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Many Texas drivers ordered to install an ignition interlock device cannot find the $10 DPS restricted license fee online. Learn why this happens, how to get the fee activated, and the exact process for obtaining your Texas ignition interlock restricted driver's license.

Texas Defenders has been recognized as one of the Top 3 Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Antonio for 2026. This recognition reflects our commitment to defending people facing misdemeanor and felony criminal charges throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, and surrounding communities. Learn more about the award, our San Antonio criminal defense team, and what to consider when choosing an attorney to protect your freedom, record, and future.

Texas Defenders proudly announces that attorney David Payma has been re-selected to The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 – Criminal Defense. Learn what this prestigious national recognition means and why continued excellence matters when choosing a criminal defense attorney.

Texas has officially banned many popular hemp-derived THC products, including delta-8, delta-10, THCP, and THCA flower. This guide explains what changed on July 31, 2026, which products remain legal, how the law could impact consumers and retailers, and what to do if you're facing drug charges in Texas.

Shoplifting is on the rise across the United States, with a new survey revealing that 30% of Americans admit to stealing from stores. This article explores why retail theft is increasing, how Texas prosecutes shoplifting offenses, the criminal penalties for theft, common legal defenses, and why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference if you're facing theft charges.

Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo's recent arrest is making headlines, but it also shines a spotlight on one of the biggest misconceptions about Texas DWI law. In Texas, you can be arrested for DWI even if your vehicle never moved because the law prohibits operating—not simply driving—a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

Texas hemp laws allow products with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, but widespread confusion continues to lead to arrests across Dallas and throughout Texas. This guide breaks down what hemp, CBD, Delta-8, THC gummies, drinks, and vape products are actually legal, where the gray areas exist, and why people can still face criminal charges even after purchasing products from stores. It also explains how law enforcement handles these cases and what to do if you are arrested for a hemp-related offense.

Shoplifting at Target in Texas is far more serious than most people realize. What may seem like a minor incident can quickly escalate into multiple criminal charges, including felony theft or even organized retail theft. In this article, we break down how Texas law classifies shoplifting offenses based on value, how retailers like Target use advanced surveillance and facial recognition to build cases over time, and how a single stop can lead to charges for prior incidents.

As North Texas prepares for its final FIFA World Cup match, dozens of arrests have already been made at AT&T Stadium. Learn the most common charges, what happens after an arrest, and what to do if you or a loved one is taken into custody.

Texas THC laws have changed dramatically in recent years, leaving many Texans confused about what is and isn't legal. From THCA flower and Delta-8 to THC vape pens, gummies, hemp, and traditional marijuana, this guide explains the current legal landscape, why people are still being arrested for products sold in stores, and how ongoing court battles continue to shape cannabis laws in Texas. Learn what every Texan should know before buying, carrying, or using THC products—and what to do if you're facing THC-related criminal charges.

Texas DPS has announced increased enforcement for the Fourth of July and America's 250th birthday celebration. Learn why arrests spike during holiday weekends, the criminal charges people commonly face, and what to do if you or a loved one is arrested anywhere in North Texas.

Many people believe that if police fail to read their Miranda rights, their criminal case will automatically be dismissed. In reality, Texas law is far more complicated. This article explains what Miranda rights actually are, when police are legally required to read them, and why the lack of a warning usually does not affect most criminal cases in Dallas County. Learn the difference between custody and interrogation, how statements can be suppressed, and why invoking your right to remain silent matters more than whether Miranda warnings were given.

A first-time DWI in Texas can lead to serious penalties—but quick action can make a huge difference. This post explains what happens after the arrest, how to challenge your license suspension, and what defense strategies often lead to dismissals or reduced charges in North Texas.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings millions of visitors to North Texas, Dallas and Arlington officials are launching one of the largest security operations in the region’s history. Learn how increased police patrols, undercover drug investigations, DWI enforcement, drones, and federal security efforts could impact fans — and what visitors should know if they are arrested during the World Cup.

Getting arrested in Irving may involve a longer jail and bond process than other Dallas County cities. Learn why Irving arrests are different, what happens after someone is taken into custody, and how Texas Defenders helps clients and families move quickly after a DWI, assault, theft, drug charge, or other criminal arrest.

Many Texas criminal cases start with a minor traffic stop — including not having a front license plate properly mounted. This article explains why placing a license plate in your windshield does not comply with Texas law, how police use front-plate violations as pretextual stops, and how these encounters frequently escalate into DWI, drug possession (PCS), or other criminal charges in Dallas and across North Texas.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup arrives in North Texas, Dallas police are preparing major enforcement operations while the Dallas County jail faces capacity concerns. Learn what visitors should know about arrests, drug charges, DWI cases, human trafficking investigations, bond issues, and how the Texas criminal justice system works during one of the world’s largest sporting events.

Texas DPS will no longer patrol NTTA roads like the Dallas North Tollway, but traffic stops and arrests are not going away. Learn the most common charges that come from Tollway stops, including DWI, drug possession, warrants, and other criminal offenses, and what drivers in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco should know.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring millions of fans to North Texas — along with increased police presence and security enforcement. Learn what visitors should know about Texas laws, including DWI, public intoxication, assault, drug charges, and other common arrests during major sporting events. Texas Defenders explains how World Cup visitors can protect their rights while enjoying Dallas, Arlington, Fort Worth, and surrounding areas.

Texas law prevents criminal defense attorneys from giving clients copies of discovery materials. This post explains why, what the law allows, and how the Michael Morton Act changed discovery rules in Texas.

The 180-Day Indictment Myth. A deep dive into Texas’s 180-day rule, explaining why it only applies to defendants in custody and what to expect if you’re out on bond awaiting indictment.

Texas Defenders wins Best Criminal Justice Attorney in Dallas for 2026—second year in a row. Trusted Dallas criminal defense lawyers with 1,000+ 5-star reviews. Call 214-306-9696.

Blood test results after a Texas DWI can take 8–12 weeks, and for voluntary blood tests you’ll be notified by mail from DPS before your license is suspended. Learn how to get your results, what the suspension notice means, and how to challenge blood evidence through an ALR hearing.

This post explains how drivers in Texas can face DWI charges for prescription medication use. It covers common drugs involved, how officers and prosecutors prove impairment, potential defenses, penalties, and what to do if arrested.

At Texas Defenders, we offer clear, flat-rate fees and flexible payment plans—starting at $500 down and biweekly payments. No interest. No credit card fees. Clients can log into a portal to view balances, make payments, and stay in control.