Looking for a Denton County criminal defense attorney? Varghese Summersett’s Denton County defense lawyers handle criminal cases ranging from misdemeanor DWI to capital murder. Our team includes a former Denton County prosecutor and five attorneys who are board certified in criminal law or juvenile law, a distinction held by less than 1 percent of Texas lawyers. We’ve tried more than 750 cases to verdict and secured thousands of dismissals, reduced charges, and acquittals throughout North Texas. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Denton County, call (940) 252-2220 for a free consultation.
Why Choose Varghese Summersett for Your Denton County Criminal Case?
Facing criminal charges in Denton County puts everything at risk: your job, your family, your reputation, and your freedom. We understand the fear and uncertainty you’re experiencing, and we’re here to help you through it.
Our Denton County criminal defense team operates differently than most firms. Every senior attorney is a former prosecutor who understands how the State builds cases and where those cases are vulnerable. We’ve spent years on both sides of the courtroom in Denton County, which means we know the judges, the prosecutors, and the procedures that can make or break your case.
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 that 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.
Who Are Our Denton County Defense Attorneys?
Our criminal defense team includes 10 lawyers who bring more than 100 years of combined experience to your case. 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 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.
Attorney Ashley Feldt brings invaluable Denton County experience to our team. She served as a prosecutor in the Denton County District Attorney’s Office, where she handled everything from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Now a sought-after criminal defense lawyer, Ashley uses her insider knowledge of Denton County courts to secure exceptional results in difficult cases. She knows the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures that can make the difference between conviction and dismissal.
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.
Watch: A Client Shares Their Experience
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 one recent Denton County case, 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. After reviewing the evidence and challenging the State’s case, we negotiated a reduction to standard DWI with 120 days jail credit and 12 months probation. This outcome helped our 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 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 data from 12,937 bonds set in Denton County during 2025, here’s what defendants typically face:
For DWI and intoxication offenses, the most common bond is $2,500. A first-time DWI typically carries a bond around $2,500, while DWI with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher averages $3,551. A second DWI offense averages $8,589, and a third or subsequent DWI can reach $21,833 or more.
Assault and violence charges carry higher bonds. Simple assault causing bodily injury to a family member commonly has a $2,500 bond. However, assault involving impeding breath or circulation averages $23,363. Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon averages $68,021, with many bonds set at $50,000.
Drug offenses vary widely based on quantity and type. Possession of a controlled substance under 1 gram typically carries a $2,500 bond. Larger quantities or manufacturing charges can reach $10,000 or more.
Sexual assault charges carry average bonds of $54,211 for adult victims. Sexual assault of a child averages $185,001, and aggravated sexual assault of a child averages $528,573, with bonds commonly set at $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.
Protect your rights and your record. Schedule 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 our 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. A Denton County criminal defense attorney who knows these prosecutors and understands their tendencies can be a significant advantage in your case. Here is the current roster:
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 |
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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Contact Our Denton County Defense Lawyers Today
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Denton County, the clock is already running. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can forget, and delays can limit your options. Contact our team today to discuss your case and learn how we can help.
Our Denton County criminal defense attorneys are available to take your call right now. We offer free consultations to evaluate your case and explain your options. You’ll speak directly with an experienced attorney who can begin protecting your rights immediately.
Don’t wait. Get a free consultation at (940) 252-2220. Your future is too important to trust to anyone less than the best.
