A Collin County criminal defense lawyer represents people charged with crimes in McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Allen, and throughout Collin County, Texas. If you’re facing criminal charges in this fast-growing North Texas county, the decisions you make now will shape your future for years. At Varghese Summersett, our team includes nine former prosecutors and four board-certified criminal defense attorneys who have secured more than 1,600 dismissals and 800 charge reductions.
Our attorneys know the Collin County court system inside and out. We’ve tried cases in front of every criminal court judge in the Russell A. Steindam Courts Building. We’ve negotiated with Collin County prosecutors hundreds of times. This local experience, combined with our team’s 150+ years of combined legal experience, gives our clients a real advantage when their freedom is on the line.
Why Hire Varghese Summersett for Your Collin County Case?
When you’re charged with a crime in Collin County, you need attorneys who can match the resources and experience of the Collin County District Attorney’s Office. Our defense team brings credentials that set us apart from other firms.
Board-certified expertise: Three of our attorneys (Benson Varghese, Anna Summersett, and Letty Martinez) hold board certification in criminal law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Only about 1% of Texas lawyers earn this distinction, which requires passing a rigorous exam and demonstrating substantial trial experience. Lisa Herrick holds board certification in juvenile law. Additionally, Mike Hanson and Lisa Herrick are criminal practitioners at our firm who have received Board Certification in Juvenile Law.
Former prosecutors: Nine members of our team previously worked as state or federal prosecutors. They know how the other side builds cases, evaluates evidence, and makes plea decisions. This insight helps us anticipate strategies and find weaknesses in the state’s case.
Trial-tested results: Our attorneys have tried more than 650 jury trials combined. This experience means we’re prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to protect your rights. Prosecutors know which defense lawyers will actually show up ready to fight.
Proven track record: We’ve secured over 500 dismissals and grand jury no-bills. We’ve obtained hundreds of charge reductions. And we’ve won acquittals in serious felony cases, including a murder charge that went to trial.
Client satisfaction: More than 1,100 clients have left us 5-star reviews. We prioritize communication, keeping you informed at every stage of your case.
Watch: A Client’s Experience
What Criminal Charges Do You Handle in Collin County?
We defend clients facing the full range of criminal charges in Collin County courts. From Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies and federal offenses, we bring the same level of preparation and dedication to every case.
DWI and Intoxication Offenses
A DWI conviction in Texas can mean jail time, steep fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. We challenge field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, blood draws, and police procedures to find weaknesses in the state’s case against you. Whether you’re facing a first-time DWI or a felony intoxication offense, we know how to build an effective defense. Learn more about DWI defense in Collin County.
Drug Crimes
Texas imposes harsh penalties for drug offenses, from simple possession to manufacturing and delivery. We examine every aspect of drug cases: was the search legal, was the substance properly tested, did police follow proper procedures? Our attorneys have had hundreds of drug cases dismissed or reduced. Learn more about drug crime defense in Collin County.
Assault and Family Violence
Assault charges range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies depending on the circumstances. Family violence allegations add extra consequences, including potential firearms restrictions and enhanced penalties for future offenses. We investigate these cases thoroughly, often finding that self-defense applies or that allegations stem from misunderstandings. Learn about assault defense in Collin County and family violence defense in Collin County.
Sex Crimes
Sexual assault, indecency with a child, and online solicitation charges carry severe penalties and lifetime sex offender registration. We challenge forensic evidence, witness credibility, and digital evidence while protecting your reputation during the legal process. Learn more about sex crime defense in Collin County.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft charges in Texas range from Class C misdemeanors (under $100) to first-degree felonies (over $300,000). Burglary of a habitation is always a felony. We examine surveillance footage, witness statements, and the legality of any searches to build the strongest possible defense. Learn about theft defense in Collin County.
Homicide
Murder and manslaughter charges require the most experienced defense attorneys. Our team has successfully defended clients facing homicide charges, including securing a jury acquittal in a murder case. We work with investigators, forensic experts, and medical professionals to challenge the state’s theory of the case. Learn about homicide defense in Collin County.
White Collar Crimes
Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and other white collar offenses often involve complex financial records and multiple agencies. We work with forensic accountants to analyze the evidence and challenge the prosecution’s narrative. Learn about white collar crime defense.
Probation Violations
If you’ve been accused of violating your probation, you could face revocation and prison time. We advocate for reinstatement or modification of probation, seeking alternatives to incarceration. Learn about probation violation defense in Collin County.
Need to clear your record? We also handle expunctions and nondisclosure orders to help eligible clients move forward with clean records.
Talk to a Lawyer Before You Speak to Police. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation, call (817) 203-2220 for a free consultation.
How Do You Defend Criminal Cases in Collin County?
Every criminal case is different, but our approach follows a proven framework that has led to thousands of successful outcomes.
Investigate immediately. Evidence disappears quickly. Witnesses forget details. We start working on your case right away, gathering surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and preserving evidence that could help your defense.
Challenge the evidence. Was the traffic stop legal? Did police have probable cause for the search? Were your Miranda rights respected? Was the evidence properly collected and stored? We examine every link in the chain of evidence looking for constitutional violations and procedural errors.
Negotiate strategically. With nine former prosecutors on our team, we understand how the other side thinks. We know when a case has weaknesses that make prosecutors willing to reduce or dismiss charges. We also know when we have leverage to demand a better deal.
Prepare for trial. Prosecutors can tell which lawyers will actually take a case to trial. Our 650+ jury trials send a clear message: we will fight for you in court if that’s what your case requires. This reputation often leads to better plea offers because prosecutors know we won’t back down.
Case Result: Murder Charge, Jury Acquittal
A client faced murder charges after a fatal altercation. The prosecution had witness testimony and was seeking a lengthy prison sentence. Our attorneys conducted an independent investigation, identified inconsistencies in the state’s evidence, and developed a defense theory based on the facts.
At trial, we cross-examined the prosecution’s witnesses and presented evidence supporting our client’s account of events. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty. Our client walked out of the courtroom a free person.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.
Where Are Collin County Criminal Cases Heard?
Criminal cases in Collin County are handled at the Russell A. Steindam Courts Building in McKinney. This facility houses both the misdemeanor county courts at law and the felony district courts.
Russell A. Steindam Courts Building
2100 Bloomdale Rd.
McKinney, TX 75071
Phone: (972) 548-4100
Misdemeanor Courts (County Courts at Law)
Class A and Class B misdemeanors in Collin County are heard in the County Courts at Law. These courts handle charges like first-offense DWI, marijuana possession under 2 ounces, misdemeanor assault, and theft under $2,500.
| County Court at Law | Judge | Floor | Criminal Clerk Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Court at Law #1 | Judge Corinne A. Mason | 2nd Floor | (972) 548-6441 |
| County Court at Law #2 | Judge Barnett Walker | 1st Floor | (972) 548-6427 |
| County Court at Law #3 | Judge Mike Missildine | 1st Floor | (972) 548-6428 |
| County Court at Law #4 | Judge David R. Waddill | 1st Floor | (972) 548-6453 |
| County Court at Law #5 | Judge Dan Wilson | 2nd Floor | (972) 548-6429 |
| County Court at Law #6 | Judge Jay Bender | 3rd Floor | (972) 548-6426 |
| County Court at Law #7 | Judge Joe F. Moss | 3rd Floor | (972) 548-6443 |
Felony Courts (District Courts)
Felony cases in Collin County are assigned to one of 15 district courts. These courts handle state jail felonies, third-degree felonies, second-degree felonies, first-degree felonies, and capital cases.
| District Court | Judge | Floor | Suite # | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 199th | Angela Tucker | 1st | 10030 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4100 |
| 219th | Jennifer Edgeworth | 2nd | 20132 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4100 |
| 296th | John Roach, Jr. | 2nd | 20012 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4409 |
| 366th | Tom Nowak | 3rd | 30146 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4570 |
| 380th | Benjamin N. Smith | 3rd | 30132 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4762 |
| 401st | George B. Flint | 3rd | 30030 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4241 |
| 416th | Andrea Thompson | 2nd | 20030 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4520 |
| 417th | Cynthia Wheless | 3rd | 30290 | [email protected] | (972) 548-4658 |
| 429th | Jill Renfro Willis | 1st | 10014 | [email protected] | (972) 547-5720 |
| 468th | Lindsey Wynne | 2nd | 20276 | [email protected] | (972) 547-7260 |
| 469th | Piper McCraw | 3rd | 30014 | [email protected] | (972) 548-5660 |
| 470th | Brook Fulks | 2nd | 20146 | [email protected] | (972) 548-5670 |
| 471st | Bryan Gantt | 3rd | 30276 | [email protected] | (972) 547-1800 |
| 493rd | Christine A. Nowak | 2nd | 20246 | [email protected] | (214) 491-4870 |
| 494th | Kathryn L. Pruitt | 1st | 10236 | [email protected] | (972) 548-3870 |
Collin County Criminal Case Resources
These online tools can help you find information about criminal cases in Collin County:
- Collin County Case Lookup: https://apps2.collincountytx.gov/JudicialOnlineSearch2/case
- Collin County Jail Records: https://cijspub.co.collin.tx.us/PublicAccess/JailingSearch.aspx?ID=600
Protect Your Rights and Your Record. A criminal conviction can affect your job, housing, and future opportunities. Call (817) 203-2220 to speak with an experienced Collin County defense attorney.
What Are the Penalties for Criminal Charges in Texas?
Texas law classifies criminal offenses by severity, with each level carrying specific punishment ranges under Texas Penal Code Chapter 12.
Class C Misdemeanor: Fine up to $500 (no jail time). Examples: minor traffic violations, theft under $100, disorderly conduct.
Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail, fine up to $2,000. Examples: first DWI, marijuana possession under 2 oz, theft $100-$750.
Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail, fine up to $4,000. Examples: DWI with BAC 0.15+, assault causing bodily injury, theft $750-$2,500.
State Jail Felony: 180 days to 2 years in state jail, fine up to $10,000. Examples: drug possession (small amounts of hard drugs), theft $2,500-$30,000, credit card abuse.
Third Degree Felony: 2 to 10 years in prison, fine up to $10,000. Examples: DWI 3rd offense, assault family violence with prior, theft $30,000-$150,000.
Second Degree Felony: 2 to 20 years in prison, fine up to $10,000. Examples: aggravated assault, sexual assault, robbery.
First Degree Felony: 5 to 99 years or life in prison, fine up to $10,000. Examples: murder, aggravated robbery, aggravated sexual assault.
Capital Felony: Life without parole or death penalty. Examples: capital murder (murder of a peace officer, multiple victims, murder during certain felonies).
Frequently Asked Questions About Collin County Criminal Cases
What should I do immediately after being arrested in Collin County?
Exercise your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Police and jail staff may try to get you talking, but anything you say can be used against you. The sooner you have a defense attorney working on your case, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Learn more about dealing with police investigations.
Can criminal charges be dismissed in Collin County?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed for many reasons, including insufficient evidence, constitutional violations during the investigation, problems with witness testimony, or completion of a pretrial diversion program. Our attorneys have secured more than 500 dismissals and grand jury no-bills by identifying weaknesses in the state’s case and presenting compelling arguments to prosecutors. Learn how we get cases dismissed.
How long does a criminal case take in Collin County?
Timeline depends on the complexity of the case, whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, and how the case is resolved. Simple misdemeanors might resolve in a few months. Complex felonies can take a year or more. If a case goes to trial, expect additional time for preparation and scheduling. Your attorney can give you a more specific estimate based on your situation.
Will my case go to trial?
Most criminal cases resolve through plea negotiations or dismissal, not trial. However, having attorneys with extensive trial experience gives you an advantage in negotiations. Prosecutors offer better deals to defendants whose lawyers they know will actually take a case to verdict if necessary.
How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?
Fees vary based on the charges, complexity of the case, and whether trial preparation is required. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain our fee structure. Many clients find that investing in experienced defense representation saves them far more in the long run by avoiding convictions that could cost them jobs, housing, and future opportunities. Learn more about our consultations.
Collin County Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Experienced criminal defense attorneys serving Collin County
Assault & Violent Crimes
Homicide
Sex Crimes
DWI & Intoxication
Drug Crimes
Theft & Property
Probation
Facing charges in Collin County? Get a free consultation.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you’re facing criminal charges in Collin County, early action makes a difference. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can forget details, and opportunities to challenge the case can be lost. Our team of former prosecutors and board-certified criminal defense attorneys is ready to evaluate your case and explain your options.
Call (817) 203-2220 today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us put our experience, resources, and proven results to work protecting your freedom and your future.
