Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you or a family member has been accused of a crime, the lawyer you hire will have a significant impact on the outcome of the case. You need a criminal defense attorney with extensive experience. At Hildreth & Rueda, criminal defense is all we do, and we do it very well.
Our Austin criminal defense lawyers have extensive familiarity with the court systems in Texas, including Travis County, Williamson County and Hays County. We routinely try cases in front of the judges in these areas, and we understand what strategy prosecuting lawyers will take concerning your case.
Providing A Wide Variety Of Criminal Defense Representation
We know what is at stake for people dealing with DWI, assault, drug possession and other criminal charges. A guilty verdict can have a devastating effect on your life.
We want you to feel the overwhelming sense of relief that comes with a not guilty verdict.
If you have been accused of a crime, particularly your first crime, chances are you don’t know where to turn. Call 512-415-7648 to find out how we can help you during this difficult time in your life.
We have over 20 years combined experience and have handled thousands of cases in the areas below:
- Drunk driving offenses
- Representation of college students
- Assault and battery
- Drug offenses
- Theft and burglary crimes
- Arson and vandalism
- Criminal expunction and clearing of criminal arrest records
- Occupational license issues
- Traffic tickets and citations
If expert testimony is needed to build your defense, we will turn to our extensive network of professionals, including investigators, blood experts and any other resources that may help with your specific case.
Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys Answer Your FAQs
At Hildreth & Rueda, our attorneys exclusively practice criminal law. They have extensive experience in Travis County, Williamson County and Hays County, representing those accused of crimes. No matter the severity of the criminal charges, if you need a criminal defense attorney in Austin, our lawyers regularly prepare defense strategies and try cases for those accused of crimes. Here, they answer some of the more frequent questions asked by those who are looking for a criminal defense lawyer. Hildreth & Rueda also offers a free consultation appointment to answer any specific questions that you might have.
When should I hire a criminal defense lawyer?
Anyone – including students at the University of Texas at Austin or any other college – who is under suspicion of a crime or who has been arrested or charged with a crime has the right to have their attorney present during any sort of questioning by law enforcement officers. Even if you have not been charged with a crime, the sooner you hire a criminal defense attorney, the sooner you have someone on your side protecting your rights.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Crimes that are classified as felonies are more serious than misdemeanor crimes. In the state of Texas, anyone convicted of a misdemeanor generally does not face jail time of more than a year. Most of the drunk driving crimes in Texas are classified as misdemeanors. Felony charges can come with significant jail time penalties, depending on the charge. Drug crimes can be misdemeanors or felonies depending on the amount of the legal substance, where it was found and the type of substance.
I’ve been arrested. What should I do?
If you’ve been placed under arrest, the police will read you your rights and tell you that you have the right to remain silent. They will explain that anything you say could be used against you in court. They will also tell you that you have the right to hire an attorney. You should tell the police that you do not want to talk to them and that you would like to speak to an attorney. The police are not allowed to listen to you on the phone when you call a lawyer.
Am I eligible for a public defender?
You will only be appointed a public defender if you do not have the means to pay for one yourself. A public defender is employed by the county and handles a lot of cases at once. Anyone who is arrested in Texas for a Class A or B misdemeanor or for a felony crime has the right to have an attorney appointed by the court to represent them in their defense if they cannot afford to hire one for themselves.
Your Free Initial Consultation
During your free initial consultation, we will learn about the details of the incident that led to your charge and help you understand how the law applies to your situation based on the county you were arrested in.
Our job is to fight for every client. While you are probably nervous and scared about what the future holds, we will put your mind at ease. For most of our clients who have been arrested and released from jail, the worst is already over.
Call 512-415-7648 or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation with an experienced Austin criminal defense lawyer.
We accept credit cards and offer payment plans. Se habla español.