Harlingen Criminal Defense Attorneys

What Does it Take to Handle a Criminal Defense Case? 

Navigating the complexities of a criminal defense case requires experience, dedication, and a strategic approach. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we understand the gravity of your situation and are committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation.

When you choose our Harlingen, San Benito, Brownsville, McAllen, Edinburg, and Lower Valley criminal defense attorneys, you will receive the support of a dedicated team ready to:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of your case and meticulously gather all necessary evidence. 
• Interview law enforcement officers and other key witnesses to build a solid defense. 
• Clearly explain all available defense strategies, empowering you to make informed decisions about your case. 
• Engage in negotiations with prosecutors to seek potential reductions in the charges against you. 
• If an indictment occurs, work tirelessly to negotiate for a reduced sentence on your behalf. 

Our goal is to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome. With Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers by your side, you can face your legal challenges with confidence and peace of mind.

Five Reasons You Should Never Face Criminal Charges Alone 

Facing criminal charges is a daunting experience, and attempting to handle it alone can have severe consequences.

Here are five compelling reasons why you should never face criminal charges without professional legal assistance: 

1. Complex legal system: The criminal justice system is intricate and filled with complex laws and procedures. Without a thorough understanding, you might miss critical details that could significantly impact your case and your freedom. An experienced criminal defense attorney knows how to navigate these complexities effectively. 
2. Prosecutorial advantage: Prosecutors are skilled professionals whose primary goal is to secure convictions. They are not concerned with whether you fully understand the legal process or the charges against you. A criminal defense attorney provides a counterbalance, ensuring your rights are protected and advocating on your behalf. 
3. Protection of rights: It's easy to unintentionally make statements or take actions that can be used against you in court. A criminal defense lawyer ensures that your rights are upheld and advises you on what to say and do, minimizing the risk of self-incrimination. 
4. Serious consequences: Any criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, can have long-lasting effects on your life, including your career, personal relationships, and freedom. A dedicated attorney works to mitigate these consequences, striving for the best possible outcome. 
5. Personalized defense strategy: Every case is unique, with its own set of circumstances and legal nuances. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we take the time to thoroughly understand the details of your case and your goals. From the first arraignment hearing through to settlement or trial, we keep you informed and involved, crafting a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. 

By having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side, you can navigate the legal system more effectively and work towards a favorable resolution of your case. 

Types of Cases We Handle

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our criminal defense attorney is well-versed in navigating the complexities of Texas criminal law and procedure. The state's statutes clearly define what constitutes a crime and outline the corresponding minimum and maximum sentences. Repeat offenders often face harsher penalties, making it more critical to have skilled legal representation. 

This includes verifying that: 

• The police had probable cause for any searches and seizures. 
• All evidence was obtained legally. 
• Our client was properly advised of their rights at the time of arrest. 

When we take on a case, we conduct a thorough investigation, often uncovering information that can be leveraged to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced or even dropped charges. In other words, we try to find a legal angle to get your case dismissed.  We scrutinize the evidence the prosecution is legally required to share with us, searching for any inconsistencies or procedural errors. If your rights were violated by law enforcement in any way, we leverage that in your favor through legal vehicles available, such as motions to suppress.

Our team handles a wide array of felonies and misdemeanors, including but not limited to the following: 

• Assault and Battery: Defense against accusations of physical harm, family violence, or threats. 
• Drug Crimes: Representation in cases involving possession, distribution, and manufacturing of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other.
• Weapons Charges: Defense in charges related to unlawful carrying of weapons, illegal possession, use, or distribution of firearms and other weapons. 
• Sexual Assault and Rape Allegations: Representation in cases involving accusations of sexual misconduct. 
• Property Crimes: Defense against charges of theft, arson, burglary, criminal mischief (vandalism), and other property-related offenses. 
• Murder and Manslaughter Allegations: Comprehensive defense for the most severe charges, focusing on protecting your rights and pursuing justice. 
• DUI/DWI: Defense for charges related to driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated of alcohol or drugs. 
• Family Violence Crimes: Representation in cases involving domestic violence, protective orders, no-contact orders, and related offenses. 
• Aggravated Assaults: Defense against charges of assault with intent to cause serious bodily harm, such as aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (PG3 - PG1): Representation for cases involving possession of controlled substances, covering penalty groups 1 through 3. 
• Prostitution: Defense against charges related to engaging in or soliciting prostitution. 
• Trafficking of Persons: Representation in cases involving human trafficking allegations. 
• Indecent Exposure: Defense against charges of exposing oneself inappropriately in public. 
• Kidnapping: Defense for allegations of unlawfully taking or holding someone against their will. 
• Fraud: Representation in cases involving financial deception, including identity theft, credit card fraud, and other related crimes.

Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty. Even if you are falsely accused, a single misstatement could lead prosecutors to believe otherwise. Our skilled attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights, both in court and during plea negotiations, ensuring that you do not inadvertently say anything that could be used against you. Trust Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers to provide the top-tier, robust defense you need to face the challenges ahead.