Schertz Criminal Defense Lawyer
Being charged with a crime in Schertz can turn your life upside down. Criminal accusations can threaten your freedom, your career, your reputation, and your future. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor charges or serious felonies, you need a criminal defense attorney who will fight for you, protect your rights, and provide a clear strategy for moving forward.
At The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway, we are committed to offering direct, honest guidance and aggressive defense strategies for individuals accused of crime in Guadalupe County. Our Schertz criminal defense lawyers understand that facing the criminal justice system is stressful and confusing, which is why we stay by your side, communicating openly and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle in Schertz
Our firm defends clients against a wide range of criminal charges in Schertz. We know the local courts and understand how to approach these cases with precision and creativity. Below are some of the main types of cases we deal with most often.
DWI
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges can result in harsh penalties, including license suspension, fines, jail time, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. Whether this is your first arrest or you’ve faced prior charges, we will challenge every part of the state’s case against you.
Drug Crimes
We defend clients facing charges ranging from simple possession of marijuana to distribution or manufacturing of controlled substances. Drug charges can have severe consequences, especially if they involve large quantities or drug-free zones near schools.
Theft and Robbery
We handle theft-related cases, from shoplifting to felony robbery. These charges can result in serious penalties and long-term damage to your record. We work to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, including issues of mistaken identity, lack of intent, or false accusations.
Human Smuggling
Human smuggling cases in Texas are aggressively prosecuted and often involve state and federal authorities. These are complex cases with serious prison time on the line, and we are prepared to build a strong defense on your behalf.
Sex Crimes
Sex crime charges, including sexual assault, indecent exposure, and statutory rape, can lead to prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender. We handle these cases with the utmost discretion and seriousness.
Violent Crimes
We defend clients accused of violent offenses ranging from misdemeanor assault to felony aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide. Violent crime convictions carry some of the harshest penalties under Texas law, including potential life sentences.
Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Texas
Regardless of whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense, skilled legal representation is essential to protecting your rights, obtaining a favorable outcome, and minimizing the negative consequences that flow from an arrest.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are less serious but can still result in jail time (up to one year), fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Class A misdemeanors include DWI (first offense), assault causing bodily injury, and certain drug possession cases. A misdemeanor conviction can have long-term effects on employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Felonies
Felonies carry much harsher penalties than misdemeanors, including years or decades in prison, large fines, and permanent restrictions on civil rights such as voting and firearm ownership. Felony charges may include aggravated assault, drug trafficking, robbery, and murder.
Regardless of the classification of a crime as a misdemeanor or felony, you need a skilled Schertz defense attorney to navigate the process and pursue the best possible result.
What to Do If You Are Arrested in Schertz
If you are arrested in Schertz, the most important step is to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you, and police officers are trained to obtain statements that can harm your case. Do not try to explain, talk your way out of the situation, or answer questions without an attorney present.
As soon as possible, politely ask for your lawyer. Contacting The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. We can step in immediately, help you avoid common mistakes, and begin building your defense right away.
Your Rights if Arrested in Schertz
When you are arrested, you have specific rights under the U.S. Constitution and Texas law. You have the right to remain silent and decline to answer police questions. You have the right to refuse consent to searches of your home, vehicle, or personal property unless the police have a valid warrant or legally recognized exception.
You also have the right to an attorney. This is one of your most powerful protections. Once you request a lawyer, the police must stop questioning you. It is always in your best interest to have legal representation before participating in any interviews, lineups, or discussions with law enforcement.
Many people believe that cooperating fully or trying to explain their side will help, but this often leads to unintended admissions or statements that can be twisted by prosecutors. It is not a sign of guilt to remain silent or to ask for a lawyer—it is your legal right and your best defense.
Why Choose The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway
We are not a firm that makes false promises or sugarcoats reality. We tell you where you stand, what your options are, and what we can do to help. Our approach is proactive, strategic, and focused entirely on protecting your future.
We have extensive experience handling cases in Schertz, Guadalupe County, and surrounding areas, and we understand the nuances of local procedures, prosecutors, and judges. We will guide you through the process, provide constant communication, and fight to minimize or eliminate the consequences you are facing.
Contact Us Today for Skilled Criminal Defense in Schertz
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Schertz, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway today to schedule your confidential consultation. The sooner you reach out, the sooner our Schertz criminal defense attorneys can start building a strong defense on your behalf.
