If you were arrested for or charged with a crime in Texas, do not hesitate to contact Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian immediately for representation. We can review the circumstances of your case and determine whether we can proceed with defending you against the charges. We know how to create the necessary strategies to get sentences reduced and cases dismissed.
At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, our criminal defense lawyers in Rockwall, TX, have the experience and ability to protect our clients’ rights and defend them in their cases. Whether you’re up against a misdemeanor or felony charge, you can count on us to fight for you. We will develop the appropriate plan based on the specific factors in your case and try to secure your freedom and future.
Call Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian for your free consultation today at (972) 369-0577 or reach out to us online. Our legal staff is available 24/7 to speak with you.
The Long-Term Effects of an Arrest, Charge, or Conviction
The consequences of an arrest can follow a person for the rest of their life. You might have to spend time in prison if you’re convicted of the criminal offense. You could deal with the fallout and face various challenges even if the judge drops the case or your attorney’s defense leads to a not guilty verdict.
Many convicted felons struggle with the aftermath of a criminal sentence. Typically, there is a probationary period after release from prison. Meeting various conditions is a requirement of parole. It’s common to have trouble getting a job or finding a place to live. A criminal history becomes a matter of public record, allowing anyone to access the information with a simple internet search.
Cases Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian Handles
Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian represents clients arrested or charged with a range of crimes in Texas, including:
- Sex crimes
- Alcohol offenses/DWI defense
- Theft/burglary
- Probation violations
- Expunction
- CPS cases
- Nondisclosure
- White-collar crimes
- Possession of marijuana
- Drug crimes
- Assault/aggravated assault
- Federal firearms charges
- Family violence
- Child injuries
- Juvenile offenses
It is your right to seek legal representation and defend yourself against the charge you face. You can count on us to remain in your corner and be your advocates during legal proceedings.
Criminal Sentencing in Texas
Criminal offenses can be misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies and often come with shorter prison terms. Every crime falls under a specific class or degree depending on contributing factors. Courts base penalties on the type of charge against the defendant.
Misdemeanors include offenses such as:
- Disorderly conduct
- Public intoxication
- First offense DWI
- Criminal trespass
- Drug crimes that involve a small amount of a controlled substance
- Petty theft
Common types of felonies include:
- Robbery
- Indecent exposure to a child
- Arson
- Aggravated assault
- Deadly conduct with a firearm
- Stalking
Sentencing guidelines give judges a timeframe for prison terms based on the type of crime and any extenuating circumstances. The sentences for each felony degree or misdemeanor class include:
- Class C misdemeanor – Up to a $500 fine and no jail time
- Class B misdemeanor – A maximum of a $2,000 fine, up to 180 days in jail, or both
- Class A misdemeanor – No more than a $4,000 fine, a maximum of one year in jail, or both
- State jail felony – 180 days to two years in state jail and up to a $10,000 fine
- Third-degree felony – Between two and ten years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and no more than a $10,000 fine
- Second-degree felony – Two to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and a maximum of a $10,000 fine
- First-degree felony – Between 5 and 99 years or life in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and up to a $10,000 fine
Repeat and habitual felony offenders can face enhanced sentencing. That means they already have a first, second, or third-degree felony conviction on their record. Enhanced sentences depend on the charge:
- Third-degree felony – Punishable as a second-degree felony if the defendant has a prior felony conviction other than a state jail felony
- Second-degree felony – Punishable as a first-degree felony if the defendant has a previous conviction for a felony other than a state jail felony
- First-degree felony – Punishable by life imprisonment or a term between 15 and 99 years if previously convicted of a felony other than a state jail felony
Common Defenses to Criminal Offenses
At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, our Rockwall criminal defense lawyers use various defense strategies while representing our clients. The defense we use in your case will depend on the type of charge and circumstances involved.
The most common defenses include:
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Innocence
- Unlawful search and seizure
- Mistake of fact
- Expired statute of limitations
- Alibi
- Coercion or duress
- Affirmative defenses
- Involuntary intoxication
Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian might advise you to take a plea if we can work out an agreement with the prosecutor. However, that will depend on the circumstances of the case. If we believe we can provide an adequate defense to your charges and get them dropped or reduced, we will proceed with the trial.
Why You Should Hire a Defense Lawyer
Public defenders have experience in criminal cases. However, they often have an enormous caseload and insufficient time to investigate each one thoroughly. If you leave the fate of your future in the hands of an overworked public defender, you could face the maximum possible sentence.
Let Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian represent you instead. You should contact us immediately following an arrest for any crime. Even if you face a misdemeanor charge, you should enlist the help of one of our knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyers in Rockwall, TX.
Contact Us
Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian believes in defending our clients’ reputation, rights, and freedom. You should not suffer the consequences of a crime you didn’t commit or face an unreasonable prison term if convicted. We explore all available options to prove a client’s innocence, suppress illegally obtained evidence, or pursue a lesser charge for a shorter sentence.
Our legal team has a reputation for our dedication and favorable case results. We’ve received various awards, including Top 100 Trial Lawyers, Best Lawyers Under 40, and Super Lawyers. Additionally, Avvo gave several of our Rockwall criminal defense lawyers a 10.0 Superb rating, the highest possible rating.
If you were arrested or charged with a criminal offense in Rockwall, call Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian at (972) 369-0577 for your free consultation.