Criminal Defense

  • Facing Federal Drug Conspiracy Charges? You Need to Understand “Relevant Conduct”

    When you are facing a federal drug conspiracy charge, the law can feel overwhelming. Many people believe they will only be punished for the specific crime they were charged with. But in the world of federal court, a concept called “relevant conduct” can change everything. It’s a critical part of how judges decide on a…

  • Can You Own a Gun If You Use Marijuana?

    Understanding the Legal Impact of United States v. Erik Harris – And What It Means for You Date Decided: July 14, 2025 Court: United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit Key Issue: Does marijuana use disqualify you from owning a firearm under federal law? Why This Case Matters If you’re a gun owner—or…

  • Unpacking United States v. Simmons: A Deep Dive into Federal Firearms Sentencing 

    Are you navigating the complexities of federal firearms charges or sentencing guidelines? The recent Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals decision in  United States v. Simmons offers critical insights into how these cases are handled, particularly concerning sentencing enhancements. Understanding the nuances of this ruling could be crucial for anyone facing similar legal challenges. The Simmons…

  • Can You Get a Criminal Record Expunged in Texas?

    A criminal record can follow you long after you’ve paid your dues. It can make it harder to get a job, lease an apartment, or even volunteer at your child’s school. Fortunately, Texas law gives some people a second chance to wipe the slate clean or at least keep past mistakes out of public view….

  • Can a Polygraph Be Used Against You in Texas?

    If you’ve ever watched a crime drama or true crime documentary, you’ve probably seen someone hooked up to a polygraph, sweating it out while being asked a series of uncomfortable questions. However, in the real world—especially in Texas—polygraphs (or lie detector tests) are treated very differently from what Hollywood might lead you to believe. So,…

  • Why You Shouldn’t Miss Your Trial: Lessons from the Waldrep Appeal

    At Guest and Gray Law Firm, we’ve seen all kinds of courtroom drama—but few stories are as wild as the recent appellate case of Christopher Waldrep v. State of Texas. This case serves as a cautionary tale for anyone who thinks going pro se (representing yourself) in a felony DWI trial and skipping a day…

  • Why You Should Not Write a Letter to Your Judge

    The urge to write a letter to your judge can be strong, especially during times like the COVID-19 crisis, the pending passage of the EQUAL Act and immediately after the judge rules on your case.  But “just trying to explain things” may seriously affect your chances of fighting your case later.   Our office communicates with…