Criminal Defense Lawyers in Houston, TX

📋 Browse verified Criminal Defense Lawyers in Houston below — call any firm directly. Many offer free initial consultations.

Top Criminal Defense Lawyers Near Houston, TX

Cory Roth Law Office | Houston Criminal Defense Attorney
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.9 · 292 reviews
5300 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 360-2479
Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys PLLC - DWI and Criminal Defense Attorneys
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 · 118 reviews
310 Main St Suite 201, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 703-1718
Murphy & McKinney Law Firm | Houston DWI Lawyer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 · 305 reviews
902 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008
(713) 229-8333
Dunham & Jones
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.8 · 788 reviews
2323 S Shepherd Dr # 1400, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 999-9999
Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 · 344 reviews
1100 W 23rd St Suite 220, Houston, TX 77008
(281) 300-8695

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Houston Do?

A criminal defense lawyer in Houston represents individuals accused of crimes ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. The criminal justice system is powerful and intimidating — having an experienced Houston criminal defense attorney levels the playing field. Your attorney will investigate the charges, challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and if necessary, fight for you at trial.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Houston?

Criminal defense lawyer costs vary by charge severity. Misdemeanors: $1,500–$5,000 flat. Felonies: $5,000–$25,000+. Serious felonies / trial: $25,000–$100,000+. Hourly rates range from $200–$500/hr. Free consultations are standard.

Typical fee structure: Flat fee or hourly ($200–$500/hr)

Average settlement/outcome: N/A (criminal defense)

⚠️ Act Immediately: If you've been arrested or charged with a crime in Texas, exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Early intervention can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.

Houston Area Courts — Criminal Defense Lawyer Cases

Cases in Houston are typically heard in the following courts. Your attorney will advise on the correct venue for your case.

📍 Harris County Civil Courthouse

201 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77002 · 📞 (713) 274-4600 · Mon–Fri 8am–5pm

📍 US District Court — Southern Texas

515 Rusk St, Houston, TX 77002 · 📞 (713) 250-5500 · Mon–Fri 8am–5pm

Frequently Asked Questions — Criminal Defense Lawyer in Houston

❓ How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?

Misdemeanors: $1,500–$5,000. Felonies: $5,000–$25,000+. Serious felony trial: $25,000–$100,000+. Free consultations are standard.

❓ Should I get a public defender or hire a private attorney?

Public defenders are competent but overloaded. A private attorney has more time for your case, better resources, and can give you more individual attention.

❓ Can charges be dropped or reduced?

Yes — through plea negotiations, evidentiary challenges, or showing mitigating circumstances. A skilled attorney knows how to achieve the best possible outcome.

❓ What should I do if I'm arrested?

Remain silent, ask for a lawyer, don't consent to searches, and don't discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.

❓ What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony?

Misdemeanors carry up to 1 year in county jail. Felonies carry 1+ years in state/federal prison and have more severe long-term consequences.

❓ Can a criminal record be expunged?

In many cases, yes — especially for first-time offenders or dismissed charges. An attorney can advise on eligibility and the expungement process.

Serving All Houston Areas

We connect clients throughout Houston with top-rated criminal defense lawyers, including Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, The Heights, River Oaks, Galleria, and surrounding communities.

Serving ZIP codes: 77001 · 77002 · 77003 · 77004 · 77005 · 77006 · 77019 · 77027 · 77030 · 77046 · 77056 · 77098

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