McKinney Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you face criminal charges in McKinney, you are at the center of Collin County’s criminal justice system, literally. The Collin County Jail, the courthouse, and the District Attorney’s Office all sit in McKinney, and every criminal case in this county eventually runs through them. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer is led by Justin Barrett Wilson, a former Collin County prosecutor who tried cases in that McKinney courthouse for the State before spending more than a decade defending clients in the same courtrooms. We are in these courts week in and week out. Between Justin Wilson, Kristi Tyler, Kimberly Barclay Palmer, and Justin Harris, our team walks into that courthouse with 21 combined years as prosecutors and more than 300 trials behind us. Call 214-764-5535 for a free consultation.

Why Choose My Dallas Criminal Lawyer for Your Defense

You need a defense team that knows both the law and the building. Justin Wilson prosecuted at the Collin County courthouse in McKinney, where he served as the prosecutor assigned to a misdemeanor DWI/Drug Court, received special recognition as a misdemeanor court chief for training new prosecutors to take cases to trial, and rose to the felony division, where he was prosecuting serious felony cases before leaving to defend the accused in the same courtrooms. He also taught a section of the police academy training program on DWI investigations from a lawyer’s perspective. When we walk into a McKinney courtroom, we know how the prosecutors across the aisle build their cases, because Justin helped train prosecutors to build them.

Most arrests anywhere in Collin County end with booking at the Collin County Jail in McKinney, and magistration moves quickly. Getting a lawyer involved early shapes your bond, your conditions, and the first impressions that follow your case through the system. Every case starts with a free consultation where we evaluate the evidence and build a strategy for your situation.

Criminal Charges We Handle in McKinney

My Dallas Criminal Lawyer defends clients against a wide range of criminal charges in McKinney. No matter what you’re facing, we have the experience to help:

• DWI and DUI Defense
• Drug Crime Defense (possession, distribution, manufacturing)
• Assault and Violent Crime Defense
• Theft and Property Crime Defense
• Sex Crime Defense
• Juvenile Criminal Defense
• Weapons and Gun Charge Defense

Client Results and Case Outcomes

Results matter. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer has helped numerous clients facing criminal charges in McKinney achieve favorable outcomes. Our approach focuses on careful investigation, strategic negotiation, and effective trial defense when necessary. We work to minimize consequences, reduce charges when possible, and protect your rights throughout the process. View our case results and client testimonials to see how we’ve helped others in similar situations. Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances. We evaluate each case individually and develop a defense strategy designed to achieve the best possible result for your situation. When you work with My Dallas Criminal Lawyer, you work with attorneys who understand the Collin County court system and know how to handle it effectively. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case depends on its own facts and circumstances.

What Happens After an Arrest in McKinney

Understanding the criminal process reduces anxiety and helps you make better decisions. Here’s what typically happens after an arrest in McKinney:

Initial Arrest and Booking

After arrest, you’re taken to the McKinney Police Department or Collin County jail for booking. During this time, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercise both. Don’t answer questions without your lawyer present. We can often arrange to meet with you during booking to begin building your defense immediately. Note: For serious charges, you will likely be transferred to the County Jail.

First Appearance and Bail Hearing

Within 48 hours of arrest, you’ll appear before a magistrate for your first appearance. This is where bail or bond is set. The judge considers your ties to the community, employment, criminal history, and the severity of charges. A solid bail argument can make a real difference. You could stay home or sit in jail while your case proceeds. We fight for reasonable bail conditions so you can prepare your defense from home.

Building Your Defense Strategy

Once bail is set, we begin investigating. We review police reports, interview witnesses, examine evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We may file motions to suppress evidence, challenge search procedures, or negotiate with prosecutors. Every case is different, and your defense strategy reflects that reality.

How My Dallas Criminal Lawyer Builds Your Defense

A strong criminal defense doesn’t happen by accident. It starts with careful investigation and continues through every stage of your case. Here’s how we work:

• We review every detail of your arrest and the evidence against you
• We examine police reports for procedural errors and challenge illegal searches
• We identify inconsistencies in witness statements
• We interview witnesses and gather evidence in your favor
• We consult with experts when necessary

Next, we evaluate your options. Should we negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or a favorable plea deal? Should we file motions to suppress evidence? Or, should we prepare for a trial? We discuss each option with you and recommend the path most likely to achieve the best outcome for your situation. Throughout this process, we communicate with you regularly. You’ll know what’s happening in your case, what we’re doing to help, and what comes next. We answer your questions honestly and prepare you for every stage of the criminal defense process.

McKinney Court System and Local Procedures

McKinney criminal cases are handled in Collin County courts. Understanding the local system gives you an advantage. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer has extensive experience in these courts and knows the judges, prosecutors, and procedures that affect your case. Collin County has multiple district courts handling felony cases and County Courts at Law handling misdemeanors. Each court has its own procedures, judges with different approaches, and prosecutors with different priorities. We know these differences and use them to your advantage. We understand local prosecution patterns, which charges prosecutors typically pursue aggressively and which they’re willing to negotiate. This local knowledge directly impacts your defense strategy and the outcome of your case.

How Collin County Courts Actually Work

The courts that will decide your McKinney case are the ones we write about from first-hand experience. Start with Defending a Criminal Case in Collin County, then see our deep dives on DWI in Collin County, assault family violence in Collin versus Denton County, and ignition interlock requirements. For our full county practice, see our Collin County criminal defense lawyer page.

Recent Results in McKinney Criminal Cases

These outcomes came from cases that began with a McKinney Police Department arrest. McKinney is the Collin County seat, so these cases were prosecuted in the county courts just up the road from where the arrests happened. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

• Robbery (second-degree felony), McKinney PD arrest: robbery dismissed, and the refiled assault dismissed as well. The State charged our young client under the law of parties alongside co-defendants. We persuaded the felony prosecutor that the law of parties should not hold him accountable for the robbery. The State then refiled the case as a Class A assault, planning to reduce it to a Class C, but we raised a problem the misdemeanor court would not overlook: Class C assault is not a true lesser included offense of Class A assault, and the judge would not accept that reduction. The assault was dismissed too, and the client is eligible to expunge the arrest and move forward with a clean record.
• Assault Family Violence, McKinney PD arrest: case dismissed
• Assault Family Violence (Impeding Breath), McKinney PD arrest: no-billed by the grand jury
• Sexual Assault of a Child, McKinney PD arrest: case dismissed
• Resisting Arrest and Criminal Trespass, McKinney PD arrests: both cases dismissed

What McKinney Clients Say About Our Criminal Defense Attorneys

The reviews below were posted by our clients on Google. Each one links to the original so you can verify it for yourself.

“I am so glad that I went through My Dallas Criminal Lawyer for my legal needs!! Kimberly Palmer went above and beyond to ensure my situation was handled in such a way that I could accept accountability for my actions, but still be left with my dignity. Because of her work, I have a newfound respect for the justice system, and I highly recommend this firm to anyone who has reservations of hiring legal counsel during a trying time. You are not just a dollar sign with this law firm, you are a human being!!”

Tiana B., Google review

“I cannot recommend Justin Harris at My Dallas Criminal Lawyer highly enough. From our first consultation, Justin demonstrated a deep understanding of criminal law and a real commitment to protecting my rights. He was clear, honest, and always kept me informed throughout the process. What stood out most was his strategic approach and calm demeanor. He explained all of my options clearly, never sugarcoated things, and ultimately helped me get a result that exceeded my expectations. It’s clear he has strong relationships in the Dallas legal community and knows how to navigate the system effectively. If you’re facing criminal charges and need a lawyer who is sharp, responsive, and truly on your side, Justin Harris is the attorney to call. Worth every penny.”

Kait T, Google review

“This law firm did an outstanding job for me. From start to finish, they were professional, knowledgeable, and supportive. They delivered exactly what they promised, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs legal help.”

Kamran V., Google review

“Justin Harris was an exceptional lawyer- he is hardworking and dedicated and will reach your needs and more. He was reliable and professional in every way. He makes sure that you are not only heard but seen. When working with Justin- it gave me strong trust that he cared and that he is a man of his word. I trust Justin for any legal related questions and he certainly delivers. I recommend him 100% as he is committed to you from start to end- no matter the situation.”

Lybbie, Google review

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact My Dallas Criminal Lawyer for Your Free Consultation

Don’t face criminal charges alone. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer provides experienced criminal defense representation in McKinney and throughout Collin County. We offer free consultations to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and explain your options. Call 214-764-5535 today. We’re available 24/7 to take your call. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and building your defense. Book your consultation online or visit our contact page to reach us. You can also reach us online through our contact form or visit our McKinney office to meet with our team in person. Whatever your criminal charges, we’re ready to fight for you to get the justice you deserve.

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