The Bill of Rights is supposed to establish the rights of individuals against the power of the federal government, as well as the government of Texas and the rest of the states. For example, the Fourth Amendment states that the police can search someone's body or...
Houston Texas Criminal Defense Law Blog
Can a sober person fail a DWI sobriety test?
After a whirlwind of events, including having to take sobriety tests on the side of the road and a trip to your local police station, you are now facing a DWI charge. You are confused about the chain of events that led to your charge because you didn’t even drink that...
Can the police listen to your phone calls?
Most people know that the authorities could watch or listen to the things they say and do in public. However, you may not be aware how far your privacy goes. Are the discussions you have over the phone truly private? Could the police listen to your telephone...
What are your rights if the police are at your door?
If you hear a knock at the door, you probably have a number of questions. Who is it at the door? Are they here for positive reasons, or is something wrong? Are you safe? If the person knocking at your door is a police officer, you probably have a variety of other...
What do you do if you experience police brutality?
Under the United States Constitution, the police cannot use excessive force during an arrest. There are few exceptions when they can use force, but there are strict rules they must follow. And yet, cases of police misconduct and brutality only seem to be increasing....
Racial profiling could put your freedom at risk.
While any interaction with the authorities can be stressful, racial profiling can put your rights and your freedom at risk. Time in court or incarceration keeps you away from your job and your family. Having an arrest or conviction on your criminal record can also...
When are police allowed to search your cellphone?
Nowadays, it is likely that you almost always have your cellphone with you. After all, your cellphone not only keeps you connected to the world, but holds essential information, including photos or even banking apps, only to name a few.With all of this personal...
How dependent can you be on an eyewitness account?
It’s a distressing situation — you’re on trial for allegedly committing a crime. The prosecution calls an eyewitness to the stand. Your palms start to sweat. Surely, whatever this person says against you will condemn you, even if you’re...
3 Possible defense strategies for a DWI charge
Your life can change drastically after a DWI conviction. Aside from the standard penalties such as costly fines, license suspension, jail time and DWI offender education programs, a DWI conviction can affect your personal relationships and professional life as...
What to do if a police officer pulls you over
Whether an officer has pulled you over for a routine traffic stop or because they have reason to believe you were driving under the influence, it can be a scary experience. Knowing how to behave during a situation like this can help you protect yourself and your...
