Cibolo Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing criminal charges in Cibolo can turn your life upside down. Whether you’re dealing with a misdemeanor or a felony, the consequences of a conviction can impact your freedom, your job, and your future. The prosecutors in Guadalupe County take these cases seriously, and you need a defense attorney who can move quickly, communicate clearly, and build a powerful defense on your behalf.
At The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway, our Cibolo criminal defense lawyers offer a strategic, results-driven criminal defense. When you hire our firm, you’re getting a committed advocate who will keep you fully informed and fight hard for the best possible outcome in your case.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle in Cibolo
Our firm defends clients facing a wide range of criminal charges, focusing on key areas that carry serious legal consequences in Cibolo and Guadalupe County.
DWI/DUI Offenses
DWI (driving while intoxicated) is a common but serious charge in Texas. Even a first offense can result in jail time, fines, driver’s license suspension, and long-term consequences for your driving record and insurance rates. Repeat offenses or aggravating factors such as a high blood alcohol content (BAC) can lead to felony charges. We carefully examine the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing to build your defense.
Drug Crimes
Drug charges can range from simple possession to trafficking or manufacturing controlled substances. Texas law treats these offenses severely, especially for substances like cocaine, and opioids. Even marijuana possession can lead to harsh penalties. We explore whether searches and seizures were conducted lawfully and whether the evidence against you is reliable.
Theft and Robbery
Theft crimes in Texas include shoplifting, burglary, auto theft, and robbery. Robbery, in particular, involves the use or threat of force and is charged as a felony. Convictions can result in long prison sentences and permanently damage your reputation and employment prospects. Our defense strategies challenge evidence such as surveillance footage, eyewitness identification, and law enforcement procedures.
Human Smuggling
Texas takes an aggressive stance on human smuggling, especially near major highways and border-adjacent counties. A human smuggling conviction can lead to significant prison time, even if you did not intend harm or financial gain. These cases often involve complex investigations and multi-agency arrests, which can present procedural defenses.
Sex Crimes
Allegations of sex crimes such as sexual assault, statutory rape, or indecent exposure can destroy your personal and professional life. These cases are highly sensitive, and you need a defense attorney who understands how to carefully examine witness credibility, forensic evidence, and any violations of your constitutional rights.
Violent Crimes: Assault to Homicide
Assault & Violent Crime charges, from misdemeanor assault to capital murder, carry some of the most severe penalties under Texas law. Assault charges can arise from bar fights, domestic disputes, or road rage incidents, while homicide charges can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty. We develop comprehensive defenses that examine self-defense claims, mistaken identity, and the credibility of the prosecution’s evidence.
Defending Against Felonies and Misdemeanors in Texas
Criminal offenses in Texas are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are considered less severe but can still result in significant consequences. For example, a conviction for a Class A misdemeanor, such as assault causing bodily injury, can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Lower-level misdemeanors may involve probation, community service, or fines, but a conviction will still appear on your criminal record.
Felonies are the most serious crimes and are divided into degrees. A third-degree felony, such as certain DWI or drug offenses, can lead to 2 to 10 years in prison. First-degree felonies, like aggravated robbery or murder, can carry sentences of 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment. Capital felonies, such as capital murder, can result in the death penalty.
Regardless of the classification, both misdemeanors and felonies can drastically affect your life. Even misdemeanor convictions can prevent you from obtaining certain jobs, securing housing, or maintaining professional licenses. Felony convictions carry additional penalties like losing your right to vote or own a firearm. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, having an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.
How We Approach Criminal Defense in Cibolo
Every case is different, and we tailor our defense strategy to fit the specific facts and circumstances of your situation. Some key steps we take include:
- Thoroughly reviewing police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence
- Identifying illegal searches, improper arrests, or violations of your constitutional rights
- Challenging unreliable evidence or testimony
- Exploring alternatives to jail time, such as diversion programs or probation
We will always give you honest, straightforward advice about your options and the potential outcomes of your case.
Local Knowledge Matters in Cibolo Criminal Cases
Criminal defense is not one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to local courts. Our firm is familiar with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in Guadalupe County, including those serving Cibolo. This local insight allows us to make more informed strategic decisions and to advocate effectively on your behalf.
What Should You Do If You Are Arrested in Cibolo?
Being arrested is often a frightening and confusing experience. You may feel an overwhelming urge to explain yourself or answer questions from law enforcement in the hope that you can clear things up immediately. However, the most important step you can take after being arrested in Cibolo is to remain calm and say as little as possible. Politely but firmly state that you wish to remain silent and that you want to speak with an attorney. Do not engage in casual conversation with the police, as anything you say can later be used against you in court. Remember, police officers are trained to gather evidence, and their primary goal is not to help you avoid charges but to build a case against you. Contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately gives you the best chance to protect your rights, evaluate your options, and start building your defense before crucial mistakes are made.
Your Rights if Arrested
If you are arrested in Cibolo or anywhere in Texas, you have important constitutional rights that must be respected. The most crucial of these is your right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. You are never required to answer questions from police officers without a lawyer present. You also have the right to legal counsel, which means you can request to speak with an attorney at any time during questioning. If law enforcement continues to interrogate you after you’ve requested a lawyer, they may be violating your rights, and any statements you make could be suppressed in court. The less you say the better, as this right can be waived if you willingly answer questions without a lawyer.
Additionally, you have protection against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment. This means police typically need a valid warrant or probable cause to search your home, vehicle, or personal belongings. If they search you illegally, the evidence they gather may not be admissible in court.
Finally, you have the right to be treated fairly throughout the legal process, including the right to a public trial, the right to confront witnesses against you, and the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. If any of these rights are violated, it could significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Call The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway for Criminal Defense in Cibolo
If you have been arrested or are facing criminal charges in Cibolo, do not face the legal system alone. At The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway, we offer skilled, aggressive, and compassionate defense for people just like you. We understand how stressful this process is and will be by your side every step of the way. Call our Cibolo criminal defense attorney today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
