If you’re facing criminal charges in Dallas, you need an attorney who will fight aggressively for your freedom. Varghese Summersett is home to more Board Certified criminal law specialists than any other defense firm in Dallas, with a proven record of dismissed cases, acquittals, and reduced charges across Dallas County and North Texas.
A criminal accusation can turn your life upside down. You may be out on bond with restrictions on where you can go and who you can see. Your job, your family, and your future hang in the balance. The system is stacked against you, and prosecutors have virtually unlimited resources. You cannot fight this alone.
At Varghese Summersett, we’ve built our reputation one case at a time. Our Dallas criminal defense attorneys have secured hundreds of dismissals, acquittals, and favorable outcomes for clients facing everything from misdemeanor charges to capital murder. We understand what’s at stake because we’ve seen it firsthand in more than 550 jury trials.
Why Dallas Clients Choose Varghese Summersett
Choosing a criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. Here’s what sets our team apart.
Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists. Five of our attorneys hold Board Certification in Criminal Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction earned by less than 1% of Texas lawyers. Anna Summersett, Benson Varghese, Letty Martinez, Lisa Herrick, and Tanya Dohoney have each demonstrated exceptional skill and knowledge in criminal defense.
Former Prosecutors Who Know the System. Several of our attorneys previously served as state and federal prosecutors. This insider knowledge helps us anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and build defenses that address their strongest arguments head-on.
Over 100 Years of Combined Experience. Our team has handled thousands of criminal cases in Dallas County, Collin County, and courts throughout Texas. We’ve tried more than 550 cases to juries and have the trial experience that makes prosecutors think twice before taking a case against our clients.
State and Federal Court Defense. We represent clients in Texas state courts and federal courts, including the Northern District of Texas and Eastern District of Texas. Whether you’re facing state felony charges or a federal indictment, we have the experience to defend you.
A Track Record That Speaks for Itself. Our results include hundreds of dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges. More than 900 clients have left 5-star Google reviews describing their experience with our firm.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Dallas
Our Dallas criminal defense lawyers handle the full range of criminal accusations in Texas courts. We defend clients facing:
DWI and Intoxication Offenses
Texas takes drunk driving seriously, and the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. Our attorneys challenge breath tests, blood draws, field sobriety tests, and the legality of traffic stops to protect your driving privileges and your record.
- DWI Defense
- Second DWI Offense
- DWI with Deadly Weapon
- Intoxication Assault
- Intoxication Manslaughter
Assault and Violent Crimes
Violent crime charges carry severe penalties in Texas, including lengthy prison sentences. We examine every detail of the alleged incident, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build defenses based on self-defense, defense of others, or challenging the evidence itself.
- Assault
- Assault by Contact
- Assault by Threat
- Aggravated Assault
- Assault on a Public Servant
- Domestic Violence
- Protective Order Violations
- How to Beat Assault Charges in Dallas
Homicide Charges
Murder and manslaughter charges are among the most serious accusations a person can face. Our attorneys have defended clients accused of capital murder, and we bring that same level of preparation and commitment to every homicide case.
Sex Crimes
Sex crime accusations can destroy your reputation before you ever step foot in a courtroom. These cases require aggressive defense and careful handling of sensitive evidence. We’ve helped clients facing sex crime allegations protect their freedom and their futures.
- Sexual Assault
- Child Sexual Assault
- Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child
- Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child
- Continuous Sexual Assault of a Child
- Child Sex Abuse Defense
- Indecency with a Child
- Improper Teacher-Student Relationship
- Indecent Exposure
- Public Lewdness
- Prostitution
Drug Crimes
Drug charges in Texas range from misdemeanor possession to first-degree felony manufacturing and delivery. The penalties depend on the substance, the amount, and your prior record. We explore every option, from challenging the search that led to your arrest to negotiating diversion programs that keep convictions off your record.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft charges can range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies depending on the value of the property and the circumstances. A conviction can affect your employment, housing, and reputation. We fight to get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Theft
- Auto Theft
- Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle
- Package Theft
- Burglary of a Habitation
- Burglary of a Vehicle
- Robbery
- Criminal Mischief
- Criminal Trespass
- Arson
White Collar and Financial Crimes
Financial crimes often involve complex evidence and lengthy investigations. Our attorneys have experience defending professionals, business owners, and executives accused of fraud, embezzlement, and other white-collar offenses.
Weapons Charges
Texas gun laws have changed significantly in recent years, but weapons charges still carry serious consequences. We defend clients accused of unlawful carry, possession by a felon, and other firearm offenses.
Crimes Involving Children
Accusations involving children are prosecuted aggressively in Dallas County. Beyond the criminal penalties, a conviction can result in sex offender registration and restrictions that last a lifetime. We handle these sensitive cases with the care and attention they require.
Other Criminal Offenses
No matter what charge you’re facing, our attorneys will investigate the facts, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Terroristic Threat
- Disorderly Conduct
- Evading Arrest
- Resisting Arrest
- Failure to Appear
- Obstruction or Retaliation
- Tampering with Evidence
- Impersonating a Public Servant
- Gang and Organized Crime
- Animal Cruelty
- Driving Without a License
Felony and Misdemeanor Defense
Texas divides criminal offenses into felonies and misdemeanors, each with different potential penalties.
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses, but a conviction still creates a criminal record that can affect your job prospects, housing applications, and more. Class A misdemeanors carry up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000. Class B misdemeanors carry up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $2,000.
Felonies are the most serious criminal charges in Texas. State jail felonies carry 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility. Third-degree felonies carry 2 to 10 years in prison. Second-degree felonies carry 2 to 20 years. First-degree felonies carry 5 to 99 years or life in prison.
Probation Violations and Revocations
If you’re on probation and facing a revocation hearing, your freedom is at risk. A judge can revoke your probation and sentence you to the maximum jail or prison time for your original offense. Our attorneys represent clients in:
Clearing Your Criminal Record in Dallas
A criminal record can follow you long after your case is resolved. Texas law provides ways to clear certain offenses from your record, giving you a fresh start.
Expunction completely erases an arrest from your record. You may be eligible if your case was dismissed, you were acquitted, or certain other conditions are met.
Orders of Nondisclosure seal your record from public view. While the record still exists, most employers and landlords cannot see it.
Dallas County Court and Jail Resources
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Dallas, these resources can help you understand what comes next:
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Dallas
How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Dallas?
Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of your case, the charges you’re facing, and the experience of your attorney. Misdemeanor cases generally cost less than felony cases. Many attorneys offer payment plans. At Varghese Summersett, we provide free consultations so you can understand your options before making a financial commitment.
Should I talk to the police before hiring an attorney?
No. You have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Anything you say to police can be used against you in court. Politely decline to answer questions and ask to speak with an attorney. This is not an admission of guilt. It’s protecting your rights.
What happens after an arrest in Dallas County?
After an arrest, you’ll be booked at the Dallas County Jail and see a magistrate who will set bond conditions. Once released, you’ll receive a court date. This is when having an attorney matters most. An experienced lawyer can begin investigating your case, gathering evidence, and building your defense immediately.
Can criminal charges be dismissed in Dallas?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed for many reasons, including insufficient evidence, constitutional violations, witness credibility issues, or successful completion of a diversion program. Our attorneys have secured hundreds of dismissals for clients in Dallas County.
What is the difference between a dismissal and an acquittal?
A dismissal means the prosecutor dropped the charges before trial. An acquittal means a judge or jury found you not guilty at trial. Both outcomes mean you were not convicted, and you may be eligible to have your record expunged.
Contact a Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
When you’re facing criminal charges, every day matters. Evidence can disappear. Witnesses forget details. The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the stronger your defense can be.
Varghese Summersett offers free consultations by phone or in person. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your options, and answer your questions with no obligation.
Don’t face the criminal justice system alone. Call (214) 903-4000 today to speak with a Dallas criminal defense attorney who will fight for your freedom.
