FAQs Frequently Asked Questions

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that you have rights! You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to retain an attorney. Once you assert your right to remain silent, police officers will be required to stop questioning or investigating you. If you think that your rights have been violated, we can create a compelling defense strategy that can help increase your chances of securing a favorable resolution to your case.

The steps that you take immediately following an arrest could prove to be the most influential in the final outcome of your case. Do not speak with anyone so that you do not accidentally incriminate yourself. Do not resist arrest or run away. Most importantly, it will be imperative that you assert your right to a lawyer by consulting a legal professional. Only a skilled criminal defense lawyer will know the potential defenses available to your particular case.

Crimes can typically be categorized in two ways: misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are generally lesser offenses, and can include up to one year jail sentence. On the other hand, felonies are considered to be severe criminal offenses and can be penalized by more than one year in jail or prison. Both felonies and misdemeanors can result in a permanent criminal record.

With the Law Office Of John C. Caldwell working at your side, you can have options available to you. No matter what you have been arrested for or charged with, we know how to apply a hard-hitting defense strategy. Oftentimes, we are able to determine if your rights have been violated, which can help increase your chances of a complete case dismissal.

Your choice in legal representation can be among the most important legal decisions that you make for your future. Even first-time offenders should seek legal counsel from a qualified professional. Any type of criminal conviction could lead to serious consequences, including a permanent criminal record, mandatory jail time, or excessive fines.

Every attorney determines his or her own fee arrangements. At the Law Office of John C. Caldwell in Pearland, Texas, I focus on delivering quality legal services at a fair price. I can discuss my fees upfront so there will be no surprises for you, and I start every case with a free, no-obligation consultation. Call 281-248-2111 or send an email tod

Trial is rare in criminal defense cases. More often than not, cases are resolved by plea bargaining. This entails negotiation between your attorney and the prosecutor. After a thorough investigation of your case and the evidence against you, an experienced attorney will strive to negotiate the best possible outcome, including dismissal of your case or a reduction of charges. It is important to keep in mind that, regardless of whether or not your case ultimately goes to trial, you should choose an attorney with a reputation for trial success and an attorney with experience in the county where you are facing charges. The ability to succeed at trial gives a lawyer leverage when negotiating with a prosecutor and may be a critical factor in the outcome of your case.

Incarceration is a very real possibility, depending on the severity of the crime and other factors. However, an experienced attorney will fight the charges and take steps to keep you out of jail. One of the biggest benefits of hiring an attorney who is experienced and devoted to criminal law is that the attorney is more likely to be aware of things like diversion programs that are often available to keep first-time offenders out of jail.