Pearsall Criminal Defense Attorney

Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer for Clients in Pearsall, Texas

If you have been accused of a crime, whether a misdemeanor or felony offense, you should know that the long-term consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. Your criminal record could be accessed by employers and other interested parties, and a lengthy prison sentence can set your life back significantly. In these situations, seeking legal representation is critical for protecting your best interests.

A Pearsall, TX criminal defense attorney can provide you with valuable insights and strong advocacy to fight a criminal charge. With over 20 years of experience, Law Offices of Sam H. Lock has the skills to fight for your rights in court and build a case for your defense.

State and Federal Drug Charges

Texas classifies controlled substances into penalty groups based on factors such as chemical composition, potential for abuse, and accepted medical uses. Possession of a small amount of a Group I substance, like heroin or cocaine, can lead to a state misdemeanor or felony charge depending on weight. Distribution or intent to deliver any amount carries more severe penalties, with state felonies ranging from two to 99 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.

In certain circumstances—such as large-scale trafficking near federal property, involvement in cross-state distribution networks, or links to organized crime—the federal government may take jurisdiction.

Federal prosecution for drug crimes may entail mandatory minimum sentences, asset forfeiture, and harsher sentencing guidelines. For example, possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine can trigger a five-year mandatory minimum under federal law. Our firm understands how to fight drug charges at both the state and federal levels, whether through motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or by arguing lack of actual or constructive possession.

Representation for Sex Crimes in Texas

Sex-related offenses in Texas range from indecent exposure and online solicitation to aggravated sexual assault. A conviction of these charges often results in mandatory registration as a sex offender, profoundly affecting housing, employment, and personal relationships.

Our firm provides comprehensive defense strategies for clients facing sex-crime accusations. We scrutinize forensic evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the validity of purported admissions. When law enforcement procedures violate your constitutional rights, we will seek to exclude tainted evidence. We also work with crime scene specialists and technical experts who can analyze the prosecution's evidence and highlight potential weaknesses in the case against you.

Defending Against Alien Smuggling Charges

Under federal statutes, alien smuggling is punished by up to five years in prison for a single conviction. If the offense was committed for a financial profit, penalties double, with sentences up to 10 years and substantial fines. The government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant knowingly aided or encouraged unlawful entry or attempted entry into the United States.

Defense begins by challenging whether the transported individuals were in fact "removable" under immigration law or whether the defendant knew of their status. We will investigate the circumstances of any detentions, interrogations, and searches, looking for violations of Miranda rights or unlawful border patrol practices. In cases involving complex jurisdictional issues, our attorney will leverage his experience in both federal and state courts to shift or dismiss charges whenever possible.

Contact a Pearsall, TX Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been accused of a crime, your freedoms and future may be at risk. To ensure that your rights are protected, reach out to Law Offices of Sam H. Lock today to start discussing your defense strategy. Attorney Sam H. Lock has tried many kinds of criminal cases, ranging from homicide charges to the smallest of misdemeanors. To set up your initial consultation, call us at 210-226-0965 or reach out to our Pearsall, Texas criminal defense lawyer.