Our Case Results

#1 Goal Is A Dismissal

Charge: DWI Open Container
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 8/31/2023

Charge: Sexual Assault
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 9/25/2023

Charge: Assault BI – FV
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 11/13/2023
Charge: Terroristic Threat
County: Travis
Result: Dismissed 12/7/2023
Charge: Reckless Driving
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 9/21/2023
Charge: DWI
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 8/29/2023
Charge: Assault BI – FV
County: Williamson
Result: Dissmissed 7/31/2023

Charge: Injury to Elderly
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 8/21/2023

Charge: DWI
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 7/11/2023
Charge: Criminal Mischief
County: Travis
Result: Dismissed 3/2/2023
Charge: DWI
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 1/10/2023
Charge: Racing on Highway
County: Williamson
Result: Dissmissed 9/1/2022

Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer | Assault, Drug & Theft Charges

#1 Goal: Case Dismissal – Over 700 Criminal Cases Dismissed

#1 Goal Is A Dismissal

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Home – Austin Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing Criminal Charges in Austin? Here’s What You Need to Know Right Now

Being arrested or charged with a crime in Austin, Texas is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. Your freedom, your career, your reputation, and your family are all on the line. The decisions you make in the first 24 to 48 hours after an arrest can significantly affect the outcome of your case — and the most important decision you can make is hiring the right criminal defense attorney before you say another word to law enforcement.

At The Hull Firm, our Austin criminal defense lawyers are former Travis County prosecutors. We have spent years on the other side of the courtroom — building criminal cases, working with law enforcement, and understanding exactly how the District Attorney’s office operates in Travis, Williamson, and Hays counties. Now we use that insider knowledge exclusively to defend people like you.

We have achieved dismissals in over 700 criminal cases. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We offer free consultations and flexible payment plans. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime anywhere in the Austin metro area, call us now at 512-599-9999.

 

  • ✅ Over 700 Criminal Cases Dismissed
  • ⚖️ Experienced Former Prosecutors on Your Side
  • ⏱️ 24/7 Jail Release & Emergency Legal Help
  • 📍 Deep Knowledge of Austin & Travis County Courts
  • 💬 Free Confidential Consultations
  • 💳 Flexible Payment Plans Available to Fit Your Budget
  • 🕰️ Over 15 Years of Criminal Defense Experience
  • 🧾 Proven Record of Charge Reductions & Case Dismissals

Complete The Form Below To Schedule A Free Case Evaluation

If you’re searching for an experienced criminal defense attorney in Austin, or need a dedicated Austin criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights, contact The Hull Firm today. We are committed to achieving the best possible results for our clients. Let us put our expertise to work and fight for you.

Why the Attorney You Choose in Austin Matters More Than You Think

Texas criminal law is aggressively enforced. Travis County prosecutors are well-resourced, experienced, and motivated to secure convictions. The Austin Police Department, Travis County Sheriff’s Office, and surrounding agencies produce thorough reports, maintain digital evidence, and cooperate closely with the DA’s office to build cases that are difficult to defeat — unless your attorney knows exactly where to look.

Generic criminal defense attorneys who lack local court experience often miss procedural errors, fail to challenge questionable evidence, and push clients toward plea deals that permanently damage their records. That is not how we operate.

The Hull Firm’s attorneys have personally prosecuted criminal cases in Travis County. We know how APD investigators think. We know what evidence Travis County prosecutors prioritize. We know the judges, the court procedures, the local rules, and the leverage points that can lead to dismissal, reduction, or acquittal. This is not a general practice firm that dabbles in criminal defense — this is all we do, and we do it at the highest level.

Complete The Form Below To Schedule A Free Case Evaluation

Arrested for DWI? Don’t Risk Maximum Fines & Jail Time

    • Our Attorneys have Extensive Experience Prosecuting DWI Cases.
    • We KNOW the legal system inside & out.
    • We KNOW HOW the legal system builds DWI cases in Travis, Williamson & Hays County.
    • That means we KNOW WHAT it takes to get you the best possible outcome for your specific DWI Case.
    • If you have been arrested for a DWI in Travis, Williamson or Hays County – You NEED An Experienced DWI Legal Team to Protect Your Future.
    • Get your Free Case Review & Quote in minutes. Payment Plans Available!

Don’t Waste Anymore Time Worrying. Every Day Counts.
We Will Start Building Your DWI Defense On Day 1!

Our Case Results

#1 Goal Is A Dismissal

Charge: DWI Open Container
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 8/31/2023

Charge: Sexual Assault
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 9/25/2023

Charge: Assault BI – FV
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 11/13/2023
Charge: Terroristic Threat
County: Travis
Result: Dismissed 12/7/2023
Charge: Reckless Driving
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 9/21/2023
Charge: DWI
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 8/29/2023
Charge: Assault BI – FV
County: Williamson
Result: Dissmissed 7/31/2023

Charge: Injury to Elderly
County: Hays
Result: Dismissed 8/21/2023

Charge: DWI
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 7/11/2023
Charge: Criminal Mischief
County: Travis
Result: Dismissed 3/2/2023
Charge: DWI
County: Williamson
Result: Dismissed 1/10/2023
Charge: Racing on Highway
County: Williamson
Result: Dissmissed 9/1/2022

Our Core Criminal Defense Philosophy

Dismissal First. Always.

Every time we take a case, our first question is not “how do we minimize the damage?” Our first question is “how do we get this dismissed?” Over 700 times, the answer has been: aggressively and relentlessly.

We challenge every element of the state’s case from day one — the legality of the traffic stop or arrest, the validity of the search, the handling of physical evidence, the reliability of witness testimony, the accuracy of any chemical testing, and the procedures followed by law enforcement. If there is a weakness anywhere in the prosecution’s case, we find it and we exploit it.

When dismissal is not immediately available, we pursue reduction, diversion, deferred adjudication, or any outcome that keeps your record as clean as possible. We never accept an outcome simply because it is convenient. We fight because that is what you are paying us to do.

DWI and DUI Defense in Austin

Driving While Intoxicated is one of the most commonly charged crimes in Travis County, and it is also one of the most defensible — if your attorney knows what to challenge.

Texas law defines DWI as operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated, meaning either a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher, or the loss of normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or any other substance. But just because you were charged does not mean the evidence against you is airtight.

Our former prosecutors have handled hundreds of DWI cases on both sides of the courtroom. We know that field sobriety tests are subjective, that breathalyzer machines require precise calibration and maintenance, that blood draws must follow strict chain-of-custody protocols, and that the initial traffic stop itself must be legally justified. If any of these elements are compromised, your case can be won.

What we challenge in Austin DWI cases:

  • The legal basis for the initial traffic stop
  • Whether probable cause existed for the DWI arrest
  • The administration and scoring of standardized field sobriety tests
  • Breathalyzer calibration records and operator certification
  • Blood draw procedures and laboratory handling
  • Body camera and dashcam footage for inconsistencies
  • The officer’s training and compliance with NHTSA guidelines

DWI charges we defend in Austin:

  • First-time DWI
  • Second and subsequent DWI offenses
  • DWI with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.15
  • DWI with a child passenger
  • Intoxication assault
  • Intoxication manslaughter
  • Underage DUI
  • Commercial driver DWI and CDL protection
  • Drug-related DWI (prescription or illegal substances)
  • Breath test refusal cases

A first-time DWI conviction in Texas can result in up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $2,000, a license suspension of up to one year, and an annual surcharge of up to $2,000 for three years. A second offense carries up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000. These consequences follow you for life. The Hull Firm fights to make sure they never happen.

Assault Defense in Austin

Assault charges in Texas range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies, depending on the circumstances. Even a misdemeanor assault conviction can affect your employment, housing, and professional licensing. A felony assault conviction can result in years in prison and a permanent record that closes doors for the rest of your life.

Texas Penal Code defines assault as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person; intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury; or intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact in a way the victim would reasonably regard as offensive or provocative. The definition is broad — and prosecutors use it broadly.

Types of Assault Charges We Defend:

Simple Assault (Class A or B Misdemeanor) — The lowest level of assault charge, but still serious. A Class A misdemeanor can result in up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000.

Aggravated Assault (Second or First-Degree Felony) — Assault that causes serious bodily injury or involves a deadly weapon. Second-degree felony carries 2–20 years in prison. If committed against a public servant, family member, or with a deadly weapon causing serious injury, it becomes a first-degree felony with 5–99 years or life in prison.

Family Violence and Domestic Assault — Assault against a family member, household member, or romantic partner carries unique consequences in Texas, including loss of firearm rights, mandatory reporting requirements, and the potential for a lifetime criminal record that cannot be expunged.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon — A deadly weapon includes firearms, knives, and any object used in a manner capable of causing death or serious injury. This is an aggravated assault charge and carries felony-level consequences.

Verbal Assault and Threatening Behavior — Texas law criminalizes threats as well as physical contact. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, especially when digital evidence like texts or social media posts is involved.

Our defense strategies include challenging witness credibility, asserting self-defense or defense of others, demonstrating lack of intent, attacking evidence of injury, and exposing inconsistencies in police reports. We have successfully had assault charges dismissed across Travis, Williamson, and Hays counties.

Drug Charge Defense in Austin

Drug Charges We Defend in Austin:

Marijuana Possession — Despite shifting attitudes nationally, marijuana remains illegal in Texas. Possession of two ounces or less is a Class B misdemeanor. Larger amounts trigger felony charges. We pursue diversion programs, dismissal, and deferred adjudication to protect your record.

Controlled Substance Possession — From prescription painkillers possessed without a valid prescription to methamphetamine and cocaine, we challenge the search that produced the evidence, the chain of custody, and the lab analysis that identified the substance.

Drug Trafficking and Distribution — Possession with intent to deliver, manufacturing, and distribution charges carry enhanced penalties and are often prosecuted federally. Our attorneys understand both the state and federal landscape.

Drug Paraphernalia — A paraphernalia charge is often added alongside a possession charge. We address both simultaneously and pursue dismissal of all related charges where possible.

Texas has some of the strictest drug laws in the United States. Possession of even small amounts of controlled substances can result in significant prison time, and the consequences escalate sharply based on the type of drug, the quantity, and whether intent to distribute is alleged.

Under Texas law, controlled substances are organized into penalty groups. Penalty Group 1 — which includes cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl — carries the harshest penalties. Even possession of less than one gram is a state jail felony, punishable by 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000.

The most powerful tool in drug defense is challenging the Fourth Amendment legality of the search and seizure. If law enforcement lacked a valid warrant, exceeded the scope of a consent search, or conducted an unlawful traffic stop that led to the discovery of drugs, that evidence may be suppressible — and without the evidence, there is often no case.

Theft Crime Defense in Austin

Texas classifies theft charges based on the value of the property allegedly stolen, ranging from a Class C misdemeanor for property valued under $100 all the way to a first-degree felony for property valued at $300,000 or more. Retail theft, vehicle theft, burglary, robbery, and embezzlement all fall under the theft umbrella in Texas.

A theft conviction — even a misdemeanor — creates a permanent criminal record that shows up on background checks and can disqualify you from jobs, housing, and professional licenses. Employers treat theft convictions with particular suspicion. We understand the stakes and we fight accordingly.

Defense Strategies for Theft Charges Include:

  • Challenging ownership or value of the alleged property
  • Demonstrating lack of intent to permanently deprive
  • Exposing weaknesses in surveillance or eyewitness identification
  • Negotiating civil restitution agreements that may lead to dismissal
  • Pursuing expungement or non-disclosure after successful case resolution

Weapons Charges Defense in Austin

Texas is a state with strong gun rights, but those rights have limits — and prosecutors are increasingly aggressive about enforcing them. Unlawful carrying, prohibited possession by a felon, carrying in a prohibited place, and weapons charges connected to other offenses are all areas where The Hull Firm provides skilled defense.

Common weapons charges in Travis County include unlawful carrying of a handgun, possession of a firearm by a felon or person under a family violence protective order, making a firearm or prohibited weapon, and carrying a firearm while committing another offense such as drug possession or assault.

The consequences of a weapons conviction extend beyond criminal penalties — a felony weapons conviction permanently strips your right to possess a firearm under both state and federal law.

Juvenile Defense in Austin

When a minor is arrested in Texas, the case is handled in the juvenile justice system — but the consequences can be very real and very long-lasting. A sustained juvenile petition can affect a young person’s ability to attend college, obtain financial aid, enter the military, or pursue certain careers. In serious cases, a juvenile can be certified to stand trial as an adult.

Our juvenile defense practice focuses on protecting your child’s future through every available avenue — challenging the evidence, pursuing diversion programs, negotiating community supervision arrangements, and petitioning for record sealing when the case is resolved. We approach juvenile cases with the same intensity as adult cases, because the stakes for a young person’s future are just as high.

Probation Violations in Austin

Being accused of violating probation in Texas is a serious matter. Unlike a new criminal charge, a probation revocation hearing has a lower burden of proof — the state only needs to prove a violation by a preponderance of the evidence, not beyond a reasonable doubt. This means it is easier for the state to succeed at a revocation hearing than at trial.

Common alleged probation violations include failing a drug test, missing a check-in with your probation officer, failing to complete community service hours, traveling outside permitted areas, or being arrested for a new offense.

At a revocation hearing, the judge has wide discretion. The Hull Firm presents mitigating evidence, context, and legal arguments to advocate for continued probation, modification of probation conditions, or the minimum possible consequence — rather than the maximum sentence that was originally suspended.

Protective Order Violations in Austin

A violation of a protective or restraining order in Texas is a criminal offense, not merely a civil matter. Even indirect contact — through a third party, social media, or text message — can constitute a violation. A first violation is typically a Class A misdemeanor, but if the person has a prior conviction or if the violation involved assault, it can become a felony.

We defend clients accused of protective order violations by examining the precise terms of the order, the nature of the alleged contact, and whether the contact was truly prohibited or arose from ambiguity in the order’s language.

Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication

These charges are common in Austin’s entertainment districts and often arise from incidents on Sixth Street, Rainey Street, and other nightlife areas. While they may seem minor, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record. We pursue dismissal, deferred adjudication, and diversion options to keep these incidents off your record entirely.

White Collar Crime Defense in Austin

Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, identity theft, insurance fraud, and securities violations require a different kind of criminal defense — one that involves forensic financial analysis, complex document review, and understanding both state and federal prosecution strategies.

White collar charges often begin with a civil investigation or audit before criminal charges are filed. If you are under investigation — even before charges are filed — contacting a criminal defense attorney immediately is critical. Early intervention by an experienced attorney can sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.

Record Expungement and Non-Disclosure in Austin

A criminal record can follow you for the rest of your life even if you were never convicted. In Texas, expungement completely destroys the records of a criminal case. Non-disclosure seals the records from most public access. Both remedies can dramatically improve your employment prospects, housing options, and overall quality of life.

You may be eligible for expungement if your case was dismissed, you were acquitted at trial, you completed a deferred adjudication for certain offenses and the required waiting period has passed, or you were arrested but never charged. Eligibility rules are complex and depend heavily on the specific charge and outcome. Our attorneys will review your record in detail during a free consultation and advise you on every option available.

Travis County — Home to the Austin municipal courts, Travis County District Courts, and the Travis County DA’s office. This is our home court. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the procedures inside and out.

Williamson County — A rapidly growing county north of Austin encompassing Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and Taylor. Williamson County has a reputation for aggressive prosecution and strict judges. Local knowledge matters enormously here.

Hays County — Located southwest of Austin, covering San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, and Wimberley. Hays County courts have their own procedures and culture. Our experience here has produced numerous dismissals.

Bastrop County, Caldwell County, and surrounding areas — We extend representation throughout Central Texas when clients need us.

Serving All of Austin and Central Texas

The Hull Firm represents clients across the greater Austin metro area, with particular depth of experience in:

What Happens After an Arrest in Austin — The Criminal Process Explained

Understanding what comes next can reduce anxiety and help you make better decisions. Here is what typically happens after a criminal arrest in Austin:

Arrest and Booking — You are taken into custody, fingerprinted, photographed, and processed. This is when invoking your right to remain silent is most critical. Do not answer questions. Do not explain yourself. Ask for an attorney.

Magistration and Bail Hearing — Within 48 hours of arrest, you appear before a magistrate who informs you of your charges and sets bail. An attorney can advocate for lower bail or personal recognizance release at this stage.

Filing of Charges — The DA’s office reviews the arrest and decides whether to file charges, and at what level. This is a critical window where early attorney intervention can sometimes prevent charges from being filed.

Arraignment — If charges are filed, you enter a plea. In most cases, an attorney will enter a not guilty plea on your behalf at this stage to preserve all options.

Pre-Trial Phase — This is where most of the real work happens. Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence, requests discovery, examines police reports and body camera footage, interviews witnesses, and negotiates with prosecutors.

Trial or Resolution — Most cases resolve through negotiation, diversion, or dismissal before trial. If the case proceeds to trial, you have the right to a jury of your peers. The Hull Firm has the experience and preparation to take cases to trial when that is what it takes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Austin

What should I do immediately after being arrested in Austin?

The single most important thing you can do is remain silent. You have an absolute constitutional right not to speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Politely but clearly state: “I am invoking my right to remain silent and I want an attorney.” Then stop talking. Do not try to explain, justify, or minimize what happened. Anything you say will be documented and can be used against you. Call The Hull Firm at 512-599-9999 as soon as you are able — we are available 24 hours a day.

How long do I have to hire an attorney after an arrest in Austin?

There is no formal deadline, but time is genuinely critical. Evidence gets lost. Witnesses’ memories fade. Surveillance footage gets overwritten. The prosecution begins building its case from the moment of arrest. The sooner an experienced criminal defense attorney is involved, the more options you have and the stronger your defense becomes. Call us the same day if at all possible.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Texas?

Misdemeanors are classified as Class A (up to one year in county jail), Class B (up to 180 days in county jail), or Class C (fine only, no jail). Felonies are classified as state jail felonies, third-degree, second-degree, first-degree, and capital, with potential sentences ranging from 180 days to life imprisonment or death. The classification of your charge determines which court hears your case, what punishments are available, and how a conviction affects your civil rights.

Can a criminal charge be dismissed in Travis County, Texas?

Yes, and it happens far more often than most people realize — especially when represented by experienced attorneys who know the system. The Hull Firm has achieved dismissals in over 700 criminal cases. Common grounds for dismissal include insufficient evidence, suppressed evidence due to Fourth Amendment violations, witness issues, prosecutorial discretion, completion of diversion programs, and successful pre-trial motions. Dismissal is always our first and primary objective.

What is deferred adjudication in Texas?

Deferred adjudication is a form of probation in Texas where you plead guilty or no contest, but the judge defers a finding of guilt and places you on probation. If you successfully complete probation, the charge is dismissed — not convicted. Depending on the offense, you may later be eligible for a non-disclosure order sealing the record. Deferred adjudication is not available for all offenses and has its own risks. Our attorneys will explain whether it makes sense in your specific situation.

Will a criminal charge show up on my background check even if I wasn't convicted?

Yes. In Texas, arrests and charges appear on background checks even when cases are dismissed or result in acquittal. The only way to remove them is through expungement. This is one of the most important and underappreciated reasons to pursue dismissal and then expungement — not just to avoid a conviction, but to truly clear your record.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Austin?

Legal fees depend on the complexity of the charge, the court in which the case is pending, and the amount of work required. The Hull Firm offers a free initial consultation and transparent flat-fee pricing in most cases, with flexible payment plans available. We believe cost should never be a barrier to effective representation — call us and we will find an arrangement that works.

Why should I hire a former prosecutor to defend me?

A former prosecutor brings an irreplaceable perspective to your defense. They know the internal decision-making process of the DA’s office. They know which cases prosecutors fight hardest and which they are more likely to dismiss or reduce. They know how to read a police report the way a prosecutor does — identifying weaknesses before the other side does. They have established credibility in the courtroom that newer defense attorneys often lack. When a former prosecutor tells a judge or opposing counsel they believe the evidence is insufficient, that statement carries weight. At The Hull Firm, every one of those advantages works for you.

The Hull Firm's Austin Criminal Defense Process

How Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Protect Your Rights

Step 1: Immediate Response & Jail Release

  • 24/7 availability for emergency situations
  • Swift jail release coordination
  • Immediate protection of your constitutional rights
  • Family notification and support

Step 2: Comprehensive Case Investigation

  • Thorough review of all evidence and police reports
  • Analysis of arrest procedures and constitutional violations
  • Witness interviews and evidence gathering
  • Expert consultation when needed

Step 3: Aggressive Pre-Trial Defense

  • Strategic motion practice to suppress evidence
  • Challenge illegal searches and seizures
  • Fight for dismissal of improperly filed charges
  • Negotiate with prosecutors from position of strength

Step 4: Trial Preparation & Representation

  • Meticulous trial preparation when needed
  • Aggressive courtroom advocacy
  • Presentation of compelling defense strategies
  • Protection of your rights throughout trial process

Recent Case Results — What Dismissal Looks Like in Practice

The Hull Firm’s #1 goal is always case dismissal. Here is a sample of recent outcomes our clients have achieved:

  • DWI Open Container | Hays County | Dismissed
  • Sexual Assault | Hays County | Dismissed
  • Assault BI – Family Violence | Williamson County | Dismissed
  • Terroristic Threat | Travis County | Dismissed
  • Reckless Driving | Hays County | Dismissed
  • DWI | Williamson County | Dismissed
  • Assault BI – Family Violence | Williamson County | Dismissed
  • Injury to Elderly | Hays County | Dismissed
  • DWI | Williamson County | Dismissed
  • Criminal Mischief | Travis County | Dismissed
  • DWI | Williamson County | Dismissed
  • Racing on Highway | Williamson County | Dismissed

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique and results depend on the specific facts and circumstances involved.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With an Austin Criminal Defense Attorney Today

You do not have to face this alone, and you do not have to figure out your next move without help. The Hull Firm offers free, completely confidential consultations with an experienced Austin criminal defense attorney. We will review the facts of your case, explain your options, and give you an honest assessment of where things stand — at no cost and with no obligation.

Call 512-599-9999 — attorney on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays.

Or submit your case details online at https://www.thehullfirm.com/contact-us for a prompt response from our team.

Free Consultation · Former Prosecutors · Payment Plans Available · 700+ Cases Dismissed · Serving Austin, Travis County, Williamson County & Hays County

The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past case results do not guarantee future outcomes. This is attorney advertising.

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