As a criminal defense lawyer , I represent clients who have been accused of all sorts of crimes. Whether you have been accused of drug possession, assault, manslaughter, a sexual crime, arson, etc., it is important to hire an attorney who understands the local and state laws that could apply in your particular case. As a Houston attorney, I have been practicing in the area for decades and can answer any questions you may have, while also working to create a strategy for your defense. In the meantime, here are a few questions I am asked on a regular basis and my answers to them. Am I being charged with a crime against the state or a federal crime?In most cases, you will be charged for breaking a state law. If you are being charged by the federal government, you will know it because the process and court are entirely different. Also, consider the crime itself. If you are accused of drug possession in Houston, that is a state violation. If you were accused of selling and transporting drugs in Texas and New Mexico, that would be a federal crime because more than one state was involved.Is everyone entitled to bail?According to the United States Constitution, citizens are innocent until proven guilty. The process of bail ensures you can spend your time at home while awaiting trial. You will be entitled to bail unless a judge believes you are a flight risk and unlikely to show up for your court dates; still, this is rare. As a criminal defense lawyer, part of my job is to ensure your rights are protected, which includes issues regarding bail and the amount it is set at. It needs to be reasonable though it is still often unaffordable without the help of a bail bonds company. Working with one means you can pay a small portion of the bail amount and they will put up a bond for the rest.Will I have to take the stand?As a criminal defense lawyer, I typically have a client take the stand to give their version of the story and to tell what happened. This can be a good way for the jury to get to know you personally in hopes that they will connect with you. This is something we will discuss leading up to the trial. If you are going to take the stand, we will need to prepare for it and so will spend time doing so in order to help you feel more comfortable when the trial begins.Should I take a plea bargain?This really depends on your particular situation. There is no way to say with certainty until we have met, discussed your case, and I have had the opportunity to speak with the prosecutor to find out if and what they are offering. In general, however, a plea deal is the only way for you to know for certain what the outcome will be, since going to court is always a wild card. You can prepare your best for it, but at the end of the day, a jury will decide whether you are found guilty or not.My goal is to help you and to protect your rights.  Call me anytime to learn how.