Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dallas, TX

A conviction in the Dallas/Fort Worth area can mean serving time in jail or prison, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. The Dallas jails are often overcrowded, and there have even been complaints about people being held in prison even after their sentence is complete. Hiring an experienced attorney can significantly reduce these risks.
 

We will investigate the circumstances of your arrest, gather evidence, track down witnesses when possible, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for you in court — often making the difference between a conviction and a dismissal or reduced charges.
 

Not often. Sometimes a case may qualify for expunction or nondisclosure, especially if your charges were dismissed, deferred adjudication was completed, or you were acquitted. We will evaluate your eligibility.

Immediately. Do it as soon as possible after your arrest, before you answer any police questions. This allows us to protect your rights. Additionally, early intervention in the Dallas County legal system will enable us to investigate your arrest and case details, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors before charges escalate.

In Dallas and across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, we handle DWIs, drug crimes, misdemeanors, felonies, probation violations, and more serious offenses, including domestic violence, homicide, and murder.
 

Everyone in the U.S. is protected under the Fourth Amendment from unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that law enforcement officers typically must have a warrant to search your home or your car.

However, there are important exceptions that can apply in certain situations.

It's an urgent situation or emergency: Police may search your home or vehicle without a warrant if circumstances are urgent. This usually means someone's life is in danger, someone needs an immediate rescue, a suspect is at risk of fleeing, or a situation in which evidence is at risk of being destroyed. 

Police have probable cause: Officers are permitted to search your car without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe it contains evidence of a crime. Probable cause might arise if police smell illegal drugs, see weapons or prohibited items in plain view, or notice other clear signs of criminal activity inside your vehicle.

The search is directly related to your arrest: If you are arrested, the police can search your car if the search is directly related to the reason for your arrest.

You give consent: Law enforcement does not need a warrant if you voluntarily consent to a search of your home or vehicle. However, if you give permission, you generally cannot challenge the search later in court unless you can show that your consent was coerced or not truly voluntary.

At Michael & Associates in Dallas, we understand how quickly a routine traffic stop or police visit can escalate into a search or seizure. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys can evaluate whether a search was lawful and help protect your rights under the Fourth Amendment.

If you’ve been arrested, a bail bond can help you get out of jail while your case is pending. You pay a percentage of the total bail to a bondsman, who covers the full amount for the court. You must attend all court dates and follow any conditions set by the judge.

At Michael & Associates, our Dallas team can guide you through the bail process, explain your options, and help ensure you meet all requirements so your release isn’t jeopardized. We make navigating the bail system as smooth and stress-free as possible.

The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney will depend on the nature of your charges and the complexity of your case. However, a case involving a serious felony offense — with potentially severe penalties if convicted— can cost several thousand dollars.

In Texas, statistics show that the average hourly rate for criminal defense attorneys is approximately $215. At Michael & Associates, we don't bill by the hour. Our Dallas-based team provides transparent and upfront guidance on legal fees, so you know what to expect and can make informed decisions about your defense. We don't believe in nickel-and-diming. We offer a fixed price based on the specifics of your case.

If a loved one is in jail, Michael & Associates can help you navigate the bail process. You must be at least 18 years old with a valid ID, and a judge will set a reasonable bail amount. Bail can be paid in cash, by cashier's check, money order, or through a licensed bail bondsman. You may be able to use property as collateral. In some cases, release on your own recognizance may be an option. These are known as "PR bonds," and allow you to be released from custody for a nominal fee. Our Dallas team provides fast, straightforward guidance to help secure release and ensure all court requirements are met.

If a warrant has been issued for your arrest, law enforcement can take you into custody at any time without any notice. If you learn that there is a warrant for your arrest, contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately can help you avoid an unexpected arrest. At Michael & Associates, our Dallas-based team can often arrange a self-surrender or work to resolve the matter, potentially allowing you to address the situation without being taken into custody.

Absolutely. If you've received a letter, phone call, or any other notification indicating that you're under investigation, please contact us immediately. Our team at Michael & Associates will get to work trying to learn the specifics of the investigation and any potential allegations against you.

If you can’t afford to hire an attorney, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you. While many public defenders work hard for their clients, they often handle extremely heavy caseloads and may not have the time or resources to focus closely on your situation.

In Dallas, public defenders are frequently overworked, which can limit their ability to investigate your case thoroughly or craft a strong defense strategy. They may also lack the courtroom experience and specialized knowledge that a seasoned private criminal defense attorney can offer.

At Michael & Associates, our Dallas criminal defense team provides the dedicated, hands-on representation you deserve. We have the resources, experience, and determination to fight for your freedom—whether that means negotiating a dismissal or taking your case to trial. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than a zealous advocate.