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Experienced Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys

Let Us Fight for Your Rights! Defending the Accused in Travis County & Throughout Central Texas.

When accused of a crime, you need an Austin criminal defense lawyer to protect your interests. You have constitutional rights and the criminal justice system offers numerous protections, but you will not experience these to the fullest extent unless you have a skilled criminal defense attorney in Austin in your corner.

Smith & Vinson Law Firm stands prepared to deliver the aggressive defense counsel you need in the face of an arrest or criminal charges, whether you are accused of a misdemeanor or felony. Our firm handles a wide variety of criminal defense cases, including but not limited to drug crimes, domestic violence, sex crimes, theft crimes, violent crimes, and more.

To speak to a criminal defense attorney in Austin, contact us online or call (512) 359-3743 today. We offer 100% free consultations.

Why Choose Our Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers?

At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we fight for our clients, protecting their rights from the moment we become involved in their cases. Our Austin criminal defense attorneys, Jarrod Smith and Brad Vinson , are relentless, hardworking, and dedicated to achieving the best possible results in every situation they take on. When you come to our criminal lawyers in Austin, you will find that we listen to you and never accept what the prosecutor says at face value. We seek the truth.

Not Guilty Sexual Abuse
One Count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Minor; Three Counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Minor; Two Counts of Indecency of a Minor by Contact/Exposure
Case Dismissed Assault Family Violence
Our client was charged with Assault Family Violence after an altercation with his girlfriend, who sustained a concussion and bite marks on her nose. Our investigation revealed that the girlfriend initiated the fight by pushing and biting our client.
Not Guilty DWI .24 Blood Warrant
Our client, an older male working professional, was stopped for a traffic violation while leaving downtown Round Rock. A major issue arose with the blood analysis conducted by a DPS analyst who had a prior disciplinary history.
Case Dismissed Possession of Controlled Substance
Our client picked up a prostitute and was later pulled over for failing to signal. The police let the woman go, but found cocaine in the car on the passenger side and charged our client with possession of a controlled substance.
Case Dismissed Theft
Our client was allegedly caught shoplifting at an HEB. She had no prior arrest history, so we worked with her on proactively taking classes, which were used to her advantage during our negotiations. The client accepted a deferred adjudication on the shoplifting offense, which was ultimately dismissed.
Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon
Our client was charged with felony Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon for allegedly pulling a boxcutter out during an altercation with another man. Our client had no prior contact with law enforcement. We thoroughly investigated the other party, and found that he had a history of violence and assault.

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Protect Your Future, Defend Your Rights Get the Strong Legal Defense You Deserve

If you're facing criminal charges—whether for a DUI, drug offense, or serious felony—you don’t have to face it alone. Our firm fights to protect your record, your rights, and your freedom.

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Put Your Trust In Us

Outstanding service from start to finish!!
“I can't thank this firm enough! Brad Vinson is a top-notch attorney who fights relentlessly to get cases dismissed. His dedication and expertise truly set him apart.”

- Iayni M.
It’s clear they care about the people they work with, not just the legal outcome.
“I’ve worked with a few law offices over the years, but Smith and Vinson made the biggest impression. From the first time I heard and met with them, they were professional, kind, and genuinely attentive.”

- Thomas A.
Smith and Vinson were incredibly helpful when I needed legal advice.
“They didn’t waste time, explained everything clearly, and were super prepared. If you need a criminal defense lawyer in Austin, this is a firm you can trust!”

- Keira C.
They exceeded all my expectations with their professionalism, compassion, and dedication.
“The entire staff was incredibly helpful, responsive, and made me feel supported every step of the way. I’m truly grateful for their expertise and care, they made a stressful situation so much easier to navigate.”

- Cielo J. R.
This law firm is top notch!
“Very dedicated & professional! I always knew where things stood in my case at ALL TIMES and I received the outcome that I needed nobody is going to fight harder for you! Thanks again Charlie Falck and Annie Mann you guys are genuinely the best :)”

- Taylor T.
My experience with this law firm was fantastic
“From the first call to the last, they stayed in communication with me and let me know every step of the way. The attorneys at this office and the support staff got my case dismissed with no problems. If you find yourself in a situation, I highly recommend calling this firm.!”

- Lyndsey O.
The level of professionalism, expertise, and care I received was spectacular.
“From our very first consultation, Charlie took the time to truly understand my situation, explain my options clearly, and guide me every step of the way. I highly recommend him and his staff.”

- Didi C.
If you’re in Travis County and facing charges, I’d absolutely recommend giving this firm a call.
“Brad really takes the time to get to know your situation. He was sharp, respectful, and didn’t sugarcoat anything.”

- Kayla S.
Great defense lawyers.
“Very professional and efficient throughout my entire case. They took my situation seriously, explained every step, and made sure I felt supported. You can tell they’ve handled serious cases in Travis County before.”

- Destiny E.

Read Our Client's Stories

Winning Your Case Matters

When it comes to criminal law, the outcome of your situation profoundly impacts the rest of your life. For that reason, our Austin criminal defense attorneys are committed to fighting relentlessly for you. We always seek a favorable outcome to minimize the effects of a conviction. We approach all criminal matters with determination, considering that the outcome could completely change your life. Thorough preparation and a well-crafted defense strategy are crucial in pursuing justice effectively.

When you choose Smith & Vinson Law Firm, you retain relentless advocates willing to do everything it takes to protect your freedom and constitutional rights. No strangers to the courtroom, our fearlessness during trial has helped us obtain ideal results even in the most difficult and complex cases.

We handle cases in Travis County, Williamson County, and Hays County, including Austin, Georgetown, San Marcos, Round Rock, Temple, Cedar Park, and beyond. Our defense lawyers in Austin provide access to quality, insightful legal defense throughout Central Texas.

Tell your side of the story to our defense lawyers in Austin. Request your free, confidential consultation by calling (512) 359-3743 or contacting us online.

Will I Have to Go to Court for a Criminal Trial?

Whether you will have to go to court for a criminal trial depends on several factors, including the nature of the charges, the strength of the evidence, and your legal strategy. In Austin, as in other jurisdictions, not every criminal case ends up in a courtroom. Many are resolved through plea bargains, dismissals, or alternative resolutions.

When facing criminal charges, your defense attorney's first priority will be to thoroughly investigate the situation and evaluate the evidence against you. This includes scrutinizing police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant materials. Your attorney will use this information to build a strong defense and determine the best course of action. If the evidence against you is weak or if there are significant legal issues with the case, your attorney might be able to get the charges dismissed or reduced without the need for a trial.

Plea bargaining is another common resolution in criminal cases. A plea bargain involves negotiating with the prosecutor to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence or other concessions. This can be an attractive option if the risk of a harsh penalty at trial is high. Your defense lawyer will advise you on whether a plea bargain is in your best interest and will negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.

However, if a favorable resolution cannot be reached through dismissal or plea bargaining, you may need to go to court for a trial. During the trial, your criminal defense attorney will present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make legal arguments to defend you against the charges. Going to trial can be a lengthy and stressful process, but it is sometimes necessary to achieve justice. Thorough trial preparation can ensure you are fully ready to present your defense.

Cases We Take

Advantages of Hiring Our Austin Criminal Attorneys

Backed by Legal Experience: We have a deep understanding of local, state, and federal laws and the criminal justice system. We possess the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to felonies.
Your Own Advocate: Our team will work diligently to safeguard your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. We fight to ensure you are treated fairly, that proper procedures are followed, and that any evidence against you is lawfully obtained.
Thorough Case Evaluation & Strategy Development: We can evaluate your case, examining the evidence, witness statements, and legal precedents to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case against you. Based on this evaluation, we can develop an effective defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances, aiming to minimize the potential consequences or even get the criminal charges dismissed.
Powerful Negotiation Skills: Our Austin criminal law firm can engage with the prosecution to negotiate plea bargains or reduced charges if appropriate and in your best interest.
Competent Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to trial, having a competent defense lawyer is crucial. Our team will advocate for you in the courtroom, presenting your defense, cross-examining witnesses, and challenging the prosecution's case.
Mitigation of Consequences: In the event of a conviction, our firm can work to mitigate the potential consequences. We may argue for reduced sentencing, alternative sentencing options, or rehabilitation programs to help you get your life back on track. Our focus is on finding strategies that serve your long-term interests.
Emotional Support: Being accused of a crime can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Our Austin defense lawyers provide the emotional support you need during this challenging time. We can offer guidance, reassurance, and a compassionate ear, helping you navigate the legal process with confidence and peace of mind.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Facing Criminal Charges in Austin

When facing criminal charges, the steps you take in the aftermath can significantly impact the outcome of your situation. Every decision made during this critical period can influence the direction and strength of your defense.

Here are common mistakes that individuals often make, costly errors that a defense attorney can help you avoid:

Not Taking the Charges Seriously: One of the gravest mistakes is underestimating the severity of the charges. Neglecting to understand the potential consequences can lead to insufficient preparation and defense.
Speaking Without a Defense Attorney Present: Many individuals mistakenly believe they can "talk their way out" of charges. However, anything you say can be used against you in court. Always consult an Austin criminal defense attorney before speaking to law enforcement or prosecutors. Protect your rights by getting legal guidance early.
Consenting to Searches Without a Warrant: Without a warrant or your consent, law enforcement typically cannot search your property. Giving consent can provide them with evidence against you. It's crucial to know your rights. Think carefully before agreeing to a search or giving statements.
Choosing the Wrong Lawyer: Not every lawyer is equipped to handle every type of criminal case. Selecting a defense attorney without experience in the specific area of law related to your charges can be a critical mistake. Spend your time researching so that you can find and choose an experienced Austin criminal defense attorney with experience in similar situations. Consider their background in handling comparable cases.
Ignoring Court Orders or Bail Conditions: Failing to comply with court orders or conditions of bail can worsen your situation, leading to additional charges or penalties. Adherence demonstrates respect for the court and can positively influence your legal outcome. Following guidelines diligently can help in your defense efforts.
Delaying Legal Representation: Waiting too long to hire a defense attorney can disadvantage your case. Early intervention by an Austin criminal defense lawyer can lead to a stronger defense strategy, including preserving evidence and witness testimony that might be favorable to you. Early legal consultation is crucial for a strategic and informed defense.
Attempting to Represent Yourself: Representing yourself in a criminal case is risky. Defense attorneys understand legal procedures, rules of evidence, and courtroom strategy much better than the average person. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can negotiate on your behalf and may significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Avoiding these mistakes can make a significant difference in the resolution of your situation. Finding a trusted criminal defense attorney early on can mean that you benefit from the guidance and advocacy you need to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system successfully.

Your Trial Lawyers

Fearless Defense
When your freedom is at stake, hesitation is not an option. Our attorneys prepare every case as if it will go to trial, giving you the strongest position whether in the courtroom or at the negotiating table. We don't back down when prosecutors push — we push back harder.
Straightforward Support
You deserve to know exactly where your case stands. We provide straightforward communication and honest assessments of your situation. No sugar-coating, no false promises — just clear direction on what you're facing and how we plan to fight it.
Personalized Advocacy
Your case is unique, and your defense strategy should be too. We develop our approach based on your specific circumstances, the details of your case, and your personal goals. Cookie-cutter defenses don't win cases, but tailored strategies often do.

Fearless Defense
Straightforward Support
Personalized Advocacy

Defense Attorneys in Austin Committed to Fighting for You

Our defense attorneys in Austin fight for those facing serious legal challenges in Travis County and throughout the state of Texas. When we take on a new client, our legal team conducts our own investigations, questions witnesses thoroughly, and strives to create the most compelling defense for our client's case. Our commitment extends beyond the courtroom as we guide you through each step of the legal process, ensuring you are informed and empowered about your rights and options. Our Austin criminal attorneys fight to ensure your fair treatment under applicable laws through a deep understanding of Texas laws and the legal rights it affords defendants. You don't have to feel overwhelmed by criminal charges in Texas. Contact our criminal attorneys in Austin today to start building your defense!

To speak to an experienced Austin criminal defense attorney, call (512) 359-3743 or contact us online!

In Texas, it may be possible to have your assault charge expunged, but this depends on various factors, including the specifics of your case and the outcome of your trial. If you were acquitted or the case was dismissed, you might qualify for expungement. However, if you were convicted, your options may be limited, and it’s best to consult with an attorney for guidance on your eligibility.
In Texas, simple assault is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in penalties including up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000. If the assault involves threats or minor bodily injury, it could also be charged as a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a fine of up to $500.
In the Texas Penal Code, assault and battery offenses are often combined under the term "assault," with varying degrees of severity based on factors such as the extent of harm inflicted and the presence of weapons. It's important to note that legal definitions and consequences may evolve, so it is advisable to consult an experienced Austin assault lawyer.

Life Changed, Your Outcome Can Too

Injury Or Charge, Take Control Now

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