Criminal Law in Franklin
Franklin, Texas, the seat of Robertson County, is a close-knit rural community where criminal charges can have serious consequences for individuals, families, and livelihoods. Robertson County has an agricultural and industrial economic base, and criminal matters ranging from drug offenses to theft and assault arise in both rural and small-town settings. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony, navigating the Texas criminal justice system without experienced legal guidance can be overwhelming. A skilled Criminal Law lawyer in Franklin can help protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in Franklin
Criminal cases in Franklin are handled primarily by the Robertson County District Court, which presides over felony matters, and the Robertson County Court at Law, which handles Class A and Class B misdemeanors. Justice of the Peace courts in Robertson County also handle Class C misdemeanor offenses, including minor traffic violations and fine-only offenses. All of these courts are located in or accessible through Franklin, the county seat.
Common Criminal Law Situations in Franklin
The most common criminal matters in Franklin and Robertson County involve drug possession and delivery charges, DWI offenses, theft, family violence assault, and firearms-related crimes. Agricultural crimes such as livestock theft and trespassing also appear more frequently in this rural Texas county than in urban areas. Many residents also face charges related to outstanding warrants, probation violations, and misdemeanor offenses that can still carry significant penalties under Texas law.
Penalties and Outcomes in Texas
Under Texas law, criminal penalties vary widely depending on the classification of the offense, ranging from a fine of up to $500 for a Class C misdemeanor to life imprisonment or the death penalty for capital felonies. Class A misdemeanors can result in up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000, while state jail felonies carry 180 days to two years in a state jail facility. Felony convictions in Texas can also result in lasting consequences including loss of voting rights, firearm prohibitions, and difficulty obtaining employment or housing.
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Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in Franklin
Go To Court Lawyers provides Texans in Franklin with access to free, accurate, and up-to-date legal information available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, helping you understand your rights under Texas criminal law before making any decisions. With a network of experienced criminal defense attorneys familiar with Robertson County courts, Go To Court is committed to connecting Franklin residents with the legal support they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in Franklin, Texas?
If you are arrested in Franklin, you should remain calm, clearly invoke your right to remain silent, and request an attorney immediately. Under Texas law, you have the right not to incriminate yourself, and anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court. Do not answer questions beyond identifying yourself until you have spoken with a criminal defense lawyer.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Texas?
In Texas, misdemeanors are less serious offenses divided into Class A, Class B, and Class C categories, with penalties ranging from a fine only up to one year in county jail. Felonies are more serious crimes classified as state jail felonies, third degree, second degree, first degree, and capital felonies, with penalties that can include years or decades in state prison. The distinction matters greatly because felony convictions carry long-term civil consequences that misdemeanors typically do not.
Can a criminal charge be expunged from my record in Texas?
Texas law allows for expunction of certain criminal records, including arrests that did not result in conviction, charges that were dismissed, and offenses for which you received deferred adjudication for some Class C misdemeanors. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55, a successful expunction means the records are physically destroyed and you may legally deny the arrest occurred in most circumstances. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether your specific situation qualifies for expunction or an order of nondisclosure.
What is deferred adjudication and how does it work in Texas?
Deferred adjudication is a form of probation in Texas where a judge defers a finding of guilt and places you on community supervision for a period of time, with the possibility of having the charges dismissed if you successfully complete the terms. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 42A.101, deferred adjudication is available for many but not all offenses, and certain serious crimes such as DWI and some sexual offenses are excluded. If you violate the terms of deferred adjudication, you can be adjudicated guilty and sentenced up to the maximum penalty allowed for the original charge.
How does a DWI charge work in Robertson County, Texas?
A DWI charge in Robertson County is prosecuted under Texas Penal Code Section 49.04, which makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated, defined as having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher or losing normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or drugs. A first-offense DWI is typically a Class B misdemeanor carrying a minimum of 72 hours in jail, fines up to $2,000, and a potential driver license suspension. Penalties increase significantly for repeat offenses, DWI with a child passenger, or cases involving serious injury or death.