Criminal Defense Lawyer in Erath & Hood Counties, TX
At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of the accused. You are innocent until proven guilty, and you deserve a fair trial. Our firm is here to stand up for your Constitutional rights and aggressively advocate for you in the complex Texas criminal justice system.
We know how scary, confusing, and uncertain it can be when under a criminal investigation by law enforcement, when arrested, or formally charged. You must turn to an experienced defense lawyer as early as possible to avoid any pitfalls or unintentional mistakes and ensure that you are treated fairly.
Our firm has extensive experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or multiple felonies, we can help you understand where you stand, how the law affects your case, and your legal options. Attorney Landon Northcutt has been fighting for Texans in the criminal courts since 1999, which means he can put a wealth of experience and skill into your defense.
Local Legal Support in Stephenville and Granbury
Living in Erath and Hood Counties, particularly in towns like Stephenville and Granbury, means you are part of a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. When facing criminal charges, this can add an extra layer of stress and concern. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we understand the unique challenges that come with being accused of a crime in a smaller community. We are here to provide you with the dedicated legal support you need.
Navigating the local legal landscape can be daunting, especially when dealing with entities like the Erath County Sheriff's Office or the Hood County District Attorney's Office. These local government bodies play a significant role in the criminal justice process, and understanding how they operate can be crucial to your defense. While we do not claim any direct partnerships, our extensive experience in these counties means we are familiar with the procedures and personnel involved.
One of the common pain points for residents in this area is the fear of community judgment and the potential impact on their personal and professional lives. We know how important it is to maintain your reputation and protect your future. Our firm is committed to providing discreet and effective legal representation to help you navigate these difficult times.
Whether you are dealing with a DUI charge after a night out in Granbury or facing more serious allegations in Stephenville, our team is here to help. We offer personalized defense strategies tailored to the specifics of your case and the local context. With Attorney Landon Northcutt's decades of experience, you can trust that you are in capable hands.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation with an Erath County Criminal Defense Attorney contacting us online or at (254) 355-4654.
How We Can Protect You
Criminal Cases We Handle
Our firm handles all types of criminal matters, including but not limited to:
- DWI including first offense, subsequent offenses, underage, and felony cases
- Drug crimes from simple possession to sales, distribution, manufacture, and large-scale trafficking
- Domestic violence crimes from domestic assault to aggravated domestic assault and continuous family violence
- Theft crimes from shoplifting to misdemeanor and felony theft
- Violent crimes from assault to aggravated assault, robbery, carjacking, sexual assault, manslaughter, weapon charges, and murder
- White collar crimes from embezzlement to cybercrime, money laundering, extortion, identity theft, and various types of fraud
- Post-conviction relief from expungement to juvenile record sealing, motion for a new trial or withdrawal of a plea, writ of Habeas Corpus, and more
Penalties for Texas Criminal Convictions
When charged with a crime, it is essential to understand the potential penalties for a conviction. These penalties will vary depending on the type and severity of the offense. Generally, they include fines, probation, and imprisonment.
Examples of penalties include:
- Class C misdemeanor: Up to $500 in fines
- Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and $2,000 in fines
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and $4,000 in fines
- State jail felony: Between 180 days and two years in jail and $10,000 in fines
- Third-degree felony: Between two and 10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
- Second-degree felony: Between two and 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
- First-degree felony: Between five and 99 years or life in prison and $10,000 in fines
As you can see, potential penalties can be severe; a conviction can significantly impact all aspects of your life. We can help you understand the possible penalties in your case and fight to protect your rights and freedom.
Why Choose Us?
You can expect compassionate representation when you choose us to handle your case. We understand that criminal charges can be an overwhelming experience. Our firm can be by your side, guiding you through every step of the legal process with aggressive advocacy.
The Law Offices of Landon Northcutt has a proven track record of success backed by 25 years of experience in criminal defense. We aggressively fight to pursue the most favorable outcome possible on your behalf.
Additionally, we take the time to understand your unique situation and goals. We can then work with you to develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your needs.
Different Types of Criminal Defenses
In criminal cases, different defenses can be used to fight your charges. In some cases, your attorney may be able to argue that the evidence against you was obtained illegally. This is known as a motion to suppress evidence. Evidence obtained unlawfully cannot be used against you in court, and your charges may be dropped.
In other cases, your attorney may be able to argue that you were not present at the crime scene or that you were not the person who committed the crime. This is known as a mistaken identity defense. If successfully shown, your charges may be dropped.
Another argument is that you acted in self-defense or did not intend to commit the crime. This is known as a justification defense. If this is successfully argued, your charges may be reduced or dropped.
What to Look For in a Criminal Defense Lawyer
You must find a criminal defense lawyer with experience handling cases like yours when charged with a crime. You should also make sure that the attorney you choose is willing to take the time to understand your unique situation and goals.
When selecting a defense lawyer, you should consider:
- Experience: How long has the attorney been practicing criminal defense? How many cases like yours has the attorney handled? Look for an attorney who has extensive experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Reputation: What do other people have to say about the attorney? Look for an attorney who has a strong reputation in the legal community and who has positive reviews from past clients.
- Resources: Does the attorney have the resources to handle your case? Criminal defense cases can be complex, and your attorney must be able to thoroughly investigate your case and build a strong defense on your behalf.
- Strategy: What is the attorney's legal strategy? Look for an attorney who has a well-thought-out legal strategy and who is willing to take the time to explain that strategy to you.
Our firm is committed to providing you with the tenacious representation you need at this critical time.
The Criminal Defense Process in Texas
The criminal process can be complex. It generally involves the following steps.
Investigation
Police will generally investigate before arresting and charging a suspect with a crime. In other cases, they will make an arrest and then investigate. If the police investigate before making an arrest, they will likely have significant evidence against the suspect.
If they make an arrest and then investigate, they likely have less evidence. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand the evidence against you and fight to have any evidence that was obtained illegally suppressed.
Arrest
If the police have probable cause to believe you have committed a crime, they will arrest you. When you are being detained, you must exercise your right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should not answer any questions from the police without an attorney present. If you answer police questions, they can use your answers against you in court.
Arraignment
After an arrest, you will be arraigned. This means you will be formally charged with a crime and be asked to enter a plea. You can plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead guilty or no contest, you will be sentenced. If you plead not guilty, your case will proceed to trial.
Pre-Trial
After your arraignment, your case will enter the pre-trial phase. During this time, your attorney will investigate and gather evidence that supports your case. The prosecution will also investigate to gather evidence against you.
After the pre-trial phase, the prosecution may offer you a plea bargain. If they do, you should carefully consider the offer. In some cases, a plea bargain may be in your best interest. In other cases, however, it may not be.
Trial
If you plead not guilty and the prosecution does not offer a plea bargain, your case will proceed to trial. At trial, the prosecution will present their evidence against you, and your attorney will present your defense.
After both sides have presented their case, the jury will deliberate and return a verdict. If the jury finds you guilty, you will be sentenced. If the jury finds you not guilty, your charges will be dropped.
Do You Need an Attorney if You Are Innocent?
You should still consult with a criminal defense attorney if you are innocent. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we can help you by taking the following actions.
Investigating the Evidence
When you are charged with a crime, the prosecution will likely have significant evidence against you. They will have spent time and money investigating your case. By also investigating your case, our attorney may be able to find evidence that proves your innocence or that the evidence against you was obtained illegally, which can be used to fight for dropped or reduced charges.
Building a Strong Defense
Sometimes, a plea bargain may not be in your best interest. If you are innocent, you should not plead guilty. A defense attorney can help you build a strong defense and fight your charges in court by developing a legal strategy tailored to your needs and circumstances.
Protecting Your Rights &Freedom
You must understand your rights. The police must follow specific procedures when arresting and charging a suspect. If they fail to follow these procedures, the evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. An experienced defense lawyer can take action to defend your rights and to have such evidence thrown out.
Discuss Your Case & Options with Our Erath County Criminal Defense Lawyer
The first step in your defense is to discuss your case and its implications with our defense lawyer. Find out how we can help and what your options are in seeking the most favorable outcome.
Talk to an Erath & Hood County criminal defense attorney by contacting us at (254) 355-4654 today.
What Our Former Clients Have to Say
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"I will always recommend this office."
Great lawyer, responsive, gets straight to the point had a very good outcome.- Kylar M. -
"Landon Northcutt and his staff has always pulled through for me 100%."
He’s been my go to for over 18 years. Never have I been let down. He made the best of my mistakes and legal issues.- Margarita O. -
"He’s a great guy who’s easy to work with!"
Absolutely phenomenal lawyer. Great connections and he gets the job done no issue.- JR F. -
"As a very busy man Landon has always returned my calls, before and after a retainer fee."
At the very least one of his awesome team members like Lee will always be available let you know that you and your situation is very important to them.- Jason G. -
"Great attorney and staff!!"
Great attorney and staff!!- Mandy K. -
"I highly recommend Mr. Northcutt."
He has assisted me and my family with several different cases and it has always been a good experience with Mr. Northcutt and his staff.- Former Client