Adultery is not a crime in Texas. It will not result in criminal charges or penalties, unless you’re in the military (which does classify it as a crime). And though you may feel angry and hurt if you find out your spouse has been unfaithful, you’re the one who will likely end up facing criminal …
Law
What is Capital Murder in Texas?
Capital murder is the only remaining death penalty offense in Texas. A capital murder has all of the elements of an intentional murder but with additional factors that are considered so egregious that the act has a separate classification. For example, the murder of a peace officer or murder of someone under the age of …
Is It Illegal to Drink in Public?
In Texas and many other states, public drinking is typically illegal. However, in the United States, there are a few notable exceptions, including tourist destinations such as Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Savannah, where laws have been enacted to legalize it. Drinking while in your vehicle in those places, however, may not be legal. In …
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Charges in Texas
Possession of drug paraphernalia in Texas is typically a misdemeanor offense that usually won’t carry jail time, but it could leave you with a lifelong criminal record. It can also be tricky to deal with criminal charges because the definition of drug paraphernalia in Texas is so broad that even routine household items meet the …
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Is Texas a Stop and Identify State?
Texas is not a “Stop and Identify” state. There are 23 states with various “Stop and Identify” laws. Stop and ID laws require residents to provide ID any time a law enforcement officer asks to see it. Because of the limited instances in which Texas requires ID, it is considered a “Failure to Identify” state. …
Do You Need a Front License Plate in Texas?
Texas law requires all vehicles to have both front and rear license plates, so yes, you need that front plate. Failing to comply could result in a fine of up to $200. More importantly, though, failing to have that second plate gives cops probable cause to pull you over, and this could lead to more …
Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas?
Sports betting is not legal in Texas. Despite recent efforts by the state legislature to legalize sports betting with House Bill 1942, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick refused to allow the bill to be considered by the state’s Senate. Patrick is vocally anti-gambling, and his stance has effectively ended hope for legalized sports betting until the …
Texas Self-Defense Laws: Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground
Your home is your castle, and Texas law grants you the right to protect it (and yourself). But how far are you allowed to go to protect yourself? Sometimes, use of deadly force is justified, while sometimes homeowners have a duty to retreat. It can seem confusing. Here’s what you need to know to protect …
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Can You Shoot Someone for Trespassing in Texas?
You can’t shoot someone simply for trespassing in Texas, but you can take other actions to defend your property. Many of our clients are gun owners, and they often believe that they have the right to use those guns to protect themselves under any circumstance. However, the legal right to own and carry a gun …
What is a PSI in Court?
In Texas courts, PSI is shorthand for a Presentence Investigation Report. Texas judges use this document to assess punishment for a felony crime. The federal court system uses a similar report known as a Presentence Report (PSR). Both PSIs and PSRs are at least partially based on interviews with defendants and details of the defendant’s …