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Criminal Defense

We all make mistakes, and we all deserve a second chance. 

The effects of an arrest and criminal charges can have long-lasting, expensive consequences on a person's life. In such cases, the only thing that stands between a light sentence and a much stiffer punishment is an experienced criminal defense attorney.  Finding the right lawyer is important; choose wisely considering a lawyer's experience, knowledge, and reputation as a criminal trial attorney. 

Give us a call at 512-454-7548 now if you've been unfairly accused or if you have a lot to lose.

Learn How to Find the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer for your future.

While we respect officers, we don't always agree with their decisions or assessment of a situation. Some facts scenarios do rise to the level of a crime being committed, but often the questioned behavior or act, while not the best decision, nevertheless is not a crime. Often times the police are arresting, not because probable cause exists, but to reduce a potential risk that they perceive. Whether reducing the risk via arrest is reasonable is different from the question as to whether probable cause or evidence of an offense beyond a reasonable doubt exists.

Experience matters - Common sense will tell you that you need to hire a former prosecutor that has years of experience prosecuting the same crime that you are now facing charges for. 

Representing the State of Texas, I worked as an Assistant District Attorney in Cameron, Hays, and Travis Counties from 2002-2017.  My extensive experience includes years as the Chief Misdemeanor Prosecutor and Lead Felony Prosecutor.  Specifically, I handled not just Violent Crimes, but also handled Drug Cases, Assault Cases, as well as, DWI's. For many years I was also assigned to the Public Integrity Unit, prosecuting White Collar Fraud, Corruption, and Public Officials. For more than seven years, I worked in-house as the only Assistant District Attorney on-site advising the Austin Police Department.  My experience also includes being the Felony Prosecutor that handled all cases assigned to the Mental Health Docket, as well as, Veterans Court Docket; I am familiar with how mental illness can affect a crime and punishment. With my extensive experience and established reputation within the legal community, I can help you obtain the best possible resolution of your case.  

Simply put - I have handled thousands of felony and misdemeanor cases over the years, and know what to look for to get it resolved in your favor.  Let me fight for you, and your second chance.

Please know there is no fee for an initial consultation.  Call me today at 512-454-7548 to schedule your appointment.  

Criminal Defense FAQ's

What are reasons to hire a criminal defense lawyer who is a former prosecutor?

When it comes time to select a criminal defense attorney, consider a former prosecutor who has experienced the “other side” of the courtroom. A former prosecutor's unique and often extensive courtroom experience and working relationships can serve to benefit clients. Click here to learn more.

What should I do if my loved one was arrested in Austin, Texas?

There are a few key things to consider when your loved one is arrested in Austin, Texas. Stay calm and supportive and try to gather as much information as possible. You may need to find a bondsman and post bail. You should also consider contacting a criminal defense attorney. Click here to learn more.

Will an assault conviction impact my professional license or employment?

Professionals risk the possibility of losing their occupational license and their prospects for future employment opportunities. Many professionals who are facing these types of charges wonder about the impact of a Texas assault conviction on a professional license and either current or future employment. Click here to learn more.

What are the long-term consequences of domestic violence assault charges?

Domestic violence charges can carry criminal penalties that may impact a person's financial future and freedom. Click here to learn more.

Can you clear or seal your criminal record?

Yes, in some cases. In Texas and many other states, a criminal conviction does not necessarily mean a permanent criminal record. While a conviction will remain on a criminal record indefinitely, there are some situations in which the record of the conviction may be expunged or sealed. Click here to learn more.

Is there a difference between an arrest and a conviction?

Yes. At the most basic level, an arrest is simply the process of being detained and taken into police custody, while a conviction is the result of being charged with a crime and being found guilty. Both arrests and convictions can have potential future implications for the individual in different ways. Learn more in our blog article here.

What are the penalties for domestic violence in Texas?

Each case of domestic violence can be categorized differently. The penalties that a person may face depend on the type of crime and the classification of the charge, including Class C misdemeanor, Class A misdemeanor. Third-degree felony, Second-degree felony, or First-degree felony. Click here to learn more.

What is a probation revocation motion?

If you were on probation and have been accused of violating your probation, you may receive notice of a motion for probation revocation. Click here to learn more.

What is a family violence finding in Texas?

An individual who is convicted of family violence and related crimes may face severe penalties and lifelong consequences based on his or her criminal record. Click here to learn more.

When can police search my car?

When a search is justified with a warrant, by the law or an exception. For a law enforcement officer to stop someone in traffic, he or she must have reasonable suspicion that the driver has committed a crime or traffic violation.  If during that stop the officer develops probable cause, then they can search. Click here to learn more.

What are the benefits of expunging your criminal record?

Having an arrest record or a conviction record expunged can benefit individuals in many areas of their life including employment, housing, college acceptance, social circles, volunteer opportunities, insurance, family matters, and state support systems. Click here to learn more.

What happens during the criminal process after an arrest for assault family violence in Texas?

The main stages of the criminal process following an arrest in Texas are as follows:

  • Arrest
  • Grand jury
  • Arraignment
  • Motions and trial
  • Sentencing and appeals

Learn more about the criminal process by clicking here.

What should I know about protective orders in family violence cases?

People who have encountered domestic violence, sexual abuse, or stalking can apply for a protective order (PO) to keep the offender away from them. There are various types of protective orders depending on whether the matter involves dating violence, domestic abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, or stalking. These court orders are issued to prevent the offenders from:

  • Carrying firearms, even if they have a license
  • Visiting the victim and his or her family at home, work, or school
  • Hurting, harassing, or threatening the victim and his or her children, including through another individual

Learn more by clicking here.

What should I do if the police show up with a search warrant in Austin, Texas?

If the police show up with a search warrant, the person named on the warrant should know his or her rights.  There is a right to remain silent, right to inspect the warrant, right to have an attorney present and other things to know.  Learn more about your legal rights regarding search warrants by clicking here.

What are some tips for dealing with the police?

You should always stay calm, never touch a police officer, know your legal rights, ask if you have the right to leave, refuse searches, avoid confessing and utilize your legal right to remain silent. Click here to learn more.

What are the benefits of expunging your criminal record?

Having an arrest record or a conviction record expunged can benefit individuals in many areas of their life including employment, housing, college acceptance, social circles, volunteer opportunities, insurance, family matters, and state support systems. Click here to learn more.

What are some domestic violence defense strategies in Texas?

Defenses can include self-defense, lack of evidence, and false accusations. There are also ways to reduce a domestic violence charge. Click here to learn more in our blog article.

What are some tips for probation success after a charge of assault family violence?

The following tips can help you to successfully complete probation for assault family violence:

  • Attend all required appointments with the probation officer
  • Keep accurate records
  • Consider treatment programs
  • Reevaluate relationships and friendships
  • Stay out of trouble

Learn about tips to successfully complete your assault family violence probation.

How can I get evidence thrown out of court?

There are various reasons for evidence to be deemed inadmissible in court and thrown out or, in legal terms, suppressed. Getting evidence thrown out of court is one of the most effective ways for a defendant to have the charges reduced or even dismissed. One of the most effective ways to get evidence suppressed is to prove that obtaining the evidence violated the defendant's Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights in some way, or that chain of custody rules were broken. Click here to learn more.

Do I have to let the Police into my home?

Not always. Being aware of your rights against unlawful search and seizure can help in situations that require you to protect those rights. Click here to learn more about your legal rights and when police officer is, and is not, allowed in your home.

Can you get an expunction in Texas if you enter a plea to a felony charge?

When you enter a plea, you often give up certain rights. One of those rights may be eligibility for expunction later. The circumstances of each individual's case will determine whether they can get an expunction.

Just because you've been arrested doesn't mean that you're guilty, but it does mean that you need to build a good, solid defense!

Give us a call at 512-454-7548 now if you've been unfairly accused or if you have a lot to lose.

Jason S. English has been recognized as one of the top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Austin. 

Jason S. English is an award-winning criminal defense lawyer

If you have recently been arrested in Austin you need the right lawyer to help you and protect your future.  No one calls us because they have been arrested, they call us because of what the arrest can do to their future.  Jason S English Law, PLLC handles misdemeanor and felony criminal cases as a part of its practice - we know how to prepare your case to meet your goals.  Call now at 512-454-7548 to get the help you need for you and your future. 

Jason S. English is an award-winning criminal defense lawyer
Call Jason S. English, Lawyer in Austin, TX now if you have been unfairly accused or have a lot to lose.  

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Jason English
505 West 12th Street, Suite 201
Austin, TX 78701
512-454-7548

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