Criminal Defense Lawyer
Houston, Texas

Yes — absolutely. The pre-charge period is actually the most critical time to have an attorney. What you say (or don't say) to police in this window can determine whether charges are filed at all, and what those charges look like. Herman Martinez can intervene before charges are filed and sometimes prevent prosecution entirely. Reaching a criminal defense lawyer Houston residents trust during this pre-charge window is one of the highest-leverage moments in the entire case.

Yes. Charges can be dismissed before trial through successful suppression motions (if evidence is excluded, the case often collapses), prosecutorial discretion when evidence is weak, pre-trial diversion programs, or negotiated plea to a lesser charge. Herman evaluates all pathways from the first consultation. See actual dismissal results →

You are entitled to know the charges filed against you. Your attorney will review the charging documents (indictment, information, or complaint) and explain exactly what you're facing, what each element the prosecution must prove, and what the realistic range of outcomes is. Call (713) 242-1779 for a free, honest assessment.

Misdemeanors are punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $4,000. Felonies carry state prison sentences ranging from 180 days (state jail felony) to life. Beyond incarceration, felonies result in the loss of voting rights, firearm rights, eligibility for many professional licenses, and often federal housing assistance. The distinction between misdemeanor and felony can sometimes be contested through defense — challenging the facts or evidence that determine charge classification. A criminal defense lawyer Houston clients trust evaluates this classification on every case before advising on a plea.

Neither a plea nor trial is automatically the better choice — the right decision hinges on the specific plea offered, the strength of the state's evidence, the realistic trial outcome, and your personal circumstances. Herman never pressures clients toward a plea or toward trial — he presents both options honestly and advocates for the decision you make. Many cases that appear plea-bound have real trial defenses that produce better outcomes.

Legally, yes — but almost never advisably. Prosecutors are trained attorneys with significant courtroom experience. Evidence rules, procedural requirements, and plea negotiation all require expertise that self-representation cannot adequately substitute. Even attorneys facing criminal charges hire other attorneys to defend them. The stakes — your freedom, your record, your career — are too high to approach without experienced counsel.

A criminal conviction can trigger deportation, denial of naturalization, visa revocation, and inadmissibility for non-citizens — even lawful permanent residents. Certain offense categories (crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, drug offenses, domestic violence) are particularly severe under immigration law. Herman advises non-citizen clients on the immigration consequences of every potential resolution before any decision is made. A criminal defense lawyer Houston relies on for immigration-sensitive cases coordinates this review before any plea is accepted.

Missing a court date results in a warrant being issued for your arrest (a "capias" or "bench warrant") and forfeiture of your bond. The warrant stays active until you are arrested or voluntarily surrender. Herman handles warrant resolution — contacting the court to get new dates scheduled, surrendering clients in a controlled manner to avoid a surprise arrest, and seeking bond reinstatement at a hearing.

Timeline varies significantly by charge level. Misdemeanor cases often resolve in 3–9 months. Felony cases — which require grand jury indictment — can take 6 months to 2+ years from arrest to final disposition. Cases that go to trial take longer. During this entire period, Herman actively works the case — filing motions, reviewing evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and preparing your defense. A criminal defense lawyer Houston clients trust stays engaged with the case at every stage rather than waiting for a court date to take action.

Yes. Herman handles criminal defense cases throughout Harris County and the surrounding counties including Fort Bend, Brazoria, Galveston, Montgomery, and Liberty counties. He also handles federal cases in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which covers a broad geographic area including Houston, Galveston, and Corpus Christi. This regional reach is why clients throughout the greater Houston area search specifically for a criminal defense lawyer Houston courts and prosecutors already recognize by name.