Criminal Defense Attorney in Tyler, TX

I’ve handled a wide range of criminal cases across East Texas, from DWIs and drug charges to assault, theft, and serious felony offenses. Having spent years in local courts, I understand how prosecutors think and how to build a defense that challenges their strategy. Every case is different, but experience gives me the ability to anticipate what’s coming and stay ahead.

That depends on the facts. Sometimes the best strategy is to challenge how evidence was obtained, whether a traffic stop or search was legal, or whether the state can even prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. In other situations, it’s about highlighting your character, the context of what happened, or procedural mistakes by law enforcement. The goal is always the same, to find the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage.

No lawyer can promise a specific result, but I can help you understand the realistic range of outcomes. That means looking at what could happen if the case goes well, such as dismissal, reduction, or deferred adjudication, and what the maximum penalties might be if convicted. Being honest about both sides helps you make clear, informed decisions.

A prior record can influence how prosecutors and judges handle your case, especially during plea negotiations or sentencing. But it’s not always a deal-breaker. In many cases, we can present mitigating factors, like evidence of rehabilitation, lack of recent offenses, or inconsistencies in the state’s evidence, to lessen the impact of your history on the final outcome.

Yes. When you hire me, you get me, not an associate, not a junior attorney. I personally handle your defense, from the first consultation to the final outcome. You deserve an attorney who’s fully engaged and accountable for your case.

Communication is key to a strong defense. You’ll get updates on every major development and honest answers whenever you have questions. I’m available by phone, email, or in person, whichever works best for you. You’ll never be left wondering what’s going on with your case.

The length of a case depends on several factors, the type of charge, how complex the evidence is, and the court’s schedule. Some cases resolve quickly, while others take several months. During your consultation, I’ll give you a general idea of the timeline based on your situation and keep you updated along the way.

Yes, many cases are resolved through plea agreements or other negotiated outcomes that avoid the risk of trial. Whether that’s the right path depends on the evidence, your goals, and the likelihood of success in court. I’ll walk you through all your options so you can make a decision that protects your best interests.

I’ve tried many cases in front of juries, including serious felony and complex criminal trials. Trial work requires preparation, confidence, and the ability to think quickly when the stakes are high. If your case needs to go to trial, you’ll have someone who’s been there before and knows how to fight effectively in that setting.

Always. The final decision is yours. My role is to make sure you understand every option, the risks, the benefits, and the possible outcomes, so you can choose the path that feels right for you. You’ll never be pressured to take a deal you don’t believe in.

The most important thing you can do is stay calm and say nothing. You are legally allowed to remain silent, use that right. Anything you say, even casually, can be used against you later.
Ask for a lawyer immediately and don’t answer police questions until your attorney is present. If you contact me early, I can start protecting your rights before things spiral — including helping with bail, talking to investigators, and preventing you from saying or signing something that hurts your case.

Yes. Innocent people get charged, and sometimes even convicted, because they assumed the truth would speak for itself. The legal system doesn’t work that way. Without a defense lawyer, your side of the story may never be properly told or backed by evidence.
An attorney ensures your rights are protected, challenges weak or misleading evidence, and prevents prosecutors from taking advantage of your lack of legal experience.

Yes, it happens often, but it depends on the facts. Charges can be dropped if evidence is weak, if your rights were violated (like during a search or arrest), or if witnesses or police reports conflict.
A strong defense strategy starts with reviewing every detail of the arrest and investigation. If there’s a legal reason to get your case dismissed early, I’ll find it and push hard for it.

No. Police officers often sound friendly when they say that, but remember, their job is to build a case, not clear your name. Even a small, honest mistake in your wording can be twisted against you later.
Always say, “I’m happy to cooperate, but I’d like to speak with my lawyer first.” Once I’m involved, I can control the conversation to protect you instead of the prosecution.

At your first court date (called an arraignment), the judge will tell you the charges and ask for your plea, guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is where representation matters.
I’ll make sure your rights are respected, enter the appropriate plea, and start building leverage for your case — whether that means pushing for a dismissal, negotiating bond terms, or preparing for trial.

Not necessarily. Most criminal cases are resolved without a trial through negotiation, dismissal, or plea agreements.
That said, if the state won’t offer a fair deal, or if you want to clear your name, I’m ready to take your case to trial. The key is having a lawyer who’s comfortable in both situations, negotiating effectively and winning in court.

Yes, DWIs can be beaten, but not by luck. These cases often rely on technical evidence like breath or blood tests, field sobriety results, or dashcam footage. Those are all things that can be challenged.
I review every step: Was the stop legal? Was the test handled correctly? Was the machine calibrated? Even one mistake can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal.

Not necessarily. Prior convictions can make prosecutors push harder, but they don’t decide your future.
Judges care about context, how long ago the previous offense was, what’s changed since, and what kind of charge you’re facing now. I focus on showing your progress, your circumstances, and why you deserve another chance instead of another sentence.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some misdemeanors wrap up in a few weeks, while serious felonies can take months.
What matters is staying proactive. The sooner we start working, the more control we have over the timeline, whether that’s speeding up a dismissal or slowing things down to investigate properly. My job is to keep the process moving while protecting your best interests.

You still have options. The court can appoint a public defender if you qualify, but public defenders often have heavy caseloads. If you’re considering private representation, I can explain my flat-rate structure during a free consultation so you understand exactly what’s covered.
Good defense isn’t about money, it’s about strategy, timing, and communication.

Only if it truly benefits you. Plea deals can reduce risk, but they also create permanent criminal records. Before accepting anything, we’ll analyze whether the state’s evidence is strong or if you’re being pressured to settle.
I’ll explain every consequence clearly, including long-term effects on employment, licenses, and background checks, so you can make a smart, informed decision.

Talk too much, especially online. Don’t post, text, or message anyone about your case. Don’t discuss details with friends or family unless your lawyer is present.
One wrong word or social media post can be used as evidence. The best thing you can do right now is get legal advice before you say or do anything else.

In many cases, yes. Texas law allows some criminal records to be expunged (erased) or sealed (hidden from public view). It depends on the type of charge and how it was resolved.
If you’re eligible, I can guide you through the process so this charge doesn’t follow you for life.

You’ll always know where your case stands. I communicate directly, by phone, text, or email, and explain what each court date means, what comes next, and what your options are at every step.
My goal is to make sure you never feel lost or confused about your defense.

Get legal help early. The first few days after an arrest are when the biggest mistakes happen, people talk, sign things, or miss deadlines that could’ve helped their case.
Even if you’re unsure whether you’ll be charged, getting a lawyer involved immediately can protect you before the prosecution gains an advantage.