Leander Criminal Defense Lawyer

The time after an arrest can be incredibly frightening and stressful. Get the defense that can protect your freedom and your future by working with a Leander criminal defense lawyer.

The actions you take after getting arrested for a crime will determine the entire outcome of your case. By hiring a Leander criminal defense lawyer from Hines & Holub, we can help you navigate the complex criminal justice system with the end-goal of getting your charges reduced or dismissed.

From misdemeanors to felonies, your future can be significantly impacted by a conviction, so you'll want to have the best possible defense in order to clear your name.

Misdemeanors Versus Felonies

It's important to understand the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in order to better understand the charges against you. A misdemeanor is a minor crime with correspondingly lighter punishments and penalties. These can often be successfully reduced or dismissed, especially if it's your first offense.

A felony, on the other hand, is a very serious offense and can result in imprisonment, significant fines, and possibly even the death penalty.

Like with misdemeanors, your chances of having a felony reduced are better if it's your first offense. A dismissal, however, will likely require a compelling defense argument supported with solid evidence.

Whichever type of charge you face, your Leander criminal defense lawyer will work hard to get your charges reduced or dismissed. Detailed below are some of the potential penalties you face, the exact nature of which will directly depend on your particular charge:

Misdemeanors

Class A - Up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000

Class B - Up to 180 days in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000

Class C - A fine of up to $500

Felonies

Capital - Death sentence or life in state prison without parole

First Degree - Five to ninety-nine years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000

Second Degree - Two to twenty years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000

Third Degree - Two to ten years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000

State Jail - Between 180 days and two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000

Don't Take Risks Defending Yourself

There are no laws that say you must have a defense lawyer. However, if you choose to represent yourself, you should be prepared to be treated like a lawyer with a full grasp of the law and courtroom proceedings.

In fact, many prosecutors won't even bother to offer a plea bargain to someone who's foregone the right to legal counsel. This means that representing yourself could greatly limit your options when seeking a reduced sentence or a full dismissal of the charges against you.