The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals is the state’s highest court for criminal cases. It reviews appeals from lower courts in serious criminal matters, including death penalty cases. Unlike the Texas Supreme Court, which handles civil cases, this court focuses solely on interpreting criminal law and ensuring fair trials statewide. How Often Do the Judges... The post What Is the Term Limit for the Court of Criminal Appeals in Texas? appeared first on Broden, Mickelsen LLP ..read more

After a state conviction in Texas, many people ask, “Can you appeal a criminal case?“ If you get convicted and sentenced or otherwise have a trial court rule against you in an appealable order, you may be able to challenge the court’s judgment by filing appeals with appellate courts in Texas. Can You Appeal a... The post How Do I Appeal a Criminal Case in Texas? appeared first on Broden, Mickelsen LLP ..read more

In response to the growing fentanyl crisis, Texas has joined several states across the nation in taking a hard stance against fatal fentanyl overdoses. Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s signing of House Bill 6 (HB 6) established new criminal offenses, including the creation of a “fentanyl murder” charge and enhanced penalties for fentanyl-related crimes. New Offense:... The post HB 6: Fentanyl Murder — New Texas Law Explained appeared first on Broden, Mickelsen LLP ..read more

When someone uses artificial intelligence (AI) to digitally alter a person’s appearance to make them look like someone else and inserts it into a video with the intent to deceive and cause harm to others, it goes beyond a mere prank. Under Texas law, it is a crime. One bill passed in 2019 (S.B. 751)... The post Is Deep Fake Pornography Illegal in Texas? appeared first on Broden, Mickelsen LLP ..read more

Being charged with federal drug crimes can result in harsh penalties and can negatively affect your family life, career, and ability to secure housing. If you’re facing these charges, a criminal defense attorney can develop solid defense strategies to protect your rights. Fight an Unlawful Search One of the most common defense strategies for federal crime charges is arguing that law enforcement did not have probable cause or reasonable suspicion to search your person, property, or vehicle. Probable cause is the belief that a crime is being committed or is about to be committed. Reasonable susp ..read more

Knowing your rights during a Texas police stop could critically impact your case if you face criminal charges. If police questioning violated the rights listed below during a traffic stop, remain calm and call Broden & Mickelsen, LLP. Right to Remain Silent The right to remain silent when pulled over for a traffic stop is a fundamental legal right. Under Texas law, you must provide your name, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information. However, you do not have to answer incriminating questions about where you are going or what you have been doing. For example, you do ..read more

With the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence that have taken place over the past few years, people have access to tools that allow them to generate visual media with stunning realism. One of the most controversial uses of this technology is the creation of sexually explicit images of child subjects. In response, Texas passed a law in 2023 designed to prevent harm to children caused by the use of their images or likenesses in the creation of AI-generated child pornography. What Does Proposed Texas Law Say? Texas House Bill 2700, passed in June 2023, amends Texas’s child pornography la ..read more

Are you facing charges of violating state gun laws, being a felon in possession of a firearm, or any other state or federal gun charges? If so, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney to help during this critical time. Your situation may be more hopeful than you think. Several cases before the United States Supreme Court have questioned the constitutionality of certain gun laws. These cases may provide an argument to defend you or your loved one against gun charges. The Impact of Recent Cases One of the most significant recent gun rights cases to come before the United States Supreme Cour ..read more

Understanding the legal grounds for filing a criminal appeal is essential for anyone navigating the Texas criminal justice system. The appellate process in Texas is not about re-trying a case but challenging aspects of the legal process that might have led to an unfair outcome. While other post-conviction relief may be available, such as habeas corpus relief through a new trial for newly discovered evidence or ineffective assistance of counsel, the appeal process is focused solely on determining whether a legal error occurred during the trial that affected the case outcome. Appellate lawyers c ..read more

Hiring a criminal appellate lawyer is essential if you’re challenging a conviction. With their deep understanding of complex laws and experience in higher courts, they can prepare a legally sound appeal, spot issues others might miss, and challenge unjust outcomes. An appellate lawyer gives you a vital second chance to fight for justice, demanding that the court apply the law fairly in your case. The Role of a Criminal Appellate Lawyer The role of an appellate lawyer is different from that of a trial lawyer. A trial lawyer works on cases in courtrooms. They present evidence, question witnesses ..read more