According to statistics from the Crime in Texas Report, there were 1,006,887 total-reported offenses statewide in 2021. On suspicion of a crime, some law enforcement officers often go through the accused person's property, vehicle, or other belongings to search for and seize evidence connecting the person with a crime.
In a state as large as Texas, the amount of crime will always be high which results in the largest prison population in the country. In 2020, this meant that there were a total of 121,119 people in either state prison or jail according to data put out by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, there were over one million crimes committed in the state in 2021 alone. This is a shockingly high number, and although only a fraction of those who’ve been charged will actually sit before a jury, it’s nonetheless essential to understand the basics of the criminal trial process should you find yourself in this situation. With over 30 years in the legal profession, Attorney Phillip Linder has had extensive courtroom experience and has tried over 200 cases before a jury.
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in Texas, you may be wondering what happens next. For many individuals arrested for crimes, an arraignment is one of the most confusing and scariest steps in the criminal justice process.
Once you or someone you love has been arrested for a crime, you’ll need to thoroughly understand the Texas bail requirements. There are different types of bail you can use, and per 2022 data put out by the Texas Judicial Branch, the vast majority (82%) of bail was posted using cash or bail bonds, while only 14% was done using personal property as collateral.
The plea process is a crucial component of the criminal justice system. However, not everyone facing criminal charges understands what plea bargains are and what the plea process entails. If you are considering accepting a plea bargain, it is important that you understand how these agreements work so you can make an informed decision about your future.
In Texas, a person facing a criminal trial – after an arrest or charge – will be scheduled before a judge or jury to examine the evidence against them.
During a criminal trial, the prosecution is often required to prove the action and intent before a defendant can be found guilty. Unfortunately, many alleged defendants often end up committing a crime due to their mental illness or condition. Such mental health issues may include trauma, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or PTSD.
If you are facing criminal charges in Texas, the worst thing that can happen to you is going to jail or prison. Since incarceration is the worst possible outcome for any person facing criminal charges, many defendants wonder, “Are there alternatives to going to jail?” Fortunately, yes. Depending on the charges and the circumstances of your case, you may qualify for alternative sentencing.
If you’re facing a criminal accusation or charge—or any complicated legal issue at all—it’s to your advantage to contact a skilled attorney. It might be tempting to settle for just anyone, but that would be a mistake. There are costly consequences of ineffective representation at every stage of the legal process.
