Is Deferred Adjudication a Conviction in Texas?
Is deferred adjudication a conviction in Texas? What shows on background checks, nondisclosure waiting periods, and who is ineligible. Fort Worth attorneys.
Emergency Protective Orders in Texas: What to Know After a Family Violence Arrest
Arrested for family violence in Tarrant County? Learn how Texas emergency protective orders work, what they ban, how long they last, and violation penalties.
Motion to Revoke Probation in Texas: What Happens Next
Facing a motion to revoke probation in Texas? Learn how MTR hearings work, possible outcomes, and how Tarrant County courts handle violations. Call 24/7.
What to Expect When Hiring a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney
What happens when you hire a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney: the free consultation, questions to ask, fees, and what comes next. Available 24/7.
DWI Stop Rights in Fort Worth: What Police Won’t Tell You
Know your DWI stop rights in Fort Worth. What you must do, what’s voluntary, and what refusing a breath or blood test really costs. Free consultation 24/7.
What Happens After an Arrest in Arlington, Texas
Arrested in Arlington, Texas? Learn where you’re taken, which Tarrant County court handles your case, and what happens next. Free consultation, available 24/7.
Warrantless Arrest in Texas: What to Do Right Now
Arrested without a warrant in Texas? Learn what a warrantless arrest means, what to do in the first 48 hours, and how to protect your rights. Call 24/7.
What to Do If You’re Arrested in Fort Worth Tonight
Getting arrested doesn’t wait for business hours, and neither does the law. If you or someone you love has just been arrested in Fort Worth, the next few hours matter more than almost any other part of your case. What you say, who you call, and how quickly an attorney gets involved can shape the outcome long before you ever see a courtroom. Here’s exactly what to do, in order – whether the arrest happened outside a bar on West 7th, during a traffic stop, or anywhere else in Tarrant County.
Stay Calm and Don’t Resist
However unfair the arrest feels, resisting will only make things worse. Keep your hands visible, don’t argue with officers, and follow lawful commands. Resisting arrest is its own criminal offense in Texas – even if the underlying arrest turns out to be unjustified, physically resisting it gives the state an additional charge to work with. Anyone can be arrested; being arrested doesn’t mean you did anything wrong, and staying composed protects both your safety and your case.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Beyond basic identifying information – your name and date of birth – you are not required to answer any questions about what happened, where you were, or your involvement in the alleged offense. Say clearly: “I am exercising my right to remain silent, and I want an attorney.” You don’t need to explain, argue your side, or fill silence out of nervousness. Even casual, off-the-cuff statements made in the back of a patrol car can end up quoted in a police report later. Learn more about how to properly assert your right to remain silent.
Don’t Consent to a Search
The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures, but that protection only works if you invoke it. If an officer asks to search your car, your phone, or your person, you’re allowed to decline. Politely say you do not consent to a search, and let your attorney handle it from there if the officer proceeds anyway. This is separate from a safety pat-down during a lawful detention, which officers can generally conduct regardless of consent.
Ask for an Attorney – Immediately
This should be your first move, not your last resort. The sooner a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney is involved, the more options stay open: preserving surveillance footage, identifying witnesses before memories fade, and reviewing the arrest itself for procedural mistakes. Cole Paschall Law is available or exactly this reason – an arrest doesn’t check the clock, and neither should your defense. Call (817) 477-4100 as soon as you’re able to make a call.
What Happens During Booking
After the arrest, you’ll typically be taken to a Tarrant County facility for booking. Officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, log your belongings, and enter the charges into the system. Booking is mostly administrative, but it’s still not the time to discuss the details of what happened – stay aware of the process without volunteering commentary about your case.
Your First Court Appearance
Under Texas law, individuals who are arrested are generally brought before a magistrate without unnecessary delay – in practice, this typically happens within about 48 hours. At this hearing, sometimes called magistration, the judge will inform you of the charges, set bond conditions, and explain your rights. Having an attorney present, or at least already retained, at this stage can make a real difference in securing favorable bond terms.
Getting Out of Jail
Depending on the charge and your record, release may come through a personal bond (own recognizance), a bail bond, or a cash bond. A judge weighs factors like the severity of the offense, your criminal history, and flight risk when setting these terms. Cole Paschall Law’s jail release attorneys have handled bond negotiations since 1992 and are available around the clock – you don’t need to separately track down a bail bondsman before calling us.
If Your Arrest Involves a DWI
DWI arrests carry an extra layer most people don’t expect: a separate administrative process that can suspend your license even before your criminal case is resolved. You typically have just 15 days from your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing, or the suspension goes into effect automatically. It’s easy to lose track of this deadline while you’re focused on the criminal charge – which is exactly why it matters to get a Fort Worth DWI lawyer involved right away. Field sobriety tests, for what it’s worth, are voluntary in Texas – you are not legally required to perform them.
Be Careful What You Say After You’re Released
Once you’re out, the case isn’t over. Jail phone calls are typically recorded, and messages can be monitored. Avoid discussing the details of your arrest with friends, family, coworkers, or social media – even well-meaning conversations can resurface in ways you don’t expect. Your attorney should be the only person you talk to about the specifics of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to answer police questions after I’m arrested in Texas?
No. Beyond identifying yourself, you have the right to remain silent, and choosing not to speak cannot be used as evidence of guilt.
Can I refuse a search of my car or phone during an arrest?
Yes. You can decline consent to a search of your vehicle, phone, or belongings. Clearly state that you do not consent, and let your attorney address it afterward.
How long until I see a judge after being arrested in Fort Worth?
Texas law requires magistration without unnecessary delay, which in practice generally happens within about 48 hours of arrest.
What’s different if my arrest was for a DWI?
DWI arrests trigger a separate administrative license process with its own 15-day deadline to request a hearing, in addition to the criminal case.
Do I still need a lawyer if I plan to take a plea deal?
Yes. Even a plea negotiation benefits from an attorney reviewing the charges, the evidence, and whether a reduction or dismissal is realistic before you agree to anything.
Don’t Wait Until Morning
An arrest doesn’t pause while you sleep on it, and the choices you make in the first few hours carry weight throughout your entire case. Cole Paschall Law is available – call (817) 477-4100 now for a free, confidential consultation.
How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fort Worth
Five things worth checking before you hire anyone, explained plainly.
Most people search for a criminal defense lawyer exactly once in their life, usually while stressed, scared, and short on time. That makes it hard to know what actually separates a good hire from a bad one. Here’s what to actually check, based on what tends to matter most once a case is underway, not just what sounds good on a website.
1. Board Certification
Anyone can list “years of experience” on a website. Board certification is different: it’s a distinct credential from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization that requires substantial trial experience, a full-day exam, and peer review by other attorneys and judges who’ve actually watched the candidate work. Fewer than 10% of Texas attorneys who practice criminal law hold it, and it has to be renewed with ongoing training, so it’s not a one-time badge.
When you’re vetting an attorney, ask directly whether they’re board certified in criminal law, not just how long they’ve practiced. Two attorneys can both say “20 years of experience” and mean very different things by it.
2. Actual Trial Experience
A high case count can mean two very different things: an attorney who negotiates plea deals almost exclusively, or one who’s genuinely prepared to take a case to trial when that’s the better move. Ask how many jury trials they’ve handled, specifically, not just how many cases they’ve closed.
This matters across very different charge types. In a DWI case, real trial experience means knowing how to challenge field sobriety test administration, question whether a breathalyzer or blood draw was handled correctly, and scrutinize whether a driver’s license suspension from an ALR hearing was even lawful in the first place. In a drug case, it means knowing how to challenge lab testing procedures and chain of custody.
An attorney who’s tried 100+ cases in front of a jury has a fundamentally different comfort level with your case going to trial than one who hasn’t, and prosecutors know the difference too. That reputation affects how your case gets negotiated long before it ever reaches a courtroom, which is often where the real value shows up: securing deferred adjudication, a reduced charge, or a favorable plea agreement instead of going to trial at all.
3. Familiarity With Local Courts
Knowing the Texas Penal Code matters, but so does knowing how a specific Tarrant County courtroom actually runs. Which prosecutors tend to negotiate and which don’t. Which judges are strict on certain motions. How a particular court tends to handle first-time offenders versus repeat charges.
An attorney who practices regularly in Tarrant County courts brings insight that generic statewide experience doesn’t, because they’ve seen how these specific courts actually behave, not just how the law reads on paper. This local knowledge tends to matter most in the more serious or unusual cases, felony DWI, intoxication manslaughter, or complex drug charges involving controlled substance testing, where the margin for a procedural mistake to matter is much higher.
4. Direct Access
At larger firms, it’s common for a case to get handed between paralegals and junior associates, with the named attorney only stepping in near a court date. Ask directly: will the attorney I’m hiring actually handle my case personally, from the first conversation through every court date, or will it get passed around a team along the way?
For something with this much at stake, from a first-time DWI to a felony charge, you want to know who’s actually reading your file and making decisions on it, not just whose name is on the website.
5. Response Time
The period right after an arrest is when the most consequential decisions get made: what to say to police, whether to consent to anything, how quickly evidence like body camera or dashcam footage gets requested before it becomes harder to obtain. An attorney who’s hard to reach in the first 48 hours can cost you options you don’t get back later. Ask about after-hours availability before you need it, not after.
And once you’re a client, ask how updates get communicated. Clear, plain-language communication about what’s happening at each court date isn’t a nice extra; it’s often the difference between a client who understands their case and one who’s just anxious and in the dark.
What This Looks Like at Cole Paschall Law
Casey Cole is a former judge, and Shawn Paschall is a board-certified criminal law specialist and former felony prosecutor, so between them, both sides of a Tarrant County courtroom are represented on your team.
Both attorneys handle their own cases personally rather than handing them off, and the firm is available 24/7 for exactly the reason above: the first hours after an arrest matter. Between DWI, drug charges, assault, and felony cases, they’ve built the kind of local courtroom familiarity that comes only from practicing in these same Tarrant County courts, in front of the same judges and prosecutors, case after case.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Fort Worth or Tarrant County, call (817) 477-4100 for a free, confidential consultation with Cole Paschall Law. You can also contact us online or visit our Fort Worth office.
KaVontae Turpin Arrest: Legal Analysis & Texas Law Insight
KaVontae Turpin Arrest: Legal Analysis & Texas Law Insight
On July 5, 2025, Dallas Cowboys return specialist KaVontae Turpin was arrested in Allen, Texas. He faces two misdemeanor charges: possession of marijuana (less than two ounces) and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Turpin was allegedly driving 97 mph in a 70 mph zone. Police reportedly observed marijuana in his vehicle and a firearm in plain view on the backseat.
The arrest led to his booking at Collin County Jail and subsequent release on a $1,500 bond. This blog will break down the charges, discuss what Texas law says, explore potential defenses, and share insights from a legal perspective.
Understanding the Charges
Possession of Marijuana (Less Than Two Ounces) (PG 2)
In Texas, marijuana possession under two ounces is a Class B misdemeanor. It carries a potential penalty of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of $2,000.
Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon
Texas Penal Code § 46.02 criminalizes the carrying of a handgun while engaging in criminal activity. Even with a license, a person can be charged if found with drugs and a firearm in proximity. Turpin’s marijuana charge triggered the weapons violation.
Understanding Penalty Group 2 (PG2) in Texas
PG2 includes MDMA, psilocybin, PCP, THC, and synthetic cannabinoids. These substances are considered to have a high potential for abuse with limited medical value. Even minor possession can lead to felony charges. While Turpin was not found with PG2 drugs, similar cases often involve enhanced penalties when firearms are nearby.
Texas Law: Firearms and Drug Possession Combined
Even legal gun owners risk unlawful carry charges when found with any controlled substance. Texas law makes it illegal to carry while committing any crime beyond a simple traffic violation. This zero-tolerance rule escalates minor possession cases into dual criminal offenses.
How Cases Like Turpin’s Are Handled in Texas Courts
Non-violent, first-time offenders in Collin County may qualify for pretrial diversion or deferred adjudication. Prior history, cooperation with police, and the nature of the offense all influence outcomes. Turpin’s previous assault case from 2018 may play a role.
Perspective from Cole Paschall Law
A criminal defense attorney must scrutinize search legality, possession knowledge, and weapon accessibility. At Cole Paschall Law, we investigate these cases with precision to minimize client exposure and seek charge dismissal or reduction.
Tips from Fort Worth Attorney Casey Cole
Attorney Casey Cole of Cole Paschall Law offers practical advice for Texans navigating the complex overlap between drug and firearm laws. As he explains, “Anytime you’re carrying a gun in your car and you’re stopped for a DWI, possession of marijuana, or possession of PG2, it immediately makes the gun illegal.” This legal nuance often catches people off guard and can quickly escalate a minor offense into a more serious charge. According to Cole, the key in these situations is cooperation: “If you’ve got a gun in your car and you’re pulled over for a DWI or they say they smell weed when they come to your window, just cooperate.”
Fortunately, there are legal strategies that can help mitigate the damage. “If someone comes to me with a marijuana charge and a gun charge, usually, without a criminal history, I can get both of those cases dismissed,” says Cole. His clients often complete a gun safety course, around 24 hours of community service, two clean drug tests spaced 30 days apart, and sometimes a drug offender education program to demonstrate good faith. “If they jump through some hoops,” he says, “I can usually get both cases dismissed.”
Cole also warns Texans about the severity of THC vape-related charges: “In Texas, you should keep your weed leafy because a vape pen with THC is a felony. If it’s under a gram, it’s a state jail felony. If it’s 1 to 4 grams, it’s a third-degree felony — two to ten years in prison for a vape pen.” His advice highlights the critical importance of understanding how Texas categorizes drug offenses and the potential consequences of seemingly minor choices.
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Media Attention and Public Perception
Public figures endure scrutiny in both legal and media spaces. While Turpin’s legal issues are not career-ending, they could affect his status with the Cowboys and in the NFL. Media framing often intensifies reputational damage.
What This Case Means for Everyday Texans
Turpin’s situation isn’t unique. Countless Texans are charged with similar offenses annually. A minor possession and a firearm in the same car, even if legally owned, can trigger serious consequences. Legal representation is vital.
What to Do After a Drug Arrest in Fort Worth
Remain silent, request legal counsel, avoid public discussion, gather prescriptions if relevant, and follow court instructions. These steps are crucial to building a strong defense and protecting your rights.
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Why Choose Cole Paschall Law for Your Defense in Tarrant County
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, especially when they involve weapons or drug-related allegations. That’s why it’s critical to work with a defense team that has both experience and a deep understanding of the local court system.
At Cole Paschall Law, we have served clients in Tarrant County and the Fort Worth area for over 20 years. We are known for our aggressive advocacy, strategic legal insight, and compassionate client service.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Tarrant County Courtroom Experience: We know the prosecutors, judges, and procedures unique to Tarrant County, giving us a tactical edge in building your defense.
- Strong Track Record: Our firm has helped hundreds of clients avoid jail time, minimize charges, and protect their criminal records in cases involving drug possession, firearms, and more.
- 24/7 Availability: Legal emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule — and neither do we. You can reach out to us any time, day or night, and get immediate support.
- Free Consultation: We offer no-cost initial consultations to evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options, with no obligation.
- Strategic, Personalized Representation: Every case is different, and we tailor our strategy to meet your specific needs and goals.
- Client-Focused Service: From the moment you contact us, we prioritize communication, clarity, and fierce representation.
Whether you’re a public figure like KaVontae Turpin or an everyday Texan caught in a difficult situation, our mission is the same: to fight for your rights, protect your reputation, and help you move forward with your life.
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Final Thoughts: Take Action Today
KaVontae Turpin’s arrest demonstrates how Texas law aggressively treats drug and firearm offenses. If you’re facing similar charges, Cole Paschall Law offers the experience and dedication needed to defend your rights.