Bo Kalabus | September 16, 2024 | Appeals
A Guide to Misdemeanor Appeals in Texas
In Texas, misdemeanors are criminal offenses punishable by a fine or time in the county jail. It may be tempting to think that a misdemeanor conviction is not worth appealing because it isn’t serious enough. But a misdemeanor conviction can be very serious. Any time in jail can be harmful and disruptive. Some misdemeanor convictions, like…
Bo Kalabus | September 13, 2024 | Criminal Defense
Criminal Appeals Lawyer | Writ of Habeas Corpus
Following a criminal conviction, defendants can contest their charges or sentence when errors during the trial proceedings deprive them of their rights or affect the trial outcome. Defendants may appeal their convictions or sentences or pursue post-conviction relief. One such post-conviction relief is a petition for a writ of habeas corpus. Obtaining relief from a conviction or…
Bo Kalabus | September 13, 2024 | Criminal Defense
Should I Choose Jail Instead of Probation?
In some criminal cases, defendants are able to get probation as an alternative to incarceration. Probation, known as “community supervision” in Texas, is a period of court-ordered supervision that allows a person to stay within their community while they serve out their sentence. The terms of a person’s community supervision can vary. In some cases, a person who…
Bo Kalabus | September 3, 2024 | Federal Firearms Violations
What Happens If You Get Caught With a Ghost Gun in Texas?
If you possess an unserialized firearm in Texas, you need to know what happens if authorities catch you with a ghost gun. At Texas Defense Firm, we understand the confusing interaction between state and federal law concerning ghost guns. This is particularly true in light of the federal law modernizing the definition of “firearm.” It’s…
Jeremy Rosenthal | August 25, 2024 | Federal Criminal Defense \ Federal Firearms Violations
10 Things You Need to Know About Federal Gun Laws
Texas has always been a state that protects the constitutional right to keep and bear arms. Texas law does not require law-abiding citizens to obtain a license or permit before purchasing a handgun or shotgun. A permit is only required to carry a concealed handgun in public. But Texas law is not the final word…
Bo Kalabus | August 25, 2024 | Federal Firearms Violations
What Is a Prohibited Weapon in Texas?
Texas has a reputation as a Second Amendment-friendly state. However, the right to own and carry a handgun or shotgun does not automatically apply to other kinds of weapons. Residents in Collin County should be aware that they might have illegal weapons under Texas law. Below are some prohibited weapons in Texas. Prohibited and Restricted Weapons Aside…
Bo Kalabus | May 28, 2024 | Criminal Defense
How to Get Credit for Time Served in Jail in Collin County
When you face criminal charges in Collin County, Texas, the thought of spending time in jail can be daunting. However, you may be eligible for credit towards your sentence if you have already spent time in custody before your sentencing. Don’t know how to get credit for time served in jail? Understanding how to get credit for…
Bo Kalabus | October 10, 2023 | Bail \ Federal Criminal Defense
Do I Turn Myself In If There’s a Warrant for My Arrest?
Most criminal cases in Texas begin with a judge or magistrate issuing a warrant for the suspect’s arrest. If you have reason to believe there is an active arrest warrant for you, your first instinct might be to try and run. That is never a good idea. The longer a person waits to turn themselves…
Bo Kalabus | October 10, 2023 | Federal Criminal Defense
What Will Happen to Me If I Aid or Assist a Fugitive?
Many of us have faced a situation where a family member or friend is accused of a serious crime. Your first instinct may be to offer help. After all, if you believe the person is not guilty, you want to do everything you can to help them avoid possible jail time. But there is a…
Bo Kalabus | October 10, 2023 | Probation
Moving Out of State While On Probation
In most misdemeanor–and many felony–cases, defendants are not sent to jail upon conviction. Instead, Texas law allows the judge to sentence the defendant to community supervision. It is more commonly known as “probation” in other states. Probation basically means the defendant remains free, subject to his or her compliance with certain conditions imposed by the court. In misdemeanor cases,…
