Stephenville Criminal Defense Attorney

Defending the Accused in Erath County, Comanche County & Beyond

When you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, you need an experienced lawyer who can help you understand your options and fight for your rights. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we are here to provide you with the aggressive and knowledgeable representation you need. From the moment you walk through our doors, you will be treated with the respect and care you deserve, while we work tirelessly to protect your future.

Our commitment to serving Stephenville and the surrounding areas goes beyond the courtroom. Beyond legal representation, we ensure that our clients are fully informed about their case status and options at every stage of the process. This dedication to communication helps reduce the stress clients feel while navigating the complex legal system. Our local focus allows us to understand specific regional nuances that can impact legal proceedings, giving our clients a vital advantage.

Call our office today at (254) 355-4654 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our Stephenville criminal defense lawyer.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense

Our firm is prepared to handle a variety of criminal cases, from minor misdemeanors to major felonies. We understand how the criminal justice system works and what it takes to build a strong defense. We can provide you with the effective representation you need.

Understanding the intricacies of criminal law is crucial for anyone facing legal charges. Our approach involves a deep dive into the specifics of each case, carefully reviewing evidence, and crafting a strategy that is uniquely suited to the client's needs. We prioritize building a strong defense from the ground up, ensuring that we consider every angle, whether it's finding procedural errors, questioning the reliability of evidence, or negotiating plea deals. Your defense is backed by our firm grasp of local laws and customs, which can be pivotal in achieving favorable outcomes.

Our Firm Handles the Following Cases & More

• Assault
• Domestic violence
• DWI
• Drug crimes
• Expunctions
• Federal crimes
• Felonies
• White collar crimes

Why Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, you may be wondering whether you need a lawyer. The short answer is yes. Even if you think you are guilty, you need to have a lawyer to protect your rights and help you understand your options. The criminal justice system is complex, and without an attorney, you may not understand what is happening or what you can do to protect yourself.

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we are experienced in criminal defense and know how to build a strong case. We can evaluate the evidence against you and determine whether the prosecution has a case. We can also challenge the evidence and file motions to suppress it if it was illegally obtained. We will fight to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed, and if necessary, we will take your case to trial.

Having a legal advocate by your side means you’ll have someone who can navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your rights are safeguarded at all times. Our team at Law Offices of Landon Northcutt is deeply familiar with local courts and procedures, which can significantly influence your defense strategy. Moreover, we offer support in understanding your legal situation holistically, enabling you to make informed decisions every step of the way.

the Criminal Justice System in Stephenville, TX

Navigating the criminal justice system in Stephenville, TX, requires a thorough understanding of local procedures and laws. The Law Offices of Landon Northcutt is deeply familiar with the intricacies of the legal system in Erath County and surrounding regions. Our extensive experience in handling cases in various local courts means we can anticipate procedural nuances and adapt our strategies accordingly. From the initial hearing to potential trial, we guide our clients each step of the way, ensuring they are well-prepared and informed.

Engaging a local criminal defense lawyer ensures that you benefit from representation that is both informed and relevant. Our firm understands the typical practices and expectations of the Stephenville courts, which is vital for crafting a defense strategy that resonates with local judges and juries. We utilize our extensive regional knowledge to navigate your case effectively, leveraging our relationships within the local legal community to support your defense.

Misdemeanors & Felonies: Understanding the Differences

In Texas, crimes are divided into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The difference between the two is the severity of the crime and the punishment.

Misdemeanors are less serious crimes and are generally punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine. Felonies are more serious crimes and are punishable by more than a year in prison and a fine.

Both misdemeanors and felonies can have long-lasting consequences, so it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we are committed to providing you with the aggressive and knowledgeable representation you need. We will fight for your rights every step of the way.

Consequences of a DWI in Texas

In Texas, if you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI).

The penalties for a DWI depend on the circumstances, including your BAC and whether you have been convicted of a DWI before.

• A first-time DWI is a Class B misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
  • If you have a child under the age of 15 in the car, you can be charged with a state jail felony.
• A second DWI is a Class A misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
• A third DWI is a third-degree felony and is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• A third DWI is also a “3g” offense, which means that you will have to serve at least half of your sentence before you are eligible for parole.

If you have been charged with a DWI, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we can fight to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed so that you can move on with your life.

Expungement: Clearing Your Record

In Texas, a felony is a serious crime and is punishable by more than a year in prison and a fine.

If you have been convicted of a felony, it can have serious consequences for your future. You may have a hard time finding a job, a place to live, or getting a loan. You may also lose your right to vote or own a gun.

However, if you have been convicted of a felony, you may be able to get it expunged from your record. This means that it will be erased as if it never happened.

To get a felony expunged in Texas, you must meet the following criteria:

• You were arrested but not charged. If you were arrested but not charged, you may be able to get the arrest expunged from your record. However, you must wait at least 30 days after the arrest to apply.
• You were charged but not convicted. If you were charged with a felony but not convicted, you may be able to get the charge expunged from your record. However, you must wait at least 180 days after the charge was dismissed to apply.
• You were convicted but later pardoned. If you were convicted of a felony but later pardoned, you may be able to get the conviction expunged from your record. However, you must wait at least 30 days after the pardon to apply.
• You were convicted but later found innocent. If you were convicted of a felony but later found innocent, you may be able to get the conviction expunged from your record. However, you must wait until the statute of limitations has expired to apply.
• You were convicted but later completed a pre-trial diversion program. If you were convicted of a felony but later completed a pre-trial diversion program, you may be able to get the conviction expunged from your record. However, you must wait at least 180 days after the program was completed to apply.

Expungements are complex and the process can be difficult.

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. We will fight to get your felony expunged so that you can move on with your life.

Clearing a felony from your record through expungement opens doors to numerous opportunities previously blocked by a criminal record. Engaging a knowledgeable attorney can simplify this complex process and significantly improve your chance of success. We review eligibility meticulously and work with our clients to compile a robust application package. Our team stays informed of any changes to Texas law that might affect expungement eligibility, ensuring we provide up-to-date advice to all our clients. This diligence is crucial to restoring your rights and facilitating a smoother path to personal and professional advancement.

How Do I Find the Best Criminal Defense Attorney in Stephenville?

If you have been charged with a crime, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. However, not all lawyers are created equal. When choosing a criminal defense attorney, you need to know that you are getting the best representation possible.

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we have a proven track record of success. We have helped countless individuals get their charges reduced or dismissed, and we are prepared to fight for you. Our firm is dedicated to providing you with the personalized and effective representation you deserve. We will be there for you when you need us most, and we will keep you informed throughout the entire process. You do not have to face this situation alone.

To learn more about our firm or to schedule a free consultation, call us today at (254) 355-4654 or contact us online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested in Stephenville?

Being arrested can be a stressful experience, but it's important to stay calm and remember your rights. First, exercise your right to remain silent and do not provide any statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Request to speak with an attorney from Law Offices of Landon Northcutt as soon as possible. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected. It is also crucial to avoid resisting arrest or obstructing the officers' duties, as this can lead to additional charges. Contacting an attorney promptly can greatly influence the outcome of your case.

How Does the Bail Process Work in Erath County?

After an arrest in Erath County, the defendant will have a bail hearing to determine whether they can be released while awaiting trial. The judge will consider factors like the severity of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, and ties to the community. If bail is granted, it can be paid in cash, or through a bail bond service. At Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we work closely with clients and their families to navigate the bail process, helping to secure release conditions that allow defendants to continue their daily lives while preparing for their defense.

What Are the Consequences of Missing a Court Date?

Missing a court date in Stephenville can have serious consequences, including a bench warrant being issued for your arrest. It can also result in additional charges, higher bail, or incarceration. If you anticipate missing a court date, contact your attorney immediately. The Law Offices of Landon Northcutt can work to minimize the impact, such as by requesting a rescheduling or clarifying any misunderstandings that led to the absence. To avoid issues, always keep track of your legal obligations and maintain regular communication with your attorney.