Marijuana Offenses
Other Practice Areas
Additional Resources

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

One of the most important steps you can take when arrested is to remain silent. Every U.S. citizen has the legal right to not incriminate themselves thanks to the 5^th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This means you’re not obligated to speak to law enforcement with the exception of identifying yourself. It’s highly recommended you don’t speak to law enforcement alone. Once you’re arrested, anything you said can be used against you in court. Even statements said in passing can be utilized in a courtroom. In addition, law enforcement uses confusing tactics during interrogations. They could draw out incriminating statements from you for evidence. Never put yourself in a hairy situation with law enforcement. An attorney is often in the best position to speak to police officers. They thoroughly understand the law and can advise you on what to say if you’re required to speak to police. In most cases, the police will refrain from interrogations if you ask for legal representation.

Bail/Bonds in Texas

Texas offers bonds for people who are arrested so they can make bail. A bond is basically collateral to ensure you will attend all your upcoming court dates. Your bond will depend on certain factors including financial status, the severity of the crime and if you are a flight risk. A judge will normally set a bond at your first appearance in court. You’re not guaranteed a bond and based on the circumstances you could be denied one entirely. However, if you are offered a bond you can pay yourself or through a third-party company. When a third-party company pays your bond, it’s referred to as a surety bond. In most cases, you will be required to pay the bail bonding company up to 20 percent of the bond amount once released.

Penalties for a Criminal Conviction

The state of Texas classifies crime as either a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanor charges are usually reserved for minor nonviolent crimes, while felonies tend to be more severe. The penalties for a criminal conviction depend on the crime and your criminal history. Listed below are the possible penalties you may face if you’re convicted of a crime.

Level of Offense	Fine	Jail or Prison Time
Class C Misdemeanor	$500	N/A
Class B Misdemeanor	$2,000	Up to 180 days in jail
Class A Misdemeanor	$4,000	Up to 12 months in jail
State Jail Felony	$10,000	Up to 24 months in state jail
Third-Degree Felony	$10,000	Up to 10 years in prison
Second-Degree Felony	$10,000	Up to 20 years in prison
First-Degree Felony	$10,000	Minimum of 5 years and maximum of life in prison

DWI Offenses in Texas

Unfortunately, the state of Texas is struggling with people driving while intoxicated (DWI). The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported in 2016 that 1,676 people were killed in alcohol-related accidents. These startling statistics have led Texas legislation to implement strict DWI laws. A first-time DWI offense is a class B misdemeanor which is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. If you don’t have a criminal record, you probably won’t go to jail. However, it can come with added sentencing conditions. The court could impose community service, DWI school, alcohol and substance abuse evaluation, probation or suspend your license. Multiple DWI offenders should expect harsh penalties. A second DWI conviction will result in a class A misdemeanor and has a minimum 30-day jail sentence if convicted. There’s a much higher chance of you being incarcerated if you have more than one DWI. Additionally, you could also be subject to the added sentencing conditions mentioned above. If factors such as property damage, serious injury or death, a child was in the car or you had a high blood-alcohol concentration the penalties could exacerbate even further. Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. defends people accused of DWI in all aspects including:

First DWI
Second DWI
Third or subsequent DWI
DWI with property damage
DWI with BAC over .15
Controlled substance DWI
Marijuana DWI
Prescription drug DWI
Juvenile or underaged DWI
Commercial driver DWI
Intoxication Assault
Intoxication Manslaughter
Administrative license Suspensions
Refusal to submit to testing

Texas Drug Crimes

It’s illegal in Texas to possess, manufacture, or sell controlled substances. Texas is known for having stringent drug laws. You could face serious penalties including thousands of dollars of fines and possible time behind bars. Drug crime sentencing is based on the drug, the amount found and whether you were possessing, selling or manufacturing. Some drug crimes Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. defend include:

Possession of a controlled substance;
Possession with intent to deliver;
Drug trafficking / smuggling;
Drug manufacturing;
Drug conspiracy;
Felony Drug Charges;
Federal Drug Charges;
Prescription Drug Fraud

Violent Crimes in Texas

When a crime is violent it’s a high possibility you’ll face harsh penalties. Texas law is unforgiving to violent offenders. Many people accused of violent crimes are denied bail and given severe sentences. You could even be served with an injunction often referred to as a restraining order. Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. defends people accused of violent crimes including:

Assault
Aggravated assault
Assault by strangulation
Domestic assault
Domestic violence
Continuous violence against the family
False imprisonment
Kidnapping

Texas Marijuana Offenses

Possessing or selling marijuana is one of the most prevalent crimes in Texas. Marijuana may have become more acceptable nationwide, but Texas still considers it a controlled substance. In addition, if you possess THC concentrates it’s a felony. THC concentrates are used for vaping pens, dabbing rigs and other common forms of consuming marijuana. Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. represents people charged with marijuana crimes including:

Possession of marijuana
Sale of marijuana
Marijuana trafficking
Cultivation or grow houses
Felony possession of marijuana
Federal marijuana charges
Marijuana DWI
Possession or sale of THC concentrates

Other Practices

The crimes listed above are not the only charges Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc.. defends people from. We also defend clients from other offenses, which include but are not limited to:

White collar crimes
Gun, weapon or firearm offenses
Violation of probation
Sexual assault
Aggravated sexual assault
Prostitution
Human trafficking
Child pornography
Violation of a protective order;
Embezzlement
Swindling
Writing bad checks
Theft
Conspiracy

Additional Resources

Texas Penal Code – Visit the official website for the Texas Legislation and use the drop-down menu to access the Texas Penal Code. You can learn more about your charges, the possible penalties and possible admissible defenses in court. Harris County Courts – Visit the official website for Harris County courts to find more information about your upcoming court date. Access the site to learn more court parings, locations of court houses and the jail docket.

This article was last updated on March 7th, 2019.

Attorney for Criminal Defense in Houston, Texas

If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime, it’s in your best interests to gain legal representation. Hiring an attorney can significantly increase your chances of reducing or dismissing your charges. Talk to an attorney today by contacting Flood Lewis & Associates, Inc.. The attorneys at Flood Lewis & Associates, Inc. have years of experience in Texas criminal courts. We will use our resources, skills, and defense tactics to help you get the best possible result for your case. Call now at (713) 224-5529 for a free consultation. We accept clients throughout the Houston area including West University Place, Pasadena, Bellaire and Tomball.

CALL US AT: (713)224-5529