Answers to Common Criminal Defense Questions
1. How do I get someone out of jail in Williamson County?
In Williamson County, it is in your best interest to seek the assistance of an attorney because bond companies in most cases will give a discount, of 10% vs. 20% of the bond, if the client is represented by an attorney. In addition, often a Waiver of Magistration is required for a person to get out of jail if the Magistrate has left for the day. I can execute the waiver (explain your rights to you) and arrange for a walk through, where the accused can check into jail at their own convenience and be released within a couple of hours of incarceration
2. How do I choose the right lawyer?
The following are things you should consider when deciding which criminal lawyer in to hire:
- You need to seek a lawyer with experience. Specifically, experience as a Williamson County Criminal Lawyer.
- Not only should your lawyer be experienced in Williamson County, he should also have a good relationship with the judges and prosecutors in the county.
- You want a lawyer that can show you his track record.
- You want a lawyer that will be accessible to you and will keep you informed.
- You should seek a lawyer who will fight for you like you're his own family
3. How long will it take for my case to be resolved?
MISDEMEANOR: When a person is released from jail on a misdemeanor, they will receive a court date in approximately 2 to 4 weeks . If an attorney is retained before that time, the person will not have to appear at the first date. Generally speaking, a client will then have 1 to 2 announcement settings where the client and his attorney decide what will happen on the case and announce to the court that a plea bargain has been reached or they are ready for trial. This process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months and even up to 6 months or longer if the case goes to trial. However, it is not uncommon for a case to get dismissed quickly or to reach a plea bargain early in the process which would expedite the case
FELONY: Because a person accused of a crime will often have his or her case presented before a grand jury, Felony cases can take much longer to resolve than misdemeanor cases. While it is certainly possible to resolve the case with the prosecutor prior to indictment, often times a person's case is indicted which only means that a grand jury found that there was sufficient evidence to believe that the person may have committed the offense. After indictment the accused will be formally charged and will receive a court date. From start to finish, Felonies generally take 3 to 6 months and possibly up to a year if it goes to trial.
4. What kind of punishment should I expect for a misdemeanor conviction?
Misdemeanors come in several categories:
Class A Misdemeanors - carry a punishment range of up to a year in jail and up to a $4000 fine. Examples of Class A's are DWI 2nd offense, Assault with Bodily Injury (family violence) and Possession of Marijuana over 4oz Class B Misdemeanors - punishable with up to 180 days in jail and up to a $2000 fine which include Theft under $500 and DWI and Possession of Marijuana under 4oz
Remember that with quality representation, there is always a chance of getting your case dismissed or reduced; furthermore, you should not spend another day in jail
5. Do I even need a lawyer if I just want to go to court and plead guilty and won't that save me time and money?
Anyone accused of a crime can enter into a plea agreement with the judge or prosecutor without an attorney; however, it is usually not in your best interest to do so. First, an attorney can determine if you should even enter into a plea. Second, a skilled attorney can usually get your fines and probation time significantly reduced, thereby saving you time and money
6. How much do your services cost?
The initial consultation is free. During that consultation Mr. Morales will discuss the fee arrangement with you. In most cases, payment plans are available and all major credit cards are accepted.
