Have you been charged with a crime, or are you concerned that you might be? There are few things more stressful, but you will be glad to know that help is available. You have important rights that are well worth protecting, and an experienced Oscar criminal defense attorney at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard is on your side and here to help. 

Criminal Law 

Criminal law reflects the collection of laws that address crimes. The intent is rooting out those actions that have a negative effect on society at large. These laws are wide-ranging, but some of the most common criminal charges in Texas include all the following:

• Theft, which includes shoplifting
• Assault and aggravated assault
• Burglary
• DWI
• Drug charges
• Gun charges
• Criminal misconduct
• Juvenile crimes 

The Classification of Offenses

In Texas, charges are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, with state jail felonies bridging the gap. The dividing line between Texas misdemeanors and felonies is that felony charges carry sentences of at least a year in prison. Sentences for misdemeanor charges are generally served in jail. State jail felonies carry sentences of from six months to two years in state jail facilities.

The Fines and Penalties 

The more serious the charge, the heftier the fines and penalties will be. These are intended to punish and discourage similar actions and can include any combination of or all of the following:

• Time behind bars
• Fines 
• Community service 
• Requirements related to parole or probation
• Classes that address issues such as anger management or alcohol dependence  

The Severity of the Charge 

It is important to begin with the fact that every criminal charge is a serious charge and that every criminal charge should be taken seriously. The Texas criminal justice system, however, breaks misdemeanors down from least to most serious as Class C, Class B, and Class A misdemeanor charges. This is followed by the state jail felony, which leads to felonies, which are classified from least to most serious as third-degree, second-degree, first-degree, and capital felony offenses.

The Matter of Intent

Most criminal charges require the element of intent. There are a few, however, that do not, and they are called strict liability charges. For example, you can be ticketed for speeding whether you intended to speed or not. 

Before the state can convict you of a charge that is predicated on intent, which most are, they must prove that you intended to carry out the criminal act in question, which can be a tall order. It is also important to know that the degree of intent required varies. Premeditation requires more considerable intent than does recklessness, which refers to displaying wanton disregard. And negligence is lower on the scale than recklessness. 

The level of intent involved generally correlates directly with the severity of the charge. 

Your Legal Rights 

A key aspect of the case against you is your related rights. These will guide how your case proceeds and can make a very serious difference in the outcome. Knowing them well will serve you well.

You Have the Right to Remain Silent

When the police arrest you, they would like nothing more than for you to talk about the incident. This is based on the fact that – at some point – you are likely to say something they can use to strengthen their case against you. You have the right to remain silent, and you are well advised to invoke it sooner rather than later. Once you let the police know that you will not be doing any talking, following through on this claim falls to you.

You Have the Right to an Attorney

You also have the right to an attorney, which is the one thing you should be talking about. The sooner you let the police know that you want legal representation, the sooner you will have skilled legal guidance backing you up.

You Have the Right to Due Process

The criminal justice system is required to treat you fairly and in accordance with the law, which refers to your right to due process. Your dedicated Oscar criminal defense lawyer will do everything in their power to help ensure that this happens. Prime examples of rights that are addressed by due process include the right to a speedy trial and the right to an impartial jury.

You Need an Experienced Oscar Criminal Defense Lawyer in Your Corner

Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard is a resilient Oscar criminal defense attorney who spares no effort on behalf of his clients and is well prepared to fiercely advocate for a just conclusion to your case. Our experienced and well-respected legal team is here to help, so please don’t delay reaching out by completing our online form or calling our office at (254) 220-4225 today.