Showing posts with label Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer. Show all posts

The Unsung Heroes of Justice: Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys

The criminal justice system is like a big, complex puzzle, and defense attorneys are the often-overlooked heroes who fight for people accused of crimes. They have a lot to do, including understanding the law, being empathetic, and staying committed to justice. In this blog post, we're going to talk about their many important jobs and how they help make our society fairer.

1. Protecting Your Rights:

Think of defense attorneys as the protectors of the rules in our Constitution. They make sure the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution are respected. For example, they check if the police followed the rules when collecting evidence, like not searching your stuff without a good reason.

2. Like Real-Life Detectives:

Defense attorneys are like detectives in a crime story. They dig deep to find the truth. They talk to witnesses, gather evidence, and ask experts for help. This helps them build a strong defense for their clients and can prove that they're not guilty.

3. Legal Experts:

Defense attorneys don't just defend people in court. They also come up with smart plans to help their clients. They look at the good and bad parts of a case, find legal problems, and decide on the best way to help their clients, whether it's talking with the other side for a deal or going to court.

4. Heroes in Court:

When you see defense attorneys in court, they're like the stars of the show. They ask tough questions to witnesses, show evidence, and explain why their client is not guilty. This is the part you often see on TV, but there's much more to their job than that.

5. Being There for You:

People accused of crimes often feel scared and worried. Defense attorneys aren't just legal helpers; they're there to support and understand their clients. They make sure their clients are treated fairly and with respect during the whole legal process.

6. Helping Those in Need:

Defense attorneys often work with people who don't have a lot of money or power. They make sure everyone, rich or not, gets a fair chance in court. This helps make the legal system more equal for everyone.

7. Stopping Wrongful Convictions:

One of the most important things defense attorneys do is to prevent innocent people from going to jail. They work hard to find the truth and prove that their clients are innocent. This helps make sure only the guilty are punished.

8. Keeping Justice Fair:

To have a good legal system, it should be balanced. Defense attorneys make sure the government can't do whatever they want. They make sure the government follows the rules and proves someone is guilty before they can be punished.

9. Holding Others Accountable:

Defense attorneys also check on the police and the other side, the people trying to prove someone's guilty. They make sure they follow the rules too. This helps people trust the legal system.

10. Making Things Better:

Besides helping individuals, defense attorneys also work to change the legal system for the better. They talk about fair punishments, better prisons, and better rules for the police. This makes the system more just for everyone.

In the end, defense attorneys have a tough and complicated job. They're not just legal experts; they're like heroes fighting for justice, standing up for those who can't always stand up for themselves. By celebrating their work, we're recognizing how they make our society better and fairer for all, no matter who they are.

Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan Because the Truth Matters

Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys You Can Trust

Houston Criminal Lawyers James Sullivan and Associates will always tell you the truth. They are attorneys you can trust. Other attorneys may promise you the sun, the moon and the stars; but, will they tell you the truth?
  • Truth matters.
  • Integrity matters.
  • You matter.
Men and women frequently call the lawyers at James Sullivan and Associates because they do not trust their lawyers. They say that their lawyers do not give straight answers to simple questions. They do not explain the law. They do not return telephone calls. They promise results that they do not deliver.

Some lawyers even guarantee results. The law is clear: it is unethical for a criminal lawyer to guarantee a result. If a criminal lawyer makes such a guarantee, ask him or her to put it in writing.

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan will tell you the truth about your case. Sullivan is an Eagle Scout, a graduate of Baylor University and a parishioner at a local Catholic church.

If you want a Harris County Criminal Defense Attorney you can trust, call James Sullivan and Associates  at (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth. ~Siddharta Gautama Buddha, Founder of Buddhism, c. 6th-4th century B.C.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Expungement Lawyer James Sullivan Can Help Clean Your Records

Harris County Expungement Lawyers

Texas Expungement / Expunction Lawyer James Sullivan helps people get their criminal records expunged so that they can get good jobs, go to good colleges or join the military.  The process of criminal record expungement involves filing a civil lawsuit against agencies maintaining your criminal records.  The lawsuit seeks to clear your record of the state criminal charges listed in the lawsuit.  If the civil district court judge signs the expungement order, any agency which maintains your listed criminal record will be ordered to destroy it.  Note: A criminal record can only be ordered expunged in a few situations, including:
  1. you were found not guilty at trial,
  2. a grand jury no bills (dismisses) your felony case,
  3. the prosecutor drops charges before going to trial,
  4. a judge dismissed your case before going to trial,
  5. your conviction was overturned on appeal and
  6. your case was dismissed after successfully completing a Pretrial Diversion program.
Call Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your legal needs.

Expungement is much better than non-disclosure (record sealing). When a judge orders a criminal record to be non-disclosed (i.e. sealed), that means that your criminal record will not be accessible by the general public, however the criminal charges still remain on your record. Expungement wipes those criminal records clean. That means that if the police pull you over for a driving violation, then they will not know about your prior criminal record and therefore will not treat you differently.

If you are being negatively affected by criminal records, your best option may be expungement. You can call the lawyers at James Sullivan and Associates for a free consultation to discuss your criminal case and explain the legal process. Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan has over 30 years of experience practicing Texas criminal law as a defense lawyer. He will evaluate your case, and if you qualify for an expungement, he will fight hard to clear your name.

A Pretrial Diversion program can also help keep your record clean. James Sullivan fights hard to make sure that participation in a pretrial diversion program is an option for almost all of his clients who are charged as first-time misdemeanor offenders. When you successfully complete a diversion program, then your charges are dismissed and after two more years you can file to have the charge expunged from your record.

Houston expunction / expungement lawyer James Sullivan represents clients in criminal courts in Harris County and Fort Bend County.

If you want experienced an criminal lawyer to protect your legal rights and safeguard your future, you can call attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428. 
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Theft Defense Attorney James Sullivan Gets Results

Houston Theft Defense Lawyers

Houston Criminal Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates represent real people charged with criminal offenses, such as Theft of Services.

With each attorney having 30 or more years of criminal defense experience, the Houston Criminal Lawyers at James Sullivan and Associates can represent you on any kind of criminal offense from misdemeanors such as Theft, DWI, Assault Family Violence to felonies such as Drug Possession, Robbery and Aggravated Assault. Their office is conveniently located in Northwest Houston near FM 1960 and Hwy 290.

Call Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your case.

Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan cares about his clients and gets proven results.  He frequently counsels with clients at his office for hours at a time.  He listens to their concerns, answers all of their questions and discusses legal strategies.  He also explains how a criminal conviction could affect them, how to avoid having a conviction on their record, and how to get on the right path for a successful life.  Because James Sullivan understands that people need to honor work and family commitments, he offers evening, weekend and same day appointments along with free parking.

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan seeks real solutions to his clients' legal problems.  In every criminal case, in order to be found guilty, the State has the burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  James Sullivan fights for his clients with the primary goal to get the case dismissed or won at trial.  When that is not possible or probable, his secondary goal is to prevent his client from receiving a conviction or incarceration, such as with deferred adjudication, regular probation or pretrial diversion.

If you are charged with a felony offense, James Sullivan may be able to get your case no billed (dismissed) by the grand jury, but there is a very brief window of time to do this.

James Sullivan generally tries to answer his own phone so that you can speak to an attorney directly.  He wants to hear from you and to help you.  Call him right now.  Don’t go to court alone.  

To schedule an appointment or to discuss your situation, call James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency..


Houston Criminal Records Expungement Attorney James Sullivan


Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan may be able to get your criminal records sealed or expunged.

Sealing Criminal Records in Texas

TEXAS CRIMINAL RECORDS
ARE DEFERRED ADJUDICATION RECORDS PUBLIC?
Yes. Many people mistakenly believe that deferred adjudication records are removed from a defendant's criminal history upon successful conclusion of the community supervision (probation) period, however the law does not provide for automatic expunction of deferred adjudication records.

Call Houston Criminal Attorney Jim Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to have him draft and file a petition for non-disclosure of your adult records.

CAN DEFERRED ADJUDICATION RECORDS BE MADE NON-PUBLIC?
Yes, in some instances. The way that deferred adjudication community supervision records can be made non-public for certain Class B, Class A, or felony offenses is by filing a Petition for Non-Disclosure. Under Section 411.081(d), Government Code, a court can prohibit criminal justice agencies from disclosing to the public criminal history record information related to certain offenses for which the offender was placed on deferred adjudication. This procedure, however, is unavailable for many offenses. Furthermore, if a defendant commits an offense after the deferred adjudication has been completed and before filing the petition, a defendant may be disqualified.

FOR WHICH OFFENSES IS THIS PROCEDURE UNAVAILABLE?
Under Section 411.081(e)(1)-(4), Government Code, anyone who has ever committed any of the following offenses (including as the offense for which the defendant received deferred adjudication) is not eligible to seek an order of nondisclosure:
* Indecency with a child
* Sexual assault
* Aggravated sexual assault
* Prohibited sexual conduct (incest)
* Aggravated kidnapping
* Burglary of a habitation with intent to commit any of the above offenses
* Compelling prostitution
* Sexual performance by a child
* Possession or promotion of child pornography
* Unlawful restraint, kidnapping, or aggravated kidnapping of a person younger than 17 years of age
* Attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the above offenses
* Capital murder
* Murder
* Injury to a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual
* Abandoning or endangering a child
* Violation of protective order or magistrate's order
* Stalking
* Any other offense involving family violence
WHICH DEFENDANTS ARE DISQUALIFIED FROM SEEKING AN ORDER OF NON-DISCLOSURE?
Any defendant who, after the date of discharge and dismissal, has been convicted or placed on deferred adjudication for any offense other than a driving offense punishable by fine only.

WHEN CAN AN OTHERWISE ELIGIBLE DEFENDANT SEEK AN ORDER OF NON-DISCLOSURE?
Under Section 411.081(d), the defendant has to wait a certain period of time after the date of discharge and dismissal before filing a petition for an order of nondisclosure.
All felonies -- 5 years from date of discharge and dismissal.
The following misdemeanors -- 2 years from date of discharge and dismissal:
* Abuse of corpse
* Advertising for placement of child
* Aiding suicide
* Assault
* Bigamy
* Cruelty to animals
* Deadly conduct
* Destruction of flag
* Discharge of firearm
* Disorderly conduct
* Disrupting meeting or procession
* Dog fighting
* False alarm or report
* Harassment
* Harboring runaway child
* Hoax bombs
* Indecent exposure
* Interference with emergency telephone call
* Leaving a child in a vehicle
* Making a firearm accessible to a child • Obstructing highway or other passageway
* Possession, manufacture, transport, repair or sale of switchblade knife or knuckles
* Public lewdness
* Riot
* Silent or abusive calls to 9-1-1 service
* Terroristic threat
* Unlawful carrying of handgun by license holder
* Unlawful carrying weapons
* Unlawful possession of firearm
* Unlawful restraint
* Unlawful transfer of certain weapons
* Violation of protective order preventing offense caused by bias or prejudice
All other misdemeanors -- May file immediately upon discharge and dismissal.

If you are eligible, it is important to file a Petition for Non-Disclosure. Unless there is a court order of non-disclosure directing otherwise, records of a prosecution resulting in a deferred adjudication are publicly available in the District Clerk's records and the Justice Information Management System (JIMS) database maintained by Harris County, Texas.

Call Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to have him draft and file a petition for non-disclosure of your adult records. 
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Texas Criminal Defense Attorney James Sullivan Can Represent You on Burglary of a Habitation Charges


Houston Burglary Defense Lawyer

Houston Criminal Defense Attorney James Sullivan has represented many memorable clients over the past 30  years. This is one of the those cases that stands out.  

His client was charged with two felony offenses, Burglary of a Habitation and Attempted Disarming of a Police Officer. The client went to his ex-girlfriend’s apartment in the early morning hours to talk to her.  When she refused to open the door, he forced his way in. When she still would not talk to him and kept insisting that he leave, he went to the kitchen and grabbed a small steak knife. He threatened to kill himself and then proceeded to stab himself in the upper left chest and shoulder area, leaving small puncture wounds. 

When she still refused to talk to him, he told her that he would call 911 and that when the police arrived he would charge at them with the knife so they would shoot him. The police soon arrived. Fortunately, for him, he threw the knife down first before charging at them, yelling “Shoot me! Shoot me! Tase me! Tase me!” The police officers did not comply with his demands. Instead, they tackled him to the floor. While on the floor, he tried to grab one of the officer’s weapons to shoot himself.

Call Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your situation.

What explained his client's idiotic, insane behavior? You guessed it. He had spent the evening getting drunk at a local cantina.

In court, Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan argued that it was not a burglary of a habitation because his client did not enter the apartment to steal or to commit an assault against her. Instead, it was a trespass. Sullivan further argued that it was not an attempted disarming of a police officer because his client was not trying to take the weapon to harm the officer but to harm himself. Ultimately, his client pled guilty to 30 days in the Harris county jail on a reduced charge of class A misdemeanor trespass to a habitation and the felony disarming case was dismissed. 

Houston Criminal Defense Lawyers James Sullivan and Associates represent people charged with all kinds of crimes, including Assault of a Family Member. If you need a Houston Criminal Attorney, call James Sullivan and Associates at (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Criminal Lawyers Defend Clients at Trial

Harris County Criminal Lawyers

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan represents clients at trial.  While James Sullivan works hard to win every case, the reality is that many, if not most, accused committed the offense and some were even caught in the act.  On these cases, the definition of "winning" must also include beating the best offer from the government.  One recent jury trial illustrates this principle.

Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan represented a man in a Harris County Criminal District Court accused of sexual assault.  The testimonial and physical evidence was overwhelming and convincing.  The man was found guilty by the jury.  However, James Sullivan persuaded the jury to be merciful to the accused and the jury recommended probation.
"Go and learn what the Scriptures mean when they say, 'Instead of offering sacrifices to Me, I want you to be merciful to others.'  I didn't come to invite good people to be my followers.  I came to invite sinners". ~Matthew 9:13
If you need a Houston Criminal Lawyer to defend you, call James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Criminal Lawyers Give Thanks




Harris County Criminal Lawyers

Houston criminal lawyer James Sullivan is gracious, appreciative and thankful for the many clients he has been privileged to represent and fight for over the years. With 30 years of criminal defense trial experience, Sullivan has represented over 3000 clients in criminal district and county courts throughout the state of Texas. He rejoices with his clients when the government does the right thing and dismisses their case or when the jury does the right thing and finds his client not guilty.
Give thanks for a little, and you will find a lot. ~Hausa proverb
Call Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your situation.

Harris County Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan encourages the same sense of gratitude in his clients.  In these difficult times of economic uncertainty, having a positive outlook on life and expressing a sense of gratitude goes a long way. Sullivan cares for his clients and encourages them to follow a better path so that they and their families can achieve their dreams and then, just as important, assist others in achieving theirs.

If you need an experienced Houston Criminal Lawyer, call James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Putting Yourself on the Line in Houston Criminal Defense Law Trials


Harris County Criminal Lawyers

Houston criminal lawyers James Sullivan and Associates and their clients know these words of wisdom all too well and live them in trial.  As trial attorneys, James Sullivan and Associates encourage many of their clients to take their cases to trial to get the best result. With their freedom and future on the line, it takes a great deal of courage to go to trial.  When a person takes that risk and is found not guilty by a jury or their case is dismissed by the prosecutor, it truly is the most exhilarating feeling in the world.
... the feeling of putting yourself on the line and having it work is the most exhilarating feeling in the world
If you need a Houston Criminal Lawyer, call James Sullivan and Associates at (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

TOMBALL TEXAS CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS

HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Tomball, Texas Criminal Defense Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates have handled over 4000 cases and each lawyer  has 30 years or more experience defending adults and  juveniles in criminal, juvenile, and family courts in Harris County and Fort Bend County.

Call Harris County Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your situation.

Tomball, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers James Sullivan and Associates represent clients charged with  crimes in State courts in Houston, Richmond, and Hempstead.  The law office of James Sullivan and Associates is located near FM 1960 and Hwy 290 in northwest Houston.

Harris County Criminal Defense Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates each have 30 years or more experience representing persons accused of committing criminal violations of State law. Together, they have been the attorneys of record in over 4000 cases and have had more 1000 cases dismissed.

Tomball, Texas Criminal Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates treat every person they represent as if they were a friend and neighbor. When you call, likely an Attorney will answer your call themselves.  You will be dealing with Attorneys, not secretaries, assistants, or answering machines.

If they can be of any assistance, or you just want to talk about your situation, call Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS IN HOUSTON TEXAS

HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates have handled over 4000 cases and each have 30 years or more experience defending clients in criminal and juvenile courts in Harris County and throughout the State of Texas.

Call Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your case.

Houston Criminal Defense Lawyers James Sullivan and Associates represent clients charged with  crimes in State courts in Houston, Hempstead, and Richmond. The law office of James Sullivan and Associates is located near FM 1960 and Hwy 290 in northwest Houston, Texas.

Harris County Criminal Defense Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates have been the attorneys of record in over 4000 cases and are anticipating their 1000th case dismissal.

Houston Criminal Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates treat every person they represent as if they were a friend and neighbor. When you call, likely an Attorney will answer your call themselves. You will be dealing with Attorneys, not secretaries, assistants, or answering machines.

If they can be of any assistance, or you just want to talk about your situation, call Houston Criminal Lawyers at James Sullivan and Associates at (281) 546-6428.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer Jim Sullivan Fights to Keep His Clients out of Prison

Harris County Criminal Lawyer

Houston Criminal Defense Attorney James Sullivan fights the government every day to keep his clients out of prison. On every case, his first goal is to work for a dismissal, either by the Grand Jury or by the prosecutor.  Because the government does not like to dismiss cases, it often requires defense attorneys to force their hand by setting the case for a jury trial.  Unlike many of his colleagues who set cases for trial just to get a better plea deal, Jim Sullivan sets cases for trial because he intends to try the case.

When defendants do get sentenced to prison time, they are now doing less and less time. According to a recent Houston Chronicle article (see below), parole officials lately have come to the common sense realization that it is a waste of money to lock up low level non-violent offenders and to keep the dangerous criminals in prison longer. As a result, over the past 10 years, six percent more offenders who apply for parole are granted it. At the same time, the number of parolees who were sent back to prison after their parole was revoked has fallen dramatically–44%.

State cheers rise in paroles
Officials say reforms are ‘smart on crime’ while saving money
By Cindy Horswell

Texas continues a steady march away from its Old West image of being tough on crime to one that state leaders now call “smart on crime” and even fiscally “right on crime.”  Nothing makes that more apparent than the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole’s newly released bragging rights: More prisoners were paroled this past fiscal year than any other year in the past decade, and fewer parolees are being sent back.    

The board’s report this week boasts 24,342 offenders were approved for parole from Sept. 1, 2010, to Aug. 31, 2011. This represents 31 percent of all who applied and an approval rate that is six percentage points higher than 10 years ago. At the same time, the number carted back to prison this past fiscal year after their parole was revoked plummeted by 44 percent from a high of 11,374 in 2004.

Instead of fearing accusations of appearing too lenient, state authorities are smiling. “We are pleased with our continuing increase in granting parole,” said Rissie Owens, chairwoman of the state’s pardons and parole board. “The use of our parole guidelines to assess the likelihood of a successful parole outcome has been cited as a national model for its positive impact on returning more offenders to productive lives.” The Association of Paroling Authorities International has praised Texas’ system which many other states are copying, said board spokesman Harry Battson...

A smarter approach    
State Sen. John Whit-mire, D-Houston, is the architect of many of the prison reforms in Texas. Whitmire said the state has always been the toughest in the nation on punishment, but now it’s being smarter.    “We lock up the dangerous violent offenders for longer periods while trying to change the lifestyles of the low-level offenders,” he said.  

Rather than build three new prisons in 2007, funds were shifted to treatment programs for drug and alcohol addictions, anger management, counseling and education. “We’ve saved the taxpayer at least $2 billion that way. The treatment programs only cost us $180 million, and we still have room for the really bad guys,” said Texas Rep. Jerry Madden, R-Richardson, the correction committee chairman. He noted every person incarcerated costs the state about $50 per day.    

Besides gutting the building program, a 1,000-bed prison in Sugar Land was also closed last year. This is possible as the number of actual inmates housed by the state dropped by 2,500 last year to 154,000, the lowest number in five years, records show...

The parole department’s report showed the highest release rate occurred in one of the worst crime categories: violent aggravated sexual assaults. Nearly 42 percent of those candidates considered for parole were released in the last fiscal year.    

However, Battson, the parole department spokesman, stressed that the actual number of violent sex offenders released is relatively small and they are nearing the end of their sentences. This category accounted for 1,849 of the 24,342 released.    

The data give positive feedback that even though more parolees are being released, they are committing fewer crimes. The number of new crimes dropped 3 percent last year compared to the previous year.

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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston / Harris County Texas Criminal Lawyers


Harris County Criminal Lawyers

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan strives to learn something from all of the people they meet.  The practice of law is an ongoing learning experience. Every case, every client, every court, every trial is an opportunity for learning. Today's criminal defense attorneys stand on the shoulders of the great defense attorneys of the past.
I have never met a man so ignorant that I couldn't learn something from him. ~Galileo Galilei, physicist and astronomer (1564-1642)
Attorney James Sullivan has 30 years of legal experience and has represented over 3,000 clients in criminal and juvenile courts in Texas.  He gets proven results.

If you need a Houston criminal lawyer to represent you, call Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Criminal Defense Trial Attorney James Sullivan Visits Crime Scenes


Harris County Criminal Lawyers

Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan visits crime scenes when he defends the accused. There is simply no other way to get an accurate feel for the landscape and to learn the whole story.  How else can one properly represent their clients without visiting the crime scenes?

Call Houston Criminal Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your situation.

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan has been able to win many cases at trial or has persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss or the grand jury to no bill (dismiss) his client's case simply by

visiting the crime scene and learning important information, significant details, different vantage points that the police either did not notice or chose not to include in their official offense report.  Such information can be the difference between a guilty verdict or a not guilty verdict.  Such information can also prove that the alleged eyewitness or police officer could not possibly have seen what he purports to have seen from his vantage point.  Sometimes even critical physical evidence can be overlooked at the crime scene that may take an expert witness to examine.
I prefer winter and fall, when you feel the bone structure of the landscape -- the loneliness of it, the dead feeling of winter.  Something waits beneath it, the whole story doesn't show. ~Andrew Wyeth, American painter, 20th century

If you need a seasoned Houston Criminal Lawyer, call Attorney James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Family Violence Attorney James Sullivan Gets Results

Harris County Assault Family Violence Lawyer

WHEN LOVE TURNS VIOLENT

Most couples learn to resolve their differences or even end their relationships without resorting to violence.  Sometimes, however, even good people gets so stressed out and feel so overwhelmed that they lose it even for a moment and strike out at their partner in a physical way.

Depending on the nature of the violent act, the prosecutors can charge it either as a misdemeanor or a felony.  A class A misdemeanor assault means that one person caused bodily injury (or pain) to their partner.  If the person used a deadly weapon, then it is a felony assault.  If the person choked their partner or restricted their breathing, then it is also a felony.  No matter the level of the criminal offense charged, you can expect the court to order you out of your home and have no contact until the case is resolved with your partner or spouse.

The Harris County District Attorney's Office take accusations of domestic violence very seriously.  The prosecutors immediately call the alleged victim to get their statement as to what happened.  The prosecutors lock in the emotional stress of the event by obtaining their immediate statement.  However, facts tend to change and the importance of the incidence significantly lessens frequently after a short cooling off time.

The best way to resolve the case could be by first talking with a Houston defense attorney and exercising a little restraint.  Harris County criminal defense attorney James Sullivan will consider the merits of your case and give you an honest evaluation.  He will aggressively defend you.  His legal fees are affordable, reasonable and fair.  

You can call Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 to discuss your case.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency.

Houston Theft Crime Attorney James Sullivan Can Defend You

Harris County Shoplifting Lawyer


Houston Shoplifting Defense Lawyer James Sullivan represents clients on misdemeanor and felony theft offenses in Houston and the surrounding counties.  Theft of any amount is a very serious crime.  It is a crime of moral turpitude (dishonesty) and a conviction for theft can negatively affect you for the rest of your life.  You really cannot afford a conviction for theft on your record.

Each year, hundreds of people contact Attorney James Sullivan in order to get their theft convictions expunged from their record because they cannot get a job, but unfortunately a theft conviction cannot be expunged or sealed (non-disclosed). Young people especially may not know about or consider the far-reaching effects of having a theft conviction on their record.  Attorney James Sullivan can discuss with you the possible options in order to later get your criminal case sealed or expunged.

Call Houston Theft Crime Lawyers James Sullivan at (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation.

A person commits theft if he unlawfully takes another person's property without their consent and with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. Obviously, if he did not intend to take the other person's property, then it is not theft. For example, in an alleged shoplifting case, if you place a case of beer on the rack under your shopping cart, forget about it and then walk out of the grocery store without paying for it, you should not be held responsible. Or, if your child puts an item in your shopping bag without your knowledge and you leave the store without paying for it, you should not be convicted of theft.

If you have been charged with shoplifting or any other theft related crime, you need a Houston theft crime attorney to represent you. You may face serious consequences if you have been arrested for theft in Houston or the surrounding area. Your penalties will vary depending on the value of what you allegedly stole and other factors. Theft crimes include shoplifting, hot checks, fraud, embezzlement and identity theft. Theft crime can range from class C misdemeanor to 1st degree felony. Burglary of a motor vehicle is a class A misdemeanor. Auto theft is usually charged as a felony offense unless the value of the motor vehicle stolen is less than $1,500.  Other felony theft related crimes include credit card abuse (state jail felony), burglary of a building (state jail felony) and burglary of a habitation (2nd degree felony).

Houston theft crime lawyer James Sullivan will discuss with you the seriousness of your charge and the various effective defense strategies that are best suited for your particular case. Before you make your plea in court, it is important that you consult a theft crimes defense lawyer in Houston, Texas.

You can call Houston theft crime lawyers James Sullivan and Associates right now at (281) 546-6428 for a free initial consultation and case evaluation.

Houston Family Violence Lawyer James Sullivan Can Defend You

Houston Family Violence Defense Attorneys

Houston family violence lawyers James Sullivan and Associates encourage their clients to be gentle with their significant others.  If you are gentle and kind, not only will your relationship last longer but you will experience a great deal more peace and love at home and throughout the rest of your life.  It does take real strength to be gentle.
Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength. ~St. Francis de Sales, Bishop of Geneva and Doctor of the Church, 16th century
If you get physical with your significant other, be careful because it does not take much to be arrested and charged with Assault family violence or domestic Assault.  If you intentionally or knowingly cause your significant other bodily injury, you could be thrown in jail and charged with this serious class A misdemeanor charge.  Bodily injury is defined in the Texas Penal Code as "physical pain".  Obviously, it does not take much to cause someone physical pain.  You do not have to beat him or her up to get charged.  If you slap your wife or girlfriend, she may call the cops on you.  If you plead guilty or are found guilty, then you cannot own a firearm under federal law and if you do it again you will be charged with a third degree felony.

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan has proven results.  If you need a Houston family violence attorney to defend you, you can call Attorney James Sullivan right now at (281) 546-6428.

Houston Criminal Lawyer James Sullivan Says End the Suffering

Houston Criminal Lawyers Fight for Justice

Houston Criminal Lawyers James Sullivan and Associates are frequently hired to help end the suffering of defendants languishing in jail and not getting the representation they feel they deserve from their overworked and underpaid court-appointed attorneys.
In a free country there is much clamor, with little suffering: in a despotic state there is little complaint but much suffering. -Lazare Hippolyte Carnot, statesman (1801-1888)

If your relative is in jail, not receiving the representation he deserves and wants to hire a free world lawyer, call Houston Criminal Attorneys James Sullivan and Associates at (281) 546-6428.

James Sullivan and Associates are experienced Houston Criminal Trial Attorneys. Since 1994, Sullivan has a proven record of successfully defending people from many different ethnic backgrounds, faiths and countries throughout Texas in criminal and juvenile courts.  With over 55 combined years of Criminal Defense experience, James Sullivan and Associates have fought for the rights of their clients no matter their background or circumstances.

James Sullivan cares about his clients and gets proven results.  He frequently counsels with clients at his office for hours at a time.  He listens to their concerns, answers all of their questions and discusses legal strategies.  He also explains how a criminal conviction could affect them, how to avoid having a conviction on their record, and how to get on the right path for a successful life.  Because James Sullivan understands that people need to honor work and family commitments, he offers evening, weekend and same day appointments along with free parking.

James Sullivan seeks real solutions to his clients' legal problems.  In every criminal case, in order to be found guilty, the State has the burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  James Sullivan fights for his clients with the primary goal to get the case dismissed or won at trial.  When that is not possible or probable, his secondary goal is to prevent his client from receiving a conviction or incarceration, such as with deferred adjudication, regular probation or pretrial diversion. 

If you are charged with a felony offense, James Sullivan may be able to get your case no billed (dismissed) by the grand jury, but there is a very brief window of time to do this.

James Sullivan generally tries to answer his own phone so that you can speak to an attorney directly.  He wants to hear from you and to help you.  Call him.  Don’t go to court alone. To schedule an appointment or to discuss your situation, call (281) 546-6428.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS & HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Serving Houston, Cypress, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Pasadena, La Porte, Missouri City, Friendswood, Richmond, Hempstead, Humble, Tomball, Bellaire, Deer Park, Katy and other communities in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Our Houston criminal lawyers defend clients charged with crimes in district courts and county criminal courts, including domestic violence (assault of a family member), drug possession or drug delivery, violent crimes, and juvenile delinquency. .