How Felony Cases Move Through Brazos County Courts
Understanding the basic path of a felony case in Brazos County can help you make informed decisions and reduce some of the stress of the unknown. After an arrest by an agency such as the Bryan Police Department or College Station Police Department, your case is typically reviewed by the Brazos County District Attorney’s Office to decide what charges to file and in which court. A Bryan Felony Lawyer can walk you through what to expect at each step, including bond hearings, arraignment, pretrial conferences, and any plea or trial settings, so you are not facing important court dates without clear guidance.
As your case moves forward, there are often opportunities to challenge evidence, request hearings, and negotiate with prosecutors in the district courts located at the Brazos County Courthouse in downtown Bryan. The timeline and options available will depend on the facts of your case, your prior record, and how the assigned court and prosecutor typically handle similar charges. By working closely with your attorney, you can prepare for each appearance, gather helpful documents or witnesses, and decide whether to pursue a negotiated resolution or proceed toward a contested hearing or trial in Brazos County.
What is the Difference Between Felonies and Misdemeanors?
Texas categorizes criminal charges as either felonies or misdemeanors. Generally, misdemeanors are less serious charges and carry lighter penalties than felony charges.
However, any criminal record can cause problems in the future with employment, educational opportunities, and obtaining professional licenses. Whenever possible, it is best to avoid any criminal record.
Types of Felonies & Misdemeanors
Our attorneys have represented clients in many cases, including:
Felony cases in this area can involve a wide range of allegations, from drug delivery or manufacturing charges to more serious accusations such as aggravated assault or burglary, and each category carries its own potential sentencing range under Texas law. When you work with a Bryan Felony Lawyer, you can discuss how the specific level of offense you are facing, your prior history, and the facts alleged by law enforcement might influence possible outcomes, as well as any collateral consequences that could arise for immigration, professional licensing, or future background checks.
Because many felony arrests in Bryan and College Station come from investigations by local agencies such as the Bryan Police Department, College Station Police Department, or the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office, it can be important to carefully review reports, body-camera footage, and witness statements from the very beginning. A felony attorney College Station residents turn to for help can evaluate whether there are potential constitutional issues in your case, such as questions about the traffic stop, search, or interrogation, and can advise you about how those issues may be raised in Brazos County courts.
What are the Penalties for Felonies & Misdemeanors?
Depending on the specific charges, you may be facing serious penalties, such as significant jail time, fines, probation, community service, or loss of your driver’s license. Our attorneys can defend your rights and advise you of the best path forward. We work with you to build an effective defense strategy and achieve a favorable outcome, such as a reduction of charges, a dismissal, or a not-guilty verdict.
In many felony cases, the long-term impact of a conviction can extend far beyond any jail or prison sentence, affecting housing options, financial aid eligibility, and even the ability to own or possess firearms under state and federal law. By consulting with a felony lawyer Bryan defendants can rely on for clear guidance, you can better understand which consequences might apply in your situation, what alternatives to incarceration may be available in Brazos County, and how steps like treatment, counseling, or restitution might influence the way your case is resolved.
Call an Attorney before Speaking with Authorities
It is important to remember that the police and state attorneys are not working in your best interests. When you are accused of a crime, it is important to have an experienced defense attorney working to protect your rights and best interests. Our felony and misdemeanor lawyers in Bryan and College Station can advise you on the steps to take both after your arrest and before you are formally charged.
If you are being investigated or have already been arrested in Brazos County, having a felony lawyer College Station residents trust involved as early as possible can make a difference in how information is presented to the Brazos County District Attorney’s Office. Early representation can include communicating with law enforcement on your behalf, helping you avoid making statements that could be misunderstood, and preparing you for important stages such as bond hearings at the Brazos County Jail or first appearances at the county courthouse.
We encourage you to contact us online or at (979) 559-3599 to speak with a criminal defense attorney about your case.
