Criminal Defense Lawyer in Stafford

Whether you’re facing drug charges or a federal criminal charge, you’re likely worried for your future. Our Stafford criminal defense lawyers are here to help.

At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson, we have over 100 years of combined experience that we bring to every case we take on. We will fight to protect your future and your freedom. 

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation about your case. 

What Penalties Do You Face for Criminal Charges in Stafford?

Texas takes criminal cases seriously, and you may face jail time or fines. The amount of each depends on whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. 

Misdemeanor Penalties

Misdemeanors are serious crimes, but the penalties are typically less than those of felonies.

If your crime is charged as a misdemeanor, you may face:

• Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail. Up to $4,000 in fines.
• Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail. Up to $2,000 in fines.
• Class C misdemeanor: Up to a $500 fine.

Felony Penalties

Felonies have severe penalties in Texas.

If your crime is charged as a felony, you may face:

• First degree felony: Imprisonment of five to 99 years or life in prison. Up to a $10,000 fine. 
• Second degree felony: Imprisonment of two to twenty years. Up to a $10,000 fine.
• Third degree felony: Imprisonment of two to ten years. Up to a $10,000 fine.
• State jail felony: Imprisonment of between 180 days and two years. Up to a $10,000 fine.
• Capital felony: Imprisonment for life without the chance of parole. Possibility of the death penalty.

Additional Consequences of a Criminal Conviction

In addition to jail time and fines, you’ll also face impacts to your day-to-day life.

These can include:

• Probation
• Loss of professional licenses
• Impacts on jobs, housing, and immigration status
• Restitution
• Damaged reputation

What Types of Cases Can Our Stafford Criminal Defense Attorneys Handle?

We can represent you in a wide variety of criminal cases, including:

• Stafford drug crimes lawyers: We aim to protect your future.
• Stafford sex crimes lawyers: We will build a strategic defense for your case.
• Stafford federal crimes lawyers: Federal charges are life-altering, but we’ll fight in your defense.
• Stafford DWI lawyers: Whether you’re facing a loss of your driver’s license or jail time, we’ll advocate for lesser penalties.
• Stafford white collar crimes lawyers: We’ll fight to protect your freedom and your professional reputation.

If you are facing criminal charges, reach out to our legal team today.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Tad Nelson for Your Case?

When you’re facing criminal charges, you need a defense team with experience. At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson, we have over 30 years of courtroom experience, including over 500 jury trials. Our case results speak for themselves.

We’ll build a defense that is tailored to your case, investigating and gathering evidence to support you. We will handle everything in the legal process, including representing you in court. When necessary, we will advocate for a lesser charge or sentence.

You can read testimonials from previous clients to learn more about how we’ve helped others.

What Evidence Can Be Used Against You in Criminal Cases?

The evidence used against you will depend on the specifics of your case and the prosecutor’s investigation. Some common types of evidence include:

• Witness testimonies
• Medical records, including blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests
• Physical evidence, including fingerprints
• Financial records, including bank transactions
• Digital records, including e-mail and text messages
• Phone records
• Video footage and photographs
• Expert testimony
• Your own admissions, including anything you say during arrest and questioning

We will gather our own evidence and push back against the evidence used against you.

What Are Common Defenses Against Criminal Charges?

Some common defenses against criminal charges include:

• Mistaken identity: Especially in cases that hinge on eyewitness testimony
• Violation of rights: For example, if evidence was gathered in an unlawful search and seizure or the officer did not have probable cause for an arrest
• Lack of evidence: If the prosecution lacks strong evidence for a conviction
• Lack of intent: If you did not knowingly or intentionally commit the crime
• Duress: If you committed the crime while under threat
• Self-defense: If you were defending yourself or others

We will build our defense strategy carefully and tailor it to the specific circumstances of your case.

What Should You Do if You Are Arrested in Stafford?

If you are arrested, it’s essential not to panic.

You should:

• Remain calm and be respectful towards arresting officers.
• Avoid resisting arrest.
• Avoid trying to explain your side of the story.
• Ask to speak with a criminal defense attorney in Stafford.
• Invoke your right to remain silent.
• Cooperate with booking procedures.
• Follow the legal advice of your lawyer.
• Avoid breaking any restrictions placed on you by the court.
• Avoid attempting to destroy evidence, such as erasing computer files.

The actions you take following your arrest can have a significant impact on your case. Talk to your lawyer about the next steps you should take.

Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Stafford Today

If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in Stafford, stay calm and let us help you. At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson, we’ve served over 20,000 clients. We offer compassionate and empathetic legal services.

Criminal charges are stressful, but you don’t have to build a defense by yourself. Reach out today to schedule a free initial consultation about your case. We will discuss your legal options, next steps, and our fees.