After you’ve been arrested for a crime, you will be required to appear before a judge, where you will be told—in a formal setting—of the charges brought against you. This first court appearance is also known as an arraignment, and it typically takes place around 48 hours after your arrest—though it may take place later …
Navigating Your First Court Appearance: Insights and Guidelines Read More »
When you’re facing sentencing in a criminal case, you want to make sure that the judge considers all evidence in your favor. One way to do that is to present letters of recommendation for court. In this blog, we’ll go over what these letters are, who can write one, and how a Texas criminal defense …
Crafting Persuasive Letters of Recommendation for Court Read More »
Under Texas’ Implied Consent law, anyone who accepts a driver’s license automatically consents to breath and blood samples when legally arrested on suspicion of DWI. Even still, you have the right to withdraw consent. However, refusing chemical tests in Texas comes with consequences that you should be aware of. In this article, we’ll cover chemical …
Chemical Test Refusal in Texas: What You Need to Know Read More »
The cost of a DWI lawyer in Texas can vary depending on the lawyer’s experience, location, reputation, and the complexity of the case. For a simple DWI case that doesn’t go to trial, you can expect to pay between $5,000 to $10,000. Some lawyers will charge extra for a trial or an ALR hearing (we …
In DWI stops, police in Texas use SFSTs, or Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, to determine if a person’s driving ability is impaired. However, SFSTs are not always accurate. There are several reasons why a person may perform poorly, including anxiety, poor balance, poor roadside conditions, and incorrect procedure by the officer. Michael & Associates often …
SFST in Texas: What You Need to Know About Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Read More »
BUI stands for Boating Under the Influence. In Texas, it is illegal for minors to operate a watercraft while having any amount of detectable alcohol in their system. BUI is not the same as Boating While Intoxicated (BWI). If you are a minor and you drink alcohol and then operate a boat, you can get …
What is a BUI in Texas: The Basics of Boating While Intoxicated Read More »
Texas has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to underage drinking and driving. If your teenager is caught driving with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system, they can be charged with DUI. Furthermore, if they are over 17 and considered legally drunk, they can face DWI charges. The penalties for minors convicted of …
What Are the Penalties for Minors Convicted of DWI in Texas? Read More »
In Texas, it is illegal to provide a minor with alcohol. An adult who provides or sells alcohol to a minor risks facing a Class A misdemeanor, while a minor charged with the same offense faces a Class C misdemeanor. Whether you’re working in a liquor store or behind a bar, it’s not always easy …
Selling Alcohol to a Minor in Texas: First Offense Read More »
Felony charges in the State of Texas are serious matters. A state jail felony can carry significant fines and jail time, along with collateral consequences that can wreak havoc on the rest of life. It is imperative that individuals dealing with a state jail felony charge understand their rights, their possible legal strategies, and the …
When you’re facing time behind bars, it is imperative that you gain a clear understanding of what lies ahead. Jails and prisons both house inmates guilty of crimes. However, these institutions feature a number of differences that define each type of facility. In the following article, you will learn about the nature, structure and common …
