A defendant’s personal appearance can have a big impact on their case. At the law offices of Houston criminal defense attorney Lisa Shapiro Strauss, we always advise our clients to be well dressed and groomed when they appear for their scheduled court dates. Conservative, professional attire shows that a defendant respects the court and takes […]
When Is Bail Considered Excessive in Texas?
In most situations, when a person is arrested and charged with a misdemeanor or felony charge in Houston, they are required to post bail before they can be released from jail. For some, the amount of bail the court asks for can be too steep to pay. What is considered excessive bail in Texas? And […]
What Is the Difference Between Stacked and Concurrent Sentences in Texas?
Houston criminal defense attorney Lisa Shapiro Strauss has represented many clients who have been arrested and charged with multiple misdemeanors and/or felonies. One of their biggest concerns is how long of a sentence they will have to serve if convicted of all the charges. Will their sentences be served concurrently, or cumulatively — stacked one […]
What Evidence Does a Prosecutor Have to Disclose to the Defense?
If you’re awaiting trial after being arrested on a misdemeanor or felony charge in Houston or Harris County, the outcome of your trial will depend on the evidence the state uses to make their case for conviction. In order to obtain a conviction in Texas, prosecutors must convince a jury, beyond a reasonable doubt, that […]
Who’s Knocking At Your Door? Don’t Fall For A Houston Knock and Talk Search
Is it legal for law enforcement to search a private residence or business without a search warrant? It is if they have consent from the owners or occupants to do so. This is the basis of the “knock and talk,” a popular investigative technique used by Houston law enforcement. Knock and talk allow law enforcement […]
Is Shoplifting Without Leaving the Store Possible in Texas?
Shoplifting is often thought of as a person taking merchandise and leaving the store with it. However, shoplifting refers to various situations involving the taking of property without an owner’s consent. Shoplifting without leaving the store is possible in Texas and depends on the nature of the incident. Defining ‘Shoplifting’ in Texas Shoplifting is a […]
6 Mistakes to Avoid in a Houston Criminal Case
People accused of crimes often make many errors that result in terrible consequences. Avoid these 6 mistakes in your Houston criminal case. 1. Volunteering Evidence When you’ve been falsely accused of a crime, it’s natural to feel the desire to “clear your name.” Unfortunately, this feeling often causes people to make a number of mistakes that, instead […]
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 […]
