Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dallas

How a Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

Few things in life are as terrifying as being accused of a crime. Suddenly, you are confronting an unfamiliar system that poses severe consequences. You might be confused about your legal rights and whether you have a viable defense. You may not understand the available options and the pros and cons involved in each. Some prosecutors take advantage of unrepresented defendants, seeking the harshest penalties possible and offering little in the way of plea agreements. Even well-meaning prosecutors have a job to do and no duty to do what’s best for you. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help level the playing field, ensuring you are properly protected.

Criminal defense lawyers help their clients by:

• Explaining the law: Criminal laws can be confusing. Lawyers can explain the letter of the law and what this means for your particular criminal case. They can answer any questions you have and clarify your situation. They describe the nature of the charge, the possible range for penalties, and potential defenses you could raise. Criminal law can be complicated. Knowing not just the law but local system is key to fully understanding your case.
• Conducting independent investigations: The prosecution often only looks for evidence that proves your guilt, but a criminal law attorney can look for evidence that undermines the prosecution’s case. Your lawyer may interview witnesses, obtain security camera footage, or find evidence of an alibi to aid in your defense.
• Providing guidance throughout the legal process: Your lawyer can explain what to expect at each stage of the process. Your attorney can get the evidence in your case and thoroughly review it to begin mounting your defense. In some situations, it might be possible to negotiate a pre-trial agreement so your case never goes to trial As your case progresses, your lawyer can advise you of your options and offer advice tailored to your particular situation.
• Filing motions: If police illegally obtained evidence against you or violated other procedural rules, criminal lawyers can file motions to have evidence suppressed (and suppressed evidence can lead to your case being dismissed).
  Identifying legal defenses: An attorney with experience handling similar cases can identify legal strategies best suited for your particular case. Your lawyer can tailor your case strategy to your particular circumstances and individual goals.
• Negotiating plea bargains: Criminal defense attorneys may be able to negotiate favorable plea agreements with prosecutors, which can help reduce or dismiss some charges and possibly avoid a life-altering conviction.
• Advocating for you in court: If your case goes to trial, your criminal attorney can challenge evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof.

Ultimately, the criminal defense attorney you choose is an important decision. Your lawyer is your legal advocate. They handle the day-to-day legal responsibilities and all communications regarding your case.

Why Choose Mike Howard as Your Criminal Defense Attorney

Mike Howard is an outstanding lawyer, known for his client-centered approach. He begins each case by sitting down with a person accused of a crime and getting to know them and their story. He offers 30-minute initial case evaluations, providing an honest assessment of your case and explaining the law and your legal options.

D Magazine named Attorney Howard as one of the Best Lawyers in Dallas 2016-2024. He has also been named in The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 list for 2023 and 2024. He is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He has the trial skills, experience, and dedication necessary to zealously represent you through every stage of your case. He also has a proven track record of success in various types of misdemeanor cases. Call him today for your initial case evaluation.

What Is a Misdemeanor?

Misdemeanor offenses are less serious criminal offenses than felonies. In Texas, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense that carries a possible jail sentence of up to one year. If sentenced to incarceration, a person convicted of a misdemeanor serves their sentence in the county jail.

What Is a Felony?

Felonies are considered more serious offenses, such as aggravated sexual assault or murder. Felonies carry possible terms of imprisonment of more than one year. Those convicted of felony offenses in Texas serve their time in state prison or state jail facilities.

Common Misdemeanor Offenses in Texas

Various crimes are classified as misdemeanors in Texas, including:

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) First Offense
DWI Second Offense
Misdemeanor Assault (Assault Causing Bodily Injury)
Domestic Violence (Assault Family Violence)
Violation of a Protective Order
Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Prescription Drugs without a prescription
Shoplifting / Petty Theft
Criminal Mischief
Criminal Trespass
Disorderly Conduct
Driving While License Suspended
Reckless Driving
Misdemeanor Firearm Offenses
Indecent Exposure or Public Lewdness
Burglary of a Motor Vehicle
Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon

If you are facing misdemeanor charges, contact Mike Howard today to discuss your case.

Potential Penalties for Misdemeanor Crimes

Some people think that since misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they don’t need to take these charges seriously. They may simply plead guilty to a criminal offense that’s classified as a misdemeanor without thinking about the long-term impact this decision can have on their lives. That is a huge mistake that you should try to avoid. Misdemeanor convictions can have a devastating effect on your life, so it’s crucial that you address them.

Possible penalties for a misdemeanor offense include:

• Jail time
• Expensive fines
• Probation

Additionally, you can have a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life. This could portray you as a criminal and leave you with a negative stigma. Your criminal history may appear when employers, landlords, or other parties perform background checks. It doesn’t stop there. Other possible consequences of a misdemeanor criminal case include:

• Loss of your gun rights
• Loss of your driving privileges
• Difficulties when applying for loans or other forms of financial assistance
• Difficulties finding a job or getting accepted into an educational program
• Effects on your parental rights or child custody schedule
• Possible loss of your security clearance or professional license
• Damage to your reputation and personal relationships
• Enhanced penalties for any future offenses you commit

Don’t make the mistake of taking criminal charges lightly if you’re facing a misdemeanor. Attorney Mike Howard is ready to fight for you and explore all available defenses to protect your legal rights.

Alternatives to Jail

Just because you are facing criminal charges does not necessarily mean that you will be incarcerated. There may be several alternatives available to you to avoid jail, including pretrial intervention (or diversion) programs that can result in a dismissal after successful completion. A plea bargain may be able to yield a sentence of probation or some other alternative that achieves your conviction while avoiding the uncertainty of a trial.

Your lawyer can explore options that best meet your objectives and safeguard your future. Misdemeanor cases that result in a not-guilty verdict, are dismissed, or are reduced to a Class C deferred adjudication case may be eligible for an expunction. Misdemeanor cases that are Class A or B deferred adjudication may be eligible for an order of nondisclosure of criminal history (sealing your record from the public). These options may help you minimize the impact a misdemeanor has on your future.

What Can I Expect When I Work with Attorney Mike Howard?

Mike Howard is a different kind of lawyer. He begins the process by taking the time to listen to you and hear your story. We get to know you and understand your case and goals. Many attorneys don’t fully listen to their clients and apply a one-size-fits-all approach to their legal services, but not Mike and his team. Mike and his team make sure they fully understand the facts of the case and explain the process ahead.

Above all else, we treat our clients with respect and dignity. We don’t believe that someone’s character should be based on a single mistake or set of bad circumstances. We treat all of our clients like individuals, not case numbers. We keep you informed about the status of your case as it progresses through the judicial system, answer your questions, and remain a zealous advocate for you at all times. We explain the law, your rights, and the legal process.

We fight like your life depends on it – because it does. We are not naive. We’ve seen people get railroaded when they didn’t have a competent lawyer to help them. Innocent people can and do get accused, charged, and convicted of crimes they never committed. We fight to protect your rights and aren’t afraid of a challenge.

We are committed to securing the best possible result for you and work hard to achieve it. Mike doesn’t shy away from trial when that is the best path forward for you. He is also a skillful negotiator, often able to secure favorable plea bargains where others have failed. Mike’s reputation as a skillful trial lawyer precedes him, often allowing him to get clients – even those who don’t want to go to trial – better results.

What to Do If You Are Facing Misdemeanor Allegations

If you are facing accusations of a misdemeanor, it’s essential that you take the following steps to protect your legal rights:

Don’t Talk to Police

While it’s understandable that you want to explain your side of the story to the police and try to avoid being charged with a crime in the first place, it’s crucial that you exercise your right to remain silent. Police officers may twist your words, or you might say something that incriminates you. It’s better to talk to your criminal defense lawyer and then let them share your narrative in the way best determined to serve your interests.

Build a Defense

You can be a critical part to your defense. Talk to your lawyer about the circumstances surrounding the charges. Let them know if there are witnesses who can back up your version of events or evidence that may help undermine the prosecution’s case.

Follow Court Requirements

Be sure that you attend all necessary court hearings. Follow any terms the court sets out for your release, including not having contact with the alleged victim.

Don’t Talk About Your Case

Avoid talking to friends, family members, or online about your case. Anything you say could be used as evidence against you.

Hire an Experienced Lawyer

Don’t try to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system alone. A skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer knows the law and can walk you through the process. They can also identify plausible defense strategies, challenge evidence, and fight for you.

Contact an Experienced Lawyer for Assistance

At The Law Office of Mike Howard, we understand that a criminal charge can forever alter your life when you don’t have a strong defense. Facing possible jail time and other serious consequences can be terrifying. We are here to help guide you through this challenging time with compassion and respect. We want you to be well-informed so that you can make the best decisions about the future.

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges, you must reach out to an experienced attorney for assistance to protect your legal rights and freedom. Attorney Mike Howard has extensive trial and negotiation experience and fights hard to protect the rights of Dallas residents accused of various criminal offenses. Contact us today for a 30-minute case evaluation where we can explain the charges and how we can help. You can call us at (214) 296-2221 to arrange your confidential consultation.