Mansfield Criminal Defense Attorney

Mansfield Criminal Defense Attorney Fighting Criminal Charges in Texas

Being accused of a crime can be a very distressing experience for anyone. From hefty fines to reputational damage to prison time, the looming consequences of a criminal conviction can be terrifying. Fortunately, you don’t have to fight this battle alone. Our Mansfield criminal defense attorney, Michael Munoz, is here to aggressively defend your rights and fight tirelessly to restore your freedom. 

Regardless of the charges against you, we believe everyone is entitled to a strong defense. That’s why our firm takes pride in offering the high-end representation that our Texas clients deserve. At the Law Office of Michael Muñoz, we have a longstanding track record of successfully defending clients' rights throughout Tarrant County. With decades of experience, you can count on our team to guide your steps with wisdom and precision, empowering us to fight for the outcome you deserve. 

Forgoing your right to legal representation can yield devastating consequences. Contact us online or call (817) 993-5288 to consult with a qualified criminal defense lawyer in DFW.

Fiercely Defending the Rights of Texans Since 2003

A native Texan, our seasoned Mansfield defense lawyer has invaluable experience working at some of the best law firms in the country. With two decades of legal experience, you can count on Attorney Muñoz to deliver the customized legal solutions you need and deserve to safeguard your future. 

The legal team at the Law Office of Michael Muñoz not only understands the intricacies of Texas law but also the stress that comes with facing legal challenges. We prioritize open communication, ensuring you remain informed and empowered throughout your legal journey. Our firm genuinely cares about our clients' well-being and commits to utilizing all available resources and legal strategies to protect your rights and future. Collaborating with us means access to a dedicated partner capable of addressing all facets of your defense, from initial consultation to trial preparation. 

Our knowledgeable legal team at the Law Office of Michael Muñoz is well-equipped to defend accused Texans in a wide range of criminal cases, including:    

Misdemeanor Crimes in Mansfield

In Texas, misdemeanors are crimes that are less serious than felonies but still carry significant legal consequences. Such offenses are typically punishable by penalties like probation, fines, and even jail time. Our dedicated Mansfield attorney can defend you against a wide range of misdemeanor charges in Texas criminal courts, such as: 

• Assault (Texas Penal Code §22.01)
• Theft (Texas Penal Code §31.03)
• Trespassing (Texas Penal Code §30.05)
• Disorderly Conduct (Texas Penal Code §42.01)

Misdemeanor offenses are categorized into three classes: 

• Class A – Class A misdemeanors are the most serious type in Texas. A conviction can result in up to $4,000 in fines and up to 1 year in jail. Examples of Class A misdemeanors include assault causing bodily injury, theft of property totaling a certain value, and possession of marijuana.  
• Class B – Class B misdemeanors are less severe than Class A, but still carry serious legal penalties. A conviction can result in up to $2,000 in fines and up to 180 days in jail. Common examples of Class B misdemeanors include DWIs for first-time offenders, trespassing, and prostitution.  
• Class C – Class C misdemeanors are the least serious misdemeanor offense in Texas, but securing a strong defense to protect your rights is still imperative. A conviction can result in up to $500 in fines. Common examples of Class C misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and minor traffic violations, such as running a red light.

Understanding the nuances of misdemeanor charges is crucial because the consequences can extend beyond immediate penalties. For instance, a misdemeanor conviction can impact employment opportunities, educational aspirations, and even housing applications. Our approach is comprehensive, assessing not just the immediate legal issue but also the long-term implications on your personal and professional life. Every individual deserves a thorough defense that considers all potential outcomes.

Felony Crimes in Mansfield

Felony charges in Texas carry severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term damage to a person’s reputation and future opportunities. Unlike misdemeanors, felonies are considered the most serious category of criminal offenses and are prosecuted aggressively by the state. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect employment, housing, and even the ability to own a firearm.

Texas law classifies felonies into five categories, each with varying degrees of punishment:

• State Jail Felony: The least severe felony category, state jail felonies include crimes such as theft of property valued between $2,500 and $30,000, credit card abuse, and certain drug possession offenses. A conviction can result in 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and fines of up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: This category includes offenses such as indecent exposure to a child, certain types of assault on a public servant, and possession of larger quantities of controlled substances. A conviction carries two to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: More serious offenses, such as aggravated assault, robbery, and sexual assault, fall into this category. Those convicted face two to 20 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: Crimes such as aggravated robbery, attempted murder, and large-scale drug trafficking qualify as first-degree felonies. A conviction can result in five to 99 years or life in prison, along with fines up to $10,000.
• Capital Felony: The most serious classification, capital felonies include crimes such as capital murder. If convicted, an individual may face life in prison without parole or the death penalty in Texas.

Common Crimes We Defend in Mansfield, TX

Additional Criminal Defense Areas We Focus On Include:  

• Domestic Violence – A domestic violence offense under Texas criminal law refers to any act of violence, abuse, or threat committed against a family or household member. This can include physical harm, emotional abuse, sexual assault, financial exploitation, or coercive control.  
• Drug Crimes – Under Texas law, drug crimes refer to the possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances. The severity of these offenses can vary based on type and quantity. Possession of controlled substances can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with potential consequences including fines, probation, mandatory drug treatment programs, and imprisonment.
• DUI & DWI Defense – Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses in Texas. Such offenses occur when defendants operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a blood alcohol content (BAC) reading of 0.08% or higher. The penalties in Texas can range from hefty fines to prison time to license suspension, depending on the severity of circumstances and any aggravating factors (such as causing bodily injury or death to a victim in the accident).
• Probation Violations – A probation violation offense under Texas criminal law occurs when an individual fails to comply with the conditions and terms of their probation sentence. Probation is a form of community supervision given as an alternative to incarceration. Violating probation can result in serious consequences, including revocation of probation and potential imprisonment.  
• Restraining Order Violations – A restraining order violation occurs when an individual fails to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in a protective or restraining order granted by a court. These orders are put in place to protect victims of domestic violence, harassment, or other forms of abuse. Violating a restraining order is considered a serious offense in Texas. Penalties can vary based on the nature of the offense, but may be enhanced if the violation entails family violence, child abuse, or sexual assault.  
• White Collar Crimes – White collar crimes are non-violent, financially motivated offenses committed by individuals, businesses, or government officials. These crimes typically involve fraud, deceit, or other illegal activities aimed at obtaining financial gain. Common examples include embezzlement, fraud, forgery, and tax evasion.  

Detailing these additional criminal defense areas emphasizes our comprehensive approach to legal representation. From domestic violence cases requiring sensitive handling to complex white-collar crimes demanding meticulous examination of financial records, each category demands a unique defense strategy. Our firm is committed to addressing each area with the requisite attention and understanding, ensuring that every client receives the tailored defense they need. Whether dealing with probation violations or DUIs, our clients can rely on our thorough knowledge of the legal landscape to navigate their situations effectively.

The Importance of Securing a Strong Criminal Defense in Mansfield

Securing strong representation from a qualified criminal defense attorney is imperative to avoid life-altering legal repercussions when facing any criminal charge. An experienced criminal defense attorney will be an invaluable asset to any defendant navigating the complexities of criminal court. 

Legal proceedings can be intimidating and unfamiliar to most individuals, which underscores the necessity of having a seasoned professional by your side. Our firm’s commitment to thorough preparation and strategic defense means that clients are never left to face these challenges alone. We advocate fiercely on behalf of our clients, employing a combination of insightful legal strategy and compassionate counseling. Addressing the emotional and psychological stress alongside the legal battle is part of our comprehensive defense approach.

Regardless of the charges against you, our fierce Mansfield defense attorney can help you avoid detrimental legal consequences by fighting for the just outcome you deserve.

Understanding Local Legal Nuances in Mansfield

Navigating the legal system in Mansfield requires an in-depth understanding of local laws and court customs. Mansfield, being part of Tarrant County, operates under a specific legal framework that can differ from other jurisdictions in Texas. This framework includes local ordinances and procedural rules that may influence how a criminal case is handled. It’s imperative to work with a legal team that is not only knowledgeable about Texas law but also familiar with the local judicial environment.

Furthermore, Mansfield's proximity to major urban centers like Fort Worth provides its own set of challenges and opportunities. The demographics and socio-economic conditions unique to this area often inform the kinds of criminal cases that are most prevalent. Understanding these local dynamics can be critical in formulating an effective defense strategy. With our personalized approach, we tailor our legal services to account for these nuances, ensuring you receive a defense that is as comprehensive as it is compassionate.

Aggressively Defending the Accused in Mansfield

In the Lone Star State, the justice system can be complex and unforgiving. The consequences of a criminal conviction are life-changing, often leading to serious penalties like imprisonment, expensive fines, and a tarnished reputation. If you’re facing criminal charges in Tarrant County, it’s crucial to seek competent representation to aggressively protect your rights.

Whether you’ve been charged with a minor infraction or a serious felony offense, the legal repercussions of a criminal conviction can have long-lasting impacts on your personal and professional life. Partnering with a trusted criminal defense attorney who will vigorously defend your rights is nonnegotiable to obtain the result you desire.

A criminal conviction can result in life-changing penalties. Our firm will fight tirelessly to defend your rights. Call (817) 993-5288 to schedule a consultation.