Before anyone can be convicted of a crime, Texas law specifies that they must have knowingly or intentionally committed the action they’re accused of. While this may sound like a semantic point, proving criminal intent is an essential part of the Texas rule of law. How your attorney handles criminal intent could make or break your case, so knowledge of criminal intent is integral to a quality defense. To start, a Read More

You’re likely familiar with the phrase “No Refusal” in reference to Texas DWI arrests. Many Texans, however, believe that this means you legally cannot refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test, which is untrue. While you may still refuse the tests, the purpose of the no refusal initiative is to crack down on DWI suspects by fully enforcing the implied consent laws of Texas, so there will likely be harsh Read More

If you’ve become the subject of a protective order, it is absolutely essential that you fully understand and abide by the rules set out within the order. Violating a protective order can carry heavy sentences, and it may be easier than you think. Here are some important things to watch out for if you’re now involved in a protective order: Communicating with someone in the petitioner’s household or family It’s Read More

You’ve been arrested, and now you’re standing in court before a judge. He or she looks at you and asks how you plead. What do you say? Of course, you’ll have your lawyer by your side (or at least you should!), and he or she will advise you on how to respond. In Texas and courts all over the United States, defendants have three potential responses—or pleas—and this is one of the most important decisions you make when Read More

Before we explain anything else about protective orders in Texas, it is important for you to understand that becoming a subject of a protective order does not mean you have been charged with a crime. Protective orders can be a precursor to certain criminal charges. And, violating the terms of a protective order is likely to be a criminal charge. However, there is no reason to panic if you have been served with a Read More

Many people hear the words “money laundering” and think of Al Capone, the mob, and 1920s bootlegging operations. It’s true—the term is much more likely to evoke a certain aesthetic in the minds of people than an actual understanding of the crime itself.  The giveaway is actually in the name. Money laundering is the act of concealing or obscuring the monetary proceeds from illegal operations (such as drug trafficking Read More

Permits are no longer required to carry handguns in Texas. In June 2021, Gov. Greg Abbott signed legislation that supporters describe as “constitutional carry.” It’s also commonly referred to as “permitless carry” and, on Sept. 1, 2021, became law in Texas.  Prior to this law taking effect, Texans who were otherwise eligible to possess and carry firearms (more on that below) had to submit fingerprints, take a Read More

Sometimes, despite a perfect defense strategy, a criminal defendant will be found guilty by a judge or jury. Perhaps the evidence was too convincing, or the prosecution was just fortunate.  After the jury returns a guilty verdict in a Texas criminal trial, the case moves to the sentencing phase. That does not mean the defense attorney’s job is done. Before the judge hands down the sentence, both sides may present Read More

To answer the question posed in the title of this blog, yes. Federal authorities have brought—and probably will continue to bring—charges against individuals and businesses for fraud against the PPP. Through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the government distributed forgivable loans to companies. Businesses were required to spend at least 60 percent of PPP funds on payroll expenses, and the remaining money Read More