Facing Criminal Charges Does Not Have To Be Scary
When you’re facing charges at any level, it is easy to panic. Law enforcement and prosecutors work together to secure convictions, and often, the obstacles seem insurmountable. Having a skilled attorney on your side is crucially important to ensure that your rights and interests are protected and can offer you peace of mind throughout the process.
Uniquely Skilled Representation
Our criminal defense lawyer at The Neel Law Firm has the skill and experience necessary to take on cases of any magnitude. Our attorney, Oliver Neel, has past experience as a Texas state prosecutor in Corpus Christi, giving him a unique perspective when defending clients.
He helps clients with a full array of criminal defense matters, such as the following:
- Drug possession: Even for first-time offenses, Texas courts may impose stiff penalties for drug offenses. Having an experienced attorney in your corner can mean the difference between severe penalties and reduced charges.
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI): Driving while intoxicated is a serious infraction and can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances surrounding the arrest. If you are not a Fredericksburg native and you are accused of DWI while in town, a local lawyer can be helpful.
- Juvenile defense: If your child is facing criminal charges, you need an attorney who understands the juvenile court system as well as what is happening to your family. Our attorney offers compassionate representation and more than a decade of experience in juvenile court.
- Sexual assault: Thanks to the court of public opinion, sexual assault charges can affect you for the rest of your life, even if you are found innocent. Calling The Neel Law Firm as soon as possible after you have been charged is critical to beginning the process of protecting your rights and your reputation.
- Theft and burglary: Attorney Neel has extensive experience defending commercial and residential theft charges. He fights to reduce jail time and fines with the goal of getting charges dropped, when possible.
- Violent crime: Assault, battery and other violent crimes can carry the most serious consequences if you are convicted. Our lawyer can fight to reduce penalties and, if possible, get the charges against you dropped.
No charge is too serious – attorney Neel can even assist clients accused of felony offenses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arrests And Criminal Charges
Getting arrested can be confusing and unsettling. You likely have many questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions asked by prospective clients.
What should I say to the police?
Always be polite to police officers and give them your name and contact information. If requested, show them your driver’s license or state ID. Beyond that, say as little as possible. You have the right to remain silent until you have spoken to an attorney, and you should exercise that right.
Resist the temptation to explain yourself to clear things up. Instead, say, “I intend to remain silent until I speak with my attorney.” Then, do so.
If the police ask for permission to search you, your car or your residence, say, “I do not consent to any searches.” They may search anyway, but they will need to have a sufficient legal reason to do so if you don’t consent.
Will I go to jail?
If a police officer arrests you, it is likely that you will go to jail – at least temporarily. You have the right to call an attorney, who will negotiate for your release as soon as possible.
Will you stay in jail long? That is impossible to say without reviewing your case. Some people cannot afford the bail that is set for them or are denied bail altogether. Part of attorney Neel’s job as your lawyer will be to argue for affordable bail or release pending trial. He will do everything in his power to get you out.
Why do I need a criminal defense attorney?
Even if you are completely innocent, the criminal justice system is difficult to navigate. Your freedom is on the line, and that makes it even harder. A criminal defense lawyer is the guide you need through the process as well as a person who can protect your rights and make arguments on your behalf.
Suppose you were offered a plea bargain by the prosecutor. Without an experienced lawyer, you will not know whether it is in your interest to accept it. If you go to trial without an attorney, then you run an extremely high risk of losing your case.
You need someone who will be by your side, no matter what. Your lawyer is required by law and ethics to work only in your best interests, and that is exactly what attorney Neel will do.
Speak With Our Lawyer Today
There is no reason to delay. The longer you wait to find a lawyer, the more likely it will be that prosecutors will have the advantage. Call The Neel Law Firm today at 830-856-2548 to arrange an initial meeting, or reach out through our online contact form.