Not without a lawyer. Even innocent people can say things that are misunderstood, taken out of context, or used against them later. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Using those rights is not an admission of guilt.

After an arrest, a person is usually brought before a magistrate within 48 hours. The magistrate explains the charges, advises the person of their rights, and sets bond and any bond conditions. From there, prosecutors review the case and decide whether to formally file charges, and the case moves through a series of court settings. An attorney can step in at any point, and the earlier the better.

Bail, or bond, allows you to be released from jail while your case is pending. The amount and conditions depend on the charge, your criminal history, and other factors. Bond may be paid in cash, posted through a bail bond company, or in some cases granted as a personal bond. If bond is set too high or the conditions are unreasonable, an attorney can ask the court to change them.

Misdemeanors are less serious offenses. In Texas, they range from Class C (punishable by a fine only) to Class A (punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000).

Felonies are more serious and can result in time in a state jail or prison. They range from state jail felonies (180 days to two years) up to first degree felonies (five to 99 years or life) and capital felonies. Prior convictions and other factors can increase the punishment range.

No. In Texas, criminal charges are brought by the State, not by the alleged victim. A complainant's wishes may be considered, but the prosecutor decides whether a case moves forward. If a protective order or bond condition prohibits contact with the complainant, you must follow it, even if they reach out to you.

A DWI arrest can lead to an automatic license suspension that is separate from the criminal case. In most cases, you have only 15 days from receiving notice of the suspension to request a hearing to challenge it. If you miss that deadline, the suspension generally takes effect automatically. Call an attorney right away.

Zane spent more than ten years deciding how cases are charged, negotiated, and tried. He knows what prosecutors look for, where their cases tend to be weak, and how they decide whether to offer a reduced charge, a dismissal, or a trial. That insight helps him build a stronger defense and negotiate from a position of knowledge.

Not necessarily. Many criminal cases are resolved through dismissal, reduced charges, diversion programs, or negotiated agreements. Some cases should go to trial. Zane will give you an honest assessment of your case and your options, but the decision to accept a plea offer or go to trial is always yours.

The cost depends on the type of charge, the complexity of the case, and whether it goes to trial. Zane will explain his fees clearly before you hire him, so you know what to expect.

Call 817.888.0419. Meetings at the office, located at 1020 Macon St., Ste. 19, in Fort Worth, are available by appointment only.