Browse Law articles and resources.| zealousadvocate.com
Charged with a crime or DWI in Austin, TX / Travis County? Ben Michael & Associates provides hard-hitting legal defense with white glove treatment.| zealousadvocate.com
Expert legal resources, guides, and insights from our experienced attorneys.| zealousadvocate.com
To get someone out of jail in Houston, TX, you'll need key details such as a name, birthdate, booking number, and bail amount. Michael & Associates can help.| zealousadvocate.com
If you're looking for an inmate in Harris County, the county offers a searchable database. You can also search by phone or visit the sheriff's office in person.| zealousadvocate.com
Statistics show that the average bail amount in Harris County is $15,234. However, the county doesn't require bail for most misdemeanor offenses.| zealousadvocate.com
The easiest way to complete a Harris County warrant search is to call (713) 643-6118 and ask. You can also ask your lawyer or a bail bonds company to check.| zealousadvocate.com
What happens during booking in Harris County? You'll be photographed, fingerprinted, searched, and held in a cell until you appear before a magistrate.| zealousadvocate.com
Charged with DWI in Houston? Our expert attorneys defend clients in Harris County, fight for dismissals, reduce penalties, and protect driving privileges.| zealousadvocate.com
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Houston, TX? From DWI to murder, Michael & Associates will fight to get our clients the best possible outcome.| zealousadvocate.com
Browse Texas articles and resources.| zealousadvocate.com
An open container law violation in Texas is a crime, but it really isn't a big deal. The fine is only $500, but it's much better to hire a lawyer who can get the charge dismissed and get you off without a conviction on your record. You may need to do some community service or| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
All Texans should be familiar with local laws regarding the purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages. This knowledge allows individuals to avoid putting both themselves and others at risk. The guide below will help you better understand Texas drinking laws so you can make safe, informed decisions and avoid the many consequences of alcohol-related crimes.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Texas has strict DWI/DUI laws. The legal blood alcohol limit for adults is .08%. If you're under 21, any alcohol at all in your system could mean a DUI charge.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
To get someone out of jail in Bexar County, you'll need some specifics, such as a birthdate, booking number, and bail info. Michael & Associates can help.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Rebecca Stumpf manages content research and editing for Michael & Associates. She is an award-winning journalist with 30+ years of experience working for daily newspapers. Her work has appeared on CNN, CNBC, Business Insider and DallasNews.com.| zealousadvocate.com
A mistrial is a do-over. If jurors can't reach a unanimous verdict or new evidence turns up, the process starts over. This is good news for the defense.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
You’ve likely heard “Objection! Hearsay!” on TV. This often means a witness cites secondhand information. Learn more, plus 7 other common courtroom objections.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
A DWI conviction usually puts a big dent in your car insurance. On average, your insurance premium for full coverage goes up roughly 70% after a DWI conviction. An insurer might even refuse to provide coverage if a DWI shows up on your driving record. The consequences might be even more severe if a DWI| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
If you've been charged with DUI in Tennessee, you need to act quickly. Let Michael & Associates help you fight the charges. Our No. 1 goal is a dismissal.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Tennessee| zealousadvocate.com
In Tennessee, Class E felonies are the lowest-level felony offenses. However, they still carry severe penalties. Depending on the offense, you could end up facing a mandatory 150 days in jail and a fine of up to $15,000. And if your felony charge involves a DUI, you may also end up with an eight-year driver’s license suspension, … What is a Class E Felony in Tennessee? Penalties and Costs Read More » The post What is a Class E Felony in Tennessee? Penalties and Costs first appeared on ...| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law
After a DUI in Nashville, hiring an attorney may initially sound expensive. But it’s important to remember that even a first offense in Tennessee can easily total thousands of dollars in expenses. And if you’re convicted, those costs increase. While most people are aware that they’ll have to pay fines, many overlook such hidden expenses … How Much Does a DUI Cost in Nashville, TN? Full Breakdown of the Hidden Expenses Read More » The post How Much Does a DUI Cost in Nashville, TN? Fu...| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law
Even though a second DUI charge in Tennessee is still classified as a misdemeanor, a conviction carries significant penalties, including a mandatory 45 days in jail. It could also cost you thousands of dollars in fines and increased auto insurance rates, and you could lose your driver’s license for up to two years. If you’re … 2nd DUI Penalties in Tennessee: Jail Time & More Read More » The post 2nd DUI Penalties in Tennessee: Jail Time & More first appeared on Michael & Associates, At...| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law
No one wants to deal with the inconvenience of a DUI checkpoint, particularly if you’re in a hurry or have had a drink or two. However, these roadblocks are legal in Nashville, and they’re particularly common around major holidays and public events. But no matter what police officers might try to tell you, you still … Nashville DUI Checkpoints: How to Protect Yourself & Your Rights Read More » The post Nashville DUI Checkpoints: How to Protect Yourself & Your Rights first appeared on...| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law
In Tennessee, anyone with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher can be charged with DUI. However, many Tennesseans are unaware that in 2024, a new law lowered the legal limit for enhanced charges to a BAC of .15% This is an important change, because those enhanced charges could lead to harsher penalties, … New Tennessee DUI Law: What the BAC Limit Change Means for You Read More » The post New Tennessee DUI Law: What the BAC Limit Change Means for You first appeared on Micha...| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law
When people refer to “DUI school” in the Nashville area, they’re probably referring to Tennessee’s Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP). This is a state-approved educational program for individuals who’ve been convicted of DUI, or it may be a requirement as part of a negotiated plea deal. If you’re required to attend DUI school, … Nashville DUI School: Costs and What You Need to Know Read More » The post Nashville DUI School: Costs and What You Need to Know first appe...| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law
Learn what happens after a TN DUI first offense, including mandatory jail time, fines, driver's license suspension, and how to fight (and beat) the charge.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
If you’re pulled over in a seemingly routine traffic stop, what happens if the police officer notices that your breath smells like alcohol? It’s common for officers to check for the scent of alcohol, and it’s possible that odor could lead to a DWI arrest. The scent of alcohol on a driver’s breath doesn’t necessarily| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Texas law requires all vehicles to have front license plates. Failing to comply could result in a $200 fine and give police probable cause for a traffic stop.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Drunk driving offenses are treated seriously in Texas, and convictions can often lead to jail time and fines. The exact sentence for a DWI in Texas will depend on the circumstances of the case. For a 1st DWI, with no aggravating factors, you can expect up to 180 days of jail time. But even with| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
DWI-DUI| zealousadvocate.com
After a plea deal is accepted, sentencing can be immediate or take months. Ultimately, it depends on whether you face misdemeanor, felony, or federal charges.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Law| zealousadvocate.com
Incest is technically illegal in all 50 states, but a few states, including New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Ohio, are more lenient than others According to the U.S. Department of Justice, thousands of incest cases go unreported each year Texas bans sexual relationships between close relatives, including siblings, stepparents, and adoptive parents Incest is illegal| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Why is Pornhub banned in Texas? Technically, lawmakers didn't ban the site. Pornhub blocked users' access in Texas due to a 2023 law requiring age verification.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Texas| zealousadvocate.com
Texas retail stores and gas stations stop selling beer and wine at midnight (or 1 a.m. Sunday). Liquor isn't sold after 9 p.m. and can't be sold on Sundays.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Disorderly conduct charges in Texas don't typically involve jail time, so they're often easy to beat when prosecutors want to focus on more serious allegations.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Jail visitation in the San Antonio area requires planning. Visits must be scheduled 72 hours in advance, and no visits are allowed on Mondays and most Sundays.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Learning whether you have an arrest warrant in Bexar County can be cumbersome. The online system doesn't always list warrants. Instead, you have to call.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Data show that the average bail amount in Bexar County is $21,097, and the county typically only uses low-cost personal bonds for misdemeanor offenses.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Harris County inmate visits are complicated due to of the number of places an inmate can be housed, and the days you can visit depend on their location.| zealousadvocate.com
Each prosecutor decides how long you have to accept a plea deal. There's no fixed deadline. However, you'll probably be given some time to consider the offer.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Trying to get out of jury duty? A Texas defense attorney explains how to get out of jury duty, how to avoid getting picked, and the distinction between the two.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Federal and Texas laws allow sales of Delta-9 THC products with a potency below .3%. Michael & Associates tested 10 samples to see if they met the standard.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Do you go to jail immediately after a plea deal? It's possible, but the answer isn't always straightforward. It depends on the charge, sentence, and judge.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
In Texas, an ALR hearing allows you to fight to keep your driver's license after a DWI. Exclusive data from Texas SOAH shows that 34% get to keep their license.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
DWI pretrial diversion programs in Texas allow first-time offenders to get DWI charges dismissed and records relating to their DWI arrest expunged.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Many people underestimate the true cost of a DWI in Texas. The truth is that offenders can face costs totaling up to $20,000 or more. But that’s not all. A DWI conviction can permanently damage your reputation, career, and personal life. Here are some direct and collateral expenses that a DWI will generate: Bail bondsFinesCourt| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Texas is among the strictest states when it comes to DWI consequences. From background checks for jobs or housing applications to concerns over lingering marks on a criminal record, offenders have every reason to worry that a DWI can impact them for years to come. Getting a DWI ranks high on the list of great times| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
A 3rd DWI in Texas can attract a decade-long jail term and up to $26,000 in fines from the court, state, and licensing office. However, that humungous time and money loss is only a fraction of the story. Persons convicted of a third-time DWI offense would have a life-long felony record to their name. Read| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
The negative effects of a Class A misdemeanor should never be underestimated. These non-felony charges can lead to sizable fines, jail time and ongoing struggles in both professional and personal matters. Understanding the consequences of this charge, as well as your rights and your legal options is key to protecting yourself. We have a unique| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
In Texas, “no-refusal” weekends are a myth. DWI suspects don't lose their rights to refuse questioning and field sobriety testing just because it's a holiday.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Though the penalties for a second DWI are more severe than those for a first offense, it’s still unlikely that you’ll serve more than 72 hours in jail.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Most first DWIs carry a $2,000 fine and a mandatory minimum of three days in jail, but statistics show that most first offenders only spend a few hours in jail.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Most – but not all – forms of pornography are legal in Texas. A few types of porn are illegal due to laws that protect children and unintentional victims.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Get a free case review from our experienced criminal defense attorneys. Contact Michael & Associates today.| zealousadvocate.com
The age of consent in Texas is 17. This is the age at which a person can consent to sexual activity. However, one law helps protect teens within 3 years of age.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
It's need to understand how to beat a DWI in Texas if you want to keep one off your record. Know your rights, keep detailed notes, and talk to an attorney ASAP.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
To successfully complete probation, you must meet a certain number of conditions, which usually include remaining sober, staying away from drugs, avoiding involvement in criminal activity, and attending regular check-ins with a probation officer. If you fail a drug test while on probation in Texas, it could result in serious consequences that negatively impact your| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Texas’ pot laws are confusing, but the use of Delta 8 THC is legal -- as long as it doesn't exceed the maximum concentration. Here's what you need to know.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
A first-degree felony in Texas is the second-most severe type of conviction. A conviction can result in a life sentence, fines of up to $10,000, and the collateral damage that comes with a criminal record. Texas Felony Classifications Felonies are split into five levels of charges depending on the severity of the crime. The most| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
DWIs are generally charged as misdemeanors, but there are some circumstances where a DWI is charged as a felony in Texas. These can include multiple or repeated drunk driving offenses, a DWI resulting in serious injury or death, and a DWI with a child passenger under the age of 15. In this post, we cover| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Understanding bond fees and the role they play in Texas criminal proceeding is important if you are arrested. Learn more about how they can secure your release.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
We pulled public data from all counties in Texas from the years 2022 and 2023 to determine the cost of bail for a DWI in Texas. According to the data, the statewide average bail amount for cash bonds on DWI charges is $5,538. The table below shows the average bail amount for cash bonds. However,| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
After getting arrested and put in jail, you will typically be scheduled for an initial hearing, also called an arraignment, where a judge reads out the charges against you, informs you of your rights, and offers you the chance to enter a plea. The judge will determine your bail amount based on various factors, such| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
If you are arrested and charged with a crime, you will usually be asked to return to court at a later date for further proceedings. Most people would prefer to go home and get on with their lives while waiting for their next court date, but to be released from custody, you may need to| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Aside from the time between your arrest and release on bail, statistics show that it’s unlikely you’ll serve jail time for a first DWI offense Some clients actually prefer to spend a few days in jail than deal with probation or driver’s license suspensions The majority of people who are sentenced to jail time for| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
If you're arrested for DWI in Texas, you won't lose your driving privileges for about 40 days. But you must act quickly to lower the risk of license suspension.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
It's always stressful to be pulled over by police, but your actions in those first few minutes may mean the difference between a warning, ticket, or an arrest.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
The criminal penalties that come with a DWI sound scary, but the truth is that collateral damage is also costly. Here are 17 ways a conviction could affect you.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
A third degree felony is a serious crime in Texas. Consequences of a conviction include a jail sentence between two and ten years and a fine of up to $10,000. In some cases, a third degree felony will be enhanced, carrying even more severe consequences. What Is a Third Degree Felony in Texas? Felonies are| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Ben has vast experience in defending criminal cases ranging from DWIs to assault, drug possession, and many more. He has countless criminal charges dismissed and pled down. Among many other awards, one of the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in Texas and winner of Top 40 under 40.| zealousadvocate.com
In Texas, you don't lose your driving privileges immediately after a DWI arrest. However, you must act quickly if you want to avoid driver's license suspension.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
When you’re pulled over for DWI, it’s never too soon to start protecting yourself. Within about 15 seconds of your first interaction with police, the officer has made up his mind about whether to arrest you. The actions you take during those first few minutes can make or break their case against you. Here’s some| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
All DUI and most first-offense DWIs are classified as misdemeanors, and you can still buy a gun If your DWI is for a more serious offense, you could face felony charges If you’re charged with a felony DWI, you won’t be able to buy a gun for at least five years As Texas attorneys, we| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Remain calm and don’t answer any questions Contact an attorney as soon as possible during the booking process There are several ways to resolve a DWI case before a trial even becomes an option Your defense against a DWI arrest begins the moment a police officer pulls you over. Many officers decide whether you're guilty| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
When private information is posted on a public website with malicious intent, it's called doxxing. It's a type of cyberbulling that's mostly illegal in Texas.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
Texas has 6 types of bail bonds. Cash, Surety, and Personal Recognizance Bonds are most common. Learn more about the differences and the less-common options.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
No matter what a police officer might imply, field sobriety tests are never mandatory in Texas, even if your traffic stop falls on a “no-refusal” weekend.| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...
The legal consequences of public indecency can vary widely depending on the circumstances If minors are involved, penalties may require registering as a sex offender Digital platforms must balance public decency with respect for personal freedoms Public indecency laws in Texas are extremely strict. Since they are intended to protect people from unwanted exposure to| Michael & Associates - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Attorney that Cares
In Texas, DUI stands for driving under the influence. It applies to minors under the legal drinking age of 21 DWI (driving while intoxicated) applies to adults and minors whose blood alcohol concentration exceeds .08 There is no minimum BAC requirement for a DUI charge – any sign at all that a minor was consuming| Michael & Associates - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Attorney that Cares
SR-22 insurance explained: who needs it, how to get it after a DWI, how much it costs, and how long it stays on your record.| zealousadvocate.com
In some situations, a Texas temporary driver’s license isn’t a big deal. For example, you normally receive a temporary driver’s license during in-person renewal of your driver’s license. Having a Texas temporary driver’s license can be a big deal, though. That’s especially true if the temporary license resulted from a DWI arrest. What Is a| Michael & Associates - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Attorney that Cares
Not only can a DWI in Texas take a toll on your driving record, but it can cause serious consequences for your car insurance. If you’ve been convicted of DWI in Texas, you could see your car insurance rates go up by 50% or more. Auto Insurance Consequences of a DWI Offense in Texas Following| Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law - The Texas Criminal Defense & DWI Att...