The Law Firm of Blair T. Jones, PLLC

Criminal FAQ

Answer:  In Williamson County the fastest and most cost effective way to get someone out of jail is to hire a lawyer.  Although, the use of bail bond companies is almost always required, a discount is usually available if you have hired a lawyer.   Additionally, only lawyers can bypass judge magistration by signing a Waiver of Magistration, speeding up the release process.

In Travis County the fastest and most cost effective way to get someone out of jail is usually to hire an attorney.  In most misdemeanor cases and some felonies, a lawyer can acquire a Personal Recognizance (P.R.) Bond which requires no deposit left with the court, thus saving you time and money.  In more serious felony cases, the use of a bonding company is sometimes required.  However, a discount is usually available if you have hired a lawyer.

Answer: There is no better way to choose a lawyer than to interview him personally.  While interviewing a lawyer, you should ask about: his criminal law experience; if he was ever a prosecutor; if he has jury trials on a regular basis; does he have a good reputation with the courts and prosecutors; does he have experience handling cases in Williamson and Travis County; if he will keep you informed of your case.

Answer: You should hire a lawyer as soon as you have been arrested or know you are being investigated for a crime.  Having a lawyer on your side early in a case, can make a tremendous difference in the end result.  With sufficient time, a lawyer can, in many circumstances, prevent a charge from ever being filed.  Or, at a minimum, he can meet with you to thoughtfully prepare your defense.

Answer: The law does not require you to hire a lawyer.  However, it is in your best interest to hire one.  A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, evaluate the State’s case against you and advise you to take a deal or to go to jury trial.  A lawyer can help in many ways by either: getting a cases dismissed, reducing an offense to a lesser offense, getting you probation instead of jail time, reducing the length of probation, lowering or eliminating a fine, and much more.  There is an old legal saying, “he who represents himself, has a fool for a lawyer.”

Answer:  Our initial consultation is free.  However, because neither a case nor a person’s legal situation is ever the same, we set our fees on a case-by-case basis.  Only after discussing your needs and the severity level of your case, is an appropriate fee set.