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Fighting to Secure Favorable Outcomes for Clients Facing Serious Charges
Being charged with a crime is a serious matter — regardless of where you’re arrested. However, criminal allegations feel particularly stressful in Texas — a state that prides itself as “tough on crime.” Unfortunately, this approach occasionally leads to unfair outcomes. That’s why anyone accused of a crime locally should work with Prosper and McKinney, TX, trial lawyers.
At the Edgett Law Firm, our criminal defense team understands the stress that accompanies being charged with a crime. We know that it seems like the deck is stacked against you — particularly when police and prosecutors seem certain of a conviction. However, it’s imperative for you to remember that you have rights that cannot be violated during this process.
Contact our law firm today for a free consultation. We’ll work hard to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom.
Why Do You Need a Trial Lawyer on Your Side?
There’s no shortage of criminal defense lawyers in Texas. However, not all law firms are created equally. This is why — when you’re making a decision on legal representation — you should seek out trial lawyers located in McKinney and Prosper, TX. There are far too many law firms that are willing to accept the first plea deal that the prosecution offers. In some instances, this may not be in your best interest.
The truth is that most criminal cases are resolved via plea negotiations. This means there’s a chance that a plea deal may be right for you. However, you should always work with an attorney who is willing to go to court if it’s what’s best in your case. Prosecutors want you to accept a quick plea deal, but an experienced attorney can negotiate better terms. Better yet, they may be able to secure a not-guilty verdict or have charges dropped.
Every case is different, so you deserve legal representation that takes an individualized approach to your case. That’s exactly what you’ll get when working with a trial lawyer from the Edgett Law Firm.
What to Do After an Arrest in Texas
If you’ve been arrested for any crime in Texas, your next steps will depend on your unique circumstances. In many instances, you’ll be eligible for bail. This will allow you to get out of jail while the case moves forward. However, this shouldn’t be your first concern. Above all else, you should exercise your right to remain silent.
Police might tell you that they just want to “get this figured out.” In reality, they want you to slip up and say something incriminating. In fact, there have been many cases where aggressive police interrogation tactics have led to false confessions. No matter what the police tell you, they are not there to help.
Remain silent at all costs, and contact a trial lawyer in Prosper and McKinney, TX, immediately.
Do You Need an Attorney to Negotiate a Plea Deal?
The fact that most criminal cases in Texas are resolved with plea negotiations is surprising to many. Rather than going through the challenges of a trial, prosecutors will often offer a plea deal in exchange for a guilty verdict. You may look at their offer and think, “That’s a fair deal. Why do I need to pay an attorney to accept it?”
Unfortunately, these deals are rarely as “fair” as they might seem. In many cases, prosecutors will overcharge a crime, knowing that a conviction is unlikely. They’ll then use this charge to convince you that pleading guilty for a lesser offense would be a great decision on your part. Sadly, this often leads to unnecessary convictions.
Let a trial lawyer in Prosper and McKinney, TX review your case and help you better understand your options.
Potential Legal Defenses for Criminal Charges in Texas
The burden of proving guilt is on the state. This means defendants don’t have to mount any legal defense. However, it’s typically wise to do so. Defense strategies can vary based on what you’re charged with. For instance, some defenses that may work for DWI charges would have no effect on domestic violence accusations.
However, there are several defenses that can be used for most criminal accusations:
- The accused has an alibi proving they could not have committed the crime
- The prosecution has not presented sufficient evidence to prove guilt
- There were constitutional violations before, during, or after an arrest
- Allegations were brought as a result of mistaken identity
- The alleged crime was actually an act of self-defense
- The alleged offender was defending others
- Entrapment was used by authorities to induce criminal acts
- Mental incapacity or insanity
- The necessary intent to commit a crime was not present
- An alleged victim consented to the defendant’s actions
- A mistake of fact negates a key element of the crime
- The court in question does not have jurisdiction over a crime
Keep in mind that none of these defense strategies are one-size-fits-all. You can’t just bring one up during the trial and hope for the best. This is why it’s so important to work with an experienced McKinney and Prosper, TX trial lawyer. Contact us today at the Edgett Law Firm to schedule your free consultation.
Helping Texans with Offices in Prosper & McKinney, Texas
Everyone has inalienable rights under the Constitution. Unfortunately, it may not feel this way when you’re charged with a crime in Texas. It’s not uncommon for prosecutors to overcharge cases as a bargaining chip in plea negotiations. You may feel as if accepting a plea deal is your only option — or that a conviction is unavoidable. However, you may be surprised at what you learn once you secure legal representation.
At the Edgett Law Firm, our legal team knows the tricks used by police and prosecutors. Our Denton County & Collin County trial lawyers understand that plea deals are appropriate in some cases. However, far too many individuals face wrongful convictions due to fear of increased penalties or the idea that they can’t afford legal counsel. We’re here to help Texans overcome these challenges.
Contact us at (972) 810-3410 to schedule your free consultation. You deserve an experienced and dedicated legal advocate on your side.
Q: Can’t I just use the public defender?
When charged with a criminal act, you certainly have the option of using a public defender provided by the court. Unfortunately, studies show that these attorneys have triple the recommended caseload on average — meaning they’re extremely overworked. Additionally, the process of recoupment in Texas has resulted in defendants paying over $10,000 for their “free public defender.”
Q: They can’t convict an innocent person, can they?
It’s an unfortunate truth that public defenders are overworked. However, it’s even more disheartening that a conviction doesn’t necessarily mean a person is guilty. Estimates show that up to 6% of American prisoners are actually innocent. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking your innocence means you won’t be convicted. Make sure you work with a trial lawyer from our firm.
Q: Shouldn’t I tell the police what happened if it would exonerate me?
If police bring you in for questioning, it’s important to realize that they likely already assume you’re guilty. At that point, they simply want you to say something incriminating — and there are countless examples of interrogation tactics leading to false confessions. Even if you think talking to the police will help you, make sure you speak with a criminal defense attorney first.
Q: When is a plea deal the right option?
There will be times when a plea deal is the right option for an individual charged with a crime. In many cases, this will be when the evidence against them is overwhelming. However, keep in mind that prosecutors are unlikely to negotiate fairly. An experienced attorney can make sure you’re not being taken advantage of.
Q: What if my Constitutional rights were violated?
If you believe your constitutional rights were violated, do not try to present this information to police or prosecutors. If they know mistakes were made, they can try their best to minimize the effects of such incidents. Some police and prosecutors have even hidden evidence. Let your Denton County & Collin County trial lawyer review your case. They’ll help you understand how constitutional violations may affect potential outcomes.
Q: Can I be charged for the same crime in federal and state court?
Some people are surprised to learn that double jeopardy restrictions often don’t apply when a crime violates both state and federal law. It’s possible to be exonerated for a crime on the state level and then face similar charges brought by the federal government. It’s critical to work with a federal criminal defense attorney in these situations.
Q: What are aggravating factors?
In the criminal justice system, aggravating factors are actions that make an underlying crime worse. For instance, having a minor in the car while drunk driving is an aggravating factor. Similarly, allegations of using a deadly weapon in a domestic violence case would qualify. These factors can result in increased sentences and even additional charges.
Q: Does hiring an attorney guarantee I’ll win?
No law firm can guarantee a specific outcome in your case. Surprises happen all the time in the criminal justice system. That fact is why defendants often have the option to appeal a conviction. However, working with an experienced and dedicated trial lawyer could increase your odds of a favorable outcome. At the Edgett Law Firm, we’ll work hard to make this a reality.