Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fresno

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, the outcome of your case can affect every aspect of your life. A Fresno criminal defense lawyer can help protect your future.

The Law Offices of Tad Nelson has been defending clients like you since 1994. If you are facing criminal charges, a criminal defense lawyer in Fresno can help you build a strong defense and advocate for you throughout the legal process.

The Role of a Fresno Criminal Defense Lawyer

A criminal defense attorney in Fresno can assist with every aspect of your case.

Specifically, an attorney can help by:

• Investigating the allegations: We can review police reports, interview witnesses, and analyze other types of evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Protecting your rights: We can challenge unlawful searches, illegal traffic stops, coerced confessions, and other violations of your constitutional rights.
• Handling communication with prosecutors: We can negotiate with prosecutors regarding plea agreements, reduced charges, or sentencing alternatives.
• Developing your defense: We can help you build a strong defense strategy based on the facts of your case and available evidence.
• Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, we can appear at hearings, argue motions, question witnesses, and present evidence.

Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle

Our firm handles a variety of criminal cases in Fresno.

We can help if you need a:

• Fresno DWI Lawyer: In Texas, DWI charges can result in jail time, license suspension, substantial fines, and increased insurance premiums. We can challenge the evidence presented by prosecutors and help minimize the penalties of your arrest.
• Fresno Assault Lawyer: Assault allegations can have serious repercussions. We can investigate the incident, review witness statements, and help you develop a strong defense.
• Fresno Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer: Federal criminal cases often involve aggressive prosecution by agencies such as the FBI or DEA. We can represent you during plea negotiations and courtroom proceedings and help you achieve the best possible result for your case.
• Fresno White Collar Crime Lawyer: White collar crime cases typically involve accusations of fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, or other financial offenses. We can analyze financial records, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and, if necessary, defend you in court.
• Fresno Sex Crimes Lawyer: Sex crime accusations can have long-term consequences that affect your employment, housing, and personal reputation. We can identify inconsistencies in the allegations and build a defense aimed at protecting your future.
• Fresno Murder Lawyer: Murder charges are among the most serious under Texas law. We can conduct a detailed investigation into your case and prepare an aggressive defense strategy.

What Happens After an Arrest in Texas?

While every case is different, you can typically expect these steps if you are arrested in Fresno:

1. Booking and processing: After your arrest, you may be taken to jail for fingerprinting, photographs, and processing. Law enforcement officers will also collect your personal information and record the alleged offense.
2. Bond hearing: A judge may decide whether you can be released before trial and how much bail you must pay. The court will consider factors such as the seriousness of the charge, your criminal history, and whether you are considered a flight risk.
3. Formal charges: Prosecutors will review the evidence and determine what criminal charges to file against you. In some situations, your charges may be reduced, increased, or dismissed after additional review.
4. Arraignment or initial appearance: During your first court appearance, you will learn the charges against you and enter a plea.
5. Pretrial proceedings: During this stage, your attorney and prosecutors may exchange evidence, file motions, and negotiate possible plea agreements.
6. Trial: If your case is not resolved through a plea agreement or dismissal, it may proceed to trial.

Penalties for a Criminal Conviction in Texas

The penalties for a criminal conviction in Texas can vary depending on the type of offense, whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony, and whether you have prior convictions. 

Potential penalties may include:

• Jail or prison time: Misdemeanor convictions may result in up to one year in county jail, while felony convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences.
• Fines: Texas courts may impose substantial financial penalties, with some felony fines reaching up to $10,000 or more.
• Probation: Instead of incarceration, you may be placed on community supervision with strict conditions such as regular check-ins, curfews, and travel restrictions.
• Driver’s license suspension: Certain offenses may lead to the suspension of your driving privileges.
• Community service requirements: Courts may order you to complete a specific number of community service hours.
• Mandatory counseling or treatment programs: Some convictions require participation in alcohol treatment, anger management, drug rehabilitation, or other court-approved programs.
• Protective orders or firearm restrictions: Domestic violence convictions and some felony offenses may limit your ability to possess firearms or contact certain individuals.

A conviction can also appear on background checks and affect your employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licenses, and educational opportunities.

What to Do if You Are Charged

The steps you take after being charged with a crime can impact the outcome of your case.

With that in mind, be sure to:

• Remain silent: You have the right to decline to answer questions from police investigators or prosecutors. Any statements you make after your arrest may later be used against you in court.
• Follow all court orders: Missing court appearances or violating your bond conditions can result in additional criminal charges or even the revocation of your bond.
• Avoid discussing the case publicly: Do not post about your arrest or charges on social media, and avoid discussing the details of the case with friends or coworkers.
• Preserve evidence: Save any text messages, emails, photographs, surveillance footage, receipts, or other records that may support your defense.
• Avoid contact with alleged victims or witnesses: In some cases, contacting certain individuals may violate court orders or create additional legal problems.
• Hire a criminal defense lawyer: Our lawyers can protect your rights, preserve important evidence, and help you fight the charges against you.

Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney in Fresno

Waiting too long to respond to criminal charges can seriously weaken your defense. If you have been charged with a crime in Fresno, a dedicated Fresno criminal defense attorney from Tad Nelson Law Office can assess your case, collect evidence that supports your defense, and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Book a free consultation to start building your defense.