The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution Bill of Rights was written to protect private citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement and other government officials: “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants […]
Blog Category: General Criminal Defense Information
Take Care of Any Outstanding Warrant in Houston Before the Round-up Begins
If you have been contacted by the Harris County or Houston Municipal Courts about an outstanding warrant for traffic violations or other minor penal code or ordinance violations, now is this time to take care of it, because the 2018 Great Texas Warrant Round-Up is underway. The City of Houston and Harris County are among […]
Getting a Theft Case Dismissed in Houston
Being accused of theft can be a frightening ordeal. The fear of a criminal record, fines, or even jail time can cloud your judgment. However, it’s important to remember that a theft charge doesn’t necessarily mean a conviction. Getting a theft case dismissed in Houston is possible under some circumstances. Common Defenses for Getting a […]
What Happens If The Police Forget To Read My Rights?
The flashing lights, sirens, and verbal orders — this is the nightmare scenario. And my rights — what about my rights? After the noise stops and the colored strobes dim, an unfortunate arrest means seeking legal counsel from a Houston criminal attorney to help sort through the details. And your Miranda Rights are a significant […]
Criminal Defense FAQ: Part 2
Lisa Shapiro Strauss has been successfully representing defendants charged with a wide range of felony and misdemeanor charges in Houston for 25 years. Our clients know they can depend on Lisa’s extensive experience to deliver the best possible resolution for their cases. For many of our clients, this is their first (and hopefully, last) brush […]
Criminal Defense FAQ: Part 1
Have you been charged with a felony or misdemeanor in Houston? If so, you and your family probably have a lot of questions and concerns about the legal process you face. At the law offices of Houston Criminal Defense Attorney Lisa Shapiro Strauss, we’ve been helping clients navigate the criminal justice system in Houston for […]
What To Expect From Your First Meeting With A Houston Criminal Defense Attorney
Your first meeting with a Houston criminal defense attorney is one of the most important appointments you will have in the course of your case. It’s not uncommon to be nervous about your situation and uncertain what to expect from an initial consultation. Here are some tips on what will happen at your first meeting […]
Houston Controlled Substance Laws and Penalties
If you have been charged with possessing, manufacturing or selling a controlled substance in Houston, the smart thing to do is speak with an experienced Houston drug defense lawyer. The penalties of a conviction for drug or controlled substance possession can be severe. Fines, loss of your driver’s license, probation and jail time are just […]
Legal Terms Used in Texas Criminal Court Proceedings
Most people who have been charged with a misdemeanor or criminal offense in Texas don’t know a lot about the law or the state’s legal system. This lack of knowledge can work against them, making a bad situation worse. That’s why it’s so important to seek the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney like […]
Jury Trial Or Judge: Which Do Criminal Defense Attorneys Recommend?
If you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor in Houston, you can accept a plea agreement or take your case to trial. If you decide to go to trial, you will be faced with an important decision: whether to ask for a jury trial or judge (bench trial). Under the U.S. Constitution, you […]