Comprehensive Criminal Defense Guide for Cedar Park & Austin, Texas
Facing a criminal charge in Cedar Park, Austin, or the surrounding Central Texas region can be overwhelming. Whether the accusation involves Assault/Family Violence, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), drug-related offenses, or other misdemeanor charges, the consequences can be serious and long‑lasting. A conviction may affect your job, family, reputation, immigration status, and future opportunities. This is why securing experienced, strategic legal representation as early as possible is essential.
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC are committed to defending individuals charged with crimes in Cedar Park, Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Georgetown, and nearby communities. The firm provides supportive, knowledgeable guidance throughout the entire legal process and works aggressively to protect your freedom and your future.
Gordon Law PLLC is located at:
Gordon Law PLLC
600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A
Austin, Texas 78705
512‑678‑9333 (WEED)
The firm offers free consultations and flexible payment plans to ensure high‑quality legal representation is accessible to those who need it most.
Assault & Family Violence Charges in Texas
Allegations of Assault or Family Violence can have immediate and severe consequences. Even without a conviction, accused individuals may face emergency protective orders, restrictions on returning home, and long‑term limitations on firearm rights.
Understanding Texas Assault Laws
Texas Penal Code § 22.01 defines assault as:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury;
- Threatening imminent bodily injury; or
- Offensive or provocative physical contact.
When the alleged victim is a spouse, dating partner, family member, or roommate, the charge becomes Assault/Family Violence, which carries enhanced penalties.
Potential Penalties
Penalties vary depending on circumstances:
- Class C misdemeanor: Fine up to $500 (offensive contact)
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 fine (bodily injury)
- Third‑degree felony: 2–10 years in prison if there is a prior family violence conviction
- Second‑degree felony: 2–20 years in prison if the allegation involves choking/strangulation
Defense Strategies for Assault/Family Violence Cases
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC evaluate the facts carefully to uncover issues such as:
- Self‑defense or mutual combat
- Inconsistent or exaggerated statements
- Lack of injuries or medical evidence
- Erroneous assumptions by responding officers
- Patterns of coercion or retaliatory allegations
Because many family violence cases arise in moments of high emotion or misunderstanding, a thorough investigation is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Cedar Park & Austin
Central Texas—especially Travis and Williamson Counties—enforces DWI laws aggressively. A DWI arrest can affect not only your criminal record but also your driver’s license, employment, and insurance rates.
Texas DWI Law
A person commits DWI if they operate a motor vehicle while:
- Lacking normal mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or drugs, or
- Having a BAC of 0.08 or higher.
Penalties for DWI
Penalties escalate with prior convictions:
- First DWI: Up to 180 days in jail, $2,000 fine
- Second DWI: Up to 1 year in jail, $4,000 fine
- Third DWI (felony): 2–10 years in prison
- DWI with child passenger: State jail felony
Driver’s License Consequences
When arrested for DWI, you face a separate administrative process known as the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. You generally have 15 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to challenge the suspension.
Gordon Law PLLC handles both the criminal case and the ALR process to help clients protect their driving privileges.
Common DWI Defense Strategies
Effective defenses often focus on:
- Challenging the reason for the traffic stop
- Disputing field sobriety test procedures
- Identifying problems with breath or blood testing
- Exposing constitutional violations or police errors
Because DWI cases involve technical science and strict legal requirements, experienced defense is critical.
Drug Charges in Cedar Park, Austin, and Surrounding Areas
Texas law imposes strict penalties for drug possession, manufacturing, and distribution. However, Williamson and Travis Counties also offer diversion programs and alternative resolutions when appropriate, particularly for first‑time offenders.
Common Drug Charges
Drug‑related arrests frequently involve:
- Marijuana possession
- Cocaine, methamphetamine, or heroin possession (Penalty Group 1)
- Illegal possession of prescription medications
- Possession with intent to deliver
- Manufacturing or distribution
Penalties Vary by Substance and Amount
Examples include:
- Marijuana < 2 oz: Class B misdemeanor, up to 180 days in jail
- Penalty Group 1 substances: Felonies ranging from state jail felonies to first‑degree felonies
- Prescription drugs without a script: Misdemeanor or felony depending on the medication/type
Defending Drug Cases
Many drug cases involve search and seizure issues. The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC commonly challenge:
- Illegal traffic stops
- Unlawful searches of vehicles, homes, or personal items
- Warrants lacking probable cause
- Errors in lab results or chain‑of‑custody
When appropriate, the firm pursues options such as diversion programs, treatment alternatives, or negotiated reductions with the goal of protecting clients’ futures and reducing the risk of long‑term consequences.
Misdemeanor Charges in Austin & Cedar Park
Misdemeanors may carry less serious penalties than felonies, but they still pose significant risks. A conviction can affect job opportunities, housing, firearm possession, and professional licensing.
Common Misdemeanors Include:
- Theft
- Trespassing
- Public intoxication
- Reckless driving
- Disorderly conduct
- Criminal mischief
- Minor drug possession
Misdemeanor Penalties
- Class A: Up to 1 year in jail, $4,000 fine
- Class B: Up to 180 days in jail, $2,000 fine
- Class C: Fine up to $500
How Gordon Law PLLC Approaches Misdemeanor Defense
The firm focuses on minimizing long‑term harm by:
- Pushing for dismissals when possible
- Negotiating for reduced charges
- Seeking diversion, education, or treatment programs
- Protecting eligibility for record sealing or expunction
Many misdemeanor cases can be resolved favorably when handled promptly and strategically.
Why Clients Choose Gordon Law PLLC
Gordon Law PLLC provides representation grounded in experience, strategic thinking, and compassion. The firm offers:
- Individualized defense plans tailored to each client’s goals
- Thorough investigation into every detail of the case
- Strong negotiation and litigation skills
- Straightforward communication and honest case evaluations
- Free consultations and flexible payment plans to support clients during difficult times
The attorneys understand how stressful criminal charges can be and work to reassure clients while fighting to protect their rights.
Contact Gordon Law PLLC
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Cedar Park, Austin, or surrounding Central Texas communities, contact:
Gordon Law PLLC
600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A
Austin, Texas 78705
Phone: 512‑678‑9333 (WEED)
The firm offers free consultations and flexible payment plans for all clients.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. For legal advice about your specific situation, contact a qualified attorney.
