j.d. gARZA

Thousands of people are unfairly convicted of crimes.

Why? Because the system puts you at a disadvantage. You are up against experienced, government funded prosecutors and juries that are eager to assume guilt. Without deep pockets and the right connections, most people simply cannot mount an adequate defense.

We level the playing field.

J.D. Garza is experienced in handling the most challenging cases and has achieved astonishing results.

If you or someone you know has been or may be accused of a crime, we encourage you to call now for a free consultation. Early intervention is the key to our mutual success. Se Habla Espanol                 

 

How We Are Different

Raising the Bar in Criminal Defense

 Have you ever had to wait several days to get a return call from your attorney?

J.D. Garza follows one simple philosophy: "in this world there can only be two things, reasons and results. The reasons don't count.         

If Arrested

This guide is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. To speak to J.D. Garza, call (210) 277-2401.

If you have been arrested of a crime, you have a right to an attorney, and you have a right to a fair, speedy trial.

It is strongly recommended that you always use an experienced criminal attorney and never defend yourself in a criminal trial. There are countless legal traps and loopholes that can result in unfair convictions and severe sentences.

If you cannot afford a private attorney, you have the right to a court-appointed public defender. However, even a public defender is not free. Depending on the circumstances, you may be required to pay for the defense at the conclusion of your trial.

Moreover, public defenders or court-appointed attorneys are often overburdened and cannot always devote the time that your case requires. No two cases are alike, and each defendant needs and deserves the full commitment of his or her defense lawyer.

The ideal situation is to hire a private attorney with whom you feel comfortable. Do not wait for the court to appoint an attorney for you.

Until you have an attorney, do not speak to anyone. Exercise your constitutionally guaranteed right not to incriminate yourself. Do not answer any questions.

It is human nature to want to defend yourself when accused of a crime. Most people who incriminate themselves do so by trying to explain or defend themselves to the arresting officer or judge at their arraignment. Resist this temptation! Anything that you say can and will be used against you, and even the most seemingly innocent questions from a friendly law enforcement officer can severely damage your ability to defend yourself.

Click here to learn more about the criminal process and what you can expect after your arrest.

If Under Investigation

This guide is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. To speak to an attorney, call (210)227-2401.                                                                                          

If you even suspect that you may be charged with a crime, speak to an attorney now!

Very often before formal charges are filed, there is an investigation. Law enforcement tries to gather as much evidence as possible to build their case against you. This is the pre-file stage of a case. This is when having a good defense attorney can make the most dramatic impact on your case.

This pre-file period can be the most crucial stage of a criminal case. Since you haven't been arrested, you don't have any Miranda Rights. This is when most people fall into law enforcement traps designed to destroy their legal case.

Most people naturally want to defend themselves, and many tend to explain or defend themselves to anyone who will listen -- police officers, the judge at arraignment, investigators or even to by-standers. Resist the temptation to talk!

You need an attorney before you talk to anyone. Getting the right attorney immediately can often prevent charges from being filed in the first place. If charges end up being filed, having the right attorney already onboard can ensure that your Constitutional rights are protected.

J.D. Garza handles many pre-file cases. We strongly encourage you to call us as soon as you or someone you know may be suspected of a crime or are in any way involved in a criminal investigation.              

               

J.D. Garza, Attorney At Law makes a difference in Drug Cases

Texas’ Tough Choice for

Drug Crimes Defense

Don't Become a Casualty of the War on Drugs

While some may view drug use as a "victimless crime," the government views drug use as a direct contributor to violent crime. The federal government is leading a well funded war on drugs that measure its success by the number of arrests made and the size of drug busts. Drug charges are pursued very seriously at both the state and federal level.

The popularity of drugs leads many people to think of drug crimes as minor offenses. Do not underestimate the seriousness of drug charges. Most states have minimum sentencing guidelines that include prison time for drug possessions, trafficking, distribution and manufacturing, and Texas is no exception.

Even a simple marijuana possession charge can result in a criminal record that makes it very difficult to find employment. If the quantity is sufficient, you can even find yourself in prison.

A serious concern if you are facing drug charges is whether the federal government is involved. Even if the charge is originally handled by state authorities, it can easily be handed to federal authorities.

The federal government has an entire agency whose purpose is to obtain drug convictions. Federal agents are experts in using high pressure tactics to obtain confessions and negotiate plea bargains that can land you in prison. Federal convictions carry severe required prison sentences based on Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Furthermore, under federal law, you will be required to fulfill 85% to 90% of your sentencing time without the possibility of parole.

Serious Charges Require Serous Defense

JD Garza is a retired police officer, and an experienced defense attorney who has worked with federal prosecutors and has inside knowledge of the federal and state criminal process.

Our willingness to fight drug charges regardless of the cost to us has generated phenomenal results for our clients. One of the keys to our success is the experience and knowledge of drug laws which we use to fight overzealous prosecutors at all levels of the government.

If you have or someone you know may be facing drug crime charges, please do not hesitate to call us at (210) 227-2401 for a free, confidential initial consultation. Early intervention is critical to obtaining the best results.