Corpus Christi is a bustling metropolis in Texas with a population of over 325,000. Like any other city, it is not immune to crime.
Criminal arrests can range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. If you are in trouble with the law in Corpus Christi, it is important to seek the help of experienced criminal defense lawyers who can guide you through the legal process.
At The Burkett Law Firm, we can help you build a solid defense for the criminal charges you are facing. The first step is to call our office to schedule an initial consultation.
DUI/DWI
One of the most common criminal arrests in Corpus Christi is DUI/DWI (driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated).
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 19,065 DUI/DWI crashes in Texas in 2020, resulting in 2,487 serious injuries and 1,073 fatalities.
In Corpus Christi, the local police department is very strict regarding DUI/DWI, and even first-time offenders can face severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Drug Possession
Drug possession is another common criminal arrest in Corpus Christi. Texas has some of the harshest drug possession laws in the country, and penalties can range from fines to years in prison, depending on the type and amount of drugs involved.
In Corpus Christi, the most commonly abused drugs include marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs.
Assault
Assault is a serious criminal offense in Corpus Christi and can result in severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and even prison. If you are charged with assault, the severity of the crime determines if you face misdemeanor or felony charges.
In Texas, assault is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, threatening someone with bodily injury, or making physical contact with another person offensively or provocatively.
Theft
Theft is another common criminal arrest in Corpus Christi. The value of the property stolen determines if you will face misdemeanor or felony charges.
In Texas, theft is defined as taking someone else’s property without their consent and intending to deprive them of that property. Examples of theft include shoplifting, stealing a car, and embezzlement.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a serious criminal offense in Corpus Christi and can result in severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and even prison.
Domestic violence includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse against a family member or household member. In Texas, domestic violence is taken very seriously, and even a first-time offense can result in a protective order, fines, and jail time.
Robbery
Robbery is a serious criminal offense in Corpus Christi and can result in severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and even prison. Robbery is taking someone else’s property by force or threatening force. It is a felony charge. As such, it comes with a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years.
If a deadly weapon is used during the commission of the robbery, the penalty can be enhanced to life imprisonment.
Criminal Trespass
Criminal trespass is a common criminal arrest in Corpus Christi. Criminal trespass occurs when someone enters or remains on someone else’s property without their consent.
In Texas, criminal trespass can be a misdemeanor or felony. The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances of the situation. For example, if the offender carries a deadly weapon or causes damage to the property, the charge may be elevated to a felony.
What to Do if You Are Charged with a Crime
Getting arrested for a crime can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. It is important to know what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
Here are some steps to take if you are arrested for a crime:
Stay Calm
It is important to stay calm and composed when you are being arrested. Getting angry or aggressive can worsen the situation and may result in additional charges being filed against you.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
The Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution gives you the right to remain silent when the police are questioning you. Exercise this right and do not answer any questions until you have spoken to a lawyer.
Request to Speak to a Lawyer
If you are being arrested, you can speak to a lawyer. Ask for a lawyer as soon as possible, and do not answer any questions until you have spoken to one.
Provide Basic Information
You must provide basic information such as your name, date of birth, and address. It is important to provide accurate information, as giving false information can result in additional charges.
Cooperate with the Police
While it is important to exercise your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer, it is also important to cooperate with the police during the arrest process. Be respectful and do not resist arrest, as this can result in additional charges being filed against you.
Understand Your Charges
After you have been arrested, you will be informed of the charges against you. It is important to understand the charges and their potential penalties.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
After you have been arrested, contacting a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible is important. A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, build a strong defense, and represent you in court.
Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help if You Are Facing Criminal Charges
In conclusion, if you are facing any of the above-mentioned criminal charges in Corpus Christi, it is important to seek the help of experienced criminal defense lawyers who can guide you through the legal process.
The penalties for criminal charges in Texas can be severe. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome for your case.
Don’t hesitate to contact the Burkett Law Firm for legal assistance if you face criminal charges in Corpus Christi.