The Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Abilene, Texas
Finding yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney can be an incredibly stressful and scary experience. You likely have a lot of questions about the legal process, your rights, and what attorneys may be able to do to help your specific situation. This article provides an overview of some of the top rated and most experienced criminal defense attorneys in Abilene, TX to help you find the right legal representation.
What to Look for in a Criminal Defense Attorney
When researching potential attorneys for your criminal case, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Experience – You’ll want to find an attorney who regularly handles cases similar to yours. Look for lawyers who focus specifically on criminal defense rather than general practice attorneys.
- Track Record – Do they have a proven history of positive case results? Ask about their success negotiating plea bargains, getting charges reduced or dismissed, and trial experience.
- Resources – A solo practitioner may not have the same access to investigators, forensic services, and research tools that a larger firm can provide.
- Communication – Look for a lawyer who is responsive, takes time to explain things in a way you understand, and makes you feel comfortable opening up about your situation.
- Affordability – Rates can vary greatly, so be sure to ask about fees and payment plans upfront. Don’t choose an attorney based on price alone though.
Top Criminal Defense Law Firms and Attorneys in Abilene
Here are some of the most highly recommended criminal defense attorneys practicing in the Abilene area:
Rick Dunbar, Attorney at Law
With over 20 years of experience, Rick Dunbar has developed a strong reputation for providing aggressive and strategic defense for clients facing criminal charges. He handles both misdemeanors and felonies ranging from DUI and drug possession to domestic violence, sex crimes, and homicide.
Attorney Dunbar has extensive trial experience having taken over 150 criminal cases to jury verdict. He also has a high success rate negotiating plea bargains with reduced or dismissed charges. Clients compliment his responsiveness and the personalized attention he gives each case.
DeFoore Law Firm
The DeFoore Law Firm provides skilled criminal defense representation for clients throughout the Abilene area. Founding attorney Darrell DeFoore is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This certification indicates his substantial experience and knowledge handling complex state and federal criminal cases.
The firm handles all types of criminal charges including DWI, drug crimes, sex offenses, domestic violence, theft, and homicide. They also assist with expungements and record sealing for eligible past offenses. Attorney DeFoore takes time to explain the legal process and potential options to give clients confidence in their defense.
Randy Wilson Law
Attorneys Randy Wilson and Kristin Postell offer over 50 years of combined criminal defense experience. Their Abilene firm provides legal services related to both state and federal charges. They handle cases ranging from misdemeanors like DUI and petty theft to serious violent crimes and white collar federal offenses.
Randy Wilson served as an Assistant District Attorney for over a decade before transitioning into criminal defense work. This prosecutorial background gives him unique insight into how the government builds cases and where potential weaknesses may lie. Attorney Postell also has trial experience as a former Assistant Attorney General. Clients benefit from their aggressive negotiation and trial skills.
Mark Snodgrass, Attorney at Law
As a former prosecutor, Mark Snodgrass brings a balanced perspective along with over 25 years of criminal law experience. He represents clients facing a wide range of charges including drug crimes, sex offenses, domestic violence, DUI, theft, and juvenile crimes.
Attorney Snodgrass has tried over 150 criminal jury trials and handled thousands of criminal cases throughout his career. He also frequently lectures on topics like search and seizure laws and trial advocacy. His depth of knowledge and trial skills make him an asset for complex criminal defense cases.
Lance Evans & Associates
Lance Evans heads this full service criminal defense firm providing representation throughout the Abilene region. The experienced attorneys handle cases ranging from misdemeanors to serious felony charges. Their legal services cover DUI, drug crimes, white collar offenses, domestic violence, theft, and federal charges.
The firm has extensive resources to build a strong defense for their clients. This includes their own private investigators and partnerships with forensic experts. Attorney Evans emphasizes the importance of communication and aggressively defending clients’ rights during the legal process.
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (TCDLA) is a statewide organization that connects clients to qualified local criminal defense attorneys. Members must have specific experience handling criminal cases to join TCDLA. This helps ensure clients work with knowledgeable attorneys committed to defending the accused.
TCDLA members have access to legal education and training resources that help them provide strong representation. Clients can expect an attorney found through TCDLA to be up-to-date on the latest criminal statutes and defense strategies. The association offers a search tool to find attorneys based on location and practice areas.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Criminal Defense Attorney
- How much experience do you have handling cases similar to mine?
- What are the potential penalties I’m facing if convicted and options for reducing or dismissing charges?
- Will you be the attorney actually representing me throughout the case?
- What are your views on negotiating plea bargains?
- Have you tried cases similar to mine in front of a jury? What were the outcomes?
- How and when can I contact you if I have questions during the legal process?
- Do you have relationships with any of the prosecutors or judges that may be involved?
- What are your fees and options for payment plans?
Finding the right criminal defense attorney to represent you requires research and asking the right questions. Be sure to understand their experience, track record with similar cases, resources, communication style, and overall defense strategy. Compare multiple attorneys before deciding who you feel most comfortable with.
The criminal lawyers highlighted in this article are some of the top-rated defense attorneys in the Abilene area based on experience, client reviews, certifications, and proven results. Reach out for a consultation to discuss your specific case and options. With an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can feel confident you have strong representation fighting for your rights.