Posted on June 05, 2025 in Drug Charges

Most people are aware that if you are caught with drugs, you will likely be charged with possession. However, not everyone knows that possession can sometimes elevate a charge for the intent to distribute. Texas law treats these as separate offenses with different penalties, and experienced Allen, TX drug possession defense attorneys will build a defense based on the type of drug charge and the unique circumstances surrounding the case. If you have been charged with drug possession or possession with the intent to distribute, consider the difference between the two and how the charges will impact your defense strategy.

What Is Drug Possession Under Texas Law?

According to the Texas Controlled Substances Act, a charge for drug possession refers to the illegal custody, control, or care over a controlled substance, which may include having drugs on your person or in your home or vehicle. "Controlled substance" is a broad phrase that encompasses narcotics, stimulants, chemicals, and other dangerous drugs obtained without a valid prescription. 

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 Posted on May 29, 2025 in Criminal Defense

On May 25th, a woman was killed after being struck by a jet ski in Grapevine Lake. This story has drawn national attention, and the defendants face serious charges. Given the grave allegations against the defendants, it will take an involved strategy from a criminal defense lawyer well-versed in the Texas Penal Code to properly defend against the charges.

At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we have represented clients accused of similar charges and secured trial victories for clients accused of vehicular manslaughter. In our experience, we have found that the best approach to fighting these charges involves a comprehensive review of the circumstances leading up to the death.

How Is a Hit-and-Run on a Jet Ski Prosecuted?

As you can likely guess, hit-and-run charges typically involve cars more often than watercraft. Rather than the Texas Penal Code, offenses involving boating accidents are detailed in the Parks and Wildlife Code.

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 Posted on May 18, 2025 in Criminal Defense

 The lasting impact of a criminal record can set your life back for years. Anyone who runs a background check on you can access your record, leading to unfortunate first impressions. The stigma of your record may seem inescapable, but you have options. A Texas criminal defense lawyer can help you pursue expunction of your record so you can move forward with your life.

Not everyone is eligible for expunction in the state of Texas. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., our lawyers can evaluate your case and explore your options to restore your reputation. We have over 25 years of combined experience in criminal law, and we can share our legal insights to help clear up any questions you may have.

Expunction for Non-Convictions

In general, if you were charged or arrested for a crime but NOT convicted, you can have your record expunged. This means that the record of the offense will be completely erased from public and private databases. For people looking to start fresh, this is an ideal option.

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 Posted on May 14, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony offense in Texas, you could face severe consequences that extend far beyond a prison sentence. Even if the violation seems minor, you should not take a criminal charge lightly. A Texas criminal defense attorney can help fight the charges against you, pursuing the best possible outcome.

The worst thing you can do when faced with criminal charges is to go in unprepared. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., our lawyers bring a wealth of legal knowledge and experience to support you from the beginning of your case to its conclusion. As skilled trial lawyers, we have a long history of success in the courtroom thanks to our aggressive advocacy.

Felony Convictions in Texas Can Affect Gun Ownership Rights

In general, Texas is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights, and the state has a proud culture of responsible gun ownership. However, your gun ownership rights could still be suspended or revoked under certain circumstances. Case in point, if you are convicted of a felony offense, you will lose your right to possess a firearm.

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 Posted on May 05, 2025 in DWI

 In Texas, a charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can come as a serious shock if you have never had an encounter with the law before. Your first impulse may be to panic, but do not assume that the case against you has been decided just because you have been arrested. A Texas DWI defense attorney can review your case and question the prosecution’s evidence, exploring possible avenues to get the charges against you reduced.

At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we are highly familiar with the ins and outs of DWI charges in Texas. We can lend clear insights into your case and give you a better understanding of what evidence may be used against you. No matter the case, you can rest assured that we will do everything in our power to defend you in court.

What Chemical Tests Are Used for DWI Arrests?

Police officers often use blood or breath tests to determine a driver’s level of intoxication. This gives the prosecution a more scientific basis than hearsay or observations. The metric for impairment is known as BAC, or blood-alcohol concentration. If your BAC is at least .08 percent, you can be charged with driving while intoxicated.

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 Posted on April 28, 2025 in Assault

What starts as a quick scuffle can end with you in handcuffs and charged with a serious crime. Assault is strictly prosecuted in Texas, and depending on the specifics of your case, you could be sentenced to years in prison. A Texas criminal defense attorney can advise you of your rights if you have been charged with assault and help you build a strong defense.

Working with a skilled legal professional is immensely helpful for fighting a criminal charge. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we are up-to-date on all laws surrounding assault in Texas. We can explore all possible defenses to help protect your rights.

Is Battery a Crime in Texas?

Many states make a distinction between battery and assault as separate acts. Usually "assault" refers to a threat of physical violence, while "battery" often refers to the act of making unlawful contact with someone else. In Texas, the two are one and the same. Making threats of violence toward another person is already covered under the state’s definition of assault.

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 Posted on April 22, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Getting arrested for shoplifting in Texas may not initially seem like a major problem. However, you may face strict prosecution in court, with irreversible consequences if you are convicted. If you have been charged with shoplifting, the best thing you can do is contact a Texas criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we have experience defending against shoplifting charges and other theft crimes. When you work with our firm, we will give you a clear idea of the charges you face, the potential consequences, and how we can defend you. We have the resources and skills to represent you with confidence, protecting your rights in front of a judge.

Potential Fines for Shoplifting

If you are convicted of shoplifting, you could end up paying a hefty fine as a consequence. Shoplifting is prosecuted under Texas’ theft statute, and the fines increase based on the severity of the sentence.

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 Posted on April 10, 2025 in DWI

 If you have never run afoul of law enforcement before, getting pulled over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be an incredibly stressful experience. Unfortunately, this is where many people panic and end up making simple mistakes that hurt their own cases.

The best way to avoid a DWI charge is to avoid drinking and driving. However, if you are stopped by a police officer on suspicion of DWI, you can take steps to protect yourself before you get in contact with a Texas DWI attorney. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we have handled hundreds of DWI cases, and when you work with our firm, we will strategize with you to determine the best course of action.

Know What to Say (And What Not to)

After you are pulled over, you should brace for a series of questions from the police officer. Questions like "Do you know why I pulled you over?" are intended to get you to incriminate yourself, supplying evidence to the prosecution. Whenever possible, you can give noncommittal answers like "I’m not sure" or request your right to an attorney instead of answering.

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 Posted on April 03, 2025 in Drug Charges

 A marijuana possession charge can have serious implications for your freedom in Texas. The courts do not take drug crimes lightly, and if convicted, you could be saddled with a criminal record. A Texas drug crimes attorney can defend you against a marijuana possession charge by exploring all possibilities to protect you from the legal consequences.

At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we have the experience, skills, and knowledge to build a strong defense against a marijuana possession charge in Texas. When you work with our attorneys, we can provide legal guidance on how to respond to a possession charge as we represent you in front of a judge.

What Is Legal Possession?

If applicable, one of the most surefire defenses against a marijuana possession charge is proving that you had a legal reason to own it. In Texas, you can get a cannabis prescription for certain qualifying conditions such as PTSD, epilepsy, cancer, or multiple sclerosis.

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 Posted on March 31, 2025 in DWI

You have been arrested for DWI in Texas. Many Texans find themselves in this stressful situation and wonder if there is hope. Definitely! A DWI charge can be reduced to a lesser charge or dismissed if you hire a skilled DWI defense attorney to represent you. Your case is more likely to succeed if you are not misled by common DWI misconceptions that you can easily find online.  

If you have been arrested for DWI, speak to our Texas criminal defense lawyers. Our DWI defense attorneys have over 25 years of combined experience and over 500 trial victories in DWI cases.

Myth 1: You Lose Your Texas Driver’s License Immediately 

You were arrested for drunk driving, so your driver’s license is suspended immediately, right? Wrong. You could face an administrative suspension of your license, but it is not automatic. State law offers you a chance to challenge a driver’s license suspension.

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