Denton County Criminal Defense Lawyer
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Varghese Summersett’s Denton County defense lawyers handle criminal cases from misdemeanor DWI to capital murder. Our team includes former prosecutors, five board-certified criminal law attorneys, and trial lawyers who have taken over 750 cases to juries. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Denton County, call (940) 252-2220 for a free consultation.
Facing criminal charges in Denton County puts everything at risk: your job, your family, your reputation, and your freedom. You need attorneys who know the Denton County court system inside and out. Varghese Summersett has secured more than 1,600 dismissals and over 800 charge reductions across North Texas. Our firm includes 70+ team members, four offices, and five attorneys board certified in criminal law or juvenile law, a distinction held by less than 1 percent of Texas lawyers. We’ve earned more than 1,100 five-star Google reviews from people we’ve represented.
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Your Denton County Criminal Defense Team
Five Board Certified specialists. Former prosecutors at the partner level. Our lawyers have been featured on 48 Hours, Dateline, Forensic Files, and Court TV. This is who handles your case.
Why Should You Hire a Denton County Criminal Defense Lawyer From Varghese Summersett?
The outcome of your criminal case depends largely on who represents you. The right attorney knows the local courts, understands how Denton County prosecutors build cases, and has the trial experience to fight when negotiation falls short.
Our Denton County criminal defense team includes a former Denton County prosecutor who spent years working inside the Denton County District Attorney’s Office. That experience means we know how the State evaluates cases, assigns prosecutors, and makes plea offers in Denton County. We use that insider knowledge to build stronger defenses.
We handle cases ranging from DWI and drug possession to capital murder and federal crimes. Whether you’re facing marijuana charges, assault allegations, or more serious offenses, our attorneys have secured acquittals, dismissals, and no-bills on cases other firms wouldn’t touch.
Arrested in Denton County? Talk to a lawyer before you speak to police. Call (940) 252-2220 for a free consultation.
How Does a Former Denton County Prosecutor Help Your Defense?
All of Varghese Summersett’s senior criminal defense attorneys are former North Texas prosecutors who handled hundreds of misdemeanor and felony cases before transitioning to criminal defense. That experience gives our team firsthand knowledge of how local prosecutors build cases, evaluate evidence, negotiate plea offers, and prepare for trial.
Our attorneys have worked inside courtrooms throughout North Texas, including Denton County, and have appeared before many of the same judges and prosecutors handling cases today. They understand the procedures, personalities, and strategies that shape criminal cases at every stage of the process.
Because they have served on both sides of the courtroom, our attorneys know how prosecutors prioritize cases, what weaknesses they look for in a defense, and where the government’s case may be vulnerable to challenge. That insight allows our team to develop strategic defenses tailored to the specific facts, courts, and prosecutors involved in each case.
When your freedom and future are on the line, experience matters. Varghese Summersett’s team of former prosecutors brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of the North Texas criminal justice system to every case we handle.
Who Are Our Denton County Defense Attorneys?
At Varghese Summersett, we have team of 10 criminal defense lawyers with more than 100 years of combined experience. Five of our attorneys hold board certification in criminal law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization: Benson Varghese, Anna Summersett, Letty Martinez, Lisa Herrick, and Mike Hanson.
Board certification requires passing a rigorous examination, demonstrating substantial trial experience, and earning peer recognition for competence and ethics. Fewer than 1 percent of Texas attorneys achieve this distinction in any practice area.
Attorney Lisa Herrick and Mike Hanson also holds board certification in juvenile law, one of approximately 70 attorneys in Texas with this credential. This specialization proves essential when representing clients under 17 who face charges in the juvenile justice system, which operates under entirely different rules than adult court.
Our team serves clients throughout North Texas, including Denton, Collin, Tarrant, Dallas, Parker, Wise, Johnson, and Ellis Counties.
What Makes Varghese Summersett Different From Other Denton County Law Firms?
Several factors distinguish our firm from other criminal defense practices in Denton County.
Our trial experience runs deeper than most. We’ve tried more than 750 criminal cases to state and federal juries. Many defense attorneys settle cases because they lack courtroom experience. Prosecutors know which attorneys will actually go to trial. That knowledge shapes every negotiation.
Our track record includes acquittals and dismissals on cases involving murder, sexual assault, federal drug conspiracy, and other serious charges. We don’t guarantee outcomes because no ethical attorney can. But our results demonstrate what’s possible when experienced trial lawyers prepare a case properly.
We’ve earned recognition both individually and as a firm. Our awards include Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, Entrepreneurs of Excellence, Law Firm of the Year, and Best Place to Work. More importantly, we’ve accumulated more than 1,100 five-star Google reviews from clients we’ve represented over the past decade.
Every case receives personalized attention. We listen to your story, answer your questions, and build a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. You’re not a case number to us. You’re a person whose future depends on the quality of your representation.
Protect your rights and your record. Call (940) 252-2220 to schedule a free consultation with our Denton County defense team.
What Results Has Varghese Summersett Achieved in Denton County?
Results matter in criminal defense. While every case is different and past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our track record demonstrates what experienced attorneys can accomplish.
In a recent Denton County case (Case No. 2024-07146-E), our client faced a DWI charge with a blood alcohol level over 0.15, which carries enhanced penalties under Texas Penal Code Section 49.04. Attorney Alex Thornton reviewed the evidence and challenged the State’s case, negotiating a reduction to standard DWI with 120 days jail credit and 12 months probation. This outcome helped the client avoid the mandatory ignition interlock device and other enhanced consequences that come with DWI over 0.15.
Across all practice areas, our firm has achieved more than 1,600 dismissals and over 800 charge reductions. These results reflect our commitment to fighting for the best possible outcome in every case.
Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.
What Must the State Prove to Convict You of a Crime in Texas?
Every criminal charge in Texas requires the prosecution to prove specific legal elements. The burden of proof falls entirely on the State. As a defendant, you do not have to prove your innocence. The prosecution must prove every element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt, the highest standard of proof in the American legal system.
The specific elements depend on the offense. For example, under Texas Penal Code Section 49.04, a DWI conviction requires the State to prove that a person operated a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. For assault under Section 22.01, the State must prove the defendant intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly caused bodily injury to another person.
If the prosecution cannot prove even one element beyond a reasonable doubt, the jury must return a not guilty verdict. This is why experienced defense attorneys focus on identifying which elements are weakest and building a defense strategy that targets those specific vulnerabilities.
Common defense strategies include challenging the sufficiency of evidence, arguing lack of intent, raising constitutional violations (such as unlawful searches or coerced confessions), and presenting affirmative defenses like self-defense or necessity.
What Types of Criminal Cases Do We Handle in Denton County?
Our Denton County defense lawyers handle the full spectrum of criminal charges at both the state and federal level:
| Offense Category | Types of Charges We Handle |
|---|---|
| Violent Crimes | Homicide (manslaughter to capital murder), assault (misdemeanor to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon), family violence |
| Sex Offenses | Sexual assault, indecency with a child, improper relationships between educators and students |
| Drug Crimes | Drug possession, manufacturing, trafficking, marijuana charges |
| DWI & Intoxication | DWI, intoxication assault, intoxication manslaughter |
| Weapons Charges | Unlawful carrying, felon in possession, weapons in prohibited places |
| Property & Financial Crimes | Theft offenses, white collar crimes (fraud, embezzlement) |
| Juvenile & Gang Crimes | Juvenile crimes, gang-related charges |
Why Are Drug Arrests So Common in Denton County?
Denton County has become a hotbed for highway drug interdiction because Interstate 35 runs directly through the county. This makes it a key north-south trafficking corridor for cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, fentanyl, and other contraband moving into and through the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
The region is part of the North Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Federal and state reports classify Denton County as both a destination market and a transshipment zone. This designation has prompted aggressive, dedicated criminal interdiction patrols on I-35 and surrounding highways.
Denton County’s Special Operations Division, together with DPS and other agencies, routinely conducts highway interdiction operations targeting what they call the “I-35 corridor of crime.” These operations result in frequent large drug and cash seizures and an outsized focus on vehicle stops, K-9 deployments, and consent or “odor” searches in the area.
If you were stopped on I-35 or another Denton County highway and charged with drug possession or trafficking, you need an attorney who understands how to challenge these stops. Many interdiction arrests involve questionable probable cause, improper K-9 alerts, or coerced consent searches. Our Denton County drug defense lawyers know how to identify and attack these weaknesses.
We also help clients pursue diversion programs when available. These programs can result in charges being dismissed upon successful completion.
What Are Typical Bond Amounts in Denton County?
Bond amounts in Denton County vary based on the severity of the offense, criminal history, and flight risk. Based on an analysis Varghese Summersett completed of over 12,937 bonds in Denton County during 2025, here is what defendants typically face:
DWI and Intoxication Offense Bonds
| Charge | Average Bond | Most Common Bond |
|---|---|---|
| DWI (First Offense) | $2,068 | $2,500 |
| DWI with BAC 0.15 or Higher | $3,551 | $2,500 |
| DWI 2nd Offense | $8,589 | $5,000 |
| DWI 3rd or More | $21,833 | $10,000 |
| Intoxication Assault (Serious Bodily Injury) | $52,250 | $10,000 |
Assault and Violence Bonds
| Charge | Average Bond | Most Common Bond |
|---|---|---|
| Assault Bodily Injury (Family Member) | $3,618 | $2,500 |
| Assault Impeding Breath/Circulation | $23,363 | $25,000 |
| Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon | $68,021 | $50,000 |
| Continuous Violence Against the Family | $21,803 | $5,000 |
Drug Offense Bonds
| Charge | Average Bond | Most Common Bond |
|---|---|---|
| Possession of Controlled Substance (Under 1 Gram) | $3,942 | $2,500 |
| Possession of Controlled Substance (1-4 Grams) | $5,314 | $5,000 |
| Possession of Controlled Substance (4-200 Grams) | $12,568 | $10,000 |
| Possession of Marijuana (Under 2 Ounces) | $1,036 | $500 |
Sex Offense Bonds
| Charge | Average Bond | Most Common Bond |
|---|---|---|
| Sexual Assault | $54,211 | $100,000 |
| Sexual Assault of a Child | $185,001 | $50,000 |
| Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child | $528,573 | $1,000,000 |
An experienced defense attorney can argue for lower bond amounts by presenting mitigating factors such as community ties, employment stability, and lack of criminal history.
Don’t wait. Get a free consultation with our Denton County defense team at (940) 252-2220.
What Should You Do After an Arrest in Denton County?
The decisions you make immediately after an arrest in Denton County can dramatically affect your case outcome. Taking the right steps protects your rights and preserves your defense options.
Exercise your right to remain silent. Under the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, you cannot be compelled to incriminate yourself. Politely decline to answer questions beyond providing basic identifying information. Tell officers you want to speak with an attorney before answering any questions.
Do not speak with law enforcement without your lawyer present. Investigators are trained to elicit incriminating statements. Even innocent explanations can be twisted or taken out of context. Anything you say will appear in police reports and can be used against you at trial.
Contact a Denton County criminal defense attorney immediately. Time matters in criminal cases. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and early intervention can sometimes prevent charges from being filed. An experienced attorney can begin protecting your interests from the first phone call.
Stay calm during the arrest process. Resisting arrest or acting aggressively creates additional charges and gives prosecutors more ammunition. Comply with officers’ instructions while clearly stating that you are invoking your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney.
Document everything you remember about the incident as soon as possible. Write down the events leading up to your arrest, what officers said and did, who witnessed the incident, and any other relevant details. Share this information only with your attorney.
Keep your case private. Do not discuss your arrest with friends, family members, or on social media. Prosecutors can subpoena witnesses and obtain social media records. Even well-meaning conversations can damage your defense. Remember that phone calls from the Denton County Jail are recorded and can be used as evidence.
How Does the Criminal Process Work in Denton County?
Criminal cases in Denton County proceed through several stages, each presenting opportunities for an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights and challenge the State’s case.
After arrest, you’ll appear before a magistrate who will inform you of the charges and set bond. For felony cases, the State must present evidence to a grand jury, which decides whether to issue an indictment. Misdemeanor cases proceed directly to arraignment, where you enter a plea.
The discovery phase allows your attorney to review the evidence against you, including police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and any video or audio recordings. Your attorney will file pretrial motions challenging improper evidence, unconstitutional searches, or other legal violations.
Many cases resolve through plea negotiations before trial. An experienced defense attorney knows how to leverage weaknesses in the State’s case to secure favorable outcomes. When the State’s offer is unacceptable, we’re prepared to take your case to a jury.
What Are the Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Texas?
Texas classifies criminal offenses by severity. The potential penalties increase significantly with each classification level. Under Texas Penal Code Chapter 12, the punishment ranges are:
| Offense Level | Jail/Prison Time | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in county jail | $2,000 |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in county jail | $4,000 |
| State Jail Felony | 180 days to 2 years in state jail | $10,000 |
| Third Degree Felony | 2 to 10 years in prison | $10,000 |
| Second Degree Felony | 2 to 20 years in prison | $10,000 |
| First Degree Felony | 5 to 99 years or life in prison | $10,000 |
| Capital Felony | Life without parole or death | N/A |
Beyond incarceration and fines, felony convictions carry severe collateral consequences. These include loss of voting rights while incarcerated, loss of firearm possession rights, difficulty finding employment, and ineligibility for certain professional licenses.
What Courts Handle Criminal Cases in Denton County?
All criminal cases in Denton County are heard at the Denton County Courts Building, located at 1450 E. McKinney Street, Denton, Texas 76209. This facility sits just west of the Denton County Jail and Detention Center. Misdemeanor cases (Class A and B) are assigned to one of five County Criminal Courts. Felony cases are assigned to one of nine District Courts.
Misdemeanor Courts (County Criminal Courts)
These courts handle Class A and B misdemeanors, including first-time DWI, assault causing bodily injury, theft under $2,500, and possession of marijuana under 2 ounces.
| Court | Judge | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| County Criminal Court No. 1 | Lauri Ragland | 940-349-2160 |
| County Criminal Court No. 2 | Susan Piel | 940-349-2170 |
| County Criminal Court No. 3 | Forrest Beadle | 940-349-2180 |
| County Criminal Court No. 4 | Chance Oliver | 940-349-2380 |
| County Criminal Court No. 5 | Coby Waddill | 940-349-2190 |
Felony Courts (District Courts)
These courts handle all felony charges, from state jail felonies like drug possession to first-degree felonies like murder and aggravated sexual assault.
| Court | Judge | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| 16th District Court | Sherry Shipman | 940-349-2310 |
| 158th District Court | Steve Burgess | 940-349-2320 |
| 211th District Court | Brody Shanklin | 940-349-2330 |
| 362nd District Court | Bruce McFarling | 940-349-2340 |
| 367th District Court | Margaret Barnes | 940-349-2350 |
| 393rd District Court | Doug Robison | 940-349-2360 |
| 431st District Court | Jonathan Bailey | 940-349-4370 |
| 442nd District Court | Tiffany Haertling | 940-349-4380 |
| 462nd District Court | Ann Breading | 940-349-2110 |
Courthouse Location and Parking
The Denton County Courts Building is located at 1450 E. McKinney Street, Denton, Texas 76209. Free surface parking surrounds the building on all sides. On heavy docket mornings, closer spots can fill quickly. Plan to arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to find parking and get through security without rushing.
Where Are People Booked After an Arrest in Denton County?
Adult arrestees in Denton County are booked into the Denton County Jail complex on Woodrow Lane in Denton. Some arrestees may be held briefly at local city jails before transfer to the county facility.
Denton County Jail (Adults)
The primary facility for adult detention is the Denton County Jail, also called the Detention Center, located at 127 N. Woodrow Lane, Denton, Texas 76205. This is where countywide adult arrestees end up after booking, including those picked up by DPS or agencies without their own long-term jail.
City of Denton Jail
Arrestees picked up by City of Denton police are initially taken to the City of Denton Jail at Police Headquarters, 204 Railroad Ave., Denton, TX 76201. They may be held there for up to 72 hours on Class C or municipal cases. For Class B misdemeanors and above, arrestees are transferred to the Denton County Jail at 127 N. Woodrow Lane for magistration and longer detention.
Juvenile Detention
Juvenile arrestees are taken to the Denton County Juvenile Detention Center at 210 S. Woodrow Lane, Denton, TX 76205. If your child has been arrested in Denton County, contact a juvenile defense attorney immediately.
Who Are the Prosecutors in the Denton County District Attorney's Office?
The Denton County District Attorney’s Office employs dozens of prosecutors across multiple divisions. Below is a list of the prosecutors in 2026.
Leadership
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Paul Johnson | Criminal District Attorney |
| Jamie Beck | First Assistant District Attorney |
| Michael Moore | Chief, Felony Trial Division |
| Lindsey Sheguit | Chief, Misdemeanor Trial Division |
| Jessica Hogle | Deputy Chief, Misdemeanor Trial Division |
| Rick Daniel | Chief, Appellate Division |
Felony District Courts
| Name | Title | Court |
|---|---|---|
| Jesse Davis | Felony Prosecutor I | 16th JDC |
| Ali Horton | Felony Prosecutor II | 16th JDC |
| Rachel Nichols | Felony Prosecutor I | 16th JDC |
| Jordan Motsenbocker | Felony Prosecutor II | 16th JDC |
| Bonnie Snell | Felony Prosecutor II | 158th JDC |
| Megan Wohr | Felony Prosecutor II | 158th JDC |
| Barrett Doran | Felony Prosecutor I | 158th JDC |
| Zachary Watson | Felony Prosecutor II | 158th JDC |
| Dustin Gossage | Felony Prosecutor I | 362nd JDC |
| Rachel Hodges | Felony Prosecutor II | 362nd JDC |
| Paul Hiemke | Felony Prosecutor I | 462nd JDC |
| Michelle Dobson | Felony Prosecutor I | 462nd JDC |
| Michelle Lowery | Felony Prosecutor II | 462nd JDC |
| Sarah Seaborn | Felony Prosecutor II | 462nd JDC |
Family Violence Unit (211th JDC)
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Michael Graves | Chief, Domestic Violence Unit |
| Jordan Bredefeld | Felony Prosecutor II |
| Jesse Eyer | Felony Prosecutor II |
| Sarah Wood | Felony Prosecutor I |
| Britney Gendron | Felony Prosecutor II |
| Colleen Boling | Protective Order Attorney |
Child Abuse Unit (367th JDC)
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Alexa Galindo | Felony Prosecutor II |
| Kari Gannam | Felony Prosecutor IIA |
| Lauren Marshall | Felony Prosecutor I |
Misdemeanor County Courts
| Name | Title | Court |
|---|---|---|
| Bradley Gibson | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 1 |
| Alexis Griffin | Misdemeanor Prosecutor I | County Criminal Court 1 |
| Katie Campbell | Misdemeanor Prosecutor I | County Criminal Court 2 |
| Maggie Rivera | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 2 |
| Jenna Barton | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 2 |
| Cecilia Weigel | Misdemeanor Prosecutor I | County Criminal Court 3 |
| Jessica Hernandez | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 3 |
| Joshua Kennedy | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 3 |
| Stephen Mozur | Misdemeanor Prosecutor I | County Criminal Court 4 |
| Brianni Frazier | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 4 |
| Ericka Burey | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 4 |
| Alyssa Williamson | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 5 |
| Catherine Zebendon | Misdemeanor Prosecutor II | County Criminal Court 5 |
Juvenile Unit
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Karen Anders | Juvenile Prosecutor I |
| John Biggins | Juvenile Prosecutor |
| Enrica Martey | Juvenile Prosecutor II |
| Danielle Parkinson | Juvenile Prosecutor |
Specialty Courts
| Name | Title | Court |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Wiebe | Felony Prosecutor I | Mental Health Treatment Court |
| Justin Jones | Felony Prosecutor I | Specialized Treatment Court |
Appellate Division
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Emily Chilivetis | Appellate Attorney |
| Kayla Hanes | Appellate Attorney |
| Lara Tomlin | Appellate Attorney |
| Matthew J. Whitten | Appellate Attorney |
What to Expect From Varghese Summersett
When you hire Varghese Summersett to defend your Denton County criminal case, you get a team that has handled thousands of cases across North Texas. Our process starts with a thorough case evaluation during your free consultation. We review the charges, the evidence, and the circumstances so we can give you an honest assessment of your options.
From there, your attorney conducts an independent investigation. We obtain and review all discovery materials, identify weaknesses in the State’s evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case. We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge unreliable witness identifications, and attack procedural errors that could impact the outcome.
Throughout the process, you’ll have direct access to your attorney. We return phone calls, answer questions, and keep you informed at every stage. Our goal is to resolve your case with the best possible outcome, whether that means securing a dismissal, negotiating a favorable plea, or taking your case to trial.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Denton County
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Denton County?
Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of your case, the severity of charges, and the amount of work required. Misdemeanor cases typically cost less than felonies. Cases going to trial require more preparation than those resolved through negotiation. We provide transparent fee quotes during your initial consultation so you understand the investment required to defend your case properly.
Can charges be dropped before trial in Denton County?
Yes. An experienced defense attorney can present evidence to prosecutors demonstrating weaknesses in their case, resulting in dismissed or reduced charges. We’ve secured dismissals on cases ranging from DWI to murder by conducting thorough investigations and presenting compelling evidence before trial.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Texas?
Under the Texas Penal Code, misdemeanors are less serious offenses punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000. Felonies are more serious crimes punishable by state prison time ranging from 180 days to life, depending on the degree. Felony convictions also carry more severe collateral consequences, including loss of voting rights and firearm possession rights.
Should I accept a plea deal or go to trial?
This decision depends on the strength of the evidence against you, the potential consequences of conviction, and your personal circumstances. Your attorney should explain the risks and benefits of each option. We never pressure clients to accept deals. If the State’s offer doesn’t serve your interests, we’re prepared to fight at trial.
How long does a criminal case take in Denton County?
Case timelines vary significantly. Simple misdemeanors may resolve in weeks. Complex felonies can take a year or more, especially if the case goes to trial. Factors affecting timeline include the court’s docket, the complexity of evidence, and whether pretrial motions require hearings.
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