Denton County Felony Lawyer

A felony conviction in Denton County can result in years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects every aspect of your life. Whether you are facing drug charges, assault allegations, or DWI with prior convictions, the stakes are too high to face alone. You need a Denton County felony lawyer who understands the Denton County courts, the prosecutors, and the strategies that work.

Varghese Summersett represents clients facing all types of felony charges throughout Denton County, from Denton and Lewisville to Flower Mound, Little Elm, and Corinth. Our team has secured more than 1,600 dismissals and 800 charge reductions across Texas. We know what it takes to fight felony charges effectively.

Why Clients Trust Varghese Summersett for Felony Defense

Our criminal defense team brings over 100 years of combined experience to felony cases in Denton County. With four Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists and six former prosecutors on staff, we understand both sides of the courtroom. Our attorneys have handled thousands of felony cases involving drug trafficking, aggravated assault, sexual assault, and homicide charges across Texas.

The firm’s 70-member team operates from offices in Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston, and Southlake, allowing us to serve clients throughout the DFW metroplex. Our attorneys regularly appear in Denton County courts and have established working relationships with local judges and prosecutors. This matters when negotiating plea agreements or preparing for trial.

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes, but our track record speaks to our dedication. We have secured dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in cases ranging from drug possession to murder. Every case receives the attention and resources it deserves.

Common Felony Charges in Denton County

Denton County processes thousands of felony cases each year. Based on our analysis of over 12,900 bond records from Denton County in 2025, these are the most common felony charges our clients face.

Drug Felonies

Drug charges account for the largest category of felony arrests in Denton County. Under Texas Health and Safety Code § 481.115, possession of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1 (which includes cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl) becomes a felony when the amount exceeds one gram.

In Denton County, we see these drug felonies most frequently:

• Possession of Controlled Substance (1-4 grams): State jail felony with bonds typically set at $5,000
• Possession of Controlled Substance (4-200 grams): Third-degree felony with average bonds around $12,500
• Manufacturing or Delivery of Controlled Substance (4-200 grams): Second-degree felony with average bonds exceeding $36,000
• Possession of Marijuana (4 oz to 5 lbs): State jail felony with bonds typically set at $5,000

A drug conviction can mean years in prison and a permanent record. Our attorneys have successfully challenged search warrants, questioned lab results, and negotiated deferred adjudication for clients facing drug charges. In one recent case, we got possession charges in a drug-free zone dismissed entirely when prosecutors could not prove our client knew drugs were in the vehicle.

Assault and Violence Felonies

Assault charges in Denton County range from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies depending on the circumstances. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.02, aggravated assault occurs when the actor causes serious bodily injury or uses a deadly weapon during the assault.

The most common assault-related felonies in Denton County include:

• Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon: Second-degree felony with average bonds of $68,000
• Assault Family Member Impeding Breath/Circulation: Third-degree felony with average bonds around $23,000
• Assault Family Member with Prior Conviction: Third-degree felony with average bonds exceeding $40,000
• Intoxication Assault: Third-degree felony with average bonds of $52,000

Self-defense is a complete defense to assault charges in Texas. Our attorneys have successfully argued self-defense in numerous cases, including one aggravated assault case in Tarrant County where the charge was completely dismissed after we presented evidence that our client acted to protect himself from an armed attacker.

If you have been arrested for a violent felony, do not speak to investigators without a lawyer present. Talk to a lawyer before you speak to police.

DWI Felonies

While a first or second DWI is typically a misdemeanor, DWI becomes a felony in specific circumstances. A third DWI offense is automatically a third-degree felony under Texas Penal Code § 49.09, carrying 2 to 10 years in prison.

In Denton County, felony DWI cases include:

• DWI 3rd or More: Third-degree felony with average bonds around $21,800
• DWI with Child Passenger Under 15: State jail felony with average bonds of $8,900
• Intoxication Manslaughter: Second-degree felony with bonds often exceeding $100,000

Our attorneys recently represented a client in Denton County charged with DWI Over 0.15. We negotiated a reduction to standard DWI with 12 months of probation, helping our client avoid the enhanced penalties. In another case involving intoxication manslaughter, we secured a reduction to manslaughter with a 10-year sentence, avoiding the 20-year maximum.

Theft and Property Felonies

Theft becomes a felony in Texas when the value of the stolen property exceeds $2,500 or when the defendant has prior theft convictions. Under Texas Penal Code § 31.03, theft of property valued between $2,500 and $30,000 is a state jail felony.

The most common theft-related felonies in Denton County include:

• Theft $2,500-$30,000: State jail felony with average bonds around $7,400
• Theft with 2+ Prior Convictions: State jail felony with average bonds of $7,000
• Burglary of Habitation: Second-degree felony with average bonds near $25,000
• Robbery: Second-degree felony with average bonds around $19,500
• Aggravated Robbery: First-degree felony with average bonds exceeding $92,000

Theft charges can sometimes be resolved through restitution agreements or pre-trial diversion programs. Our attorneys have helped numerous clients avoid felony convictions by negotiating these alternatives. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.

Family Violence Felonies

Family violence charges carry unique consequences in Texas. Under Texas Penal Code § 25.11, continuous violence against the family is a third-degree felony that occurs when someone commits two or more assaults against a family member within 12 months.

In Denton County, these family violence felonies appear frequently:

• Continuous Violence Against the Family: Third-degree felony with average bonds around $21,800
• Violation of Protective Order: Third-degree felony with average bonds of $16,900
• Violation of Protective Order (2+ times in 12 months): Average bonds exceeding $35,000

A family violence conviction affects your rights to own firearms, your ability to see your children, and your employment prospects. We recently represented a client charged with continuous family violence in a neighboring county. After investigating the case, we convinced the district attorney to reject the felony charge and refer the case to the county attorney for misdemeanor prosecution. This outcome preserved our client’s right to possess firearms and avoided a felony record.

Sexual Offense Felonies

Sexual assault and related charges carry some of the highest bonds and most severe penalties in Texas. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011, sexual assault is a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison.

Sexual offense cases in Denton County include:

• Sexual Assault: Second-degree felony with average bonds around $54,000
• Sexual Assault of a Child: Second-degree felony with average bonds of $185,000
• Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child: First-degree felony with average bonds exceeding $528,000
• Indecency with a Child (Sexual Contact): Second-degree felony with average bonds around $142,000
• Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child: First-degree felony with average bonds of $444,000

These charges require immediate, aggressive defense. False accusations do occur, and our attorneys have successfully defended clients by exposing inconsistent witness statements, challenging forensic evidence, and presenting alibi evidence. We recently had sexual assault charges rejected entirely by the prosecutor after our pre-indictment investigation revealed significant credibility issues with the accuser.

Weapons Felonies

While Texas generally allows open carry and concealed carry of handguns, certain circumstances make firearm possession a felony. Under Texas Penal Code § 46.04, a convicted felon who possesses a firearm commits a third-degree felony.

Common weapons felonies in Denton County include:

• Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon: Third-degree felony with average bonds around $14,000
• Unlawful Carry of Weapon with Felony Conviction: Third-degree felony with average bonds of $32,000
• Prohibited Weapon: Third-degree felony with average bonds around $6,800

If you are facing weapons charges, protect your rights by consulting with a defense attorney immediately.

Understanding Felony Classifications in Texas

Texas classifies felonies into four categories, each carrying different punishment ranges.

State Jail Felony: The lowest felony classification. Punishment ranges from 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility, plus fines up to $10,000. Common examples include possession of 1-4 grams of controlled substances, theft between $2,500 and $30,000, and DWI with a child passenger.

Third-Degree Felony: Punishment ranges from 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Examples include DWI 3rd offense, continuous family violence, and assault impeding breath.

Second-Degree Felony: Punishment ranges from 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, sexual assault, and burglary of a habitation.

First-Degree Felony: The most serious category. Punishment ranges from 5 to 99 years or life in prison, plus fines up to $10,000. Examples include murder, aggravated sexual assault of a child, and aggravated kidnapping.

Typical Bond Amounts for Denton County Felonies

Understanding what bond to expect helps you plan for the financial aspects of your case. Based on our analysis of 12,937 bonds set in Denton County during 2025, here are typical bond amounts by felony category:

• Drug Offenses: Average bond $5,743 (most common: $2,500)
• Assault and Violence: Average bond $24,514 (most common: $2,500)
• Theft and Property Crimes: Average bond $10,054 (most common: $5,000)
• Family Violence: Average bond $21,324 (most common: $5,000)
• Weapons Offenses: Average bond $5,523 (most common: $2,500)
• Child-Related Offenses: Average bond $89,458 (most common: $10,000)
• Murder and Homicide: Average bond $432,727 (most common: $500,000)

Bond amounts vary based on criminal history, the specific allegations, community ties, and flight risk. Our attorneys can advocate for reasonable bond conditions at your magistration hearing.

Common Defenses to Felony Charges

Every felony case has potential weaknesses that a skilled defense attorney can exploit. The defenses available depend on the specific charges and circumstances, but common strategies include:

Constitutional Violations: If police obtained evidence through an illegal search or seizure, that evidence may be suppressed. We recently had drug possession charges dismissed after demonstrating that officers lacked probable cause to search our client’s vehicle.

Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak or circumstantial, charges may be dismissed or reduced.

Self-Defense: Texas law allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. This defense applies to assault, murder, and other violent crime charges.

Lack of Intent: Many felonies require proof that the defendant acted intentionally or knowingly. If you lacked the required mental state, you may have a complete defense.

Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness identifications are notoriously unreliable. Our attorneys have successfully challenged misidentifications using alibi evidence and expert testimony.

Alibi: If you were somewhere else when the crime occurred, witness testimony, phone records, and surveillance footage can establish your innocence.

What Happens After a Felony Arrest in Denton County

Understanding the process helps reduce anxiety and allows you to make informed decisions.

Arrest and Booking: After arrest, you will be transported to the Denton County Jail on East McKinney Street in Denton. You will be photographed, fingerprinted, and processed into the system.

Magistration: Within 24 hours (48 hours on weekends), you will appear before a magistrate who will inform you of the charges, set bond, and advise you of your rights. This is your first opportunity to request a reduction in bond.

Grand Jury: For felony charges, the case must be presented to a grand jury before formal prosecution can proceed. The grand jury determines whether there is probable cause to indict. This process typically takes several weeks to months.

Arraignment: Once indicted, you will be formally arraigned and enter a plea. Most defendants enter a not guilty plea at this stage while their attorney investigates the case.

Discovery and Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and conduct an independent investigation. This phase is critical for building your defense.

Pretrial Hearings: Various motions may be filed, including motions to suppress evidence, motions to dismiss, or motions for discovery. These hearings can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Plea Negotiations or Trial: Many felony cases resolve through plea agreements. If a fair resolution cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial before a judge or jury.

What to Expect From Varghese Summersett

When you hire our firm to handle your Denton County felony case, you receive more than just legal representation. You receive a team committed to achieving the best possible outcome.

From your first call, you will work with attorneys who return calls and emails promptly. We believe communication is essential, and we keep clients informed at every stage. You will understand your options, the potential outcomes, and the strategy we are pursuing.

Our attorneys appear in Denton County courts regularly. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures. This familiarity allows us to anticipate issues and advocate effectively for our clients.

Whether your case calls for aggressive negotiation or trial preparation, we have the resources and experience to deliver. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the state builds cases, and we use that knowledge to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.

Have more questions? Watch our video series where our attorneys answer common questions: Ask Our Denton County Criminal Defense Lawyers

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Charges in Denton County

Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Texas?

Yes. Through plea negotiations, some felonies can be reduced to misdemeanor charges. State jail felonies may be reduced under Texas Penal Code § 12.44, which allows a judge to punish certain state jail felonies as Class A misdemeanors. Our attorneys have successfully negotiated these reductions for many clients facing drug possession, theft, and other state jail felony charges.

What is deferred adjudication and can I get it for a felony?

Deferred adjudication is a form of probation that, if completed successfully, results in dismissal of the charges without a conviction. Many felonies qualify for deferred adjudication, though certain offenses like murder, aggravated sexual assault, and DWI are excluded. Deferred adjudication can preserve your eligibility for expunction or nondisclosure in the future.

How long does a felony case take in Denton County?

Felony cases typically take 6 to 18 months to resolve, depending on the complexity. Cases involving extensive forensic evidence, multiple witnesses, or contested facts tend to take longer. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline after reviewing your case.

Will I go to prison for a felony conviction?

Not necessarily. Many felony convictions result in probation rather than incarceration, especially for first-time offenders and lower-level felonies. Factors that influence sentencing include your criminal history, the specific offense, the strength of the evidence, and the quality of your legal representation.

Should I accept a plea deal or go to trial?

This decision depends on the specific facts of your case, the evidence against you, and your personal circumstances. Our attorneys provide honest assessments of trial prospects and help you understand the risks and benefits of each option. We never pressure clients to accept plea deals, and we are fully prepared to try cases when that serves our clients’ interests.

If you or someone you love is facing felony charges in Denton County, time is critical. Evidence fades, witnesses forget, and opportunities for early intervention disappear. Contact Varghese Summersett today for a free consultation. Call (940) 252-2220 to speak with an experienced felony defense attorney who can protect your rights and fight for your future.