Posted on February 20, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you have been charged with drug possession in Texas, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your options. A conviction can lead to serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, being arrested does not mean you are automatically guilty. There are strong legal defenses that may help you reduce or even beat the charge — especially with the right Texas criminal defense attorney on your side.

At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we have secured over 300 not-guilty verdicts and acquittals for our clients, and we know how to fight aggressively for the best possible outcome. Below are some of the most effective defense strategies that may be available in your case.

Did the Police Conduct an Illegal Search and Seizure?

One of the most powerful ways to challenge a drug possession charge is by examining whether your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest. Under the Fourth Amendment, law enforcement must have a valid reason to search you, your car, or your home.

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 Posted on February 13, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Sex crime charges involving children carry some of the harshest penalties in Texas law. A conviction for sexual assault of a child can result in long prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong consequences.

The court system takes these allegations seriously, and without a strong defense, the penalties can be devastating. A Texas criminal defense attorney for sex crimes against children can help you fight to protect your rights.

What Are Texas Laws on Sexual Assault of a Child?

Sexual assault of a child occurs when an adult engages in sexual contact or penetration with someone under the age of 17 to whom the adult is not married. In Texas, a child is defined as anyone younger than 17 years old, and it makes no difference if the adult thought the child was older than 17. This offense is classified as a second-degree felony, which can result in a prison sentence ranging from two to 20 years, along with fines of up to $10,000.

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 Posted on February 06, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Being named a "person of interest" in a criminal case can be a frightening and confusing experience. Law enforcement may believe you have information about a crime or suspect that you were involved in illegal activity. 

While being a person of interest does not mean you have been charged with a crime, it can still have serious legal implications. If you are in this situation, understanding your rights and taking smart steps guided by a Texas criminal defense attorney can help protect your freedom and future. 

What Does It Mean to Be a Person of Interest?

The term "person of interest" is not a legal designation but rather a term used by law enforcement to describe someone they believe has information related to an investigation. This does not mean that you are a suspect, but everything can escalate quickly if authorities gather evidence that implicates you in a crime. Police may attempt to question you, search your property, or monitor your activities.

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 Posted on January 30, 2025 in Federal Crimes

A Texas man charged with multiple fatal crimes related to moving migrants across Texas has pleaded guilty. Homero Zamorano, Jr. was allegedly driving a truck hiding 67 people in its trailer, 53 of whom died as a result of the tractor-trailor’s air conditioning system not working on a 100-degree day in June of 2022. Zamorano faces life in prison at his April 24th sentencing for charges of conspiracy to transport aliens resulting in death, placing lives in jeopardy, and causing serious bodily injury, as well as other crimes involving the transportation of aliens.

Texas and the federal government take human trafficking very seriously and we can expect these cases to be prosecuted even more aggressively under the Trump administration. If you are charged with any crimes related to human trafficking, including conspiracy, contact a Texas federal criminal defense attorney immediately.

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 Posted on January 23, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Courtrooms can be stressful, emotional places and sometimes people say things in the heat of the moment that they do not mean. If you have made a threat against a judge — even one that you only made out of frustration or anger — it is important to understand how serious this situation can be.

Even if the threat was not meant to be taken seriously, it can lead to severe legal consequences under Texas law. Speaking with an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney is the best way to protect your rights and handle these charges.

Is Threatening a Judge a Crime in Texas?

Threatening a judge is a very serious crime in Texas. According to Texas law, this offense falls under the category of "retaliation". It is illegal to harm or threaten a public servant, including a judge, in retaliation for performing their official duties. The law does not require proof that you intended to carry out the threat — just making the threat can lead to criminal charges. Threatening a judge is a third-degree felony, which comes with serious consequences:

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 Posted on January 16, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Most of us get on an airplane at some point, and a few of us get in big trouble during the process of getting on or off an airplane. Sometimes the punishments for breaking the law at the airport are just a slap on the wrist, but depending on the situation, a person can also be sentenced to serve long-term time in federal prison. If you were arrested at the airport, even for something seemingly minor, take it seriously and hire a Texas criminal defense attorney right away.

Theft

Theft is one of the most common crimes at airports, often targeting passengers’ luggage, wallets, or electronics. Luggage theft can occur at baggage claim areas or security checkpoints.

Depending on the value of the stolen items, theft can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. For example, stealing a high-value item like a laptop could lead to felony charges, punishable by fines, restitution, and imprisonment ranging from months to years.

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 Posted on January 09, 2025 in Criminal Defense

An arson charge at the federal level is serious business. Arson convictions come with severe penalties, usually including many years in prison. If federal agents accuse you of arson, it is critical to take the proper steps to protect yourself. A Texas federal criminal defense lawyer with The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. can help you determine the best next step you should take if you are being accused of, or investigated for, the federal crime of arson.

Know the Specifics of Federal Arson Laws

Unlike state arson laws, federal arson charges follow uniform legal guidelines nationwide. Most importantly, federal law prohibits using fire or explosives to willfully destroy or attempt to destroy any building, vehicle, or other real or personal property used in commerce. Commerce refers to any business-related activities or events which affect interstate trade or transportation.

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 Posted on December 26, 2024 in Criminal Defense

There are a variety of situations in which a person may be charged with the offense of assault. While most people think of assault as actions in which someone intentionally injures someone else, there are a variety of other types of actions that could also be considered assault. In Texas, assault is a serious criminal charge that can result in multiple types of penalties if a person is convicted. By understanding how the state's laws address this offense, and by working with an experienced criminal defense attorney, those who are accused of assault can determine their options for handling these charges.

Definition of Assault in Texas

Texas law identifies three forms of assault:

• Intentionally causing someone to suffer a bodily injury. For example, if someone has encountered ongoing conflicts with another person, sees them walking down the street, approaches them from behind, and attacks them with punches and kicks, resulting in cuts, bruises, and other forms of bodily harm, this would likely be considered assault resulting in bodily injuries. This form of assault is charged as a Class A misdemeanor in most cases. If a person is convicted of Class A misdemeanor assault, they could be sentenced to up to one year in jail and fined up to $4,000.

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 Posted on December 19, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Hiring escorts in Texas can be a legal gray area. While there is nothing inherently illegal about paying for simple companionship, crossing certain lines can lead to serious criminal charges. For example, offering payment for sexual activity is considered solicitation. If you are facing solicitation charges, you need to call a fearless, aggressive Texas prostitution defense attorney now.

What Is an Escort?

An escort is a person hired to provide companionship or accompany someone to social events or other engagements. Escorts often work through agencies or as independent contractors. While this arrangement is legal when limited to companionship, it becomes illegal if it involves sexual activity in exchange for money or other compensation.

Is Hiring an Escort Against Texas Law? 

Paying for an escort in Dallas is not inherently illegal. Many people hire Texas escorts simply to attend events, provide conversation, or spend time in a non-sexual context. However, offering or exchanging money for sexual services is strictly prohibited under Texas law. This offense falls under the umbrella of prostitution and solicitation.

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 Posted on December 05, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Nobody wants to get arrested, especially if you have had prior experiences with law enforcement that have been less than positive. At the very least, getting arrested can be scary and confusing. You are not simply a victim in an arrest, however. You have rights under the law and knowing your rights can help you stay calm and protect yourself.

If your rights are violated, the evidence against you might get thrown out, and your entire case could be affected. If you have not yet been arrested, prepare yourself by knowing your rights and how to use them. If you or someone you love has already been arrested, you have options. An aggressive, experienced Texas criminal defense lawyer can help if you face this situation.

What Are Your Rights During an Arrest?

The U.S. Constitution guarantees several key rights if you are arrested. Here are the most important ones:

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