Our Fort Bend criminal defense attorney protects your freedom, your record, and everything you’ve worked for after an arrest. At Varghese Summersett, our defense team includes three Board Certified Criminal Law specialists, the highest distinction a Texas criminal defense lawyer can achieve. We handle every type of criminal case in Fort Bend County, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and fight aggressively for the best possible outcome.
When you hire our Fort Bend criminal defense lawyers, you don’t just get one attorney. You get the collective experience of our entire criminal division. With more than 1,600 dismissals and 800 charge reductions across our firm, we know how to build winning defense strategies.
Mike Hanson: Fort Bend Criminal Defense Lawyer
Mike Hanson heads up our Fort Bend office as a trusted Fort Bend criminal defense lawyer. As a former Fort Bend felony prosecutor, veteran, and active member of the Fort Bend County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Mike brings insider knowledge to every case. He understands how prosecutors think, what evidence they rely on, and where to find weaknesses in their cases.
“Every person deserves a second chance and someone willing to fight for their future,” says Mike Hanson. “I’ve seen how a criminal charge can derail someone’s entire life. That’s why I’m passionate about criminal defense. When I help someone get back on track and move forward, that’s what drives me every single day.”
His experience on both sides of the courtroom gives him a strategic advantage that benefits every client. He knows exactly when to negotiate and when to take the fight to trial.
What Results Has Our Fort Bend Team Achieved?
Results matter when your freedom is on the line. Here’s an example of what our Fort Bend criminal defense attorneys have accomplished:
Felony Drug Case Dismissed (Fort Bend County, 2025): Our client faced a third-degree felony charge for possession of methamphetamine. The charge carried a potential sentence of 2 to 10 years in prison. Attorney Mike Hanson investigated the case thoroughly and challenged the evidence. The result? The prosecution agreed to completely drop the charges. Our client walked away without a conviction.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique and depends on its specific facts and circumstances.
Need help with your case? Call (281) 805-2220 for a free consultation with a Fort Bend criminal defense attorney.
Where Are Criminal Cases Prosecuted in Fort Bend County?
The Fort Bend County District Attorney prosecutes all criminal cases in the county. Whether you face a misdemeanor or felony charge, your case will be heard at the Fort Bend County Justice Center:
Fort Bend County Justice Center
1422 Eugene Heimann Circle
Richmond, TX 77469
The District Attorney’s office is housed in the same building where your criminal defense attorney will represent you. Fort Bend County has 8 felony courts and 6 misdemeanor courts, each with different judges who handle cases in distinct ways. Having an attorney who knows these courtrooms gives you a real advantage.
Fort Bend County Felony Courts (District Courts)
| Court | Judge | Associate Judge | Room | Main Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 240th District Court | Judge Surendran Pattel | Derek Obialo | 3-E / Jury Assembly Room 2 | 281-341-8600 |
| 268th District Court | Judge Steve Rogers | Craig Priesmeyer | 3-D / 3-G | 281-341-8610 |
| 328th District Court | Judge Monica Rawlins | Felishia R. Young | 3-C / 3-A | 281-341-4406 |
| 387th District Court | Judge Oscar Telfair III | Richard T. Bell | 3-H / 3-J | 281-238-3290 |
| 400th District Court | Judge Edward M. Krenek | Stuti Patel | 3-B / 2-J | 281-341-4422 |
| 434th District Court | Judge J. Christian Becerra | Argie Brame | 3-I / 2-A | 281-633-7653 |
| 458th District Court | Judge Maggie Perez-Jaramillo | Mark Hanna | 3-F / 3-G | 832-471-4905 |
| 505th District Court | Judge Kali Morgan | LaTosha McGill Clayton | 1-C / 1-A | 281-238-3244 |
Fort Bend County Misdemeanor Courts (County Courts at Law)
| Court | Judge | Courtroom | Main Phone | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| County Court at Law No. 1 | Honorable Christopher G. Morales | 2C | 281-633-7415 | Mon-Fri: 8AM-12PM, 1PM-5PM |
| County Court at Law No. 2 | Honorable Tyra McCollum | 2B | 281-341-4446 (Criminal/Civil) 281-341-4443 (Probate) | Mon-Fri: 8AM-5PM |
| County Court at Law No. 3 | Honorable Juli Mathew | 2D | 281-341-4429 | Mon-Fri: 8AM-12PM, 1PM-5PM |
| County Court at Law No. 4 | Honorable Toni Wallace | 2E | 281-238-1995 | Mon-Fri: 8AM-5PM |
| County Court at Law No. 5 | Honorable Teana Watson | 1B | 281-238-3270 | Mon-Fri: 8AM-12PM, 1PM-5PM |
| County Court at Law No. 6 | Honorable Dean Hrbacek | – | 832-471-1173 / 832-471-1169 | Mon-Fri: 8AM-5PM |
What Types of Criminal Cases Do We Handle in Fort Bend County?
Our Fort Bend criminal defense attorneys handle every level of criminal offense, from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. If you’re facing charges or under investigation, talking to a lawyer early can protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Watch: What to Do When Stopped by Police in Texas
Violent Crimes
Murder (Texas Penal Code Chapter 19): Murder charges range from second-degree felony (2 to 20 years) to capital murder (death penalty or life without parole). Common defenses include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, and alibi. Texas Penal Code §19.02 defines the elements prosecutors must prove.
Assault (Texas Penal Code §22.01): Assault charges in Fort Bend can range from a Class C misdemeanor (up to $500 fine) to a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail). Penalties increase significantly when the alleged victim is a public servant, elderly person, or family member.
Aggravated Assault (Texas Penal Code §22.02): When an assault causes serious bodily injury or involves a deadly weapon, it becomes a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison. First-degree felony charges apply against public servants, witnesses, or family members.
Domestic Violence (Texas Penal Code §22.01(b)): A first domestic violence offense is a Class A misdemeanor. A second conviction becomes a third-degree felony carrying 2 to 10 years. Continuous violence (§25.11) applies when two or more assaults occur within 12 months.
DWI and Intoxication Offenses
DWI Defense (Texas Penal Code §49.04): A first DWI in Fort Bend is a Class B misdemeanor with 3 to 180 days in jail. If your blood alcohol concentration was .15 or higher, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor. Defenses include challenging the traffic stop, questioning breath or blood test accuracy, and proving rising BAC.
Felony DWI (Texas Penal Code §49.09): A third DWI is a third-degree felony with 2 to 10 years in prison. DWI with a child passenger under §49.045 is a state jail felony. We challenge prior convictions, jurisdictional issues, and testing procedures to fight these charges.
Intoxication Assault and Manslaughter: Causing serious bodily injury while intoxicated is a third-degree felony (2 to 10 years). If someone dies, intoxication manslaughter is a second-degree felony (2 to 20 years). These cases require aggressive defense strategies.
Drug Crimes
Marijuana Possession (Texas Health & Safety Code §481.121): Possession of less than 2 ounces is a Class B misdemeanor. Larger amounts escalate to felony charges. Defenses include challenging illegal searches, proving lack of knowledge, and questioning whether the substance was hemp or marijuana.
Controlled Substance Possession (Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 481): Texas classifies drugs into penalty groups. PG1 substances (cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine) carry the harshest penalties. Common defenses include illegal search and seizure, lack of actual possession, valid prescription, and crime lab errors.
Drug Distribution (Texas Health & Safety Code §481.112): Delivery charges carry penalties one level higher than possession. Manufacturing adds additional penalties. School zone enhancements under §481.134 can double the punishment.
Sex Crimes
Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code §22.011): Sexual assault in Fort Bend is a second-degree felony with 2 to 20 years in prison. Aggravated sexual assault under §22.021 is a first-degree felony (5 to 99 years). These cases require immediate, confidential legal help.
Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code §21.11): Contact offenses are second-degree felonies. Exposure offenses are third-degree felonies. Sex offender registration requirements apply under Chapter 62 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft (Texas Penal Code §31.03): Theft penalties depend on the value of property taken. Less than $100 is a Class C misdemeanor. $2,500 to $30,000 is a state jail felony. Previous theft convictions enhance penalties under §12.43.
White Collar Crimes: Fraud (§32.32), embezzlement, and money laundering (§34.02) often involve federal charges with harsher sentences. Our team has federal criminal defense experience to handle complex financial cases.
Juvenile Crimes
Texas juvenile courts handle defendants ages 10 to 16 under Title 3 of the Texas Family Code. Fort Bend juvenile defense focuses on rehabilitation over punishment. Serious felonies may transfer to adult court under Family Code §54.02. Early intervention with diversion programs and deferred prosecution can help young people avoid a permanent record.
Facing charges? Talk to a Fort Bend criminal defense lawyer today. Call (281) 805-2220.
Why Does Local Experience Matter in Fort Bend County?
Each Texas county has its own court system, procedures, and culture. Fort Bend County is no exception. Our attorneys know the specific filing deadlines, local rules, and nuances that can affect your case outcome.
Local knowledge means understanding more than court procedures. It means knowing which judges are more receptive to certain arguments, which prosecutors handle specific case types, and how the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s office approaches plea negotiations.
With 8 felony courts and 6 misdemeanor courts, Fort Bend has a complex judicial system. Having an attorney who practices in these courtrooms regularly provides a strategic advantage that out-of-town lawyers simply cannot match.
How Do Our Fort Bend Attorneys Approach Your Defense?
We take a comprehensive, client-focused approach to criminal defense. Here’s what you can expect:
Personalized Defense Strategies: No two cases are the same. We listen to your story, review the evidence, and build a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation and goals.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We examine every aspect of your case: police reports, witness statements, video evidence, and forensic reports. We identify constitutional violations, procedural errors, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Aggressive Court Representation: When trial is the best option, we fight. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who challenge evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present compelling arguments to judges and juries.
Strategic Negotiations: Sometimes a negotiated resolution serves your interests better than trial. We negotiate from a position of strength to secure reduced charges, probation instead of jail, or dismissals when possible.
Can I Clear My Criminal Record in Fort Bend County?
Texas law provides two main ways to clear your record: expunction and nondisclosure.
Expunction (Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55): Eligible for dismissals, acquittals, pardons, and certain other outcomes. An expunction completely destroys all records of the arrest and case.
Nondisclosure (Texas Government Code Chapter 411): Available after successfully completing deferred adjudication for eligible offenses. Waiting periods range from immediate to 5 years depending on the offense. Records become hidden from the public but remain visible to law enforcement.
Not all offenses qualify for record clearing. Family violence cases, sex offenses, and certain other crimes have restrictions. We evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Bend Criminal Defense
What should I do immediately after an arrest in Fort Bend County?
Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Do not consent to searches or provide statements to police. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Write down everything you remember about the arrest while details are fresh. Gather any evidence that might help your case, such as witness names, receipts, or photos.
What happens at my first court appearance in Fort Bend County?
Your first appearance typically occurs within 48 hours of arrest. The judge will set bail and read your charges. At arraignment, you’ll enter a plea. We typically advise pleading not guilty to preserve all defense options. Pre-trial hearings follow to address motions, evidence issues, and negotiations. If your case goes to trial, it can be before a judge or jury.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Fort Bend County?
Attorney fees depend on the complexity of your case, the charges you face, and other factors. During your free consultation, we discuss fees based on your specific situation so you understand the costs involved before making any decisions.
Can my charges be reduced or dismissed?
Many cases result in reduced charges or dismissals. We thoroughly evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and explore every avenue to achieve the best outcome. Constitutional violations, procedural errors, and insufficient evidence can all lead to dismissals or reductions.
How long does a criminal case take in Fort Bend County?
Case timelines vary based on complexity, charges, and whether the case goes to trial. Some misdemeanors resolve in weeks. Complex felonies can take months or longer. We keep you informed throughout the process and work to resolve your case as quickly as possible while protecting your interests.
What Our Clients Say
Fort Bend County Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Experienced criminal defense attorneys serving Fort Bend County
Facing charges in Fort Bend County? Get a free consultation.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
During your free consultation, we’ll discuss the details of your case, answer your questions, and provide an honest assessment of your situation. This initial meeting is a critical first step in building a strong defense.
Don’t wait. The sooner you have a Fort Bend criminal defense attorney on your side, the better we can protect your rights. Call (281) 805-2220 anytime, day or night. We’re ready to help.
