Were you recently arrested for a crime in Texas? A criminal charge isn’t just a legal matter–it’s a life-changing event. A conviction can mean costly fines, jail time, a permanent criminal record, and a future filled with challenges. Now is the time to take control of your situation and build a strong defense.
The Texas criminal defense lawyers at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers are here to help you fight back. With over 60 years of combined experience and board-certified experts in criminal law, we’re prepared to put everything on the line for you. Let us guide you through this difficult time and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help If You’re Arrested
When you’re facing criminal charges, you need a legal team with experience, skill, and dedication. At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we don’t just take cases–we take a stand for your future. Here’s how we can help:
- Investigate the details of your case and uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
- Build a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case.
- Represent you in court with a thorough, aggressive approach.
- Provide compassionate support and clear communication every step of the way.
Pam Boggess and Cody Cofer are both board-certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS), a distinction that reflects our deep knowledge and commitment to excellence in criminal defense.
When your future is on the line, you need a legal team you can trust. Call our Fort Worth office today to find out how we can help you take the first step toward protecting your rights and freedom. We offer a free consultation with a Texas criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Criminal Charges in Texas
Texas criminal law covers a wide range of offenses, from misdemeanors like shoplifting to serious felonies such as drug trafficking or assault with a deadly weapon. Common charges include:
- DWI and DUI: Driving while intoxicated can result in license suspension, fines, and even jail time.
- Domestic violence: Allegations of domestic abuse can lead to restraining orders, jail time, and challenges in custody disputes.
- Drug offenses: Possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances can carry harsh penalties, especially for repeat offenses.
- Sex crimes: Charges like sexual assault or indecency can carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
- Theft and property crimes: Offenses like burglary or vandalism can result in fines, jail time, and a lasting criminal record.
- White collar crimes: Fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading charges can lead to financial penalties, restitution, and imprisonment.
- Assault and violent crimes: Convictions for aggravated assault, robbery, manslaughter, or homicide can lead to years in prison.
Understanding the nature of your charge is the first step in building a defense. Each crime has specific legal elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
What Are the Penalties You Might Face in Texas?
Texas takes criminal offenses seriously, with penalties varying based on the nature of the crime and its severity. Here’s a breakdown of common consequences for misdemeanors:
- Class C: Fines up to $500, no jail time.
- Class B: Up to 180 days in jail and $2,000 in fines.
- Class A: Up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 in fines.
For felonies, penalties and fines are as follows:
- State jail felony: 180 days to 2 years in state jail, fines up to $10,000.
- Third-degree felony: 2 to 10 years in jail, fines up to $10,000.
- Second-degree felony: 2 to 20 years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
- First-degree felony: 5 to 99 years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
- Capital felony: Life without parole or death.
Additional penalties often include probation, mandatory community service, and a permanent criminal record.
Possible Defenses for Crimes in Texas
Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that every case is unique, and a strong defense can make all the difference. At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we focus on crafting a tailored strategy to fight for your rights and your future. Here are some of the most common defenses we use to challenge criminal charges in Texas:
Insufficient evidence
The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, meaning they must present credible evidence to prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If their evidence is weak, inconsistent, or lacks reliability, we can argue for a dismissal or reduction of charges. For example, in a theft case, the prosecution must prove you intended to deprive someone of their property–not just that you were in possession of the item.
Constitutional Violations
The U.S. and Texas Constitutions provide critical protections for individuals accused of crimes. If your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation, it can significantly impact the outcome of your case. For example:
- Unlawful searches and seizures: Evidence obtained without a proper warrant or probable cause may be excluded.
- Improper Miranda warnings: If you weren’t informed of your right to remain silent or your right to an attorney, statements you made might be inadmissible.
We thoroughly review law enforcement’s actions to ensure they followed legal protocols, and if not, we fight to have improperly obtained evidence thrown out.
Mistaken Identity
Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. Eyewitness testimony, while persuasive, is notoriously unreliable. Factors like poor lighting, stress, and suggestive police lineups can lead to misidentification. In these cases, we investigate thoroughly, reviewing surveillance footage, alibis, and other evidence to establish the truth.
Self-Defense
Texas law allows you to protect yourself, your family, and your property under certain circumstances. If you acted to defend yourself or others from immediate harm, this may be a valid legal defense. Self-defense cases often hinge on proving that your actions were reasonable and proportional to the threat.
Lack of Intent
Many crimes require the prosecution to prove intent, meaning you knowingly and willfully committed the act. For example, in drug possession cases, the state must show you were aware of the drugs in your possession. If we can demonstrate that you were unaware of the drugs or that the drugs belonged to someone else, it may weaken the case against you.
Alibi
If you can provide evidence that you were somewhere else at the time of the alleged crime, it can be a powerful defense. Witness testimony, receipts, video footage, or GPS data can all support an alibi defense, casting doubt on the prosecution’s case.
Entrapment
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces someone to commit a crime they otherwise wouldn’t have committed. This defense often applies in drug and prostitution stings. If we can show that officers crossed the line between providing an opportunity and actively coercing you into breaking the law, it could result in a dismissal.
Duress or coercion
If you committed a crime under the threat of immediate harm to yourself or a loved one, duress may be a viable defense. For instance, if someone forced you to assist in a robbery by threatening violence, we can argue that you acted under extreme pressure and lacked free will.
Mental illness or diminished capacity
Mental health issues can sometimes impact a person’s ability to understand their actions or the consequences of those actions. While this defense doesn’t excuse the behavior, it can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing, such as treatment programs.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we believe that no one deserves to be defined by their worst moment. Our team takes the time to analyze your case, identify potential defenses, and build a compelling argument on your behalf. Every detail matters, and we leave no stone unturned in the fight for justice.
If you’re ready to start building your defense, contact us today. Let’s work together to protect your rights and your future.
The Importance of a Strong Defense Strategy
The sooner you hire a defense attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. With a strong legal strategy, you can fight for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even a dismissal. Don’t wait until it’s too late–our team is ready to step in and protect your rights. Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers today to schedule your free consultation with a Texas criminal defense lawyer.
Contact Our Fort Worth Criminal Defense Lawyers For a Consultation
Don’t let criminal charges define your future. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony, Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers can help. With decades of experience, board-certified expertise, and a commitment to your success, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
Call our office in Fort Worth today at (682) 777-3336 to learn more about how we can help you. Let’s start building your defense now.
