Were you recently arrested for a crime in Arlington, TX? A conviction could carry serious consequences, including fines, incarceration, and a permanent criminal record. Now is the time to take action and begin planning your defense. The Arlington criminal defense lawyers at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers are here to help you fight for your future.
Our legal team has over 60 years of combined experience and is led by board-certified attorneys. We know the local courts, laws, and strategies that work when building a strong defense. And we are committed to providing you with skilled and compassionate representation every step of the way.
Contact our law office in Arlington, TX, at (682) 777-3336 to learn how we can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help If You’re Arrested for a Crime
Navigating the criminal justice system in Arlington, Texas (or anywhere), can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we bring decades of experience and board-certified expertise to every case we handle.
Here’s what we can do for you:
- Investigate the charges and gather critical evidence to build a strong defense.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Advocate for your rights in pre-trial hearings and at trial.
- Help you understand your options and guide you through every step of the process.
Having a board-certified Arlington criminal defense attorney on your side means you’re working with a professional recognized for excellence in the field. Two of our attorneys, Cody Cofer and Pam Boggess, are certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS), ensuring you receive representation held to the highest standards.
Criminal Charges in Texas
Being accused of a crime can be one of the most overwhelming and frightening experiences of your life. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a mistake, or something more complex, the thought of facing criminal charges in Texas can leave you with countless questions: What happens next? Will I go to jail? How will this affect my family?
In Texas, criminal cases are taken very seriously, and the state works hard to prosecute them. Depending on the charges, you could face anything from a fine to years in prison. That’s why it’s critical to understand the basics of criminal defense and what a lawyer can do to help.
Some of the most common criminal charges in Texas include:
- Assault or family violence
- Possession or sale of drugs
- Fraud, embezzlement, or other white-collar crimes
- Theft or property damage
- Serious accusations like sexual offenses
Each type of charge comes with its own unique challenges, and the prosecution has to prove every part of their case beyond a reasonable doubt. That’s where a strong defense can make all the difference. An experienced criminal defense attorney will know how to challenge the evidence, uncover mistakes made by the prosecution, and fight to get the charges reduced or even dropped.
You don’t have to go through this alone. The right attorney will stand by your side, helping you navigate the system and work toward the best possible outcome for your future.
What Are the Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Texas?
Criminal penalties in Texas depend on the type and severity of the crime. While some charges may result in fines, others could lead to years in prison and long-lasting consequences for your future. Here’s a closer look at the penalties for misdemeanors and felonies in Texas:
Misdemeanor Charges in Texas
Misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies but can still carry significant consequences.
- Class C misdemeanor: The least severe type of charge, often resulting in a fine of up to $500. Common examples include disorderly conduct or public intoxication. These offenses typically don’t result in jail time, but a conviction could still appear on your record.
- Class B misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 180 days in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Examples include first-time DWI offenses or possession of small amounts of marijuana.
- Class A misdemeanor: The most serious misdemeanor level, carrying penalties of up to 1 year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Charges like assault causing bodily injury or unlawful carrying of a weapon often fall into this category.
While misdemeanors in Texas are less severe than felonies, they can still result in serious penalties and a lasting impact on your record, making it crucial to understand the charges and potential consequences you may face.
Understanding the Differences Between Misdemeanors and Felonies
Many people are unsure about the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony. Simply put, misdemeanors involve less severe crimes and shorter jail sentences, while felonies are reserved for more serious offenses. The main distinctions are:
- Impact on your life: Felonies typically carry longer prison sentences and harsher collateral consequences, such as losing the right to vote or own a firearm.
- Court proceedings: Misdemeanors are usually handled in county courts, while felonies are addressed in district courts.
- Potential plea deals: Misdemeanor charges are often easier to negotiate down or resolve without a trial compared to felonies.
Having a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand what type of charge you’re facing and what it means for your future.
Felony Charges in Texas
Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses and can result in long-term imprisonment.
- State jail felony: Punishable by 6 months to 2 years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000. These charges include theft of property valued between $2,500 and $30,000 or possession of a controlled substance under certain thresholds.
- Third-degree felony: Involves 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Crimes like aggravated assault or intoxication assault often fall under this category.
- Second-degree felony: Punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Charges might include robbery or sexual assault.
- First-degree felony: The most serious non-capital charge, with penalties of 5 to 99 years or life in prison and fines up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated robbery or certain drug trafficking cases.
These penalties can be enhanced for repeat offenders or crimes involving aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon or harm to a vulnerable person.
Possible Defenses Against Criminal Charges in Texas
A strong defense strategy can make all the difference in a criminal case. At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we tailor our approach to fit the specific facts and circumstances of your case. Potential defenses may include:
- Lack of evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s inability to meet the burden of proof.
- Constitutional violations: Arguing that evidence was obtained illegally through unlawful searches or seizures.
- Mistaken identity: Demonstrating that you were wrongly accused or misidentified as the perpetrator.
- Self-defense: Proving that your actions were justified to protect yourself or others.
Our team will work tirelessly to investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, and present a compelling defense in court.
What to Look for in a Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s what to consider:
- Board certification: Attorneys like Cody Cofer and Pam Boggess, who are board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, have been recognized for their expertise and commitment to excellence.
- Experience: Look for an attorney with years of experience handling cases similar to yours. With over 60 years of combined experience, the team at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers has the skills needed to tackle even the most complex cases.
- Local knowledge: Laws and procedures vary by jurisdiction. Hiring a lawyer familiar with Arlington and surrounding Texas courts can give you a critical advantage.
- Personal attention: Criminal cases are deeply personal, and you deserve a lawyer who takes the time to understand your side of the story and craft a defense tailored to your needs.
Choosing a defense attorney with these qualities can make a significant difference in how your case is handled and its eventual outcome, giving you confidence during a challenging time.
Contact our Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyers For a Consultation
Facing criminal charges in Arlington, TX, is a serious matter, but you don’t have to face it alone. Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers are here to provide you with experienced and board-certified legal representation.
With more than 60 years of combined experience, our Arlington criminal defense lawyers understand the complexities of Texas criminal law and are prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf. Contact our Arlington office today for a free consultation to learn how we can help protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.