MISDEMEANORS
Misdemeanors, though less severe than felonies, still carry significant consequences.

• Types of Misdemeanors
  Common misdemeanors include petty theft, simple assault, and first-time DUI offenses.
  
  
• Penalties for Misdemeanors
  Penalties can range from fines and community service to jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and prior criminal history.

   

FELONIES
Felonies are serious offenses that can have long-lasting effects on your life.

• Types of Felonies
  These include crimes such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and murder.
  
  
• Penalties for Felonies
  Convictions can lead to extended prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term impacts on your civil rights and future opportunities.

DRUG CRIMES
Drug offenses are among the most common charges faced by individuals.

• Possession
  Being caught with controlled substances can lead to serious legal consequences.
  
  
• Distribution and Trafficking
  These more severe charges involve the selling or transporting of drugs and carry harsher penalties.

VIOLENT CRIMES
Violent crimes are treated with utmost seriousness by the legal system.

• Assault and Battery
  These charges involve causing physical harm to another person and can vary greatly in severity.
  
  
• Homicide and Manslaughter
  These are among the most serious charges, involving the death of another individual.
  
  
  

THEFT AND PROPERTY CRIMES
Crimes against property can range from minor to severe.

• Burglary
  Entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft.
  
  
• Robbery
  Taking property from another person through force or intimidation.

WHITE-COLLAR CRIMES
These non-violent crimes are typically financially motivated.

• Fraud
  This involves deceitful practices for financial gain.
  
  
• Embezzlement
  Misappropriating funds entrusted to one’s care.
  
  
  

DUI / DWI
Driving under the influence is a common but serious offense.

• Laws and Penalties in Texas
  Texas has strict laws against DUI and DWI, with severe penalties including license suspension and imprisonment.
  
  
• Defense Strategies
  Robert employs a range of defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case, aiming to reduce or dismiss charges.

FAMILY LAW
Family law covers legal issues related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and support. Navigating family law can be complex and emotionally charged, making it crucial to have a knowledgeable practice like The Law Office of Robert Barrera Arellano PLLC by your side. His expertise ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment in court.

EXPUNCTION & NON-DISCLOSURES
An expunction, or expungement, is a legal process that removes arrests, charges, and certain convictions from your criminal record, and you may be eligible if:

• Your case was dismissed
• You were found not guilty at trial
• You were arrested but not charged
• You completed a pre-trial diversion program
• Your conviction was overturned on appeal
  
  
  

PROBATION OFFENSES
Probation is a court-ordered period of supervision over an offender, often as an alternative to incarceration. However, violating probation terms can lead to severe consequences and can include:

• Technical Violations
• New Criminal Offenses
• Absconding or Fleeing Supervision
  
  
  

GUNS & WEAPONS CRIMES
Weapons charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the nature of the offense and can include:

• Illegal Possession of Firearms.
  This charge involves possessing a firearm without the necessary legal permits or in violation of specific regulations.
  
  
• Use of a Weapon in Commission of a Crime
  Using a weapon while committing another crime, such as robbery or assault, can lead to additional severe charges.
  
  
• Firearms Trafficking
  This includes the illegal distribution, sale, or transfer of firearms across state or national borders.
  
  
• Carrying a Concealed Weapon without a Permit
  Carrying a concealed firearm without the proper permit is a serious offense in Texas and can result in significant penalties.
  
  
• Possession of an Assault Weapon
  Owning or possessing an assault weapon, which may be restricted under certain laws, can lead to severe charges.
  
  
• Brandishing a Weapon
  Displaying a weapon in a threatening manner can result in charges of brandishing, which is a serious offense.
  
  
  

JUVENILE CRIMES
Juvenile crime encompasses any illegal activities committed by individuals under the age of 18 and can include:

• Misdemeanors
  • Theft: Includes shoplifting and petty theft.
  • Vandalism: Involves damage to property such as graffiti.
  • Minor Assault: Refers to physical altercations without severe injury.
    
    

• Felonies
  • Burglary: Breaking and entering with intent to commit a crime.
  • Drug Offenses: Possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances.
  • Violent Crimes: Includes more serious assaults and other violent offenses.
    
    
    

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
Aggravated assault in Texas is defined under the Texas Penal Code as an assault that causes serious bodily injury to another person or involves the use of a deadly weapon and includes:

• Assault with a Deadly Weapon
  Using or exhibiting a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault, such as firearms, knives, or other objects capable of causing serious harm.
  
  
• Assault Causing Serious Bodily Injury
  Inflicting injuries that create a substantial risk of death or cause permanent disfigurement or loss of function.
  
  
• Assault on a Public Servant
  Attacking a public servant while they are performing their official duties, including police officers and emergency responders.
  
  
• Assault During Commission of Another Felony
  Committing an assault while engaged in another felony, enhancing the severity of the charge and penalties. 

SEX CRIMES
Sex crimes encompass a range of illegal activities that involve sexual behavior without consent.

• Sexual Assault
  Sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual contact and can carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
  
  
• Indecent Exposure
  This charge typically involves exposing oneself in a public place with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire, leading to potential jail time and fines.
  
  
• Child Molestation
  Child molestation refers to any sexual activity with a minor and is considered one of the most serious sex crimes, often resulting in substantial prison sentences.
  
  
• Possession of Child Pornography
  Possessing, distributing, or producing child pornography is a grave offense with significant legal repercussions.
  
  
• Sexual Harassment
  Unwanted and inappropriate sexual advances or conduct, especially in the workplace, can lead to both criminal and civil charges.
  
  
• Online Solicitation of a Minor
  Using the internet to engage or attempt to engage with a minor for sexual purposes is a felony offense.