Hays County residents who face arrest or a criminal investigation often feel uncertain about what will happen next. However, a Hays County criminal defense attorney with The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard will help you understand the charges, the possible penalties, and the important choices that you must make at each stage of a case. Please contact our office so we can tell you more about what we can do for you.

Criminal Charges in Hays County – What You Need to Know

Texas criminal courts in San Marcos, Buda, Kyle, and nearby communities follow rules in the Texas Penal Code and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Judges expect defendants to appear on time and follow bond conditions, so clear information about rights and duties is essential.

Criminal cases in Texas fall into two main groups: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors carry the risk of county jail time and fines, while felonies may lead to prison terms and longer-lasting consequences, such as limits on voting or firearm possession. A dedicated defense lawyer will review the complaint and the police reports to explain where a case falls on this scale.

Any strategy in Hays County must account for how prosecutors prove each element of an offense beyond a reasonable doubt. The state must show that officers complied with search-and-seizure rules and that statements to police were voluntary. Careful attention to those details can lead to motions that limit what a jury may hear. Strong motions practice often places pressure on the state to reconsider the original charge.

Our Practice Areas

Common charges in Hays County that we defend clients against include:

• DWI
• Assaults
• Thefts
• Criminal mischief
• Drug offenses
• Juvenile crimes

Each category carries its own range of punishment and possible defenses under Texas law. A skilled Hays County criminal defense attorney will review the current charge and a person’s background, health history, and family responsibilities. Diversion programs, deferred adjudication, or community supervision may be available in some cases, and early advice helps families weigh the long-term effects of each choice before entering a plea.

Support for DWI, Assault, and Property Offenses

DWI law in Texas can affect a driver’s license, insurance costs, and future employment. A careful defense lawyer will examine the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and any breath or blood analysis to see whether the state can prove impairment.

Assault and family violence charges often come with protective orders that restrict contact with alleged victims and may affect child visitation. A focused Hays County criminal defense attorney will review recordings, medical records, and witness statements to see whether the facts support the charge.

Even lower-level property offenses, such as theft and criminal mischief, can follow a person for years because employers and landlords review background checks. Options such as restitution, community supervision, or record-clearing procedures can reduce the impact of a mistake. Planning for future housing and employment at the same time as the case moves forward can be important.

Drug Charges, Juvenile Cases, and Bond Hearings

Drug offenses in Hays County range from possession of marijuana or prescription medications to allegations of manufacture or delivery. A strategic defense lawyer will examine how officers obtained the substances and whether their search warrants were valid.

Juvenile crimes raise special concerns because a young person’s school record, home life, and future opportunities are all at stake. Early involvement from The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard allows us to provide clear explanations of each hearing and to help families prepare their children for court.

If you’re facing a bond hearing, you might be nervous about what to expect. These hearings often occur shortly after arrest and can shape the rest of the case. A prepared Hays County criminal defense attorney will present information about work history, school enrollment, and family ties to argue for fair bond conditions.

Why Choose The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard?

The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard represents people across Hays County facing a wide range of criminal charges. Our firm treats each file as a story that deserves careful attention rather than a quick assumption. A criminal defense lawyer from our office will meet with clients, review charging documents and discovery, and build a plan for motion hearings, negotiations, and trial when needed.

Communication remains central to how our team approaches criminal cases in Hays County. You will receive updates about court dates, plea offers, and legal options, and we will answer all of your questions in plain language. We will also explain likely timelines so that families can plan work and school schedules around court.

Speak With an Experienced Hays County Criminal Defense Lawyer

People who must answer to criminal accusations benefit from guidance that respects their goals, their families, and their future. A trusted Hays County criminal defense attorney at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard will work with you as we analyze the details of the charge against you and will help shape a plan toward the most favorable outcome available. 

If you face criminal accusations in Hays County, we invite you to contact our office onlineor call 254-781-4222 to arrange a confidential consultation with our legal team.