Under Houston’s new Cite and Release program, if you are suspected of committing certain Class A or B misdemeanors, police officers will issue you a citation, rather than arrest you and place you in jail. However, just because you didn’t get arrested, doesn’t mean you won’t be paying big fines or be sentenced to jail […]
How Reasonable Doubt Applies in a Criminal Case
If you’ve ever watched the evening news or one of the many prime time courtroom dramas, you’ve probably heard many times that in order for a jury to convict a person of a crime, they must find them guilty “beyond a reasonable doubt.” But what does that phrase really mean? And how could it affect […]
Video Conferencing, MyCase Portal Make Client Communications Quick, Easy and Secure for Houston Criminal Defense Cases
Houston criminal attorney Lisa Shapiro Strauss has always strived to make keeping in touch with clients as easy and convenient as possible. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, virtual contact has also been critical for keeping criminal cases moving forward while protecting the health of all parties. As part of that effort, Lisa offers video conferencing […]
What’s the Difference Between Arraignment and Trial?
Most defendants arrested and charged with misdemeanor or felony offenses in Harris County will eventually have their cases go to trial, where they will be either convicted or acquitted of the charges against them. In the trial phase of their case, defendants can choose to have either a trial by jury or trial by judge. […]
I Have a Criminal Case in Harris County During the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Crisis! What Can I Do?
Do you or your family member or friends have a new criminal case in Harris County during the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic? Perhaps you’ve heard the courthouses are all closed and are worried that will mean you can’t do anything at all with your case? Houston criminal defense attorney Lisa Shapiro Strauss is here to […]
How To Choose A Criminal Defense Attorney in Houston TX
You get home from a long night in jail and are bombarded with hundreds of flyers from lawyers. Your bonding company suggested someone for you to call (which is against the law for them to do). Your friend tells you he has a great, cheap lawyer. What do you do?
What to Do If You Get Arrested For Shoplifting in Houston during the Holiday Season
Product loss due to theft costs Houston business owners millions each holiday season. To reduce their risks, they hire extra security staff and install additional surveillance technology. Because of that, the odds of being accused and arrested for shoplifting in Houston increase greatly during the holidays. Whether you’re innocent or guilty, being arrested and charged […]
When Family Gatherings Lead to Domestic Violence Charges During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us once again. Many of us are looking forward to holiday get-togethers with friends and family. And it’s not uncommon for alcohol to play a big part in the celebrations. Unfortunately, the holiday season often brings with it great financial and emotional stress. Sometimes these stresses, especially after heavy alcohol […]
Fifteen New Laws in Texas That Affect Criminal Defense Cases in Houston
820 bills passed by the latest session of Texas State Legislature became law on September 1, 2019. Many of these laws will have a profound impact — good and bad — for those charged with criminal felonies and misdemeanors in Houston and Harris County. Here’s a list of 15 of these new laws that could […]
Recent Changes in Texas Hemp Laws and Marijuana Prosecution In Harris County
If you’ve been arrested for marijuana possession in Harris County, you find yourself facing misdemeanor charges. A conviction could mean jail time, fines or both. And the arrest will appear on your permanent record, which could make it hard to find a job, housing or schooling. However, recent changes in Texas hemp laws have made it […]
