Criminal Defense

  • US v. Vowels-Harper Explained: Why a Major Child Pornography Sentence Was Overturned

    The Sixth Circuit recently ruled in a case involving how to apply the sentencing guidelines for sadism in child pornography cases in the Vowels-Harper case.  About the Vowels-Harper case: Sadism in Child Pornography Sentencing  Vowels-Harper was charged with and convicted of several child pornography crimes.   The  alleged crimes include receiving photos and videos of…

  • How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost in Texas?

    When you decide to hire private counsel to defend you in a criminal prosecution, you may consider various factors during your evaluation of prospective attorneys. However, cost may become one of the considerations you have when hiring a criminal defense attorney in Texas. How much does it cost to retain a criminal defense lawyer to…

  • Tips for Choosing the Best Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in Texas

    When federal law enforcement officials arrest you for a crime, you need legal counsel to protect your rights and interests when you face the federal criminal justice system. However, how can you find the best criminal defense attorney to help you fight federal charges in Texas? Some of the best practices to follow when selecting…

  • AI in the Courtroom: What Happens When a Judge Relies on Fake Citations?

    Artificial intelligence is now appearing inside the justice system. Bloomberg Law reported that federal judges issued rulings containing citations that did not exist. After lawyers raised concerns, the courts corrected the orders and notified the Senate Judiciary Committee. How AI Is Being Used in Legal Work Lawyers, clerks, and even judges are using generative AI…

  • George Santos’s Sentence Was Commuted. Here Is What That Means for You

    Executive clemency is one of the most powerful tools available to a President. Many people only hear about pardons in high‑profile political cases, but there is more than one form of clemency. The recent decision involving George Santos shows how commutations can eliminate punishment while leaving a conviction in place. Understanding this distinction matters for…

  • Texas Republican Party Drops Lawsuit Against Guest & Gray

    Last year, the Republican Party of Texas voluntarily dismissed its lawsuit against Guest & Gray and two of its attorneys, Elizabeth Alvarez and Scott Gray. Guest & Gray had been sued as part of an dispute with the Republican Party. The dismissal ends the lawsuit against the largest law firm in Kaufman County and one…

  • Texas Republican Party Drops Lawsuit Against Guest & Gray

    Last year, the Republican Party of Texas voluntarily dismissed its lawsuit against Guest & Gray and two of its attorneys, Elizabeth Alvarez and Scott Gray. Guest & Gray had been sued as part of an dispute with the Republican Party. The dismissal ends the lawsuit against the largest law firm in Kaufman County and one…

  • What Is Clemency? The Different Forms of Relief from Criminal Convictions and Sentences in Texas

    A criminal conviction and sentence can have numerous short- and long-term consequences for individuals, including incarceration and the loss of certain civil rights or professional opportunities. However, defendants convicted of crimes in Texas may pursue relief from their conviction or sentence through the clemency process. A defendant may ask the Texas Governor to grant clemency…