Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tarrant County, Texas?

 Posted on January 05, 2026 in Criminal Defense

If you have been arrested or are being investigated for a crime in 2026, you need a criminal defense lawyer. And not just any criminal defense lawyer – you need someone who has experience with Tarrant County’s courts, prosecutors, and criminal justice process. A criminal charge threatens your freedom, your job, and your future. The right defense strategy can make the difference between dismissal, reduced charges, or a conviction.

Attorney Craig Dameron at The Dameron Law Firm represents people facing felony and misdemeanor charges. We work throughout Tarrant County, including Fort Worth and surrounding communities. Our Texas criminal defense lawyer will give you a smart, aggressive defense from the moment of arrest through to the end of your case.

The Kinds of Criminal Charges The Dameron Law Firm Defends in Tarrant County

The Dameron Law Firm handles a wide range of criminal defense matters in Tarrant County courts, including:

• DWI and DUI offenses

• Assault and family violence charges

• Drug possession and drug-related offenses

• Possession of Marijuana and THC

• Theft and fraud allegations

• Felony criminal charges

• Misdemeanor offenses

• Probation violations and revocation hearings

• Outstanding warrants and arrest defense

What Happens After You Get Arrested in Tarrant County, Texas?

Many people facing criminal charges have never been through the criminal justice system before. Understanding how the process works in Tarrant County can help you stay calm and avoid expensive mistakes. 

Magistration

After an arrest, you will usually be taken to jail and brought before a magistrate. At "magistration," your bond is set and conditions of your release are imposed. In some cases, particularly those involving outstanding warrants, bond and release issues can be complicated.

Grand Juries

Prosecutors may present felony cases to a grand jury to determine whether formal charges will be filed. After charges are filed, the case goes forward to pretrial hearings. Your attorney may challenge evidence and negotiate with prosecutors at this stage.

Case Resolution

Many cases are resolved through dismissal, reduction of charges, or plea agreements. When necessary, cases go to trial. You need a strong defense attorney through every step of this process.

Why You Need a Local Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal defense is local. Hiring a lawyer who regularly practices in Tarrant County gives you important advantages. This includes:

• Familiarity with local judges and prosecutors

• Knowledge of court procedures and bond practices

• Experience handling cases at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center

Our local criminal defense attorney understands how cases are prosecuted in Fort Worth and throughout Tarrant County. We always develop a defense strategy tailored to the specific court and charge involved.

A Criminal Defense Lawyer Protects Your Rights from the Moment You Are Arrested or the Investigation Starts 

If you are under investigation or have been arrested, do not talk to the police without an attorney present. The things you say early in a case can be used against you later, even if you think you are helping yourself.

A criminal defense lawyer will do many important things during your case: 

• Protect your constitutional rights

• Talk to law enforcement and prosecutors on your behalf

• Investigate the facts of your case

• Challenge illegal searches or arrests

• Fight for dismissal or reduction of charges whenever possible

Having a lawyer right from the start often leads to better outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Tarrant County

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Tarrant County?

Legal fees for a criminal defense attorney vary. Whether the case involves a misdemeanor or felony, and how complicated the defense is, can all affect the cost. 

What should I do if I am arrested in Tarrant County?

The Fifth Amendment gives you the right to remain silent. Don’t talk to the police without a lawyer. Do not consent to searches. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Can criminal charges ever be dismissed in Tarrant County?

Yes. Charges may be dismissed due to:

• Lack of evidence

• Constitutional violations

• Problems with the prosecution’s procedures 

A great attorney can uncover these issues and fight for dismissal. 

How long does a felony case take in Tarrant County, Texas?

Felony cases can take several months or longer. It depends on the details of the charge, Tarrant County court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Tarrant County?

Yes. Even misdemeanor charges can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Speak With a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing criminal charges in Tarrant County, Texas, time matters. The earlier you have a lawyer, the more options you have.

The Dameron Law Firm is committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every stage of the criminal justice process. Contact our firm today at 817-222-0624 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a Tarrant County criminal defense lawyer.