I’ve dedicated my legal career to defending my clients. I demand all the evidence. I investigate all the facts, the so-called witnesses and even the police officers. I make it my business to know the law. Cases can be won or lost before you even set foot inside the courtroom.
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Posts by Mary Beth Harrell
Marijuana DWIs in Texas
Here in Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious criminal offense that can have significant consequences on your life and livelihood. While alcohol-related DWIs are well-known, there is growing concern about marijuana-related DWIs as cannabis legalization efforts gain momentum across the country. Before getting into marijuana DWIs, you should understand our DWI laws. In…
Read MoreFacing a Criminal Charge in Killeen or Copperas Cove? You Should Call Us
There are few experiences more frightening than being charged with a crime. Texas has always prided itself on its “tough on crime” reputation, and it takes criminal prosecutions very seriously. It takes its penalties seriously, too. Prison Legal News, a monthly magazine published by the non-profit Human Rights Defense Center, says Texas is “more or…
Read MoreDefense Strategies for Assault Charges
Facing assault charges can be a frightening and life-altering experience. The potential consequences of a conviction, including lengthy prison sentences and a permanent criminal record, make it important to mount a strong defense. The strategies our attorneys will use for your defense may vary based on the circumstances of your case, but also on the…
Read MoreWhat Is a Constructive Possession of Marijuana Charge?
When facing marijuana possession charges, it’s essential to mount a strong defense to protect your rights and future. Defending against these charges often involves understanding legal concepts such as “constructive possession” and “intent,” which play a crucial role in establishing guilt or innocence. Understanding constructive possession Constructive possession is a legal concept used to establish…
Read MoreCan You Face Criminal Charges for Threatening Someone Online?
In the digital age, social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, allowing individuals to connect, share, and express themselves around the globe. However, the widespread use of social media platforms has also given rise to new challenges and legal issues, especially when it comes to criminal offenses. This is particularly true in cases when…
Read MoreDrug Court Programs in Texas
In recent years, the criminal justice system has increasingly recognized the need for alternative approaches to addressing drug-related offenses. Drug court programs have emerged as a vital component in this issue, offering an innovative way to address substance abuse issues and provide rehabilitation for offenders. In Texas, these programs have gained prominence as a means…
Read MoreAssault On a Public Servant in Texas
In the state of Texas, assaults are taken seriously by the legal system, particularly when the victim is a public servant. Assault on a public servant is a severe offense that carries significant legal consequences. Assault on a public servant occurs when an individual intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to a public servant…
Read MoreAre Edibles Legal in Texas?
They’re just THC gummies, right? They can’t be that dangerous or get me into much trouble, you might think. Think again. These small candies can get you into big trouble here in Texas. Even though these innocent-looking gummies look much safer than smoking pot, the end result is still the same – you can still…
Read MoreMan Admits Guilt to Deadly Conduct via Snapchat
A grand jury in San Angelo recently indicted a man for allegedly firing two gunshots at a vehicle last December. In an interesting twist to the case, the man had already confessed to the crime – to the victim – via Snapchat. Per Concho Valley Homepage, Santana Garcia was indicted this past June for deadly…
Read MoreKilleen Traffic Stop Nets Several Pounds of Drugs
A recent traffic stop in Killeen resulted in the seizure of several pounds of drugs and two arrests, per 6 News. According to the publication, a routine traffic stop netted “3.4 lbs. of methamphetamine, 4.2 lbs. of marijuana, 14.3 grams of ecstasy, 8.12 grams of cocaine, 16.74 grams of fentanyl (M30 pills), 5.64 grams of…
Read MoreGovernor Abbot Extends Statute of Limitations on Certain Assault Offenses
The state of Texas recently passed a bill that extends the statute of limitation on several offenses, including misdemeanor and felony assault. These are serious offenses and these extensions now give law enforcement more time to prosecute. It is crucial that, if you are accused (or think you may be accused) of assault, you get…
Read MoreYou Don’t Have to Be “Family” to Face Family Assault Charges
We understand the complexities surrounding family assault charges related to dating violence. Despite not being a legal member of the family, certain laws concerning family assault charges expand the term “family” to include other folks as well. These charges can arise when a person involved in a dating relationship is accused of causing harm or…
Read MoreDefenses for Burglary of Habitation Charges in Central Texas
In our state of Texas, burglary charges encompass accusations of unlawfully entering a house, building, or vehicle. Referred to as “burglary of habitation,” it is crucial to recognize that burglary charges can be filed even in cases where no theft occurred. Understanding the definition of burglary, the specific charges you face, and the potential consequences…
Read MoreIt’s the 9th DWI That Really Gets You
Texas is known for being tough on crime. The state’s reputation came into play recently when a man pleaded guilty to a DWI charge, making it his 9th DWI conviction. He was sentenced to life in prison. A Weatherford jury has sentenced Christopher Faran Stanford to 50 years to life in prison after he was…
Read MoreShooting a Building Can Be Deadly Conduct, Too
Responsible gun ownership and adherence to applicable laws are fundamental principles upheld by proponents of gun rights. The lawful use of firearms is crucial to protect individual liberties, personal safety, and the preservation of one’s property. It is important to recognize that responsible gun ownership entails understanding and complying with the legal framework surrounding firearms.…
Read MoreWhen Discipline Is Considered Child Abuse
Disciplining a child can be a tricky subject, as it is a parent’s responsibility to teach their child right from wrong while ensuring their safety and well-being. However, when discipline becomes abusive, it can cross the line into criminal behavior. In Texas, what you see as discipline can lead to a charge of continuous family…
Read More7 Defenses to Common Evidence Used in DWI Cases
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Texas that can result in severe legal penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. If you are facing a DWI charge, it is crucial to understand the evidence that may be used against you in court. While your arresting officer may have had you…
Read MoreHow Victim Impact Statements Can Affect an Assault Case
Under the US Constitution, criminal defendants are given the right to face their accusers. Implied, though not directly stated, is the right of an alleged victim to face the perpetrator of a crime. The whole point of a criminal trial is to give both sides a chance to tell their stories and have an impartial…
Read MoreYes, a DWI Conviction Could Affect Your Security Clearance
You have worked diligently your whole life and undergone highly scrutinized background checks. Maybe you provided years of loyal service in a state or federal position, but one mistake has put your career and professional reputation in jeopardy. This is the strict reality that a DWI charge can have if you hold a government position…
Read MoreStay Off Social Media After Being Charged
As good as it may feel to “get things off your chest,” posting on social media after you’ve been charged with a crime of any sort can only hurt you. Those accused of a violent crime like domestic violence or assault should definitely stop posting on all online accounts until their case is resolved, as…
Read MoreIt’s Time to Rethink Drinking Culture in Texas
While no one wants to bring back Prohibition, we may want to reconsider just how casually we treat alcohol consumption in Texas. Not everyone can or should drink, and our love for partying and tipsy bonding is creating a culture of peer pressure most cannot resist. If someone is drinking to excess, we shouldn’t just…
Read MoreVeterans Get Arrested More Than Civilians; Let Us Help
The men and women who bravely serve our country deserve respect, grace, and opportunity when they return, but few, unfortunately, actually get any. Even though people may thank service people in public, the harsh reality is that more and more of our military veterans are being treated like monsters in private. It is no secret…
Read MoreWhat to Expect During a Killeen DWI Arrest
Many of us have experienced it – if you’re reading this, you likely have as well. You’re driving home from an evening out and you see the familiar red and blue lights in your rear-view mirror signaling you to pull over. You had one or two drinks at dinner, so you’re a little worried about…
Read MoreIs a Federal Assault Charge Different from a State Assault Charge?
No two criminal charges are the same, even if they share many similarities and may be classed the same way. Everyone’s case is different, and therefore the charges they face will reflect that. Any criminal charges can carry serious consequences, of course, but certain crimes hold more weight than others, and in some scenarios, you…
Read MoreThe Murdaugh Trial and the Importance of Witness Testimony
Recently, accused killer Alex Murdaugh took the stand in his double-murder trial, and at the same time an unflattering Netflix docuseries about the murders and his own family hit the airwaves. Pundits and experts across the country considered this a risky move, especially considering Murdaugh immediately confessed to what felt like dozens of lies. We…
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