Facing criminal charges in Austin, Texas can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, making it crucial to secure the best possible legal representation. At Michael & Associates, we understand the gravity of your situation and are dedicated to providing you with a vigorous and personalized defense. If you are searching for a criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX, look no further than a team committed to excellence and client-focused service.
Why Choose Michael & Associates as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Austin?
When it comes to choosing a criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX, you deserve more than just legal representation; you deserve a partner who will stand by you every step of the way. Michael & Associates distinguishes itself through a commitment to “white glove treatment” and achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Many law firms promise low fees and guaranteed results, but often fall short when it comes to genuine client care and dedicated effort. At Michael & Associates, we deliberately limit our caseload to ensure that each client receives the focused attention and comprehensive defense they deserve.
What truly sets us apart? You will have direct access to Ben Michael’s personal cell phone. We encourage you to reach out – text or call – anytime, day or night, with your questions or concerns. Forget being filtered through secretaries and waiting days for a callback. Ben Michael personally guides you through every detail of your case, ensuring you are informed, comfortable, and confident throughout the entire process. We recognize the immense stress criminal charges bring, and our mission is not only to secure the most favorable outcome but also to make this challenging time as painless as possible for you and your family.
Areas of Criminal Defense in Austin, TX We Expertly Handle
Michael & Associates possesses extensive experience in handling a wide spectrum of felony and misdemeanor criminal cases in Austin and throughout Texas. Our practice areas include, but are not limited to:
- DUI/DWI Defense: Driving While Intoxicated charges can have severe consequences in Texas. We aggressively defend your rights and driving privileges.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance: From marijuana to more serious drug charges, we provide a robust defense against drug-related offenses.
- Assault & Battery: We handle all levels of assault charges, from simple assault to aggravated assault, protecting your rights and future.
- Family Violence/Domestic Abuse: These sensitive cases require a nuanced and strategic defense. We are experienced in navigating the complexities of family violence charges.
While we focus on criminal defense, please note that Michael & Associates does not handle cases related to:
- Traffic Law (excluding DWI)
- Family Law (divorce, custody, etc.)
- Immigration Law
- Civil Law
Our exclusive focus on criminal defense allows us to dedicate our expertise and resources to providing you with the strongest possible defense in your criminal case in Austin, TX.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Austin: Assault and DWI Laws
To better understand the legal landscape you may be facing in Austin, let’s delve into two common types of criminal charges we handle: Assault and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).
Criminal Assault Charges in Texas: What You Need to Know
Texas law defines assault broadly. You can be charged with assault if you:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another person, including a spouse.
- Intentionally or knowingly threaten another person with imminent bodily injury, including a spouse.
- Intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with another person when you know or should reasonably believe the other person will find the contact offensive or provocative.
It’s important to distinguish between simple assault and aggravated assault:
- Simple Assault: Involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly threatening bodily injury. This is typically a misdemeanor offense.
- Aggravated Assault: Occurs when serious bodily injury is inflicted or a deadly weapon is used during the assault. This is a felony offense with much more severe penalties.
Furthermore, charges can escalate depending on the victim’s status, such as if the victim is a child, elderly individual, or disabled person. Due to the complexities and varying degrees of assault charges, a free case review with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX like Michael & Associates is crucial to understanding your specific situation and building a strong defense.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Austin: Legal Limits and Penalties
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Austin and throughout Texas. The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you are caught driving with a BAC at or above this level, you will be charged with DWI.
It’s important to remember that the number of drinks it takes to reach a BAC of 0.08% varies greatly based on individual factors such as:
- The strength of alcoholic beverages
- Time elapsed since consumption
- Gender
- Weight
- Individual tolerance
The penalties for DWI in Austin escalate with each subsequent offense:
First Offense DWI:
- Up to $2,000 fine
- Up to 180 days in jail (with a minimum of 3 days mandatory upon conviction)
- Driver’s license suspension for up to one year
Second Offense DWI:
- Up to $4,000 fine
- 1 month to 1 year in jail
- Driver’s license suspension for up to two years
Third Offense DWI:
- Up to $10,000 fine
- 2 to 10 years in prison (Felony charge)
- Driver’s license suspension for up to two years
DWI with a Child Passenger: Carrying a passenger under 15 years old while intoxicated carries even harsher penalties, including additional fines, jail time, and extended license suspension.
If Pulled Over for Suspected DWI in Austin:
- Remain Calm and Polite: Pull over safely and immediately. Be respectful and cooperative with the officer.
- Know Your Rights: You have the right to remain silent and the right to refuse field sobriety tests and preliminary breathalyzer tests. If you believe you might fail, politely decline and state you wish to speak with your attorney.
- Contact a Lawyer Immediately: As soon as possible, contact a criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX. Do not answer questions beyond basic identification without legal counsel.
Should You Fight Your DWI Charge in Austin?
Yes, absolutely. Never automatically plead guilty to a DWI charge. An experienced criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX can thoroughly examine the details of your case, challenge evidence, and explore all possible defenses to achieve the best possible outcome, whether it’s a reduction in charges, dismissal, or acquittal.
Navigating the Legal Process in Austin: Arrest, Jail, and Your Rights
Facing arrest and the legal system can be daunting. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect and your rights:
If Arrested in Austin:
- Contact a Lawyer First: Your priority should be to contact a criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX like Michael & Associates as soon as you can.
- Remain Silent: Do not provide details about the alleged offense to anyone other than your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Bail and Release: You will likely need to post bail to be released from jail. We can assist you in understanding bail procedures and options.
Your Rights When Questioned by Police:
- Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions. Invoke your right to remain silent and state you want an attorney present.
- Right to Counsel: You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning.
Miranda Rights:
Police are only required to read you your Miranda Rights (right to remain silent, right to an attorney) before they begin questioning you in custody. Even if Miranda Rights are not read, it is still crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney.
Counties We Serve Around Austin
Michael & Associates proudly serves clients in Austin and the surrounding areas, including the following counties:
- Atascosa
- Bandera
- Bastrop
- Bell
- Bexar
- Blanco
- Brazoria
- Caldwell
- Collin
- Comal
- Coryell
- Dallas
- Denton
- Ellis
- Fort Bend
- Galveston
- Gillespie
- Guadalupe
- Hays
- Kendall
- Lampasas
- Llano
- Medina
- Milam
- Rockwall
- Tarrant
- Travis
- Williamson
- Wilson
If you are facing criminal charges in any of these counties, Michael & Associates is ready to provide you with exceptional legal representation.
Your Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyer in Austin, TX
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer in Austin TX is one of the most critical decisions you will make. At Michael & Associates, we offer the expertise, dedication, and personalized attention you need to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. Ben Michael’s recognition as a Top 10 Texas Lawyer¹ and our firm’s impressive case resolution record² speak to our commitment to excellence and client success.
Don’t face criminal charges alone. Contact Michael & Associates today for a confidential consultation and discover how we can fight for your rights and future.
¹ Ben Michael has been ranked as a Top 10 Texas Lawyer by esteemed organizations, including: 10 Best Attorney by the American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys (2022), Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney by Attorney and Practice Magazine (2022).
² In 2024, Michael & Associates successfully resolved 99% of cases without going to trial, demonstrating our effectiveness in achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
