Criminal Defense

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…