Criminal Defense Archives - Houston Criminal Defense Attorney Ned Barnett

Man arrested in handcuffs being interrogated

What to Do if You’re Arrested for the First Time in Houston?

Published: Oct 17, 2022 in Criminal Defense

If this is your first time being arrested in Houston, or anywhere across the state of Texas, you may wonder what’s next. You must exercise your rights and know your responsibilities when arrested to protect your future and effectively navigate the criminal justice system. Exercise Your Rights & Responsibilities If this is your first arrest, you may risk making mistakes that could cost you in the long run. Although you may be ready to call a family member or friend for help after you’ve been arrested, contacting a bail bond…

How to Get Criminal Charges Dropped or Dismissed in Houston

Published: Sep 26, 2022 in Criminal Defense

It might seem like everything in your life is about to come crashing down when you are arrested, but that is not always how things turn out. Sometimes police make an arrest based on the evidence in front of them and their judgment. And sometimes, while doing this, they make mistakes, and people are wrongfully charged. Other times, legal professionals involved with the trial mess up, creating holes in the case and leaving the door open to get the charges dropped or dismissed. So, if you find yourself in trouble…

Was Your Autistic or Special Needs Child Arrested in Houston?

Published: Apr 08, 2022 in Criminal Defense, Juvenile Crimes, Student Crimes

Going through the juvenile justice system is challenging enough. It can be especially traumatic if you don’t understand what’s going on or why. A child with special needs or someone on the autism spectrum is, particularly at a disadvantage. For example, an individual could commit a delinquent act without realizing it, or others misunderstand their actions. Because of their reactions to their surroundings, others may think they’re dangerous, mentally ill, or using drugs. No parent wants a call from a police department, but if the child has special needs, it…

Should a Defendant Testify at Trial?

Published: Jan 22, 2022 in Criminal Defense

When your case goes to trial, you may think you’ll be expected to testify before the court. However, this is rarely the case. Taking the stand in your defense can often do more harm than good, but it may be the best available option depending on your circumstances. Is Testifying a Bad Idea? Choosing to testify is entirely up to you. The judge or jury shouldn’t hold the fact you’re not testifying against you. In fact, criminal defense attorneys usually don’t want their clients giving testimony for many reasons. You…

Pretrial Motions to Help or Dismiss Your Case

Published: Nov 08, 2021 in Criminal Defense

Pretrial motions and other court filings can significantly impact a case. These procedural steps are often how defense attorneys build your defense and attack the case against you. Successful motions may make a conviction practically impossible or chip away at the evidence enough that the prosecution wants to negotiate to resolve your case. What is a Pretrial Motion? Both sides can make pretrial motions following your arraignment. They can be written or verbal. These are official requests for a judge’s action on an issue about your case. Pretrial motions are…