Practice Areas
Common Criminal Defense Matters in Texas
Criminal defense law in Texas operates through a multi-tiered court system including justice of the peace courts, municipal courts, county courts, and district courts. Texas follows distinctive legal procedures under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, with cases ranging from Class C misdemeanors to capital felonies. The state's approach to criminal justice emphasizes both punishment and rehabilitation, with specialized courts for drug offenses, veterans, and mental health cases. Major metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio handle the highest volume of criminal cases statewide.
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Drug possession and trafficking
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Federal criminal charges
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Domestic violence defense
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Criminal Defense Attorneys by City in Texas
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Why It Matters
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Texas?
Hiring a Texas-licensed attorney is essential for criminal defense cases due to the state's unique legal procedures, sentencing guidelines, and local court practices that vary significantly by county. Texas attorneys must be admitted to the State Bar of Texas and understand the intricacies of Texas Penal Code, which differs substantially from other states' criminal laws.
Local Courts
Criminal defense cases in Texas are primarily handled by county courts (for misdemeanors) and district courts (for felonies), with appeals going to the Texas Courts of Appeals and potentially the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
Texas Law
Texas Criminal Defense Laws & Deadlines
Texas criminal law operates under the Texas Penal Code with statute of limitations ranging from 2 years for misdemeanors to no limit for murder and certain felonies. The state follows a structured punishment system with specific penalty ranges for each offense level, from Class C misdemeanors (fine only) to capital felonies (life imprisonment or death penalty). Texas also has unique laws regarding self-defense, property protection, and expungement procedures.
Key Facts
What to Know About Criminal Defense in Texas
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
Immediately after arrest or charges filed
Attorney Cost
Hourly rates, retainers, or flat fees vary by attorney.
Our Network
Criminal Defense attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different levels of criminal offenses in Texas?
Texas classifies criminal offenses into Class C, B, and A misdemeanors, plus state jail felonies, and first, second, and third-degree felonies, with capital felonies being the most serious. Each classification carries specific punishment ranges under the Texas Penal Code.
How long does the state have to file criminal charges in Texas?
Texas statute of limitations for criminal charges is typically 2 years for misdemeanors, 3 years for most felonies, 5-7 years for certain serious felonies, and no time limit for murder or manslaughter. Some offenses like sexual assault of a child have extended limitation periods.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Texas?
Texas allows expungement (called 'expunction') for arrests that didn't lead to conviction, dismissed charges, acquittals, and certain pardoned offenses. The process requires filing a petition in the court where charges were filed and meeting specific eligibility requirements under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55.
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