Bo Kalabus | October 10, 2023 | Criminal Defense
Can You Refuse to Testify if Subpoenaed by a Texas Court?
Have you received a subpoena to testify as a witness in a criminal trial or grand jury proceeding? If so, you probably have many questions regarding the law and your rights. For example, can you ignore the subpoena? If not, what are the penalties if you refuse to show up in court and testify? Can the court…
Jeremy Rosenthal | October 5, 2023 | Criminal Defense
Pros and Cons of a No-Contest Plea
When you have committed a crime, the first court appearance you will make is called an arraignment. At that time, you will be informed of the charges against you and asked if you have legal representation. This proceeding takes place before your trial, and you must enter a guilty, not guilty, or no-contest plea. The…
Bo Kalabus | October 5, 2023 | Criminal Defense
Why Using a Public Defender Is a Bad Idea
The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees everyone the right to an attorney during criminal cases. A U.S. Supreme Court case, decided almost 60 years ago (Gideon v. Wainwright) held that if a person wants an attorney but cannot afford one, the state must provide them with an attorney at no cost. Justice Hugo…
Bo Kalabus | October 5, 2023 | Criminal Defense \ Drug Crimes
Is Your Seven-Day Pill Box Illegal?
Prescription drug abuse has become a major public health issue in recent years. Oxycontin and other opioid painkillers have been widely abused. Legally speaking, all drugs that require a doctor’s prescription are tightly regulated. You can be arrested if you are found with any such drug on your person without a valid prescription. You will…
Bo Kalabus | September 18, 2023 | Criminal Defense \ Federal Firearms Violations
What’s Legal in Your State Might Not Be Legal in Texas
Many of us will be traveling during the holiday season. When you cross state lines, however, you must be aware that certain items may be legal in your destination but not Texas, and vice versa. And we’re not talking about your grandmother’s fruitcake. We mean potentially dangerous weapons, like firearms, knives, and stun guns. Here…
Bo Kalabus | September 18, 2023 | Criminal Defense
What Are the Laws Regarding Fake IDs in Texas?
As long as the legal drinking age in Texas stays at 21, teenagers will probably continue to obtain fake IDs to get served alcohol at bars and nightclubs. Indeed, many college and high school students view a fake ID as a “right of passage” and a victimless crime. But the reality is quite different. Getting caught trying…
Jeremy Rosenthal | September 18, 2023 | Criminal Defense \ Federal Firearms Violations
What is a Straw Purchase?
A straw purchase happens when a buyer receives goods or services on behalf of a third party. Regarding firearms transactions, straw purchases are strictly unlawful. A buyer cannot purchase a gun on behalf of a person prohibited by law from buying or possessing a gun. You also can’t purchase a gun for someone who wants…
Bo Kalabus | September 18, 2023 | Criminal Defense
When Does Smashing Pumpkins and Ding Dong Ditching on Halloween Become Criminal?
Halloween is about trick-or-treating and scarfing down way too much candy. But when does too much fun become criminal? Smashing pumpkins and ding-dong ditching can both result in criminal charges. Harmless Pranks or Misdemeanors & Felonies? Smashing Pumpkins This common prank usually upsets those devoted to carving the pumpkins. But if you smash the pumpkin…
Bo Kalabus | August 22, 2023 | Criminal Defense
Fireworks in Collin County, Texas
With the Fourth of July coming up next week, we pulled some facts together about shooting off fireworks in Collin County. Can I shoot off my own fireworks in Collin County? Use and possession of fireworks is allowed, but only in the unincorporated areas of Collin County. In other words, as long as you are not within…
Jeremy Rosenthal | August 22, 2023 | Criminal Defense
How Long Will it Take for My Case to Get Filed in Court?
If you or a loved one has ever been arrested and charged with a crime, you may find yourself wondering, “When will this nightmare be over?” Unfortunately, you will find that much of the criminal justice system fits the old saying, “Hurry up, and wait!” So, what can you expect? How long you wait depends, in part,…
