Bellaire Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Attorney in Bellaire, TX

Being charged with an alleged crime, whether it is a serious or a minor accusation, can have major consequences. If you are a visitor or a resident of the Harris County area, you should be aware of both the criminal process and your rights. A Bellaire criminal defense lawyer can help you face your charges and ease some of the overwhelm and helplessness you may experience.

You do not have to be alone when dealing with a criminal case. Hire a skilled Bellair criminal defense attorney. At Segura & Kiatta, we advocate for our clients both in and out of court. We have experience on both sides of the legal system, which provides us with a thorough knowledge and understanding of criminal defense and how to leverage it to your advantage.

Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Litigate

Crimes in Texas may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on their seriousness and whether or not the alleged perpetrator has prior convictions. At Segura & Kiatta, we are equipped to provide a sound legal strategy to help you secure a brighter future. Some of the cases we litigate include, but are not limited to:

• DWI. Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense that may result in serving jail time, paying fines, and a loss of privileges such as a driver’s license and a permanent criminal record.
• Drug crimes. Texas has some of the strictest drug crime laws in the country, due in part to the Texas Controlled Substances Act. For example, even possession of less than one gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance may be considered a felony.
• Sex crimes. Sex crimes in Texas are punishable under Penal Code Chapter 21 and include sexual assault, child sexual abuse, public lewdness, and indecent exposure, among other assault crimes.
• Theft and robbery. Theft is the most commonly committed crime in Bellaire, TX, accounting for 265 of 435 total crime incidents, according to a 2021 police department report.
• Violent crimes. Violent crimes may include aggravated assault, rape, domestic violence, or murder. Bellaire has a relatively low violent crime rate compared to other Harris County cities, but if you are charged or accused of a violent crime, you should seek legal assistance.
• White collar crimes. White collar crimes are crimes that involve deception, fraud, and manipulation rather than violence, force, or fear. They also tend to be financially motivated.

Crime Laws in Texas

In Texas, crimes are subject to the Texas Penal Code and may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are for less serious offenses, and felonies are for the most severe offenses. Specifically, misdemeanors are classified as A-C, and felonies are classified as state, capital, or 1st to 3rd degree.

If you are accused of a crime in Texas, there are certain criminal defense laws to protect you per the Texas Penal Code Chapter 9.  For instance, the “Stand Your Ground” law allows for self-defense if there is a reasonable threat of danger or force. In Texas, you can also use deadly force to defend your property or another person under reasonable circumstances and without certain penalties.

Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Criminal charges in Texas may mean serving up to a year in jail for a Class A Misdemeanor or life in prison for a 1st Degree Felony. While in some cases our clients make regrettable mistakes, other times, they maintain their innocence. Whatever the case, we are committed to building a strategic and strong defense that may include:

• Self-defense or defense of others
• Insanity
• Violation of Constitutional rights
• Innocence
• Duress
• Necessity

We take the time to listen to our clients, investigate their case, test the validity of the evidence, interview witnesses, and overall do our due diligence to protect your rights. Criminal charges can haunt your future. Segura & Kiatta can help.

FAQs

What Are the Four Major Criminal Law Defenses?

Four major criminal law defenses in Texas are:

• Self-defense or defense of others
• Innocence
• Unlawful arrest
• Insanity

Your lawyer can help you determine the optimal defense for your specific case. To improve your chances of a strong defense, it is important to keep reliable records, including eyewitness testimony, an alibi, and other documentation.

What Not to Tell a Judge?

There are many things not to tell a judge if you are facing criminal charges. Generally, you may not want to tell a judge anything that may incriminate you or may threaten your case. However, it is also important not to lie under oath. If you hire a criminal defense lawyer, they can better help you determine exactly what not to say and what to say in court.

What Is the Hardest Case to Win in Court?

The hardest case to be successful with in court varies depending on the specifics of the case, the severity of the crime, the amount of evidence against you, and the skill and experience of your lawyer. Felony cases may be hardest to try because they can result in the most serious penalties.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

It is difficult to determine how much a criminal defense lawyer costs because there are many factors to consider. For example, if you are facing felony charges with many complexities, it may be more expensive to litigate your case. However, if you are facing minor charges and have a high chance of getting your case dismissed, it may require fewer billable hours and be less expensive. Other factors to consider are your lawyer’s skills and experience.

Contact Segura & Kiatta Today

If you are facing criminal defense charges, you may be overwhelmed and afraid. This is not uncommon. The seasoned defense attorneys at Segura & Kiatta are here to assist you and can help you every step of the way. Contact us today for a consultation and learn how we can help you secure your freedom.