Roadside Checkpoints Are Constitutional: Texas Court of Appeals

A very recent case decided by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, the State’s highest court of appeals to hear criminal cases, has established the lawfulness of roadside checkpoints under certain circumstances. This case will affect not only Driving While Intoxicated cases, but all criminal cases and the citizenry in general.  I’ll explain.  The Fourth…

Am I Being Detained? 6 Questions You Should Ask During Interactions With the Police

Police encounters can happen quickly and unexpectedly. Knowing what to say and what not to say can make a big impact on protecting your rights. In McKinney, Texas, officers have broad authority to question people, but that authority has limits. Knowing what those limits are can help you avoid escalating the situation while ensuring you…

What Proof Is Needed for a Restraining Order in McKinney, TX?

Restraining orders, called protective orders under Texas law, are powerful court orders designed to protect individuals from things like stalking or family violence. If you are seeking one in McKinney or if someone has filed one against you, it’s important to understand what proof is needed for a judge to grant it. Protective orders can…

The Best States for Responsible Gun Owners

Gun laws vary widely across the United States. While some states make it difficult to own or carry a firearm legally, others have created clear and balanced systems for responsible gun ownership. If you’re a law-abiding citizen who wants to exercise your Second Amendment rights, certain states stand out for how they handle things like…

What Is the Difference Between OVI, DUI, DWI, and OMVI?

If you’ve been pulled over for suspected drunk or drugged driving in Dallas, Texas, you may hear terms like DUI, DWI, or even OVI. These acronyms can get confusing fast. While they all refer to some form of impaired driving, the exact meaning and legal consequences can vary depending on the state.  In Texas, only…

Inside the Law with Jeremy F. Rosenthal: A Criminal Defense Blog That Informs, Educates, and Empowers

Jeremy F. Rosenthal, Esq., isn’t just a seasoned trial lawyer; he’s also a dedicated educator who uses his legal blog at CollinCountyCriminalLawyer.lawyer to bring clarity to the often-confusing world of Texas criminal law. While many attorneys use blogs as thin marketing tools, Rosenthal’s blog stands out as a comprehensive, reader-focused resource built to help real…

How DUI Charges Affect Your Commercial Driver’s License in Texas

Any drunk driving charge in Texas is bad news and can have life-altering consequences. However, the impact is more severe if you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and drive for a living. A DUI conviction could cost you your CDL and keep you from working. You could also serve jail time, have to pay…

What Are Your Rights at a DUI Checkpoint in Texas?

DUI checkpoints are popular methods in many states for the police to identify and arrest suspected drunk drivers. Under Texas law, though, these checkpoints are unconstitutional—a key example of how DUI checkpoint rules and legal rights can vary widely depending on where you are. The police have adopted other methods to work around legal restrictions regarding DUI…

What Is a High BAC for a DUI? Why It Matters in Texas

Driving under the influence (DUI), called driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, is a severe offense. Understanding what constitutes a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for a DUI is crucial for anyone who drives. According to the Texas Penal Code, the legal limit is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08%. However, a BAC of…

What Is “Probable Cause”?

You cannot be arrested for a crime in Collin County unless police and prosecutors have probable cause to charge you. But what exactly does “probable cause” mean? You have probably heard that phrase many times before without understanding its origin or importance. Every American’s Constitutional Right In American law, probable cause is a legal standard…