Posts by Mary Beth Harrell

Texas has unfortunately been at the forefront of the national opioid crisis, with fentanyl – an extremely potent synthetic opioid – causing thousands of deaths over the past few years. However, there is some good news. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recently reported a nearly 20% decrease in fentanyl-related poisoning deaths over…

Statutory rape laws in Texas can be confusing, especially for teens and young adults having relationships for the first time. These laws are meant to protect minors, but they can have life-altering effects for those accused of violating them. Understanding the law is the first step to protecting yourself or your child from a criminal…

If you or someone you love have been accused of providing alcohol to a minor in Texas, you need to understand the law and your rights. Texas House Bill 420 addresses this issue, setting clear guidelines and penalties for supplying alcohol to individuals under the legal drinking age. A single mistake or misunderstanding can lead…

If you or a loved one are facing jail time in Copperas Cove, you could reduce this time through something called “shock probation.” Shock probation is a unique form of probation granted by Texas courts after you’ve served a short time in jail. The idea behind shock probation is just like it sounds—to “shock” someone…

When you’re facing criminal charges in Copperas Cove, Texas, you have a variety of ways to defend yourself in court. In many cases, it’s more than just about disproving evidence. Bringing in character witnesses is a good way to show that you’re more than the sum of the accusations against you. A good character witness…

If you’ve been charged with a hit-and-run in Killeen, you might feel stressed about what happens next. It can be frightening to face this charge, especially if you’re unsure of your rights and how to protect them. The Killeen criminal defense attorneys at Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers are here to help.…

Assault charges are serious, but you don’t have to face the charges alone. Whether you’re dealing with accusations from a heated argument that got out of hand, a misunderstanding, or something more complicated, the attorneys at Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DUI Lawyers are here to help. What is assault? In Texas, assault covers…

On television and in the movies, bail seems to be a pretty straightforward process. The judge announces, “bail is set at X dollars,” bangs the gavel, and the defendant convinces a loved one to get the money together. Depending on the dollar amount the judge orders and the defendant’s or their loved one’s finances, the…

In Texas, the severity of an offense will determine the criminal sentencing guidelines. The state categorizes offenses into different classes – misdemeanors and felonies. While those classifications and the guidelines play a role, the circumstances of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors will all influence the actual sentence. How Texas courts determine…

Criminal defendants are protected by the Constitution and other laws. The strict regulations surrounding the criminal justice system, from arrest to appeal, helped to shape a somewhat predictable process. However, this process is new and potentially overwhelming for those who have not had run-ins with the criminal justice system in the past. Here is an…

Facing criminal charges can be confusing and frightening. The situation is often made worse because of the complex industry-specific legal language that law enforcement, prosecutors, and others in the system may use. If you were charged with a crime, learning a little about the process, criminal statutes, and possible penalties can help you understand what…

The right to an attorney is one of the most important legal protections for anyone accused of a crime. Your lawyer is on your side to make the process as fair as possible. Remember that the consequences of a criminal conviction, whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, can impact every aspect of your life.…

Under the law, you are innocent until proven guilty. However, if you are arrested, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you. In this situation, it is important to understand that you are entitled to certain legal protections during an arrest and beyond. Unfortunately, if you don’t know those rights, you may not…

The three strikes law in Texas is a significant and controversial component of the state’s criminal justice system. It represents an effort to impose severe penalties on repeat offenders, particularly those with multiple felony convictions. Origins and purpose of the three strikes law The concept of the three strikes law emerged in the United States…

Sealing an arrest record in Texas, also known as obtaining an order of nondisclosure, offers a way to minimize the impact of an arrest on your future. Even if charges were dropped or you were acquitted, an arrest record can still affect your life by showing up in background checks conducted by employers, landlords, and…

If you’ve been charged with possession of a controlled substance while armed in Texas, you’re facing serious legal consequences that can affect your life for years to come. At Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers, we understand the gravity of these charges and are ready to help you navigate the legal system. Here’s…

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a federal conviction, you may wonder if it’s possible to clear your criminal record. Understanding the options for expungement or other forms of relief can be complex, especially given the distinctions between federal and state legal systems. At Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers in Copperas…

If you find yourself under investigation but have not yet been arrested, you might wonder whether it is necessary to hire a criminal defense attorney. The answer is a resounding yes. Securing legal representation at this stage is vital to protect your rights, understand the investigation’s implications, and strategically navigate the legal process. Today we…

Taking a lie detector test, also known as a polygraph, is a complex decision. From the perspective of a criminal defense law firm, there are several critical considerations to weigh before deciding whether to take such a test. This article will explore the nature of lie detector tests, their reliability, legal implications, and strategic considerations…

The short answer: Absolutely. While the presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of the American justice system, the reality of a criminal investigation can be far from fair. Even if you are certain of your innocence, the consequences of a criminal conviction are severe. A skilled criminal defense attorney can be your most valuable asset…

When faced with the prospect of a police investigation, many people wonder whether they should talk to the police. This question is especially pertinent if you find yourself at the center of an investigation. At Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers, our primary concern is protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the…