Posted on May 15, 2026 in Criminal Defense

When a police officer pulls over a driver for a minor traffic violation, such as failing to signal, a broken taillight, or briefly speeding — but is actually looking for evidence of a different crime — this is called a "pretextual stop." Many people call these "fishing expeditions" or "ticket traps," and see them as an excuse for police to pull citizens over without an honest reason. Many people wonder if they are legal.

Pretextual traffic stops are a common law enforcement practice in Tarrant County. They continue to be a critical issue in 2026 criminal defense, long after the Supreme Court’s decision in Whren v. United States (1996). For drivers in areas like Fort Worth and surrounding communities, understanding how these stops work is essential when facing criminal charges that begin with a routine traffic pull-over. Our Tarrant County criminal defense attorney, Craig Dameron, explains.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on May 01, 2026 in Criminal Defense

A recent article by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, which featured commentary from Fort Worth criminal defense attorney Craig Dameron, has brought renewed attention to a question many drivers ask during a traffic stop.

The issue gained traction after a viral traffic stop involving King Harris, the son of rapper T.I. In that incident, Harris refused to exit his vehicle after being ordered to do so by police. Officers cited legal authority to justify their command, raising an important legal question for drivers in Texas and beyond.

Do you have to get out of your car if police tell you to in Texas? Yes, you do – or face serious consequences. According to Fort Worth criminal defense attorney Craig Dameron, police officers in Texas have the legal authority to order you out of your car during a traffic stop.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on April 15, 2026 in Criminal Defense

Bond conditions in Tarrant County play a critical role in the criminal justice process, determining how and when someone can be released from jail while their case is pending. Under Texas law, bond conditions are set by a judge, magistrate, or court in accordance with Articles 17.20, 17.21, and 17.22 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. These rules are guided by constitutional principles and are designed to ensure fairness while protecting the community.

The law requires that bail and any attached conditions provide reasonable assurance that the defendant will follow the court’s rules. At the same time, bail cannot be used to oppress people who may very well be innocent.

If you are arrested and charged with a crime in 2026, you should have a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney who can argue on your behalf for your release.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on April 01, 2026 in DWI

A DWI arrest in Tarrant County can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first experience with the criminal justice system. You’re probably wondering what penalties you face and whether there’s anything you can do to avoid jail time. 

Understanding what happens next can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions. Our top-rated Tarrant County, TX criminal defense attorney has helped many clients fight DWI charges. 

Here’s what to expect after a DWI arrest. 

What Happens After You Get Arrested for a DWI in Texas? 

Step 1: Arrest and Booking

After a DWI stop, law enforcement may arrest you if there is probable cause to believe you were intoxicated. You will be taken to a local jail for booking, where fingerprints and photographs are recorded. After your arrest, you will be asked to provide a breath or blood test.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on March 16, 2026 in Announcements

Drug charges in Texas can carry serious consequences that affect your freedom, employment, housing opportunities, and future. If you are facing allegations involving marijuana or other controlled substances, working with an experienced Fort Worth marijuana possession defense lawyer and Fort Worth drug crimes lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.

What Are the Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Texas? 

Texas law continues to criminalize marijuana possession. Under Texas Health and Safety Code §481.121, a person commits an offense if they knowingly or intentionally possess a usable quantity of marijuana. The level of offense depends on the weight involved. 

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on March 02, 2026 in DWI

Most DWI cases in Tarrant County can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to resolve, depending on the facts of the case and what stage it reaches.

If you're facing DWI charges in 2026, The Dameron Law Firm can help. Our Tarrant County, TX DWI defense lawyer can explain what to expect at every stage.

How Long Does the Pretrial Phase Take in a Tarrant County DWI Case?

The pretrial phase (before trial) is usually the longest part of the process. The attorney needs time to police reports, body camera footage, breath or blood test results, and field sobriety test records. If your case involved a blood draw, lab results can take weeks or even months to come back.

Under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 28.01, pretrial hearings give your attorney the chance to file motions to challenge the evidence before the case goes to trial. Common motions include motions to suppress to throw out evidence that was obtained illegally or to challenge the reliability of a breath or blood test. The court has to rule on those motions, which takes time but can also change the outcome of your case significantly.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on February 15, 2026 in Criminal Defense

The Tarrant County Deferred Prosecution Program (DPP) is a diversion program offered by the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney’s Office for eligible first-time offenders who have been arrested in Tarrant County.

This program allows people who qualify to avoid traditional prosecution by completing a short period of supervision and meeting specific program requirements set by the county.

The Deferred Prosecution Program is meant for individuals who can show they are good candidates for rehabilitation rather than conviction. Successful completion can result in dismissal of charges and eligibility for expunction under Texas law.

Our Tarrant County criminal defense attorney understands the Deferred Prosecution Program and can help argue on your behalf that you are a good candidate in 2026. Call us at 817-222-0624 to learn more in a free consultation.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on February 02, 2026 in Theft

Texas Penal Code § 32.31, Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse, is a felony offense that is aggressively prosecuted in Tarrant County, Texas. These cases are considered serious financial crimes because they involve fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized access to another person’s financial information. 

Under this law, you commit credit card or debit card abuse if you intentionally or knowingly use a credit or debit card without the effective consent of the cardholder. You also commit this crime if you:

• Use a card that is stolen or forged

• Possess card or account number information with intent to defraud

• Receive benefits knowing the card was obtained unlawfully

  Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 19, 2026 in Drug Crimes

Drug crime charges in Texas are serious and can carry long-lasting consequences. Whether the accusation involves marijuana, THC vape cartridges, or other controlled substances, a conviction can impact your freedom, employment, and future opportunities.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for a drug offense, you need an Arlington, TX criminal defense lawyer. Understanding Texas drug crime laws, potential penalties, and your legal rights is the first step toward protecting yourself.

How Texas Drug Crime Laws and Arrests Work

Texas drug offenses are governed primarily by the Texas Controlled Substances Act. Charges depend on many factors, including:

• The type of substance

  Continue Reading ››

 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:

Continue Reading ››