Should I talk to the police after being arrested?

No. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you. You should speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering questions from law enforcement.

Can criminal charges be dismissed in Texas?

Yes. Charges may be dismissed if there are weaknesses in the evidence, constitutional violations, unreliable witnesses, illegal searches, or other legal issues. Whether dismissal is possible depends on the facts of the case.

How long does a criminal case take in Texas?

The timeline depends on the charge, court schedule, evidence, plea negotiations, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases resolve in a few months, while more complex felony or federal cases can take longer.

Criminal Defense Lawyers

Q: Do I need a lawyer if I’m innocent?

Yes. Innocence alone does not guarantee that charges will be dismissed or that you will avoid conviction. A criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights, review the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and help prevent mistakes that could harm your defense.

Q: What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Texas?

A misdemeanor is generally less serious than a felony and usually carries a maximum jail sentence of up to one year. A felony can result in prison time, larger fines, and more serious long-term consequences.

Q: What is bail in Texas?

Bail is the amount set by the court that allows a person to be released from jail while their case is pending. In many cases, a bond may be posted through a bail bondsman or paid directly to the court.

Aggressive Defense When Your Freedom Is on the Line

If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a crime in Texas, what you do next can affect the rest of your life.

A criminal charge can lead to jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent record - but the right defense strategy can make all the difference.

At Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys, we defend clients across Abilene and West Texas against misdemeanor and felony charges.

Led Jacob Blizzard, a Texas Board of Legal Specialization board-certified criminal law attorney, our firm provides experienced, strategic, and relentless defense at every stage of your case.

Call now for a confidential consultation. The sooner you involve a lawyer, the more options you may have.

Criminal Law and Criminal Defense board certified specialist lawyer Jacob Blizzard

Crimnal Law Expert Attorney Jacob Blizzard

Criminal Charges We Defend in Texas

We handle a wide range of state and federal criminal cases, including:

DWI / DUI Defense

First, second, and felony DWI
License suspension hearings (ALR)
Breath and blood test challenges

Drug Charges

Possession of controlled substances
Possession with intent to distribute
Drug manufacturing and trafficking

Assault & Family Violence

Assault causing bodily injury
Aggravated assault
Domestic violence and protective orders

Theft & Property Crimes

Burglary
Robbery

Weapons Charges

Unlawful possession
Firearm-related offenses

Sex Crimes

Sexual assaul
Online solicitation of a minor
Indecency charges

Federal Criminal Defense

Federal drug charges
White-collar crimes
Federal investigations and indictments

If you are facing charges not listed here, contact us immediately. Early intervention can significantly impact your case.

What Happens After an Arrest in Texas?

Understanding the criminal process helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Typical steps include:

Arrest or citation
Booking and jail processing
Bail hearing or bond setting
Arraignment (formal charges)
Pretrial motions and negotiations
Trial or dismissal

Critical mistakes to avoid:

Talking to police without a lawyer
Posting about your case online
Talking to family and friends about your case
Delaying legal representation

Important: Anything you say can be used against you. Always speak to a criminal defense attorney first.

Even something as small as a misdemeanor can follow you for years. Felony convictions can permanently alter your life and your future.

Penalties for Criminal Charges in Texas

Criminal convictions carry serious consequences that go beyond jail time.

Possible penalties include:

Jail or prison sentences
Fines and court costs
Probation or community supervision
Driver’s license suspension
Permanent criminal record

Long-term consequences:

Difficulty finding employment
Housing restrictions
Loss of gun rights
Immigration consequences

Our Criminal Defense Strategy

Each and every case is different - but our approach is always strategic, thorough, and aggressive.

1. Immediate Case Evaluation

We analyze the charges, evidence, and potential defenses.

2. Independent Investigation

We review police reports, interview witnesses, and uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

3. Pretrial Motions

We challenge unlawful searches, improper evidence, and procedural errors.

4. Negotiation or Trial

We pursue dismissal or reduction when possible - and prepare every case as if it will go to trial.

Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately

Timing matters in criminal cases.

Hiring a lawyer early can:

Prevent damaging statements to law enforcement
Preserve critical evidence
Improve negotiation leverage
Increase chances of dismissal or reduced charges

The sooner you act, the stronger your defense can be.

Federal Criminal Defense in Texas

Federal charges are significantly more complex than state cases.

They often involve:

Extensive investigations by federal agencies
Strict sentencing guidelines
High conviction rates

If you are under federal investigation or have been charged, you need a specialist attorney like Jacob Blizzard who is dual board certified in Criminal Defense and Criminal Appeal with experience (and case wins) in handling federal cases - not just state court matters.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Abilene, TX

Our firm represents clients throughout:

Abilene
Taylor County
Brownwood
Sweetwater
Surrounding West Texas communities

We understand the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures - giving you an advantage when building your defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer if I’m innocent?

Yes. Innocence alone does not protect you from conviction. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected.

Should I talk to the police?

No. You have the right to remain silent. Always speak with a lawyer first.

Can criminal charges be dismissed?

Yes, depending on the evidence, legal issues, and defense strategy.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

Misdemeanors carry lighter penalties (typically under 1 year in jail), while felonies can result in prison time and more severe consequences.

How long does a criminal case take?

It depends on the complexity of the case. Each case is different, but many take several months to resolve.

What is bail in Texas?

Bail allows you to be released from jail while your case is pending, often requiring a bond.

Why Choose Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys

Board-certified criminal law and criminal appeal expertise
Extensive criminal and civil trial experience
Proven case results
Strategic, personalized defense
Local knowledge of Abilene courts

We treat every case with urgency and attention because your future matters.

Speak With a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime, do not wait.

Call Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys now for a confidential case review.

Get answers
Understand your options
Start building your defense immediately

Your freedom, reputation, and future are worth protecting.

Criminal Defense