Texas Criminal Defense Attorney
At JW Zepeda Law Firm, PLLC, we are a top rated trial law firm. We understand that criminal accusations can upend your life. As your dedicated Texas criminal defense attorney, we combine decades of trial experience, bilingual service, aggressive defense while personalizing the criminal defense strategies for your case. from arrest through verdict.
Why Choose Our Texas Criminal Defense Attorney
With over 80 years of combined legal firepower, our battle-tested attorneys fight tooth and nail for your freedom—never handing your case off to rookie lawyers.
The Right Defense Team Means Freedom
We Do Not Force You To Settle- We Fight
U.S. Marine Veteran Leadership
As a Texas criminal defense attorney firm led by U.S. Marine veteran JW Zepeda, our veteran leadership brings military-grade discipline, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to every case. When you choose our veteran-led team, you’re securing a defense fortified by honor, resilience, and an unbreakable promise to fight for your freedom.
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Client-Centered Approach
We Care About Your Individual Case
Proven Results, Not Just Posing
A Highly Rated Firm
“JW was everything I needed in a lawyer when I was seeking legal advice and help. He's honest and unafraid of doing what's right. If ever again I find myself in need of legal assistance, I won't hesitate to call JW. Thank you, JW, for you service, not only to me, but to our country, as well.”
- Lauren H, Hill Country
DUI & DWI Defense
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Texas enforces strict DUI/DWI laws. We challenge field sobriety tests, breathalyzer calibration, and traffic stops to protect your license and livelihood. Unfortunately, our founder has personal experience with DWIs as well, before, as a young Marine, before bending his knee to Our Lord, dealing with things the wrong way. So we know what you’re going through personally, too.
Felony & Misdemeanor Defense
As your premier Texas felony & misdemeanor defense attorney, JW Zepeda Law Firm defends clients facing both low-level misdemeanors and high-stakes felonies with comprehensive legal strategies tailored to Texas courts. From meticulously analyzing police reports and challenging search-and-seizure violations to filing powerful pre-trial motions, negotiating plea bargains, and preparing for jury trials, our seasoned attorneys leverage deep knowledge of the Texas Penal Code and courtroom experience to secure reduced charges, dismissals, or acquittals. When your freedom and future are at risk, rely on a proven team dedicated to delivering aggressive, results-driven defense in every felony and misdemeanor case.
Violent Crime Defense
As your dedicated Texas violent crime defense attorney, JW Zepeda Law Firm defends clients against charges such as aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide with strategic, evidence-based advocacy. Our team conducts thorough investigations, partners with expert witnesses, and files critical pre-trial motions to challenge unlawful arrests and suppressed evidence—always with the goal of reducing or dismissing charges. However, to preserve our ethical standards, we do not defend individuals who have intentionally caused serious bodily harm. When your future hangs in the balance, trust our firm’s unwavering commitment to justice and integrity in every violent crime defense case.
Drug Crime Defense
As your dedicated Texas drug crime defense attorney, JW Zepeda Law Firm stands ready to fiercely defend you against charges ranging from simple possession to complex manufacturing and trafficking allegations. Our team meticulously analyzes lab reports, challenges unlawful search-and-seizure procedures, and engages top forensic experts to dismantle the prosecution’s case. With strategic plea negotiation and aggressive trial advocacy, we strive to minimize or dismiss charges—protecting your record, freedom, and future. Trust our seasoned attorneys to navigate Texas’s stringent drug laws with precision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to your defense.
Expunction & Non-Disclosure
As your dedicated Texas expunction & non-disclosure attorney, JW Zepeda Law Firm guides clients through the precise legal pathways to remove or seal eligible arrest and conviction records under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. We conduct a thorough eligibility review, prepare and file detailed petitions, and represent you at hearings—ensuring that your record is expunged or kept out of public view whenever the law allows. Trust our experienced team to restore your rights, protect your future, and navigate every procedural nuance with discretion and expertise.
Juvenile Defense
As your trusted Texas juvenile defense attorney, JW Zepeda Law Firm provides compassionate, aggressive representation for minors facing delinquency allegations in juvenile court. We prioritize rehabilitation over punishment—securing diversion programs, probation alternatives, and expunction opportunities to keep youthful mistakes off a permanent record. Our attorneys work closely with families, school officials, and mental health experts to craft individualized defense strategies that protect your child’s future. When your family’s well-being is on the line, rely on our experienced team to navigate Texas’s juvenile system with skill, discretion, and unwavering dedication.
Comprehensive Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Services
Our Six-Step Defense Process
1. Immediate Case Review
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Analyze arrest reports, evidence, and potential defenses within 24 hours.
2. Investigation & Evidence Gathering
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Engage private investigators, forensic experts, and key witnesses.
3. Pre-Trial Motions
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File motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, and challenge probable cause.
4. Plea Negotiation
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Advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing when appropriate.
5. Trial Preparation & Advocacy
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Thorough preparation for jury selection, opening statements, and cross-examination.
6.Sentencing & Appeals
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Pursue minimized sentences, probation alternatives, or appellate relief if needed.
This Process Ensures No Detail Is Overlooked and Gives You Confidence in the Durability of Your Plan
J. Vaelzquez
I want to share my experience with JW Zepeda Law Firm because they truly made a difference during a very difficult time for me. I was just five days away from a trial, and after speaking with several attorneys, no one was willing to take my case because it seemed too challenging to handle in such a short time. However, JW Zepeda Law Firm not only agreed to help but fully committed themselves and worked tirelessly during those days.
From the very start, the attorney was upfront and honest about what I could expect, and that gave me a lot of confidence. Plus, for the level of professionalism, dedication, and effort they put into my case, I can honestly say their fees are more than fair and very competitive, especially compared to firms that charge significantly more.
Thanks to them, I now feel confident that my case is in the best hands.
If you need an attorney who truly cares about you and will represent you with integrity and expertise, don’t hesitate to reach out to JW Zepeda Law Firm.
Some Unsolicited Reviews
S. Aldrich
JW Zepeda Law Firm is absolutely the best choice you can make for retaining an attorney! I'm a client of his in a very complicated law suit, and he has shown me nothing less than 💯 compassion, patience and complete knowledge of the law and how it works!
Mr Zepeda always makes sure that I'm doing well before we discuss anything else. My personal well being is his first concern and everything else comes after that.
He brings his Christian morals and values into the situation but also brings the determination of a Marine veteran that doesn't know the meaning of quitting, giving up or ever taking anything less than complete justice requires and deserves...
He Will and Does treat every case as it was his own family and fights accordingly.
I rate him and the Law Firm a 5 star rating and Highly recommend him to anyone who needs legal advice or help with the confidence that you will only be extremely pleased and not disappointed at all. If you call or contact him and he's not available at that precise moment, he will without a doubt contact you back as soon as humanly possible. Do to him being such a great attorney he is also very busy.
He very often works on his own personal time which takes away from his family and their time together , but he does what it requires to do the best for the client. Unfortunately there are some people out there that don't acknowledge the fact that attorneys are people who have families and other important things outside of the office, but most people are considerate to the fact and more than not do respect it.
I thank JW and all of the staff at the Law Firm for taking excellent care of me, keeping me updated on everything happening, and fighting hard against any person harming innocent victims to bring them the justice they truly deserve.
I'll never have any other attorney besides the JW Zepeda Law Firm to handle any legal issues I might have in the future!! Great job guys!
L. Gonzalez
I was in need of an attorney to help me with some family matters. I called around and when I called Mr. Zepeda.
He listened to me and gave me the best advice in regards to my needs.He listened and asked questions .
He is a very caring and professional man.
I would highly recommend his services.
Thank you Mr.Z for your professional and your Service to our country.
Get to Know Us
"With A Servant's Heart, and Warrior's Spirit I Welcome You"
- JW Zepeda, President and Founder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I look for when choosing a Texas criminal defense attorney?
A: Look for a Texas criminal defense attorney with extensive trial experience in trialating, and a track record of reduced or dismissed charges. Ensure they offer bilingual support, and a client-centered approach that keeps you informed at every step.
Q: How can a Texas criminal defense attorney help me with a DUI charge?
A: A skilled Texas criminal defense attorney will scrutinize field sobriety tests, breathalyzer calibration, and traffic stop procedures to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They file pre-trial motions, negotiate plea deals, and leverage expert witnesses to protect your driving record and minimize penalties.
Q: What are the penalties for felony and misdemeanor offenses in Texas?
A: Misdemeanors in Texas carry up to one year in county jail and fines up to \$4,000, while felonies start at two years in prison and fines up to \$10,000 or more, depending on the degree. Your criminal defense lawyer can seek reductions to lesser charges or alternative sentencing programs when possible.
Q: How does the criminal defense process work in Texas?
A: After arrest, your attorney conducts an immediate case evaluation, gathers evidence, and files critical pre-trial motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence. They then negotiate with prosecutors or prepare for trial, advocating for dismissal, reduction, or acquittal based on Texas Penal Code provisions.
Q: Can I get my criminal charges expunged or sealed in Texas?
A: Eligible misdemeanor and certain felony charges can be expunged or sealed through non-disclosure petitions under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. A qualified expunction & non-disclosure attorney will assess eligibility, prepare your petition, and represent you at hearings to restore your rights.
Q: What’s the difference between a criminal defense attorney and a criminal defense lawyer?
A: There is no legal difference—“attorney” and “lawyer” are interchangeable terms in Texas. We recommend targeting Texas criminal defense attorney in your search for the highest volume and commercial intent, while still mentioning “lawyer” throughout content for broader reach.
Q: How soon should I hire a Texas criminal defense lawyer after an arrest?
A: You should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately—ideally within 24 hours—to preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and prevent procedural mistakes. Early attorney involvement often leads to stronger defenses and better case outcomes.
Q: Can a Texas criminal defense attorney handle violent crime charges?
A: Yes. A seasoned Texas criminal defense attorney defends clients accused of aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide by conducting thorough investigations, challenging arrest procedures, and employing expert testimony. Note: we do not defend cases where clients intentionally caused serious bodily harm.
Q: What is juvenile defense and how does it differ in Texas?
A: Juvenile defense focuses on minors in the juvenile justice system, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment through diversion programs and probation alternatives. A Texas juvenile defense attorney works with families, schools, and experts to keep youthful mistakes off permanent records.
Q: Do I have to appear in court for every criminal case in Texas?
A: Most criminal cases require at least one court appearance for arraignment and pre-trial hearings, but your attorney can sometimes handle scheduling and negotiations on your behalf. For DUI and low-level misdemeanors, it may be possible to appear virtually or have limited in-person obligations.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a Texas criminal defense attorney?
A: Fees vary by case complexity. Simple misdemeanor defense may start around \$2,500–\$5,000, while felony cases often range from \$5,000–\$15,000 or more. Many Texas criminal defense attorneys offer payment plans and free initial consultations to discuss your specific needs.
Q: Do Texas criminal defense attorneys offer free consultations?
A: Yes. Most reputable Texas criminal defense attorneys, including JW Zepeda Law Firm, provide a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case details, explain your rights, and outline potential defense strategies before any fee is charged.
Q: What is the statute of limitations for criminal charges in Texas?
A: The statute of limitations varies by offense: misdemeanors typically have a two-year limit, while most felonies range from three to ten years depending on the severity. A Texas criminal defense attorney can verify deadlines to ensure timely filing of critical motions.
