It makes sense that you have the right to protect yourself when someone else is attacking you, but what about when someone is on your property – do you have the right to protect yourself then? In Texas, you have the right to protect yourself when someone else is on your property. However, there are…
Category: Criminal Defense
What Does the Term ‘Beyond a Reasonable Doubt’ Actually Mean?
If you’ve ever seen a movie or television show that featured a courtroom scene, you’ve likely heard the term, “beyond a reasonable doubt.” So what does this term, used in criminal trials, actually mean? The term, “beyond a reasonable doubt,” is used as a standard of proof necessary for prosecutors to meet for a defendant…
Is it Ever Against the Law to Carry a Firearm in TX?
When people think of Texas they often think of amazing BBQ, big hair, the Alamo, and football as a way of life. But what many others often associate with Texas is its strong advocacy for the Second Amendment’s Right to Bear Arms. Whether it’s for hunting, target shooting, or protection; many residents of the Lone…
What Is a Criminal Mischief Charge?
As more and more protests occur across the U.S., people on both sides have begun to engage in what would ordinarily be considered criminal behavior. But without a better plan in place, police officers in Texas have often arrested people and charged them with criminal mischief. But what is criminal mischief anyway? Criminal mischief can…
When Does Domestic Violence Become a Felony?
Domestic violence – known under Texas law as Assault Family Violence – is one of the most common types of offenses. Domestic violence can either be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, which can impact your consequences. But how do we determine the classification of each incident? Domestic violence includes either physical or sexual violence…
Are Shoplifting and Petty Theft the Same Thing?
Texas, like most states, determines the classification and punishment of a theft offense, like petty theft or shoplifting, and based upon the value of what is stolen and sometimes the type of property that has been stolen. What is Petty Theft? Texas state law defines petty theft as those crimes that involve smaller amounts of…
Defining Probation in Houston
Probation is a court-ordered sanction that someone is put on when they have been. When an individual is placed on probation, he or she is still allowed to remain in the community but must report to a probation officer. It is important to note that this option is not always on the table. Some crimes…
What Is the “Law of Parties?”
If you were ever punished along with your sibling for something that they did when you were with them, then you already have a slight understanding of the Texas “law of parties.” The law of parties allows for one individual to be held criminally liable for actions committed by others. Under <, everyone who participates…
The Difference Between Criminal and Civil Cases in Texas
No matter if it is a criminal or civil case, no one wants to deal with the stressors surrounding it. However, it is important to know the differences between the two. In order to fully understand the ways in which criminal and civil cases differ in Texas, it is important to understand each on its…
Drones Prove to Be Both the Problem and Solution for Crime
The concept of drones is quite remarkable. Drones, which are remotely-controlled, unmanned aerial vehicles, have been widely available for public use for about five years. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, approximately 1.5 million drones – both commercial and recreational – have been registered in the U.S., though it does not account for those that…
