McKinney Criminal Defense Attorney

The criminal process in Texas typically begins with an arrest, followed by booking, arraignment, and bail. From there, your case may proceed through pretrial hearings, plea negotiations, and/or trial. If convicted, sentencing and potential appeals follow. 

However, every case is different, and the steps involved can vary based on the specific charges, court, and many other factors. 

Each stage involves critical decisions that can affect the outcome, which is why having an experienced defense attorney on your side from the start is so important. The right legal advice can help you avoid missteps and minimize long-term consequences.

A criminal conviction can have serious, lasting consequences — from fines and probation to jail time and a permanent record. An experienced criminal defense attorney can protect your interests, challenge the prosecution’s case, and help you make informed decisions at each stage. 

Without skilled representation, you could face harsher penalties or miss opportunities to reduce or dismiss your charges. Your attorney will evaluate the evidence, negotiate when possible, and fight for the best possible outcome. 

If you were arrested in McKinney or anywhere in Collin County, hiring the right lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take.

Yes. Even if you’re innocent, being charged with a crime is a serious legal issue that requires immediate action. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors are not on your side—they’re actively building a case against you. 

A defense attorney can safeguard your rights, challenge weak or illegally obtained evidence, and ensure that your voice is heard. If you go it alone, you could face conviction due to errors, assumptions, or false accusations. 

Innocent people are charged with crimes more often than you might think. The right lawyer can help you avoid a devastating outcome and fight to clear your name.

In Texas, criminal offenses are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are generally considered less serious and may result in fines, probation, or up to one year in county jail. Felonies carry steeper penalties, including state prison time and long-term consequences. 

The exact punishment depends on the charge and how it’s classified. While both types of offenses can affect your record, employment, and future opportunities, felony convictions typically have more severe legal and personal implications. 

No matter the charge, it’s essential to take any accusation seriously and speak with a qualified defense attorney as soon as possible.

Bail is the amount of money or conditions set by the court to ensure that a defendant returns for future court dates after being released from jail. Depending on the charge, bail may be paid directly, handled through a bond company, or denied altogether. 

Judges consider factors like the severity of the offense, criminal history, and risk of flight when setting bail. In some cases, a skilled defense attorney can argue for lower bail or a personal recognizance bond. 

For certain misdemeanor arrests in Collin County, your attorney may also be able to secure a faster release through a writ bond (or writ of habeas corpus), before a judge formally sets bail.

If you or a loved one has been arrested in Collin County, speak with a lawyer right away to understand your bail options.

A plea bargain is an agreement where you plead guilty in exchange for reduced charges or a lighter sentence. These deals can resolve a case quickly, but they’re not always in your best interest. Prosecutors may offer a deal to avoid trial, even if the evidence is weak. 

Before accepting any plea agreement, it’s crucial to speak with a Texas criminal defense attorney who can evaluate the case, explain the consequences, and negotiate from a position of strength. The right legal strategy could lead to a better outcome—or even a dismissal—depending on the facts and circumstances.