Criminal Defense Attorneys in Plano
Assisting Good People Through Tough Times
When you have been accused of a crime, it is crucial to seek competent legal representation as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances of your particular case, you could face a wide range of penalties, including jail time, expensive fines, and more. At Zen Law Firm, we help protect your rights, your future, and your freedom.
Contact us online to discuss your case with our Plano criminal defense lawyers and learn more about your legal options. Call (469) 361-8561 for a free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Texas.
Our Values and Client Testimonials
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Former Prosecutor on Your Side
With firsthand knowledge of how cases are built and prosecuted, our team anticipates strategies and builds stronger defenses.
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Trial-Tested Experience
We’ve handled hundreds of trials and thousands of hearings across state and federal courts—and we prepare every case as if it’s going to court.
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Full-Service Representation
From criminal defense to personal injury and immigration, we offer skilled legal support across multiple practice areas.
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Broad Strength, Local Access
With offices in Plano, Fort Worth, and San Antonio, you get personalized service backed by a firm with statewide reach.
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“This law firm is a 10/10, I highly recommend them! Jason and his team were extremely caring, always kept me up to date, and helped me get a wonderful outcome on my situation.”- Kimia Z.
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“Jason Zendeh Del is a fantastic attorney that provides excellent counsel. He and his staff are very responsive and it is evident that he truly cares about his clients.”- Jason D.
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“I could not have hoped for a better representation than what Jason and his team provided for me. Very respectful, very competent, just outstanding in every way.”- Tom A.
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“They got me approved for SSI and my life has changed for the better. I was homeless & starving before; now I can buy my basic needs and even get my granddaughter a birthday present!”- Jerry Z.
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“Jason was very kind, very thorough and not judgemental. I was scared on the first day of court and he reassured me and got me an amazing deal that day so we wouldn't have to go back to court.”- Faythe S.
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“They were amazing! I would highly recommend them. They responded fast and explained everything. Stayed in contact with me the whole time. I applied for disability and was approved - quicker than I expected.”- Kerry L.
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“Russ demonstrated deep expertise and quickly identified the core issues. His advice was clear, practical, and grounded in both legal knowledge and real compassion. Every time we spoke, I felt more confident and supported.”- Wenyu Y.
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“Jason and I spoke on the phone as long as I needed to know that I was in good hands. Over the next two months, between a couple phone calls and some texts, and following Jason's advice, my case was dismissed.”- Patrick L.
Understanding Criminal Charge Classifications in Texas
Texas law classifies criminal offenses into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The severity of the charge dictates the potential penalties and the long-term impact on your life. A Plano criminal defense lawyer from Zen Law Firm will explain the specific classification of your charge.
Misdemeanors:
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, typically punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines. Texas divides misdemeanors into three classes:
- Class C Misdemeanors: These are the least severe, punishable only by a fine of up to $500. There is no jail time.
- Class B Misdemeanors: These offenses carry more significant penalties. The maximum penalties include up to 180 days in county jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
- Class A Misdemeanors: These are the most serious type of misdemeanor in Texas. The maximum penalties include up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000.
Felonies:
Felonies are the most serious crimes, punishable by more than one year in state prison and substantial fines. Texas categorizes felonies into several classes, with escalating penalties:
- State Jail Felonies: These are the least severe type of felony. The maximum penalties include 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Third-Degree Felonies: The maximum penalties include 2 to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felonies: The maximum penalties include 2 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- First-Degree Felonies: These are the second-most severe type of crime in Texas. The maximum penalties include 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Capital Felonies: These are the most severe type of felony in Texas. The maximum penalties include life imprisonment without parole, or the death penalty (if the defendant was 18 or older at the time of the offense).
The specific nuances of each felony charge, including aggravating factors like the use of a deadly weapon, serious injury to a victim, or prior criminal history, can significantly impact the severity level and potential sentence. Navigating these distinctions requires the focused attention of a seasoned Plano criminal defense attorney.
A criminal conviction in Texas, whether misdemeanor or felony, leads to a permanent public record severely limiting future employment, housing, and educational opportunities, alongside potential professional license revocations. Felony convictions specifically result in the temporary loss of voting rights and permanent loss of firearm rights, while certain misdemeanors can also trigger a federal firearms ban. Non-U.S. citizens face severe immigration consequences, including deportation. Furthermore, convictions can impact financial aid eligibility, parental rights, lead to driver's license suspension, cause significant social stigma, and serve as enhancements for future offenses.
We Protect Your Rights in Plano
After an arrest, remember that you have certain legal rights granted by the U.S. Constitution. These include:
- The right to have an attorney present during questioning
- The right to remain silent
- The right not to incriminate yourself
It is very important to exercise these rights to protect your freedom and give you the best possible chance at a successful outcome. Call our attorneys as soon as you are able – we are available when you need us.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a crime in Texas, do not hesitate. The sooner you act, the more opportunities a criminal defense lawyer in Plano has to build a strong defense. Contact Zen Law Firm today for a confidential consultation.
Criminal Defense FAQ
We'll Be Your Resource at Every Step
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 469-361-8561 today!
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How long do criminal proceedings take?
This always depends on the specific facts of the case. Factors to consider include whether the defense attorney and prosecutor can reach a plea agreement, whether charges can be reduced or dismissed, and whether the case goes to trial. In addition, the defense may appeal a guilty verdict if doing so makes sense, and an appeal would extend the process. Whatever your situation may be, an experienced criminal defense attorney’s advice and representation are essential to understanding your rights and options, and what to expect from the process in your particular case.
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Why would I need an attorney if my case seems straightforward?
You have a right to be heard before a court, regardless of how hopeless you think your case is. An experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate more favorable terms with the prosecutor to protect your rights. An attorney can also put your charges into a different perspective and look for weaknesses in the prosecutor’s arguments or faults in law enforcement’s actions. Remember, you have a right to fight the charge, and the best way to do that is to put an experienced defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible.
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What does the Texas criminal law process look like?
The process starts after an arrest or receiving a notification to appear in court. At this point, it is important to choose an experienced criminal attorney as soon as possible to represent you. If you fail to appear in court, the judge will issue an arrest warrant against you.
The next step is the first court appearance to hear the charges. At this hearing, the judge may also determine bail. If bail is not granted, the defendant will have to remain in jail during the legal process.
During a preliminary hearing, a prosecutor will submit evidence to show there is enough evidence to bring a case against the defendant. This is also an opportunity for the defense to argue against the prosecutor’s case. If the defense is successful at this stage, a judge may dismiss the charges.
If the process continues, then pretrial negotiations will start. A criminal defense attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea bargain — perhaps involving reduced or dismissed charges — or the defense lawyer and prosecutor may agree on specific terms the defendant will have to meet in order for charges to be dropped or reduced. If the defense attorney and prosecutor cannot reach an agreement, the pretrial motions and hearings start. At this stage, a criminal defense attorney will file motions — for example, to dismiss charges due to lack of evidence or to suppress evidence or witness testimony. It may also be possible at this stage to reach a favorable plea bargain after submitting the appropriate motions.
If the prosecutor and defense attorney do not reach an agreement or plea bargain during the previous stages, the case may go to trial.
IMPORTANT: It is always up to the defendant to choose to accept a plea agreement or go to trial. An experienced criminal defense attorney can advise on whether a plea deal or a trial is appropriate in your case.
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What are the differences between a felony and a misdemeanor?
In Texas, misdemeanors are crimes divided into three classes (A, B, and C) that could lead to less than a year of jail time and/or a fine not exceeding $4,000. Examples of misdemeanors in Texas include first-offense DWI, shoplifting, and disorderly conduct.
Felonies refer to the most serious crimes under Texas law. Punishments may range from a year in prison to life imprisonment or even the death sentence.
Under certain circumstances, an individual could have a misdemeanor criminal record expunged. Expungement essentially means removing the conviction from your record. However, felonies are more difficult to expunge. Another vital difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is that a person convicted of a felony could be prohibited from voting or owning a firearm. A felony conviction can also result in restrictions on job opportunities and where the convicted individual can live.
