AUSTIN CRIMINAL DEFENSE — TRAVIS COUNTY & BEYOND
Travis County criminal cases are handled across multiple courts depending on the charge. Class C misdemeanors go to Austin Municipal Court. Class A and B misdemeanors go to Travis County Courts at Law. Felonies are heard in Travis County District Courts. Federal charges go to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas.
Early intervention changes outcomes. The period between arrest and arraignment is often the most critical. An attorney who contacts prosecutors before charges are formally filed dramatically improves your chances of a favorable outcome.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Austin TX
DWI / DUIFirst, second, and third offenses — misdemeanor through felony — in Travis County courts
Drug chargesPossession, distribution, manufacturing — marijuana through Schedule I controlled substances
Assault & violent crimesSimple assault, aggravated assault, assault family violence in Travis County
Theft & property crimesShoplifting through felony theft, burglary, robbery in Austin courts
Sex crimesSexual assault, indecent exposure, online solicitation requiring sensitive, aggressive defense
Federal crimesDrug trafficking, wire fraud, weapons offenses in the Western District of Texas
Travis County Court System — Where Your Case Is Heard
1
Austin Municipal Court
1000 E. 11th Street — Class C misdemeanors including traffic offenses, minor DUI, and low-level violations.
2
Travis County Courts at Law
Frank O. Bowman Justice Center — Class A and B misdemeanors including DWI, assault, and theft under $2,500.
3
Travis County District Courts
1000 Guadalupe St — Felony cases including drug trafficking, violent crimes, and serious DWI offenses.
4
Travis County Family Courts
1000 Guadalupe St — Family violence, protective orders, and cases involving children.
5
U.S. District Court (W.D. Tex.)
501 W. 5th Street — Federal criminal charges including drug cases, firearms, and white collar crime.
Your Rights After a Criminal Arrest in Austin
You have the right to remain silent — exercise it immediately and completely
You have the right to an attorney — request one before answering any questions
Do not consent to searches — politely decline and let your attorney challenge legality later
Do not discuss your case with cellmates, friends, or family until you have an attorney
Bond out as quickly as possible — your attorney can help reduce bond at arraignment
Document everything you remember while it's fresh — details matter
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Travis County?▾
Austin Municipal Court handles Class C misdemeanors. Travis County Courts at Law handle Class A/B misdemeanors. Travis County District Courts handle felonies. U.S. District Court handles federal charges.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Texas?▾
Misdemeanors are Class A (up to 1 year county jail), Class B (up to 180 days), or Class C (fine only). Felonies range from State Jail felony through Capital.
Can a criminal record be expunged in Texas?▾
Yes, under certain conditions. Cases resulting in dismissal, acquittal, deferred adjudication, and some arrests without convictions can be expunged.
Should I take a plea deal in Travis County?▾
An attorney evaluates the strength of the State's evidence and your exposure at trial before advising you. Never accept a plea without counsel.
How does deferred adjudication work in Texas?▾
Deferred adjudication is a form of probation where, upon successful completion, no final conviction is entered — creating a path to expunction or non-disclosure.
What happens at an arraignment in Travis County?▾
You are formally read your charges and enter a plea. Bond is set or reviewed. An attorney present at arraignment can argue for reduced bond immediately.