Texas Defenders – Bexar County Criminal Defense FAQ Library

GENERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAQ

1. What should I do if I'm arrested in San Antonio or Bexar County?

If you're arrested, stay silent, request a lawyer, and do not consent to any searches. Contact Texas Defenders immediately at 210-942-4441 so our San Antonio criminal defense team can begin protecting your rights.

2. Do I have to talk to police if I haven't been charged yet?

No. Police may claim they “just want to hear your side,” but anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline and call an attorney.

3. Can Texas Defenders get my case dismissed?

Many cases can be dismissed depending on the evidence, officer conduct, and legal defenses. We regularly achieve dismissals through investigation, negotiation, and exposing weaknesses in the State's case.

4. Do I have to appear in court if I hire Texas Defenders?

In most misdemeanor cases, we appear for you. For many felonies, we can waive your personal appearance at early settings.

ARREST WARRANT FAQ

5. How do I know if I have a warrant in Bexar County?

We can perform a fast warrant check and confirm whether you have an active warrant, a capias, or a new failure-to-appear.

6. What is the new Bexar County walk-through / pilot surrender program?

Bexar County recently launched a pilot walk-through program that allows individuals with outstanding warrants—including many normally excluded categories—to self-surrender with an attorney and avoid being booked into jail. Texas Defenders handles these walk-throughs daily.

7. Can I clear my warrant without going to jail?

Often yes. Many warrants can be resolved through a walk-through, proactive court filing, or bond arrangement.

DWI FAQ – SAN ANTONIO / BEXAR COUNTY

8. Will my license be suspended after a DWI arrest in Texas?

Yes, unless you fight it. You only have 15 days to request an ALR hearing. We handle this immediately when hired.

9. Can a DWI be dismissed in Bexar County?

Absolutely. We challenge the stop, breath test, blood draw, and officer procedure. Many DWIs end in dismissals or reductions.

10. Do I need to install an ignition interlock device?

Not always. Requirements depend on your charge, criminal history, and bond conditions. We frequently get interlock requirements removed.

DRUG CRIME FAQ – INCLUDING THC & CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

11. Is THC a felony in Texas?

Yes—most THC products (vape pens, oils, edibles, concentrates) fall under Penalty Group 2, making even small amounts a felony.

12. What if the police found drugs in the car but not on me?

Possession requires knowledge and control. If several people were present, the State may not be able to prove ownership.

13. Can a drug case be dismissed?

Yes. Many dismissals come from illegal searches, invalid traffic stops, mishandled evidence, or lack of proof.

ASSAULT & FAMILY VIOLENCE FAQ

14. Will I go to jail for Assault Family Violence in Bexar County?

Not always. Many cases result in dismissals, no-contact modifications, or reductions once we expose inconsistent statements or lack of evidence.

15. Can the alleged victim drop the charges?

No. Only the District Attorney can dismiss, but the alleged victim's position still matters. Our attorneys handle these communications strategically.

16. Can a Family Violence charge be expunged?

Only if the case is dismissed or you are acquitted. Deferred adjudication on FV charges cannot be sealed.

THEFT & PROPERTY CRIME FAQ

17. Will a theft charge affect my job or professional license?

Yes—Theft is considered a crime of moral turpitude. Early intervention is critical to avoid permanent damage to your record.

18. Can a shoplifting case be dismissed in San Antonio?

Many are. We often secure dismissals through diversion, evidence challenges, and negotiations with the DA.

PROBATION FAQ

19. What happens if I violate probation in Bexar County?

The court can issue a warrant and try to revoke your probation. We can file motions, negotiate alternatives, or challenge the alleged violation.

20. Can I get off probation early?

Many clients qualify for early termination depending on compliance, payments, and case type. We file these motions regularly.

EXPUNGEMENT & RECORD SEALING FAQ

21. Can I clear my criminal record in Texas?

If your case was dismissed, no-billed, or you were acquitted, you may qualify for an expunction. Some charges qualify for nondisclosure.

22. How long does expungement take in Bexar County?

Typically 4–6 months. Some courts move faster.

BAIL & JAIL RELEASE FAQ

23. How fast can Texas Defenders get someone out of jail?

Often within hours. We handle attorney bonds, walk-throughs, and emergency jail releases throughout Bexar County.

24. What determines the bail amount?

Factors include the charge, criminal history, risk level, and judge discretion. We frequently argue for reduced bail.

COURT PROCESS FAQ

25. How long will my criminal case take in San Antonio?

Anywhere from a few months to over a year depending on complexity, lab testing, and negotiations.

26. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases resolve before trial, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. Strong preparation often leads to better outcomes.

HIRING A LAWYER FAQ

27. Why hire Texas Defenders for a criminal charge in Bexar County?

Clients choose us because we are:

Local to San Antonio
Highly experienced in Bexar courts
Focused solely on criminal defense
Aggressive with dismissals and evidence suppression
Available 24/7 for emergencies

28. How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in San Antonio?

Pricing depends on the charge. We offer flat fees, payment plans, and immediate consultations.

29. Do you take cases in Converse, Leon Valley, Helotes, Alamo Heights, or Castle Hills?

Yes. Texas Defenders represents clients in every city in Bexar County, including:
San Antonio, Converse, Helotes, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, Castle Hills, Universal City, Live Oak, Kirby, and more.

30. Is your office near downtown San Antonio?

Yes—we are located at 101 Stumberg St., Suite 112, San Antonio, TX 78204, minutes from the courthouse and major highways.