San Marcos Criminal Defense Attorneys

Types of Cases Smith & Vinson Law Firm Handles

Texas classifies criminal offenses as either misdemeanors or felonies. The level is determined by the seriousness of the crime, with felonies making up the most severe offenses. Regardless of the level of charge a person is facing, they could be hit with significant penalties if found guilty. For instance, a conviction for a Class A misdemeanor can result in up to 1 year of incarceration and/or up to $1,000 in fines. A first-degree felony is punishable by a maximum of 99 years of imprisonment and/or a fine of not more than $10,000. Capital felonies can be penalized by life without parole or death.

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, retain legal representation right away. Building a case to seek to avoid or minimize penalties takes time. Our criminal lawyers in San Marcos, TX are ready to get started on your case and begin defending you against criminal accusations.

We provide vigorous defense for a range of criminal matters, including:

• DWI and BWI: Charges for these offenses arise when a person operates a motor vehicle or boat with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher or while normal faculties are impaired because of the consumption of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Domestic violence: A person may be accused of a domestic violence offense if they harm or threaten to harm a family or household member.
• Violent crimes: These offenses involve violent acts against another person, such as assault, armed robbery, battery, or murder.
• Theft crimes: If a person unlawfully appropriates another's property, they could be accused of a theft crime. The level of charge and punishments levied depend on the value of the property involved in the offense.
• Drug crimes: The Texas Health and Safety Code enumerates several different controlled substances offenses, including drug possession, possession of marijuana, drug manufacturing, and drug trafficking.
• Sex crimes: Sexually related offenses include, but are not limited to, prostitution, rape, possession of child pornography, and indecent exposure. They carry harsh penalties and may result in a requirement to register as a sex offender.
• Traffic offenses: Although many traffic violations may result in only a fine, that does not mean they are not serious. Accusations for offenses such as speeding or driving without a license must be aggressively defended.
• Weapons charges: In this country, we have the right to bear arms, but many laws and regulations exist concerning that right. A person may be charged with a weapons offense if they illegally possess a firearm, unlawfully sell a gun, improperly discharge a firearm, or use a deadly weapon while committing a crime, among other conduct.
• Juvenile crimes: Minors who engage in behaviors prohibited by law must still answer for the alleged offense. However, their cases are handled differently from adult criminal matters, and it is crucial to hire a defense attorney who understands the juvenile justice system.
• Probation violations: When a person is placed on probation, the court imposes various conditions on them. Failing to abide by these terms can result in sanctions, including revocation of probation.
• Parole defense: During parole hearings, the Board will decide whether an inmate is eligible for parole. A skilled attorney can provide counsel for the hearing and work to seek a favorable vote.
• Protective order defense: Generally, violating the conditions of a protective order is a misdemeanor, punishable by incarceration and/or fines. An experienced San Marcos criminal defense attorney can fight to protect their client's rights.

At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we know that every case is serious. That is why our hardworking San Marcos criminal defense attorneys are relentless in pursuing the best possible results for our clients.