Beaumont Criminal Defense Lawyer

Beaumont Criminal Defense Attorney

When you find yourself facing criminal charges, such as felony, misdemeanor or DWI charges, it can be a scary situation. Even minor criminal charges can follow you around for a long time, limiting your employment options and disrupting your life. More severe charges can lead to expensive fines and time behind bars. No one wants to suffer such consequences if they don’t have to. If you face criminal charges, you deserve the help of a skilled and knowledgeable Beaumont criminal defense lawyer.

At Renick Law Firm, PLLC, we help our clients defend themselves against criminal accusations. We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach, as we understand that the circumstances of each case are unique. Therefore, we take time to not only get to know our clients but also to understand the charges against them. We can carry out a thorough investigation to build the right defense strategy. While we work toward acquittal, we can also attempt to have charges reduced or dropped.

Defending Against Felony Charges

A felony is considered the most serious type of crime, and conviction of a felony typically results in heavy fines and imprisonment. Felonies can vary in severity, and the punishment that comes from conviction varies accordingly. Robbery, drug crimes, assault, DWI – these are just a few of the types of crimes that can result in a felony conviction.

If you are facing felony charges, it is extremely important that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney if you want to avoid the worst of what the court can throw at you. With a good lawyer, you may be able to get your charges reduced, which will result in less damage to your life. The last thing you want to do when facing felony charges is to ignore the situation. Believe me when I say these issues are not going to go away on their own.

Fighting Against Misdemeanor Charges

In Beaumont, Texas, a misdemeanor is a crime punishable by up to one year in local or county jail. Misdemeanors are categorized as Class A, B or C. However, don’t let the class of misdemeanor fool you into complacency; there is no such thing as a minor criminal charge.

Any criminal conviction can have life-altering consequences. Having experienced legal counsel is a must. In Beaumont and surrounding communities, you can turn to us for attentive service and tenacious representation.

Types of Cases that We Handle

Our team can help with a variety of criminal cases. Types of cases we handle include:

• DWI. In Texas, a DWI charge includes any operation of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. A driver’s blood alcohol content cannot be .08% or higher. It can also include operating a vehicle while impaired from controlled or prescription substances that could put other drivers or yourself at risk. Penalties can include fines, jail time, the suspension of your license, and more.
• Probation and parole violations. When you are on parole or under probation, one misstep is all it takes to lose your freedom a second time. If you have received a notice to appear as a result of allegations that you have violated your parole, it is vital that you seek our help. Violations of probation or parole could carry significant penalties, including jail time, fines, and other consequences.
• Theft. Theft can be a wide-ranging charge, depending on the circumstances involved and whether there are any mitigating factors. An accusation alone can have significant impacts, but if you are convicted, your criminal record could carry significant repercussions for your future.
• Battery. Battery is often associated with crimes of assault, but the two offenses differ in nature. Battery charges involve physical violence. Depending on the severity of the crime or whether there are any aggravating factors, such as the involvement of a deadly weapon, the penalties could include a short stint in jail or time in prison.

These are just a few of the types of cases that our team can help clients with. No matter what type of criminal charges you may be facing, you deserve an attorney who can help build the defense strategy you need.

How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer

There are many options available when looking for a criminal defense lawyer, and the right one for you can depend on a variety of factors. Here are a few questions that can help you identify the ideal attorney.

• Do you have experience with cases similar to mine?
• What is your fee structure, and what costs could I expect?
• What communication style should I expect from you?
• Will you be handling my case, or will another member of your team do so?
• What types of cases do you usually take on?

These types of questions can help you identify whether the lawyer has the experience, as well as their communication style. In addition to asking these questions, you could also do the following:

• Look through online reviews and news articles about the attorney to see what others may think about their experience with them.
• Ask friends or family if they have any recommendations. While they may not have had the need for a criminal defense lawyer, they may know someone who has.
• Start with a consultation to ensure you feel comfortable with the lawyer. You will need to share confidential and honest information with them, and feeling comfortable with them can make that easier.

It is important to have the representation of a lawyer early on in the criminal justice process to ensure your rights are protected. You should have peace of mind in knowing you have the support to help you through the challenges you’re facing.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Criminal Attorney in Texas?

A: The difference between an attorney and a lawyer in Texas is subtle but significant. An attorney is a legal professional who has met all of the qualifications to represent their clients in court and is authorized to do so. A lawyer is a legal professional who has finished law school but may not be licensed to practice law. While many use the terms interchangeably, they do indeed serve different purposes.

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Justice Lawyer Cost in Texas?

A: The cost of a criminal justice lawyer in Texas can vary. The costs are based on experience, certifications, the complexities of the case, and more. Ideally, you should speak with any potential criminal justice lawyer about their fees and what costs might be incurred based on the circumstances of your case. This can be done during any initial consultation.

Q: Can You Represent Yourself in Court in Texas?

A: While you have the legal right to represent yourself in court in Texas, it is not recommended to do so. A defendant may believe that they are innocent and are, therefore, qualified to represent themselves. Others might choose to do so in order to save money. However, forgoing legal representation could result in significant legal challenges and could cost more due to later appeals or the mishandling of your own case. It is always recommended to work with a lawyer.

Q: What Is the Burden of Proof in Criminal Cases?

A: In any criminal case, the burden of proof is put on the prosecutor who represents the state or the government. Defendants are not required to prove their innocence; they must only invoke a reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury that they could have committed the crime. The prosecution is expected to prove that the facts of the case point to the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Beaumont Criminal Defense Lawyer

The attorneys at Renick Law Firm, PLLC, have the knowledge and experience you need for your defense against any criminal charges. Led by a former prosecutor, our team knows the tactics used against defendants and can build a strategy that fits your circumstances. Criminal charges can leave you feeling isolated, but with us, you have a compassionate team on your side. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, contact our team today.