Hays County Criminal Defense Attorney | ATX Legal

As a criminal defense lawyer, I have represented countless clients in Hays County facing a wide range of criminal charges. With nearly 10 years of experience in the Central Texas legal system, I understand the complexities and nuances of Hays County courts and can provide you with aggressive and effective representation. Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, ATX Legal law office can help you through a difficult spot. Fill out a contact form for a free confidential consultation on your San Marcos criminal defense.

Hays County Operates Differently

It should go without saying that a defendant will be treated differently in Hays County than he would in the more liberal neighbor to the North. A blue wave is coming to Hays, but it hasn’t yet fully arrived. Although District Attorney Kelly Higgins, a Democrat, won the election in 2023, not much has changed in the way criminal cases are handled. Because of the way criminal charges are handled, some criminal defense lawyers will not travel to Hays County. When I take criminal cases there, I’m ready for a fight.

San Marcos Misdemeanors are No Joke

San Marcos is home to Texas State University, which means that a large percentage of the population is made up of young adults. This often leads to an increase in misdemeanors such as underage drinking, possession of marijuana, and public intoxication. While these may seem like minor charges, they can still have serious consequences on your record and future opportunities. Criminal attorneys understand the severity of these charges and will fight to protect your rights and future.

Felony Charges in Hays County

In addition to misdemeanors, Hays County also sees its fair share of felony charges. These can range from drug offenses to violent crimes, from first degree felony to state jail felony. They carry much harsher penalties if convicted. Also, felony convictions will stay on your criminal history for life, so it is especially important to work to have these cases dismissed. As a skilled criminal defense attorney, I have experience defending clients against a variety of felony charges in Hays County. I understand the complexities of these cases and will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf.

San Marcos DWI Defense

With a large college population, it’s no surprise that San Marcos also sees a significant number of DWI charges. If you have been charged with a DWI in Hays County, it is important to seek legal representation immediately. A DWI conviction can result in serious consequences such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time. San Marcos criminal defense lawyers can review the details of your case and work to minimize the potential impact on your life.

Assault and Other Violent Crime

Assault and other violent crimes can have serious consequences, including jail time and a permanent criminal record. Domestic violence cases can haveIf you have been charged with assault or another violent crime in Hays County, it is crucial to seek legal representation right away. Criminal defense lawyers understand the complexities of these types of cases and will thoroughly investigate the evidence against you to build a strong defense. This often includes defense of a protective order in addition to the assault. Our law firm is committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.

Sex Crimes

Sex crime charges can have severe consequences, including mandatory registration as a sex offender and potential prison time. If you are facing charges for a sex crime in Hays County, it is important to seek legal representation immediately. Often, these cases are charged as felonies, and have few witnesses to refute the story of the accuser. Often, alcohol is involved. When arrested for a sex crime, it is important to push to have the case dismissed. A skilled criminal defense attorney can review the evidence against you and work to build a strong defense on your behalf. This may include challenging the credibility of witnesses or

Drug Crimes

Drug offenses, including drug possession and distribution, are taken very seriously in San Marcos, Tx. Although the District Attorney has stated that he will not enforce marijuana laws, he has faced some push-back on this, so the status is unclear. In Hays, a conviction for a drug offense can still result in long prison sentences and hefty fines. Criminal defense attorneys have a lot of leverage here because prosecutors don’t usually want to waste court resources on drug cases. I will work tirelessly on your behalf to build a strong defense for your criminal case and push to have charges dropped.

Texas State Crime on Campus

With Texas State University located in San Marcos, there are often incidents of crime on campus. If you are a student facing criminal charges, it can have serious consequences on your academic career and future opportunities. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I will work to protect your rights and help you navigate through any potential legal or administrative consequences.

Hays County, Texas Crime Statistics

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Hays County had a total of 3,829 reported crimes in 2019. Of those, 1,330 were violent crimes and 2,499 were property crimes. You can see up-to-date data here. These statistics highlight the importance of having a strong criminal defense attorney on your side if you are facing charges in Hays County.

Hays County, Texas Court Resources

All Hays County Courts are located at 712 South Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos, Texas 78666. You can look up court and jail records here.

Hays County Criminal Defense FAQs

Why is my case still un-filed?

Along with a new elected District Attorney, Hays County also elected a new clerk. It turns out he was fresh out of high school. Since that happened, cases are taking longer after arrest to file charges, and can sit for months before you have a court date.

Will I be prosecuted for possession of marijuana?

In Texas, possession of marijuana could result in a criminal charge depending on the amount you possess. However, many counties including Hays have softened their stance. Still, the situation is murky and there is a chance you will be charged and prosecuted. Just remember that marijuana is still illegal under Texas criminal law.

Someone I know was charged for the same crime in Travis County and got a better deal. Why?

Criminal prosecutions can vary greatly between counties due to differences in local policies, the nature of the crime, the circumstances surrounding the case, and the discretion of the prosecuting attorney. That’s why similar cases may result in different outcomes across different counties. Travis County is still far more liberal when it comes to crime enforcement.

Do I need to show up in-person for my court date?

Unless you’ve been specifically told otherwise by your lawyer or the court, you must appear in person for your court date. Unlike other counties, Hays is conducting all criminal matters in-person. Failing to appear can result in a warrant for your arrest, additional charges, or a forfeit of your bond. Always consult with your defense attorney before making decisions about court appearances.

How Can a Hays County Criminal Defense Attorney Help?

Criminal defense cases are given harsh penalties in Hays. A criminal defense lawyer can build reasonable doubt, plea bargain with the prosecutor, and sometimes even have the alleged offense dismissed pre-trial.

Request a Free Consultation with a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one has been recently arrested or is facing criminal charges in San Marcos Tx, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of experienced criminal defense attorneys. They can help navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Fill out a contact form to request a free initial consultation with our Austin, Texas law firm for your San Marcos criminal defense. Out clients always receive top-notch communication and a strong defense.