FAQs

Not all—some drug possession charges involving small amounts can be misdemeanors. However, charges involving distribution, manufacturing, or certain controlled substances are felonies. We assess each case to minimize penalties or seek dismissal where possible.

Depending on your case, it may be possible to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor, enter a diversion program, or win a dismissal. Our team evaluates every detail to determine the best course of action—then we’ll fight to protect your future from a felony conviction.

Yes. In many sex crime cases—particularly those involving minors—consent may not be a valid legal defense. For example, a person under 17 cannot legally consent to sex in Texas, regardless of what they said or did.

Possibly. Dismissal depends on the unique facts of your case and whether you have skilled legal representation. Furthermore, first-time offenders often qualify for pretrial diversion or deferred adjudication. If successful, you may be eligible to seal or expunge your record.

In some cases, yes. Expungement allows you to clear your record and move forward. Not all offenses qualify, but our attorneys can review your record and determine your eligibility. If you’re not eligible for expungement, you may still qualify for record sealing (nondisclosure), which can limit who sees your record. We’ll walk you through your options and help you take the next step toward a clean slate.

Yes. Even small amounts of marijuana can lead to jail time in Texas. Possessing under two ounces is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. Your driver’s license could be suspended for one year. We work to get these charges dismissed or resolved through diversion or deferred adjudication.

It’s possible—and we’ll explore every possible defense angle. Dismissal depends on the facts, the strength of the state’s case, and your criminal history. Many first-time offenders qualify for diversion programs or deferred adjudication. However, even serious charges can sometimes be reduced or dropped if we identify legal errors, procedural violations, or lack of evidence.

Yes, depending on the charge. In very serious cases, such as those involving violent felonies or repeat offenses, a juvenile court may waive jurisdiction and transfer the case to adult court. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer fights aggressively to keep cases in juvenile court.

Generally, yes. Parental involvement is usually permitted, and in some cases, it may be required. Judges like to see that a child has a stable support system. Your presence can make a meaningful difference in how the court handles the case.

Expungement or sealing (non-disclosure) of sex crime charges is extremely limited in Texas. State law prohibits sealing any charge that requires sex offender registration. However, if your case was dismissed, no-billed by a grand jury, or you are acquitted at trial, you will qualify for expungement. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer can review your case and help you explore every available option.

Yes. False accusations happen more often than people think. We work quickly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and present your side of the story. Our goal is to get charges dropped before they go to court or win your case at trial.

Yes, in most cases. We’ll make sure you understand your obligations and what to expect. We’ll also advise you on how to make the best impression possible.

No. In fact, it’s better if you exercise your right to remain silent. You also have the right to an attorney. Anything you say can and likely will be used against you. Politely tell officers you want to speak with your lawyer. Then call My Dallas Criminal Lawyer at 214-764-5535.

Yes. Even seemingly minor charges – like MIP or possession of vape products – can affect your child’s future if not handled correctly. An experienced juvenile defense lawyer may be able to resolve these cases without a formal adjudication.

It can be, depending on the value of the merchandise. Theft under $2,500 is usually a misdemeanor, but theft with prior convictions or higher-value items can lead to felony charges. We’ll work to reduce the level of the offense and protect your record.

Texas sorts illegal drugs and other controlled substances into “penalty groups.” Their classification is based on their perceived danger and abuse potential. Your charge and punishment depend heavily on which group the substance belongs to and how much was found.

A first DWI offense in Texas can lead to a jail sentence, fine, license suspension, and up to two years of probation.  We work to help first-time offenders avoid jail time and keep their records clean by making them eligible for expunctions or nondisclosures.

Penalties vary depending on the charge but can include lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and mandatory sex offender registration. Some convictions also carry a lifetime registration requirement. All of these penalties can severely impact your personal and professional life.

After your arrest, police may hold you in jail until you see a magistrate. The magistrate sets bond and explains the charges. You’ll have an initial court appearance shortly after. From there, your case may go to pretrial hearings or trial. Contact My Dallas Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights immediately.

After your arrest, you may be taken to jail, booked, and given a court date. Contact My Dallas Criminal Lawyer immediately so we can start building your defense. The earlier we’re involved, the better your chances of reduced charges or dismissal.

If you’re accused of violating probation, you’ll attend a hearing before a judge—often without a jury. You have the right to present evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine the probation officer. We fight to show compliance or explain violations in a way that avoids jail.

Intent matters in theft cases. If you accidentally left a store with unpaid items or were wrongly accused, we can present evidence to show you lacked criminal intent. This weakens the prosecution’s case and may lead to dropped charges.

False accusations do occur. We conduct a thorough investigation to uncover inconsistencies, false motives, or lack of evidence. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer fights aggressively to protect your future and reputation.

Prior convictions can increase penalties. For example, a Class B misdemeanor theft charge may be bumped up to a felony if you have prior theft convictions. We’ll review your record and look for ways to minimize the impact.

You can still be charged if the police claim you had “constructive possession”—meaning the drugs were near you and you had control or knowledge of them. However, proving actual possession can be difficult for the prosecution. We can challenge weak or circumstantial evidence and build a strong defense.

Juvenile courts in Texas handle cases involving minors up to age 17. Unlike adult court, the juvenile system emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment.

Do not talk to police or investigators without legal representation. Anything you say can and will be used against you—even innocent statements or explanations. Contact My Dallas Criminal Lawyer immediately at 214-764-5535 to protect your rights and begin building your defense.

If you’re arrested, remain silent and ask to speak to an attorney immediately. Don’t try to explain or talk your way out of the situation. What you say can be used against you. Call My Dallas Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights.

Possession means drugs were found on you or in your control. Distribution (or delivery) involves selling, sharing, or transporting drugs. Police may claim you had intent to distribute based on quantity, packaging, or paraphernalia. These charges carry much harsher penalties. We’ll investigate and push back on inflated accusations.

Theft involves unlawfully taking property. Burglary involves entering a building without permission to commit a crime (including theft). While both are property crimes, burglary carries more severe penalties.

Some drug convictions are eligible for record sealing (nondisclosure) or expungement, but only under specific conditions. A conviction could hurt your employment, education, and housing opportunities. That’s why My Dallas Criminal Lawyer fights to avoid conviction whenever possible.

Not necessarily. For example, Class C misdemeanors are punished by fines instead of jail time. Many misdemeanor theft cases result in probation or diversion. Jail is possible, but we’ll work to avoid that through early and strategic negotiation.

Not always. Some charges can be resolved without a court appearance, especially minor offenses and those for which we can negotiate a favorable outcome early on. However, for more serious cases, appearing in court may be necessary. Our team will guide you through each step and appear on your behalf whenever possible. Our goal is to reduce stress and disruption to your life while protecting your rights.

Most sex crime convictions in Texas require registration as a sex offender. The duration depends on the specific charge. Registration affects where you can live, work, and travel. Noncompliance is a separate criminal offense. It’s important to speak to a skilled Dallas sex crimes attorney to learn about your rights and responsibilities.

Not necessarily. Many juvenile records can be sealed, especially those for first-time, non-violent offenses. Sealing makes the record invisible to most employers, schools, and landlords. Our goal is to minimize long-term consequences and preserve the juvenile’s eligibility for record sealing.