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State Bar of Texas

Dallas Criminal Lawyer

Being charged with a criminal offense can have devastating consequences. Even for misdemeanor charges, a conviction in Texas means carrying a permanent criminal record.

In addition to potential fines and imprisonment, the impact of a criminal record is far-reaching. It must be disclosed on job applications, credit applications, lease agreements, mortgages, and even some volunteer opportunities.

Navigating criminal charges in Texas alone is not advisable. Seek the assistance of a dedicated Collin County criminal defense attorney from the Tidwell Law Firm, PLLC. They will analyze your case, develop a defense strategy, and fight for your rights.

We handle various types of criminal defense cases in Collin County, Texas, including but not limited to:

  • DWI/DUI charges and other alcohol-related offenses
  • Traffic offenses
  • Drug charges, including possession offenses
  • Assault
  • Domestic violence
  • Theft, burglary, and other property crimes
  • Arson
  • Weapons offenses
  • Homicide, manslaughter, and other violent crimes
  • Cyber crimes
  • Fraud and other white-collar offenses
  • Probation violations
  • Sex crimes
  • Juvenile offenses

Regardless of the charges you are facing, our aggressive Collin County criminal defense attorneys will help you build a strong defense.

In Texas, criminal offenses are classified into two categories: misdemeanor and felony. Misdemeanor offenses carry lesser penalties, while felony offenses can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty in capital cases.

Here are the penalties for each category of criminal offense in Texas:

  • Class C Misdemeanor: The least serious charge, resulting in a fine up to $500 but no jail time. Examples include certain traffic offenses, theft of property under $50, disorderly conduct, underage possession of alcohol, simple assault, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
  • Class B Misdemeanor: More serious than Class C, with a fine up to $2,000, probation, and/or up to 180 days in jail. Examples include DWI first offense, possession of small amounts of marijuana, trespassing, and harassment.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: The most serious misdemeanor offense, carrying a sentence of up to one year in jail, two years of probation, and a fine up to $4,000. Examples include DWI second offense, possession of marijuana, burglary, evading or resisting arrest, theft, and violation of a protective order.
  • State Jail Felony: The least serious felony offense, punishable by a jail term of 180 days to 2 years and a fine up to $2,000. Examples include DWI with a child in the car, theft of property between $1,500 and $20,000, burglary, and certain drug possession offenses.
  • 3rd Degree Felony: More serious than a state jail felony but less severe than other felony offenses, resulting in imprisonment from 2 to 10 years and a fine up to $10,000. Examples include DWI third offense and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
  • 2nd Degree Felony: Extremely serious, carrying penalties of 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. Examples include sexual assault, robbery, arson, and certain drug possession offenses.
  • 1st Degree Felony: More serious than all other felony classifications, with a prison term of 5 years to life and a fine up to $10,000. Common examples include homicide, sexual assault, robbery, and kidnapping.
  • Capital Felony: The most serious criminal offense, potentially resulting in a death sentence. Capital murder is the most commonly charged capital felony.

Facing criminal charges is undoubtedly stressful. Contact the Collin County criminal defense attorneys at the Tidwell Law Firm, PLLC for assistance. With their experience and dedication, they will provide the best possible defense for your case. Get started by reaching out today.

Client Reviews

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I was recommended to seek legal counsel from Jerry W. Tidwell, Jr. when I found myself accused of a crime I did not commit. Jerry helped me through the full process of my Criminal Defense from the early stages...

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This guy has great reviews. He is going to help me resolve a problem I had on a case 16 years ago that I paid him for. Awesome guy!

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Anonymous

When I found myself in need of a lawyer, I was referred to Jerry Tidwell. I am grateful for his help and expertise and I road the wave of the legal system. After deciding to take my case to jury trial, the DA...

Anonymous

Great guy to have in your corner I hired Mr Tidwell to assist me with some family law issues. From the first meeting I had a good feeling about him. His no nonsense, straight shooting ways are something to be...

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Plano, TX 75024