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Here is a question I hear all the time: “If the victim wants to drop the charges, does the case automatically go away?” The quick answer is no. Once the police are involved and charges are filed, it is no longer up to the victim.…
Most people think that if you are defending yourself, the charges just disappear. Unfortunately, that is not how it works in Texas. Self-defense is real, and it can protect you, but it is not automatic. You must demonstrate to the court that your actions were…
In Texas, manslaughter is considered a form of criminal homicide, making it a second-class felony. Manslaughter can be defined as the reckless causing of the death of another person, but some people may wonder what that means. Texas manslaughter laws and penalties can be confusing,…
At the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, we recently secured the dismissal of a felony drug case after successfully challenging the legality of the methods used by police to find the contraband. The Stop and Detention Our client was pulled over for a minor…
When someone is facing felony intoxication manslaughter charges in Texas, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can mean decades in prison, a permanent felony record, and a lifetime of consequences. That’s why choosing the right criminal defense lawyer in Houston can make all the…
Our attorney, Joseph Ruiz, has been recognized among Texas Super Lawyers for criminal defense and DWI for 2025. This honor is awarded to outstanding attorneys who show excellence in their particular field of law. This is Joseph Ruiz’s latest of many achievements, including being previously…
Being arrested in Texas is a daunting, uncomfortable experience, especially when you're not permitted bond. If you're being detained or currently have a loved one who was arrested, you may be wondering, "How long can you be held without bond in Texas?" The answer to…
A routine traffic stop can go from calm to chaotic in seconds — not because you are guilty, but because you do not know how to respond. It is a moment where panic takes over, your heart races, and you wonder what to do next.…
Ankle monitors in Texas can be ordered for various criminal charges, serving as a condition of pretrial release, probation, or parole. Factors judges consider include offense circumstances, criminal history, community ties, and past violations. Violating ankle monitor rules can lead to arrest, bond revocation, or…
When you’re facing threats, harassment, or violence, and you need immediate protection, understanding how to file a restraining order in Texas is imperative. A restraining order restricts contact and actions from the person putting you or your loved ones in danger. Whether it’s a spouse,…