Have you been accused of destroying or concealing evidence in Dallas, Texas? Texas Defense Firm can help when you call (469) 772-9509 to speak with a Dallas destroying or concealing evidence lawyer who can help you understand your options and start building a strong defense. Contact us for a free consultation.
Allegations involving evidence tampering are serious and can carry lasting legal consequences. The sooner you involve an experienced defense attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights and future. Don’t wait—reach out today to discuss your case confidentially.
Why Choose Texas Defense Firm To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of Destroying or Concealing Evidence in Dallas?
If you’re facing accusations of destroying or concealing evidence in Dallas, TX, choosing the right legal team is crucial. Texas Defense Firm offers experienced, committed representation tailored to the needs of each client.
Here’s why many people trust this team during some of the most difficult times in their lives:
- The attorneys at Texas Defense Firm bring over 200 years of combined legal experience to the table, offering clients deep insight and battle-tested courtroom strategies.
- The team includes board-certified criminal law specialists and former prosecutors who understand how the other side builds its case.
- Every client receives aggressive representation and personalized legal strategies designed to pursue the best possible outcome.
- The firm’s approach is rooted in protecting not only your rights, but also your freedom and future.
- Whether the case involves a misdemeanor charge or a complex felony, the attorneys deliver focused, knowledgeable, and results-oriented advocacy.
If you need help, call today to speak with a Dallas criminal defense attorney.
What Is Destroying or Concealing Evidence in Texas?
Under Texas law, destroying or concealing evidence falls under Section 37.09 of the Texas Penal Code. This statute makes it a criminal offense to intentionally alter, destroy, or conceal any document, record, or item with the intent to impair its availability as evidence in an investigation or official proceeding. The law also prohibits the fabrication of evidence.
To be convicted of this offense, prosecutors must prove certain elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- The person knew that an official proceeding or investigation was pending or in progress, or was reasonably likely to be instituted.
- The person acted with the intent to impair the verity, legibility, or availability of the evidence.
- The act involved destroying, altering, concealing, or fabricating physical evidence.
The statute is broadly written and can apply to a range of circumstances, from erasing electronic data to discarding documents, tampering with surveillance footage, or misleading investigators through planted or altered evidence.
Intent plays a major role in these cases. Mistakenly throwing away an item is not a crime unless prosecutors can show there was intent to interfere with an investigation. That distinction often becomes the central issue in these cases.
What Are the Penalties for Destroying or Concealing Evidence in Dallas, Texas?
Tampering with or fabricating physical evidence is usually charged as a third-degree felony in Texas. However, if the evidence involved is a human corpse, the offense may be elevated to a second-degree felony.
Additionally, if someone discovers a human corpse under suspicious circumstances and/or fails to report it, they could face a Class A misdemeanor charge.
Jail time and fines could be as follows, depending on the circumstances:
- Second-degree felony: 2 to 20 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000 fine.
- Third-degree felony: 2 to 10 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000 fine.
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and/or a $4,000 fine.
The penalties for destroying or concealing evidence in Dallas, Texas, can vary widely depending on the nature of the offense.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Destroying or Concealing Evidence?
There are several defenses that an experienced attorney may raise in cases involving allegations of destroying or concealing evidence. Which strategy applies depends on the facts of your case.
Common defenses include:
- Lack of intent: You must have acted with intent to impair the evidence. If the alleged destruction was accidental or done without knowledge of an investigation, this could be a valid defense.
- No ongoing or pending investigation: If no formal investigation or legal proceeding had begun—or wasn’t reasonably likely—at the time the alleged tampering occurred, this could challenge a core element of the charge.
- False accusations or misunderstandings: It’s not uncommon for people to be wrongly accused, especially in chaotic or complex situations involving multiple parties.
- Insufficient evidence: Prosecutors must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is circumstantial or lacks credibility, your defense attorney can challenge its validity.
- Constitutional violations: If your rights were violated during the investigation—such as an illegal search or seizure—your attorney can seek to suppress evidence or have the case dismissed.
Your lawyer will review all the facts, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a defense strategy tailored to your situation.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Destroying or Concealing Evidence
Facing a criminal accusation can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves a charge like destroying or concealing evidence. An experienced criminal defense attorney plays a critical role in safeguarding your rights and guiding you through the legal process.
Here’s how:
- Early intervention: An attorney can speak to law enforcement on your behalf, help you avoid self-incrimination, and possibly prevent charges from being filed at all.
- Case evaluation: Your lawyer will review the evidence, examine the prosecution’s theory, and identify potential constitutional or procedural errors.
- Negotiations: In some cases, an attorney may be able to negotiate for reduced charges, dismissal, or a favorable plea agreement, depending on the facts.
- Court representation: If your case goes to trial, a defense lawyer will cross-examine witnesses, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and present your side of the story to the judge or jury.
- Ongoing support: Criminal cases are emotionally taxing. Having someone who knows the process and is in your corner makes a significant difference.
Without skilled legal help, you may unknowingly give up important rights or miss opportunities to strengthen your defense. The stakes are too high to go it alone.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With Our Destroying or Concealing Evidence Defense Lawyer
Being accused of destroying or concealing evidence in Dallas, Texas, is a serious legal matter that can affect your reputation, your freedom, and your future opportunities. These charges are often complex, and the stakes are high from the very beginning.
At Texas Defense Firm, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be—and we’re here to help you navigate it with clarity and strength. If you’re under investigation or have already been charged, it’s important to have an experienced legal team by your side.
Contact our team today to schedule a time to speak with a Dallas destroying or concealing evidence lawyer.
Visit Our Criminal Defense Law Firm in Dallas, TX
Texas Defense Firm Dallas
4100 Alpha Rd suite 476, Dallas, TX 75244
(469) 772-9509