Are you facing criminal charges in Collin County, TX? Chiles McGuire Criminal Law can help protect your rights and build a defense tailored to your case. Call (214) 432-6540 today for a free consultation with a Collin County criminal defense lawyer.
Our attorneys represent clients throughout Collin County, including McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Allen, and Richardson. We handle everything from misdemeanor offenses to serious felony charges, as well as criminal trials and appeals.
An arrest does not mean you will be convicted. Contact our law office today to discuss your legal options.
Why Choose Chiles McGuire Criminal Law for Help if You’re Arrested in Collin County, TX?
At Chiles McGuire Criminal Law, we understand how much is at stake when you are accused of a crime. Your freedom, reputation, and future could all be affected. Our attorneys provide personal attention and thorough criminal defense case preparation from the moment you’re arrested or charged in Collin County, Texas.
Unlike firms that rely primarily on negotiations, we regularly take cases to trial. Our attorneys also have appellate experience, allowing us to identify legal issues that may affect your case at trial or on appeal.
Our team includes attorney Patrick McGuire, who has received specialized training in arson investigation from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
We are committed to providing the preparation and individualized attention your case deserves. Call us today for a free consultation with an experienced Collin County criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Criminal Charges in Texas
Criminal charges in Texas generally fall into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The classification depends on the alleged offense, its circumstances, and other factors, including certain prior convictions.
Misdemeanors generally carry lighter penalties than felonies, but they can still lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Felony convictions may result in lengthy prison sentences and additional restrictions on your rights.
Criminal cases in Collin County are handled by different courts depending on the charge.
For example, the Collin County Courts at Law generally handle Class A and Class B misdemeanor cases, while district courts hear felony prosecutions. Some lower-level offenses are handled by municipal or justice courts.
Whether you were arrested in McKinney or another Collin County community, the specific allegations and available evidence will determine how your case proceeds.
What Are the Penalties for Criminal Charges in Collin County, Texas?
Texas law establishes different punishment ranges based on the classification of the offense. Under Chapter 12 of the Texas Penal Code, the standard penalties include the following.
Misdemeanor penalties include:
- Class C misdemeanor: A fine of up to $500, with no jail sentence under the ordinary punishment range
- Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000
For a felony charge, you may face up to:
- State jail felony: Generally 180 days to two years in a state jail facility
- Third-degree felony: Two to 10 years in prison
- Second-degree felony: Two to 20 years in prison
- First-degree felony: Five to 99 years or life imprisonment
Felony offenses may also carry fines of up to $10,000. Capital felonies have separate punishment rules.
These are standard punishment ranges. Enhancements, prior convictions, offense-specific laws, and other circumstances may change the potential penalties.
Our attorneys will examine your charges and explain what penalties may apply to your case.
Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
A criminal conviction can affect far more than your immediate sentence. Even after completing probation or serving time, you may encounter obstacles that make everyday life more difficult.
Depending on the offense, potential consequences include:
- Difficulty finding employment or obtaining professional licenses
- Restrictions on firearm ownership
- Immigration consequences for noncitizens
- Problems securing housing
- Driver’s license suspension or other driving restrictions
- Effects on child custody or family court proceedings
- Limited access to certain educational or career opportunities
The consequences depend on the type of conviction and your personal circumstances. Not every restriction applies to every offense.
At Chiles McGuire Criminal Law, we consider both the criminal penalties and the potential long-term effects when developing a defense strategy. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your future.
Our Law Firm Handles All Types of Criminal Cases
Chiles McGuire Criminal Law represents people facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Collin County. Our attorneys understand that different allegations require different defense strategies.
We handle a broad range of criminal matters, including:
- DWI and intoxication offenses: A DWI charge can result in criminal penalties, license-related consequences, and increased insurance costs. We examine the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, chemical testing, and other evidence to identify potential defenses.
- Drug crimes: Texas drug charges can involve possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking allegations. We investigate searches, seizures, laboratory testing, and whether the prosecution can prove possession or other required elements.
- Domestic violence: Domestic violence allegations can arise from disputes involving spouses, partners, or family members. We examine witness statements, physical evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the accusation.
- Theft and white-collar crimes: We defend clients accused of theft, fraud, embezzlement, and other financial offenses. These cases often involve detailed financial records and questions about intent or ownership.
- Sex crimes and crimes against children: These serious allegations require careful investigation and an understanding of complex evidence. Our attorneys work to protect clients’ rights while examining witness credibility, digital records, and forensic findings.
- Arson and federal crimes: Our firm also handles arson allegations and federal criminal matters. Patrick McGuire’s ATF training provides additional insight into fire investigations and the evidence used in arson prosecutions.
We also represent clients seeking to appeal criminal convictions and challenge legal errors made during earlier proceedings.
What Defenses Can Be Raised Against Criminal Charges in Collin County?
The right defense depends on the allegations and the evidence. A strategy that works in a drug possession case may not apply to a DWI or assault prosecution.
Potential defenses and legal challenges include:
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution cannot establish every required element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Unlawful search or seizure: Police obtained evidence through conduct that violated applicable constitutional protections.
- Mistaken identity: Witnesses or other evidence incorrectly identify the accused person.
- Lack of criminal intent: The evidence does not establish the mental state required for the charged offense.
- Self-defense: The accused person’s use of force was legally justified under the circumstances.
- Unreliable evidence: Forensic testing, witness accounts, or other evidence contains significant weaknesses.
Not every defense applies to every case. Some challenges can lead to evidence being excluded, while others may create reasonable doubt at trial.
Our attorneys carefully review police reports, recordings, witness statements, and forensic findings. We also conduct independent investigations when necessary to uncover evidence that may support your defense.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney in Collin County, TX, Help Me?
Hiring a Collin County criminal defense attorney means having someone who understands the legal process and can advocate for you at each stage.
At Chiles McGuire Criminal Law, we begin by examining the allegations, identifying legal issues, and evaluating the prosecution’s evidence.
Our team can assist by:
- Explaining your rights and the charges against you
- Investigating the circumstances surrounding your arrest
- Reviewing police procedures and evidence collection
- Filing appropriate motions and challenging questionable evidence
- Communicating with prosecutors about potential resolutions
- Preparing your case for trial and representing you in court
- Evaluating appellate options when applicable
We believe clients deserve to understand their defense strategy. Our attorneys will provide a detailed assessment of the evidence, explain potential approaches, and discuss the risks associated with different options.
Because we regularly handle trials and appeals, we prepare cases with courtroom litigation in mind rather than assuming every case will end in a plea agreement.
What Happens After an Arrest in Collin County?
After an arrest in Collin County, you may be taken into custody for booking and processing. The next steps depend on the offense, the circumstances of the arrest, and the court handling your case.
The process generally includes the following stages:
- Booking and first appearance: During booking, law enforcement records identifying information and processes the arrest. Under Article 15.17 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, an arrested person generally must appear before a magistrate without unnecessary delay and no later than 48 hours after arrest. The magistrate explains important rights and addresses certain initial matters.
- Bail and release conditions: A magistrate makes an individualized bail decision under Texas law. Depending on the circumstances, release may involve a personal bond, a cash or surety bond, or specific conditions. Some defendants may be denied bail when authorized by law.
- Formal charges and court proceedings: Depending on the charge, prosecutors may file an information or seek a grand jury indictment. The case may then proceed through court appearances, evidence exchange, motions, negotiations, and potentially trial.
Our criminal defense attorneys can help you understand what to expect, prepare for hearings, and avoid mistakes that could complicate your case.
Contact Our Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you have been arrested or accused of a crime in Collin County, Texas, you do not have to face the criminal justice system without legal representation.
At Chiles McGuire Criminal Law, we bring thorough preparation, trial experience, and individualized attention to every case. We represent clients throughout McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Allen, Richardson, and the surrounding communities.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation with a Collin County criminal defense attorney. Our team is available 24/7 to discuss your situation and help you understand your next steps.
