Protecting Clients’ Rights for Over Two Decades

Studies show that by age 23 nearly one in three people are arrested in the United States. If you have been arrested, many things are running through your mind, like whether the charges will stay on your record or what you need if you have to go to court. You don’t have to figure out these things alone. Our compassionate team of attorneys understands how stressful criminal charges can be. We provide hands-on legal counsel backed by over 20 years of experience in and out of court.

Call the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard at (254) 220-4225 to find how we can advocate for you.

Common Criminal Charges in Florence and Most Important Steps to Take if You Are Charged

Criminal convictions in Texas can lead to fines, penalties, and other consequences. Some of the most common criminal charges include:

• Burglary
• Assaults
• Shoplifting
• Juvenile Offenses
• DWI
• Drug crimes
• Thefts
• And more

Facing one or more of these criminal charges in Florence, Texas, is a serious matter that requires quick action and careful decision-making. The steps you take in the hours and days following an arrest or accusation can have a major impact on the outcome of your case. Protecting your rights and your future begins with staying calm and making informed choices.

• The very first step you should take is to avoid speaking with law enforcement without legal representation. While you may feel pressured to explain your side of the story, anything you say can be used against you in court. Instead, politely exercise your right to remain silent until you have an attorney present. This simple but vital step can prevent damaging statements from becoming evidence.
• Next, you should contact our knowledgeable Florence criminal defense attorneys right away. Having experienced legal counsel by your side ensures that you understand the charges against you and the potential penalties. Our attorneys can examine the facts of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and begin building a strong defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.
• It is also important to carefully follow all legal requirements after being charged. Attend every court appearance on time, comply with bond conditions, and avoid any behavior that could worsen your situation. Keeping detailed records of events, potential witnesses, and any evidence that supports your defense can significantly help your case. 
• Finally, stay proactive and engaged in your defense. Trusting our attorneys and maintaining open communication will give you the best chance at a favorable resolution, whether that means negotiating reduced charges, securing a dismissal, or preparing for trial.

By acting quickly, protecting your rights, and working closely with our skilled Florence criminal defense lawyers, you can face your criminal charge with confidence and pursue the best possible outcome for your future.

What Is the Difference Between a Charge and a Conviction?

A charge is the formal accusation that someone has broken the law. This term specifically addresses the crime committed, like robbery, assault, DWI, etc. In other words, someone can have a DWI charge, but that does not include the penalty for a DWI or an official criminal conviction.

A criminal charge does not sentence or convict someone of a crime; it is simply the accusation. Sentencing does not happen until after the jury and judge have agreed to convict the person accused of a crime based on the evidence presented to the court. Once someone is convicted of a crime, the judge passes sentence. The sentence usually contains information regarding the punishment for the crime.

Sentences can include the following penalties:

• Probation
• Fines
• Short or long-term incarceration
• Restitution
• Community service
• Drug or alcohol rehabilitation

Misdemeanors typically result in either fines, probation, community service, rehabilitation, or a combination of several of these punishments. Felonies are more serious criminal convictions, and the penalty for felonies can range from long-term incarceration to life in prison.

Main Differences Between Plea Deals and Criminal Trials in Florence

When facing criminal charges in Florence, Texas, one of the most important decisions you will make is whether to accept a plea deal or take your case to trial. Understanding the main difference between these two paths is essential before making such a life-changing choice.

A plea deal, also known as a plea bargain, is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense. In most cases, the defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest to a lesser charge, or to the original charge in exchange for a reduced sentence. 

Plea deals can provide certainty and often result in lighter penalties compared to what might be imposed after a conviction at trial. They also allow cases to be resolved more quickly, sparing defendants the stress and expense of lengthy proceedings. However, accepting a plea means giving up your right to challenge the state’s evidence before a jury, and it leaves you with a permanent criminal record.

A criminal trial, on the other hand, gives you the chance to contest the charges in open court. Our attorneys can present evidence, question witnesses, and argue your defense before a judge or jury. Trials carry the possibility of complete acquittal if the prosecution cannot prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Yet they also involve greater risks. If convicted, the sentence could be more severe than what was offered in a plea deal. Trials are also time-consuming, stressful, and unpredictable.

Deciding between a plea deal and a trial is not something you should do alone. You should carefully review the evidence, possible penalties, and personal consequences with our attorneys. We can help you weigh the risks and benefits, guiding you toward the option that best protects your future.

How Does a Conviction Affect Your Criminal Record?

An understandable concern for those charged or convicted of a crime is whether or not it will go on their permanent record. Criminal records can make applying for jobs difficult because most employers use background checks on prospective employees.

Background checks usually identify convictions, not charges. Some programs can reveal pending criminal investigations, but the main goal of a background check is to look for misdemeanor or felony convictions.

You also have the option to remove a crime from your record through expunction. This deletes the offense from your record. Once removed, the crime is no longer available to the general public, which includes employers.

You qualify for expunction if you have been:

• Acquitted
• Convicted but found innocent
• Pardoned
• Charged but the case was dismissed
• Arrested but never charged

Texas requires that you wait between 180 days to one year to expunge a misdemeanor and three years for a felony.

Remember that if you have been charged with a crime, you have not been officially convicted. It is critical that you consult our attorneys if you have been arrested and/or charged.

Helping You Every Step of the Way

Our attorneys understand that being charged with a crime can be disorienting. You are unsure about what will happen to you and how this will impact your life. We are here to help you with hands-on legal counsel backed by decades of experience.

The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard has helped thousands of clients with their criminal cases by offering honest advice and legal guidance through case reviews, custom strategies, and high-quality legal representation.

If you have been accused of a crime in Florence, contact our attorneys at the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard.