- Carjacking. Carjacking is a form of aggravated robbery in which an individual unlawfully seizes or attempts to seize a vehicle from another person by force, fear, or other forms of coercion. Carjacking typically occurs when the perpetrator attempts to take control of the victim’s vehicle while they are still inside it, although it can also occur when the victim has exited their vehicle. In either case, the perpetrator will threaten to use physical violence unless the victim complies with their demands. Carjacking is classified as a second-degree felony in Texas, but first-degree felony charges could be levied if a deadly weapon was used. Even if no property was taken during a carjacking attempt and no injuries were suffered by any parties involved, this offense can still be charged as a felony due to its inherently violent nature.
- Domestic Violence. When an act of domestic violence involves the use of a deadly weapon or results in serious bodily injury, then it will be charged as a felony. Felony charges for domestic violence carry severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Additionally, if convicted, individuals may also be subject to additional punitive measures such as protective orders and possible forfeiture of firearms.
- Drug Offenses. Possession of more than a certain amount of a controlled substance can result in felony charges. Additionally, manufacturing, distributing, delivering, or possessing with intent to distribute any amount of an illegal substance are all considered felony offenses.
- Driving While Intoxicated. In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a felony when the defendant has two or more prior convictions. It is also considered a felony if there are aggravating factors in the case such as an accident involving serious bodily injury or death, fleeing from law enforcement, driving with a minor passenger in the vehicle, having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle, or causing property damage of more than $2,500.
- Firearm Offenses. Our Southlake felony defense lawyers can fight for you if you are facing felony charges in connection with possessing prohibited weapons, possessing a firearm in a location licensed to sell alcohol, or any other serious offense.
- Kidnapping. Kidnapping describes a situation where an individual unlawfully detains another person against their will with the intent to cause them harm. This can be done through the use of force, deceit, or any other means that would make it difficult for the victim to escape. Kidnapping can involve transporting someone from one place to another, confining them in a secret location, or holding them for ransom. Kidnapping can also include hostage-taking and false imprisonment, which refer to restraining someone without legal authority. In Texas, “aggravated” kidnapping is considered a first-degree felony and carries potential penalties of up to 99 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case.
- Larceny. Larceny is a form of theft that involves taking another person's property without their consent and with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. This type of offense is considered particularly serious since it requires the perpetrator to physically take possession of the stolen items and transport them away from their original location. Property that can be stolen through felony larceny includes more than just money and physical items: Individuals can also face charges if they unlawfully take control of someone else’s intellectual property, such as trade secrets or copyrighted material. Other examples include identity theft, computer fraud, securities fraud, and embezzlement. Larceny becomes a felony in Texas if the stolen items are valued at $30,000 or more. The greater the value of the items stolen, the more serious the charges.
- Robbery. This offense involves taking another person's property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it through the use or threatened use of force, fear, or other forms of coercion.
- Sexual Assault. Sexual assault, which refers to non-consensual contact between two or more individuals, is always considered a felony in Texas. Any type of intentional touching or penetration without the other party's consent, even if it is not done forcefully, will typically be considered sexual assault. Certain aggravating factors can lead to an enhancement of the charge and result in more severe penalties being imposed upon conviction. These include the use of a deadly weapon during the offense, causing serious bodily injury, or having engaged in similar behavior in the past.
What to Do If You Are Charged with a Felony
In some cases, you may have some idea that you are under investigation for a felony crime well before you are arrested and formally charged. While the authorities may attempt to convince you to cooperate with their investigation, do not be afraid to assert your right to legal representation. The authorities are not there to help you. Remember, anything you say can and likely will be used against you in court. When you reach out to the Law Offices of Mark M. Childress, PLLC as soon as you learn you are under investigation, our team can get to work on protecting your rights and proactively building your defense.
If you are arrested and charged, exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer any questions posed by the authorities, and do not give any statements, no matter how confident you are about your innocence. Instead, ask for a lawyer and give us a call.
After learning that you are under investigation or have been arrested, there are several important steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Assert your right to counsel. Clearly tell officers that you want to speak with an attorney and that you do not wish to answer questions until you have legal advice.
- Limit what you say. Provide only basic identifying information when required, and avoid discussing the facts of the case with law enforcement or other people in custody.
- Preserve potential evidence. Keep copies of messages, emails, photographs, or other information that may help show where you were, what happened, or who was involved.
- Follow bond and court instructions. Carefully review any bond paperwork or conditions, and make sure you understand where and when to appear in court in Southlake or Tarrant County.
- Contact a defense lawyer promptly. Reaching out quickly gives your attorney more time to investigate, advise you about Texas felony charges, and communicate with the prosecutor’s office on your behalf.
What are the Consequences of a Felony Conviction in Texas?
A felony conviction in Texas means more than years of incarceration. Beyond restitution and fines, felons lose their right to vote until they complete their sentence, probation, or parole. Convicted felons are also not permitted to purchase or carry firearms. Even worse, someone with a felony conviction on their record will have an incredibly difficult time securing housing or employment.
That is why hiring capable, reputable Southlake felony defense attorneys is so important. You will have direct access to your lawyer throughout our handling of your case, and we will always be honest and transparent as we discuss defense strategies and possible outcomes. We take a team-based, personalized approach to every case, and we will have your back every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a Felony Case Usually Take?
Felony cases in Southlake can move at different speeds depending on the complexity of the charge, the amount of evidence involved, and how crowded the Tarrant County court docket is. Some matters resolve in a few months if there is limited discovery and a negotiated resolution makes sense, while others can take a year or longer if there are multiple hearings or a trial. You will typically have several court settings where issues like discovery, motions, and plea discussions are handled, and having legal counsel guide you through each appearance can make the timeline easier to manage.
Will I Have to Appear in Court for Every Hearing?
In most felony cases, the person accused is required to appear for scheduled court dates unless the judge specifically excuses their presence. Certain settings may be brief and focused on procedural matters, while others may involve important decisions about evidence or potential plea offers. Your attorney can explain which hearings require your attendance, what will happen at each setting, and how to present yourself appropriately so you feel more prepared and less anxious about the process.
What Should I Bring to My First Meeting With a Felony Defense Lawyer?
For an initial meeting about a felony accusation, it is helpful to bring any paperwork you have received, including charging documents, bond paperwork, and notices of upcoming court dates. You should also gather any information that may relate to the incident, such as names and contact information for potential witnesses, photographs, or copies of text messages. Providing a clear timeline of events and sharing your questions in advance can help your lawyer use your meeting time efficiently and begin forming an initial strategy tailored to your circumstances.
Contact Our Felony Defense Attorney in Southlake Today
If you have been charged with a felony, the decisions you make today can have a lasting impact on your future. A felony conviction may result in significant penalties, which include incarceration, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that could affect your career, housing opportunities, and personal relationships. You do not have to face these challenges alone. We can evaluate your case, discuss your legal options, and craft a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Every criminal case deserves careful attention and aggressive advocacy. Whether you are under investigation or have already been arrested, obtaining legal representation as early as possible can make a meaningful difference in the result of your case. We can protect your constitutional rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate, and fight for the best possible resolution.
We are committed to providing knowledgeable guidance, responsive communication, and dedicated representation throughout every stage of the legal process. Let us help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your future by standing beside you when it matters most.
Charged with a felony crime? Turn to our Southlake felony defense lawyer by calling (817) 497-8148 or contacting us online.
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