There are many different criminal charges that people could face in Texas. Impaired driving, drug offenses and domestic violence are among some of the more common allegations brought against people in the Lone Star State.
A surprising percentage of those accused of breaking the law immediately enter a guilty plea. A fear of the worst-case scenario if they fight their charges or of the possible attention that a trial might attract could lead someone to enter a guilty plea to a pending criminal charge.
Doing so puts the defendant at the mercy of the courts that must impose penalties according to state statutes. There are actually other options available to those accused of breaking the law in Texas, potentially including the following.
Negotiating a specific plea deal
Arranging for a plea deal is different than simply pleading guilty. A defense attorney working together with the prosecutor can sometimes arrange for a plea to involve reduced charges. Additionally, it may be possible in some cases to limit the potential penalties that the defendant faces. The type of charge and numerous other factors influence whether the prosecutor might be open to a deal that limits the consequences for the defendant.
Pursuing pre-trial diversion
Texas has alternative courts available for defendants in certain scenarios. For example, those accused of non-violent drug offenses while dealing with substance abuse might be eligible for adjudication in the drug courts. The focus in alternative courts is often on treatment or rehabilitation rather than punishment. The successful completion of a pre-trial diversion program could help someone avoid a criminal record and the penalties the courts might impose after a traditional conviction.
Mounting a thorough defense
There are many different defense strategies that can benefit those accused of breaking the law. Some defendants have an alibi or can raise questions about whether another person may have committed the crime in question. Other times, a defendant may have grounds for an affirmative defense because they acted in self-defense. Defense strategies can also involve questioning the actions of police officers to exclude certain evidence. Defense attorneys can even bring in expert witnesses to reevaluate evidence and undermine the state’s case.
A defendant who is unsure of which options may be best for them might benefit from discussing the criminal charges that they’re facing and the circumstances prior to their arrest with a skilled legal team. Exploring options beyond just pleading guilty could make a major difference for someone facing criminal charges in Texas.