Why Legal Fees Are an Investment, Not Just an Expense

When facing serious accusations, “how much will sex crime defense cost me” is often the first question. The financial burden adds immense stress, but a robust legal defense is a vital investment in your future and freedom, not just an expense.

Here’s a quick overview of typical ranges:

Sex crime accusations can be more life-shattering than murder charges, impacting your job, home, and relationships. Understanding the costs is a crucial first step in building your defense. This guide will help you steer the financial side of securing top-tier representation.

As the founder of The Martinez Law Firm, I’ve seen the critical importance of a strong defense. With over 25 years of experience, including time as a Chief Prosecutor and City Judge, I bring a unique understanding of the justice system to every case.

The Key Factors That Drive Sex Crime Defense Costs

When we evaluate “how much will sex crime defense cost,” several factors influence the price. These figures reflect the case’s complexity, required resources, and the expertise needed for the best outcome. The primary drivers are the charge’s severity, case complexity, attorney experience, and whether the case goes to trial or settles.

Each element impacts the final cost. For a comprehensive look at our approach, explore our insights on Defending a Sexual Assault Case in Houston.

The Seriousness of the Charge

The nature of the accusation is the most significant factor in determining legal costs. Misdemeanor sex crimes, while serious, generally involve less extensive legal work than felony charges. For instance, a Class A Misdemeanor in Texas carries up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine, while a Class B Misdemeanor has a maximum of 180 days and a $2,000 fine. Legal fees for these can range from $2,500 to $8,000 for Class A and $2,500 to $6,000 for Class B.

Felony sex crimes carry far graver consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. First-Degree Felonies, such as aggravated sexual assault, can lead to 5 to 99 years or life in prison.

Second-Degree Felonies might result in 2 to 20 years. Defending these charges is inherently more complex, demanding extensive investigation and meticulous legal strategy. This increased complexity means higher legal fees, with felony cases typically ranging from $7,000 to $70,000, and serious felonies often exceeding $50,000.

Some offenses are “wobblers,” meaning they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Our legal strategy in such cases often involves fighting to reduce the charge, which can significantly reduce potential penalties and defense costs. Understanding the legal burden of proof is critical in these cases; learn more about The Burden of Proof in Sex Crimes: What to Know.

The Attorney’s Experience and Reputation

An attorney’s experience and reputation are pivotal. Lawyers with decades of experience, a proven track record, and specific expertise in sex crime defense command higher rates for the value they bring. An experienced criminal defense attorney can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $200,000+, with hourly rates from $200 to $750.

Our firm leverages Herman Martinez’s unique advantage as a former prosecutor. This insider knowledge of how the prosecution builds its case allows us to craft a more effective defense. We’ve been on both sides of the courtroom, and that perspective is invaluable.

When choosing an attorney, peer reviews, board certifications, and attorney ratings (like those on platforms such as Avvo) offer insights into their standing. While ratings are helpful, always verify a lawyer’s disciplinary status with their state bar association before hiring them.

Additional Case Expenses

Beyond attorney fees, other costs are crucial for a strong defense:

• Private Investigators: Essential for gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
• Forensic Analysts: For examining digital evidence (computers, phones), DNA, or other scientific data.
• DNA Testing: Independent DNA testing may be necessary if biological evidence is central to the case.
• Psychological Evaluations: If the mental state or credibility of witnesses is an issue, an expert may be needed.
• Court Filing Fees: Administrative costs for filing motions and other legal documents.
• Deposition Costs: Fees for taking sworn testimony from witnesses outside of court.
• Travel Expenses: If the case requires attorneys or investigators to travel, these costs will be factored in.

These expenses are not always predictable, but we discuss them transparently as they become necessary. They are critical investments in strengthening your defense.

Understanding Attorney Fee Structures: Flat Fees vs. Hourly Rates

When you’re asking “how much will sex crime defense cost,” it’s also important to understand how attorneys charge. The two main structures are flat fees and hourly rates, often requiring an initial retainer payment. Each has pros and cons depending on your case.

We believe in clear, honest conversations about costs from the start. Sometimes, attorneys might offer hybrid models or payment plans to make legal help more accessible. Our goal is for you to understand exactly what you’re paying for. You can learn more about how lawyers typically charge for their services on Nolo.com.

What is a Flat Fee?

A flat fee is a single, set amount for an attorney’s services, regardless of the hours spent. This provides cost certainty, which helps with budgeting during a stressful time.

For a misdemeanor charge, a flat fee might range from $1,500 to $3,500. If that same case goes to trial, the fee could increase to $3,000 to $5,000. For felony charges, a flat fee for a favorable settlement might be $3,000 to $6,000. If a felony case heads to trial, the flat fee could range from $10,000 to $20,000. For the most serious felonies, flat fees can go upwards of $40,000.

Sometimes, flat fees are broken down into phases, such as one fee for the pre-trial phase (investigations, motions, negotiations) and a separate fee if the case goes to trial. This “phased billing” helps keep things clear and allows you to plan your finances.

How Do Hourly Rates Work?

With hourly rates, you pay for the exact time the attorney and their team work on your case. For criminal defense attorneys, these rates typically fall between $150 and $750 per hour. Highly experienced lawyers might charge between $250 and $750 per hour.

Attorneys track their time in small increments, like 6 or 15 minutes, so every task is recorded and billed. If your case resolves quickly, you may pay less. However, if a case becomes complex or lengthy, costs can escalate, with monthly bills sometimes reaching $10,000 to $15,000.

Most attorneys will ask for an initial retainer when you hire them. This is an upfront deposit. As the attorney works, their hourly fees are deducted from this retainer. When the balance gets low, you’ll be asked to “replenish” it. For example, a lawyer charging $200 per hour might ask for a $2,000 retainer to cover the first 10 hours of work.

How Much Will Sex Crime Defense Cost? A Look at Average Ranges

When you’re asking “how much will sex crime defense cost,” there is no single, fixed price. The cost depends on factors like the charge’s severity, case complexity, and attorney experience. The numbers we share are average ranges to provide a general idea.

While national averages for a criminal defense lawyer might sit around $8,000 (often ranging from $1,000 to $15,000), costs here in Texas can vary even more, depending on your specific county like Houston, Harris County, or Fort Bend County.

How much will sex crime defense cost for Misdemeanor Charges?

For misdemeanor sex crime accusations, the average defense cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. These cases, while still very serious, usually don’t require as much deep investigation or as many long court battles as felony cases.

You might be facing charges like Public Lewdness, Indecent Exposure, or Soliciting a Prostitute.

If your case can be resolved quickly through negotiation, your costs might be on the lower end of that range, around $3,000 to $6,000. But if your misdemeanor case needs to go to trial, the costs will naturally climb. A trial means more time and resources spent on preparation, jury selection, and court time. In these situations, you could see costs reaching the higher end, around $8,000 to $10,000.

How much will sex crime defense cost for Felony Charges?

For felony sex crime defense, the costs are significantly higher, generally ranging from $10,000 to $70,000+. For very complex cases, that figure can even go above $200,000. The potential penalties are far more severe, sometimes including decades in prison and mandatory sex offender registration, which demands an incredibly thorough and aggressive defense.

Common felony sex offenses include Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault of a Child, and Child Pornography Charges, which often involve complex digital forensics. We have experience in defending against false allegations in these sensitive cases.

These higher costs reflect the immense work involved, such as analyzing extensive evidence, hiring expert witnesses, and navigating a lengthy court process. Cases where a life sentence is possible can easily exceed $50,000, and for top-tier lawyers, may surpass $100,000. This is an investment in your freedom, future, and reputation.

The True Cost of Inadequate Defense

When asking, “how much will sex crime defense cost,” it’s natural to consider saving money. However, the true cost of an inadequate defense far outweighs any initial savings. Seeking the cheapest option or representing yourself in a complex sex crime case is a gamble with devastating odds. You should never face the legal system without an experienced guide.

While public defenders are a vital resource, they are often stretched thin with massive caseloads, which can limit the individual attention they can dedicate to each case. Representing yourself, while a constitutional right, is a perilous path in sex crime cases where the legal rules are incredibly complex. Trying to save money by delaying or skipping a skilled criminal defense attorney can backfire, potentially leaving you with much graver consequences.

The Lifelong Impact of a Conviction

The impact of a sex crime conviction reaches far beyond legal fees, prison time, or fines. It casts a long shadow over your life, leading to challenges that can last a lifetime. These are the “beyond legal fees” costs that underscore the importance of a strong defense:

• Sex Offender Registration: This public record follows you for life, creating immense problems. You can learn more about what this means for your future here: Sex Offender Registration.
• Employment Challenges: A conviction can make it incredibly difficult to find or keep a job, especially in certain fields.
• Housing Restrictions: The sex offender registry can severely limit where you’re allowed to live, often prohibiting residence near schools, parks, or daycares.
• Professional License Revocation: A conviction can lead to the suspension or permanent revocation of a professional license, ending your career.
• Reputational Damage: The stigma surrounding sex crime accusations is immense and can severely damage your reputation within your community and family.
• Strained Relationships: The emotional toll on your personal relationships is profound and can lead to isolation and breakdowns within families.

It’s also important to remember that false accusations can lead to job loss, child custody battles, and professional license issues, even if charges are never filed. These hidden costs highlight why investing in a robust defense from the start is a crucial investment in protecting your future.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sex Crime Defense Costs

We know that figuring out the money side of a sex crime defense can feel like a maze. It’s completely normal to have lots of questions! Here are some common ones we hear, along with clear answers to help you understand your options.

Is a more expensive lawyer always the best choice?

It’s not simply about picking the most expensive option, but there is a strong link between cost and quality. While a higher fee doesn’t guarantee a specific outcome, it usually reflects an attorney’s experience, a strong reputation, specialized knowledge, and the resources they can dedicate to your case.

For example, an attorney like Herman Martinez, with his background as a former prosecutor, brings a unique advantage. He knows how the other side thinks and builds their case, leading to a more aggressive and personalized defense strategy. Conversely, a “cheap” attorney for a serious sex crime case might lack the experience, time, or resources to properly investigate and challenge evidence. This can lead to a horrible result that costs you far more in the long run. It’s about finding the best value for your investment by looking for an attorney with proven results and a smart approach. For more insights, see our page where a Sexual Assault Attorney in Houston Answers Frequently Asked Questions.

What are the “hidden fees” I should ask about in a consultation?

We believe in being upfront about costs and encourage clients to ask about all potential fees. Beyond the main attorney fee, additional expenses are often necessary to build the strongest defense.

These can include:

• Expert Witness Fees: For specialists like forensic analysts or psychologists.
• Investigator Fees: For private investigators to gather evidence and find witnesses.
• Court Costs and Filing Fees: Administrative fees for filing motions and other documents.
• Deposition Costs: Costs for court reporters and transcripts for sworn testimony.
• Travel Expenses: If your case requires our team or experts to travel.
• Document Duplication and Processing Fees: For copying and organizing large amounts of evidence.

The most important thing is to receive a clear, written fee agreement that spells out all potential costs so there are no surprises.

Can I get a refund if my case is dismissed quickly?

Whether you can get a refund depends on your fee agreement.

If you have a retainer agreement (hourly billing), you pay an initial deposit. If your case is dismissed quickly, any unused portion of that retainer should be refunded to you, after accounting for work performed and expenses. However, some retainers might be listed as “non-refundable” or “earned upon receipt,” so clarify this at the start.

If you agreed to a flat fee, you paid a fixed amount for the attorney’s services, regardless of the time spent. In these situations, a refund is generally unlikely, even if the case is dismissed quickly, because the attorney’s expertise was committed to your case. Some agreements might include rare conditions for partial refunds.

It’s essential to discuss refund policies, how “earned” versus “unearned” fees are handled, and all specifics of your agreement before you sign. This ensures everyone is on the same page.

Protecting Your Future: The Most Important Investment You Can Make

When asking “how much will sex crime defense cost,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Instead of a burden, view these fees as a crucial investment in your future, freedom, and reputation. The factors we’ve discussed—charge severity, case complexity, expert resources, and attorney’s experience—are the building blocks of a robust defense strategy designed to protect what matters most.

At The Martinez Law Firm, we believe everyone deserves an aggressive, personalized defense, especially when facing life-altering accusations. Our unique strength comes from Herman Martinez’s background as a former prosecutor, which gives us an insider’s view of how the other side thinks.

This allows us to craft powerful, effective strategies. We’ve seen proven results in challenging cases across Houston, Harris County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Galveston County, Sugar Land, Pasadena, Missouri City, and Pearland.

The lifelong consequences of a conviction—such as mandatory sex offender registration, employment challenges, and housing restrictions—are the hidden, long-term costs that make investing in a strong defense invaluable.

Don’t let cost concerns prevent you from seeking the best legal help. Scheduling a confidential consultation is a critical first step. Your future, freedom, and reputation are too important to leave to chance.

Ready to take action? Let’s start building your aggressive sex crime defense today. Schedule a confidential consultation with us. We are here to stand by you and fight tirelessly on your behalf.

The Texas Department of Public Safety wants to keep the roads as safe as possible. Part of these efforts is to remove “unfit drivers” before someone gets hurt. Unfortunately, if you live in a commuter city like Houston, TX, you need a car. 

There are several reasons the state might suspend someone’s license. For example, someone’s physical or mental health might deteriorate to the point they cannot operate a vehicle safely. However, it is far more common to lose your license due to a moving violation or arrest, such as Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). Then, it’s in the hands of law enforcement and the courts whether they suspend or revoke your license – and for how long. 

How Do I Find Out If My License Is Suspended?

You have a few options here. However, if the police pull you over for drunk driving, the suspension is automatic. There’s still a way to save your driver’s license with an ALR hearing, though. You just need a solid attorney on your side. 

If the TxDPS upholds the suspension, they send a notice through the mail. In the event you don’t receive this notice or want to check on the status of a suspension, you can also check online, over the phone, by email, or in person.

Checking Your Texas License Suspension Online

The DPS in Texas has an online database that allows you to see whether you have an active suspension on your license. To access your file, you need the following information:

• Date of Birth
• License or ID Number
• The last four digits of your Social Security Number

Additionally, it will show the requirements for reinstatement along with any fees. 

By Phone, By Email, Or in Person

The Texas DPS also offers ways to contact the customer service department by phone or email. You can reach the department by calling (512) 424-2000. Alternatively, you can submit an inquiry to the form on this page to contact them by email. 

Finally, you can find a DPS office near you and head over there to inquire in person. However, you should be careful if you have warrants out against you. 

Texas License Suspension After a Drunk Driving Arrest

If the court convicts you for a DWI, there are two license suspensions to deal with: 

• Administrative License Revocation – an ALR hearing 
• The legal penalty that accompanies the conviction

You have to deal with the ALR following your arrest, conviction or no. You have 15 days to save your license after your arrest. Work with an attorney to schedule a hearing and appeal your license revocation. 

Unless you win your appeal, the suspension starts on the 40th day after your arrest. 

How to Fight a Texas License Suspension 

If the police arrest you for drunk driving, you need an attorney to help you save your license. Herman Martinez is a practiced attorney with over two decades of experience helping people save their driver’s licenses. 

Our legal team can fight the criminal suspension of your license. If the suspension is in place, we can help you apply for a restricted license. However, this may require the installation of an interlock device. 

To learn more about your options, call 713.242.1455 today.

The burden of proof in sex crimes cases is an essential factor in how a lawyer builds their defense. When you face a charge, claim, or allegation for a sexual offense in Texas, it’s common to wonder how the evidence works. If you need concise advice, consult a Houston criminal lawyer for guidance on your specific case. 

For now, our firm is here to offer a general overview that shows that standards courts follow in most Texas cases. 

Burden of Proof in Sex Crimes: “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”

In a Texas sex crime case, the standard of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt.” For defendants, this means that the prosecution bears the legal burden of proof. It is on them to establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

When they do so, they have to show that there is no room within the facts for another explanation. The sole resolution must be that the defendant committed the offense. This level of proof must apply to each element of the offense. 

However, “beyond a reasonable doubt” does not equate to absolute proof. Instead, it is as close to absolute certainty as possible. Generally speaking, this is the highest legal standard. 

As such, this is not solely the burden of proof in sex crimes. In fact, it is the standard of proof across criminal cases throughout the country. It’s part of the “due process” clause in the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution. 

Additionally, when the trial begins, it is essential that the jury starts with a presumption of innocence. Then, prosecutors must establish the evidence to show that there is no reasonable doubt of the defendant’s guilt. 

As such, it falls to the prosecutors, not a sex crime defense attorney, to shoulder the burden of proof. 

Elements of Burden of Proof

When it comes to the burden of proof in sex crimes, the courts have established two aspects of the reasonable doubt standard. 

• Burden of production means that the prosecution produced enough evidence to establish every element of an offense as fact. 
• Burden of persuasion requires the prosecution to persuade jurors that they applied the standard to every aspect of the offense. 

Do Other Standards of Proof Apply?

In Texas sex crimes trials, the prosecution cannot prove guilt by any other standard of proof. Typically, these standards apply solely to civil cases. For example, the standard of “a preponderance of evidence” still allows room for doubt. Additionally, “clear and convincing evidence” only shows that something is probably or likely. 

Instead, the burden of proof in sex crimes is for the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

While other standards leave room for interpretation, this remains the highest legal standard for proof. Generally, it applies to criminal trials specifically because the stakes are so high. In some cases, a defendant might face up to 99 years when found guilty of a sex crime. 

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Texas Sex Crimes?

In addition to the burden of proof in sex crimes cases, prosecutors who hope to charge someone with a crime have to abide by the Texas statute of limitations for the crimes. These statutes set limits as to how much time may pass before it’s no longer possible to charge someone. 

Generally, this varies depending on the severity of the crime. 

In Texas, some crimes have no limit on how much time passes. For example, there is no statute of limitations on the following charges. 

• Sexual assault of a child 
• Indecency with a child 
• Aggravated sexual assault of a child
• Continuous sexual abuse of a child
• Sexual assault of an adult (when there is DNA evidence available)

Then, the statute drops to 20 years for the following crimes. 

• Burglary with the intent to commit a sex crime
• Aggravated kidnapping with the intent to commit a sex crime 
• Sexual performance by a child 

From there, the statute lowers to 10 years for the following crimes. 

• Sexual assault of an adult (with no DNA evidence) 
• Aggravated sexual assault of an adult

So, what does this all mean? The prosecution has to prove the defendant committed the crime within the period of the statute of limitations. However, as mentioned, some crimes have no limitations at all. 

Note: It’s important to recognize that “rape” is not a legal term in Texas. Instead, it falls under various forms of “sexual assault.”

A Difficult Standard to Prove

When it comes to rape and sexual assault cases, it is often difficult to prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt. Often, the prosecution cites the definition under the Texas Penal Code as part of the problem. It places an emphasis on the use of coercion, violence, or physical force. 

As such, it’s not enough for a potential victim to say “no.” Instead, the burden of proof requires that they show the refusal was overcome by force. 

Defenses Against Sex Crime Allegations

With the high burden of proof in sex crimes cases, there are several defenses that offer potential against sexual assault charges. 

One option is an “affirmative defense.” In this method, the criminal lawyer proves facts through a preponderance of evidence that shows innocence. Still, the prosecution has to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. However, if the defense lawyer convinces the jury that the facts of the affirmative defense are true, they may find the client not guilty. 

Do You or a Loved One Need Legal Representation?

If you face allegations of sex crimes in the Greater Houston Area, you need an experienced Houston criminal lawyer to protect your rights and your future. 

Contact our criminal defense law firm for a free, confidential consultation. Our legal team is ready to offer guidance and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

A white-collar crime is a non-violent type of crime. Often, the motivation is financial. Typically, white-coll criminals have a position of power in a company that commands compensation above the average salary. 

In the 1930s, criminologist Edwin Sutherland coined the term. He used the phrase to describe crimes that people of high social status committed. Prior to this introduction to the concept, people often believed that upper-class individuals weren’t capable of criminal acts. 

Blue Collar or White Collar Crime: What’s the Difference?

Oftentimes the difference between blue-collar and white-collar crime stems from the type of access the person has. For example, blue-collar crimes tend to be more straightforward and direct. This includes robbery, theft, etc. Because they lack access to corporate information, it’s more difficult for them to commit high-level fraud. 

On the other hand, a white-collar criminal tends to have more access to this information and the systems involved. For instance, a loan officer at a bank has access to a broad spectrum of records, information, and systems. 

With this access, they have the potential to commit widespread, complicated schemes. 

Common Types of White Collar Crime

White-collar crime is an umbrella term, As such, it encompasses a broad array of offenses. Let’s look at a few of the more common forms of these crimes. 

Insider Trading

When someone commits insider trading, they act with the benefit of knowledge that is not public. This knowledge gives them an advantage in financial markets. For instance, an investment banker knows about a forthcoming acquisition between two companies: A and B. 

With this knowledge, they buy stock in Company B because they expect it to rise once this knowledge becomes public. This gives them an unfair advantage over other investors. 

Identity Theft and Cyber Crimes

Identity theft and hacking are the top two computer crimes. Across the United States, experts estimate that losses from identity theft totaled almost $2 billion in a single year. With over 73,000 cases, California has the most reported cases of any state in the US. 

Fraud

As white-collar crime is an umbrella term, so is fraud. It covers a handful of different schemes people use to defraud others of their assets. One common example of fraud is when someone claims to send another person a lot of money. However, that individual first needs to send a smaller amount. 

For instance, they may claim that they have access to an inheritance. However, to gain access, they need $300 to afford some processing fee. When the person sends them money, they never receive what was promised to them. 

Ponzi Scheme

This form of white-collar crime gets its name from Charles Ponzi, the original perpetrator. This scam is an investment scheme in which someone offers investors high returns on a project. As the person finds a new client, they pay off the initial investors. 

This continues until they no longer have the ability to attract the clients they need to pay off older ones. When this happens, the entire scheme collapses. This leaves many of the investors with massive losses. 

Embezzlement

Embezzlement covers theft and larceny. It ranges from an employee who steals a few dollars out of a cash register to complex schemes. In more complicated cases, the employee transfers millions of dollars out of company accounts. 

One popular example of this is in the plot of the movie Office Space. A group of employees attempts to set up a program that transfers fractions of cents out of company accounts over time. However, they accidentally set up one massive transfer. 

Money Laundering

As far as white-collar crime goes, money laundering is essential for those who deal in large amounts of cash. Through this act, someone funnels cash through different accounts and eventually into a legitimate business. 

At that point, it intermingles with genuine revenue, making the illegal source harder to identify. 

Counterfeiting

In order to combat counterfeiting efforts, many currencies are now more detailed and colorful. With modern technology, older forms of currency were easy to duplicate. However, the results remain to be seen as technology continues to advance on both sides. 

Espionage

When we think of espionage or spying, we often think of James Bond or international spies working to uncover information. Yet, we don’t think of it as a white-collar crime very often. 

However, when it involves corporations, it is definitely a white-collar crime. For instance, an agent of a foreign government or competitive company might seek out information or technology from a company. 

One tactic is to approach an employee at that company. The “spy” offers to pay them a large sum in exchange for a prototype, copy of a document, etc. 

White Collar Crime Classifications

Oftentimes, these crimes fall into two categories. 

Corporate Crimes

Some white-collar criminals act at a corporate level, as a group. For instance, a firm may encourage or simply allow employees to engage in insider trading. As they use private information to gain an advantage, it boosts their profits. 

Money laundering is another common crime conducted at a corporate level. 

Individual Crimes

At the individual level, a person or group acts outside of a corporation. For instance, one person might build out a Ponzi scheme. Alternatively, a group might form to commit cybercrimes collectively. 

Other individual crimes commonly include hacking, counterfeiting, and dozens of fraud schemes.

Legal Review for White Collar Crime

When you face charges for a white-collar crime, it’s essential to gain legal representation. With a criminal defense attorney on your side, you have an advocate to protect your rights and freedom. 

If you or a loved one currently faces white-collar criminal charges, contact the Martinez Law Firm for a free legal consultation. To build a strong defense, you need an experienced attorney. 

A man in Houston robbed a bank inside of a Walmart in Harris County early this morning. According to the FBI, the suspect walked into the store and went up to the teller’s window. He handed the teller a note and demanded finances. He threatened the teller, claiming that he had a gun and was willing to use it.

The teller complied with his wishes, and the suspect walked out of the store with cash in hand. He got into a silver Pontiac Grand Prix and sped from the scene. This is not the only time that a Harris County local has robbed a bank in the area in recent days. Some suspect that the same individual continues to rob banks in the area.

Harris County Sheriffs are now looking into the incident. They are still trying to determine how many suspects were inside the bank for the robbery and how much money they fled with. The getaway vehicle was located in a shopping center and there was cash inside the vehicle. It has been recovered, but police are still looking for the offender.

If you have been accused of robbing a bank, then you are going to want a Houston criminal defense attorney on your side immediately. Bank robbery is a serious crime that can result in life-altering penalties and marks on a person’s record. Texas State Law says that a bank robber can be charged with up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

Aggravated robbery is a robbery that occurs when a suspect causes serious bodily injury to another or uses or exhibits a weapon. This means that the robber doesn’t actually have to use the weapon, exhibiting the gun or knife is enough to constitute aggravated robbery. If you have been charged of this crime and want a defense lawyer on your side, don’t hesitate to hire a professional former prosecutor at The Martinez Law Firm. A
Houston criminal defense attorney at this firm will help you to get the assistance that you need today. Contact the firm right away to learn more!

According to recent reports of police crimes, a Harris County sheriff’s deputy was recently indicted after claims that he was coercing women with warrants into pleasuring him sexually. Reports show that he told one woman that if she performed an act with him, he would not turn her in. He has been charged with the police crimes of sexual assault and official oppression as a result. According to investigators, he came across a woman who had an open warrant, and then offered not to arrest her in exchange for physical interactions.

Whenever police are arrested and indicted, it can be very serious. Those who are supposed to be maintaining the law are often held to the highest standard, and when arrested and charged with police crimes officers are at risk to serious punishments and guaranteed job loss. If you want to learn more about police crimes, or if you are an officer who has been charged with a serious crime, then you need to talk with a Martinez Law Firm criminal defense attorney today.

Sadly, many police officers are falsely accused of crimes like the one described above. Sometimes angry criminals want to avoid penalties, and will claim false arrests or accuse a police officer of gross misconduct. If you have been accused of a police misconduct crime, and are not guilty, then you need to talk with a Houston criminal defense lawyer at the firm today and set the record straight. At The Martinez Law Firm, Attorney Martinez and his team are here to help you out with your criminal charges. The firm is focused on working to help you with your case and doing all that they can to prove your innocence. Don’t hesitate to call the firm right away to learn more and get the information that you need!

For some families, having everyone together under one roof is a joyous celebration. For others, this could be a recipe for disaster. Sometimes, the holidays can remind bitter ex’s of the way things used to be, and can cause a person to become depressed and irrational. Also, some family members may have high expectations for how they want the holidays to play out.

If a holiday does not turn out the way that this individual expected, the added stress and disappointment may send this person over the edge. The National Institute of Justice says that this condition is called familicide. There are certain risk factors which put a person at a high probability to struggle with familicide. For example, if a person has a history of domestic violence, access to a gun, and a prior history of substance abuse this typically puts that individual at a high risk to familicide. Sometimes an uninvited family member can also attend a Thanksgiving celebration unexpectedly, and this can result in altercations that can lead to arrests.

If you are arrested for a domestic violence act this year during the Thanksgiving celebrations, then you are going to want an attorney on your side to represent you. A Houston criminal defense lawyer at The Martinez Law Firm can help you with your case and will represent you in the best light possible. Maybe you were mentally unstable at the time of your action, or you may be innocent. Sometimes bitter relatives will accuse an innocent relative of physical or sexual abuse in order to get even.

If you are accused of any domestic crimes, hire an aggressive Houston criminal defense attorney to come alongside you immediately. You will want someone who can be tactical in helping you with your case and will be able to evidence your innocence.

Forgery is a serious offense and it is punishable as a felony in all fifty states. In most cases, it is penalized as a federal offense; and is defined as the crime of making, altering, use, or possession of false writing in order to commit a crime or fraud – especially, if a person fakes another individual’s signature or imitates handwriting on important documents.

When a person commits forgery, the person must intentionally alter a document in a dishonest way; which means not only faking signatures, but can also be altering existing writing if the changing of the material affects a person’s legal rights. Deleting, adding, or changing significant portions of a document can also be considered an illegal or forged alteration.

In order for false writing to be considered forgery, the writing must have apparent legal significant. For example, if a person forges a passport, driver’s license, or government-issued document then this will constitute forgery. A document need not necessarily be a legal or government- issued document. It simply needs to affect a person’s rights and obligations in order to be considered fraud.

In order to be guilty of forgery, the defendant must intend to defraud someone or some entity; as a federal law, it is punishable by a fine and up to fifteen years in prison. Federal law also prohibits forms of falsification such as counterfeiting money, or faking immigration documents and military discharge certificates.

If you want to learn more about forgery crimes, or if you have been charged with forgery and now want assistance in your case, then contact a lawyer at The Martinez Law Firm today. With the right attorney there to help you, you will be able to tackle your case with confidence and may be able to avoid serious penalties associated with forgery.

In the state of Texas, it is illegal to commit any offense that qualifies as racketeering. Essentially, racketeering is the federal criminal act of engaging in an illegal business act or running an illegal or illegitimate business. RICO is the Racketeer-Influenced and Corrupt Organization Laws which make it particularly illegal to profit from an illegal business. The goal is to stop the flow of income to criminal organizations that ultimately use the profits to fund their illegal activities.

If you are accused of racketeering in Texas, there are a variety of defenses that you may be able to use to argue your side of the case. For example, if you can prove that you are not a member of the criminal organization that you were affiliated with, then you may be able to avoid any punishment. Also, if you can prove that you didn’t have any knowledge that your actions were furthering the agenda of a criminal organization, then you may be able to avoid penalties. For example, if you were deceived into thinking you were working with a legal organization when you were really working for a criminal operation, you may be able to prove that you were mistaken.

If you are convicted of racketeering in Texas, you will typically be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. In some cases individuals can be charged with a felony, even a first degree felony depending on the nature of the organization. Racketeering can sometimes be an additional crime. For example, if you are affiliated with an organization that supplies hit-men to those wanting to commit a murder, and you commit the murder, then you will be charged with both murder and racketeering. Learn more about this crime by talking with a Houston criminal defense attorney. With the right lawyer on your side you may be able to avoid serious penalties. Contact the firm today if you want to learn more!

Hair extension theft is an unusual charge that a few women were recently charged with in Houston. People can steal virtually anything and be arrested for theft crimes. Recently, four women were captured on camera stealing an unlikely target: hair extensions. The women tried to use social media websites to sell the stolen products and were arrested as a result. The offense was captured on a surveillance camera on September 16^th at a shop called Mr. Indian Hair. The shop’s owner says that he was probably the victim of the hair extension theft because they are extremely high in demand due to the desire for thick, volumized hair.

The human hair extensions sold at the shop cost between $150-$200 and the average woman purchases three separate pieces in order to add to her full head of hair. The surveillance video shows the four women walking into the store and talking with the one clerk inside. The women asked the employee about a piece of hair that was only stored in the back and the clerk went back into storage to get the piece. At this time, the women grabbed several hangers of hair and a fourth woman ran out to get the getaway car ready.

The store owner says that the women stole about $15,000 to $20,000 worth of hair from the store. He couldn’t identify the thieves using the surveillance video, but there was a break in the case when some individuals informed the man that his products were being sold on the street and vie an Instagram shop.

This tip helped the police identify the four suspects right away. All of them face a felony theft charge for their crime. If you have been arrested for shoplifting theft, then talk to a Houston criminal defense attorney today to learn more. With the right lawyer on your side, you will be able to seek defense in your case and possibly avoid serious charges.