Criminal and Juvenile Law
In the city of Tyler, throughout Smith County, and across East, North, and Central Texas, the criminal defense attorneys at Kent, Good, Anderson & Bush, P.C. help people who have been charged with a violation of state or federal criminal law. Being arrested and charged with a crime is a serious and frightening matter. Most people have had little prior contact with the criminal justice system, which only adds to a feeling of helplessness and vulnerability. Having an attorney on your side that can stand up for rights and help you understand your situation is an invaluable asset in any criminal law situation.
The attorneys at Kent, Good, Anderson & Bush, P.C. handle most types of felony and misdemeanor offenses in state and federal court, including:
- Property crimes - larceny, burglary, false pretenses
- Crimes of violence - robbery, rape, assault, homicide
- White collar crimes - embezzlement, fraud, forgery, blackmail
- Drug offenses - possession, distribution, trafficking, cultivation
- Weapons crimes
- Juvenile offenses
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Alternative Sentencing, Expunction, and Nondisclosure
For those who have been charged with a minor offense and do not have a prior arrest record, we may be able to secure a deferred adjudication, which keeps the accused free of any criminal conviction following a period of probation. We may also work to have the record of the arrest sealed or expunged; thereby minimizing the long-term negative consequences that can flow from an arrest, even if the accused is acquitted or the charges are dismissed. Even in cases where an expunction is not available, it may be possible to obtain a Nondisclosure Order, which removes the person's record from the public record and greatly limits access to or release of one's criminal record.
It is easier to obtain expunctions in the case of juvenile arrests and convictions, but even in the case of minors, one must follow the required procedures, including a court hearing, and meet certain eligibility criteria to obtain an expunction. Utilizing legal expertise can be extremely helpful in determining whether an expunction is possible and obtaining that records clearance whenever it is achievable.
Talk to an Attorney Before You Talk to Anyone Else
Most people are aware that they have a "right to remain silent," but few understand the parameters of this right and that it can be waived. Whether you are under arrest in a custodial interrogation, or if the police just want to question you as part of their investigation, it is always advisable to contact an attorney before answering any questions.
The stakes are high in any criminal matter, and potential punishment may range from the suspension of a driver's license and heavy fines to the loss of freedom and years in prison. In addition, any conviction can have long-term negative consequences that can hamper your ability to get or keep a good job or even restrict where you can live. Sometimes even worse is the damage to your reputation, your home and personal life that can result from a public arrest record.
At Kent, Good, Anderson & Bush, P.C., we appreciate these concerns and practice with the utmost respect for confidentiality, working tirelessly to protect or restore your good name and minimize any negative consequences that can follow from an arrest or conviction. If you need assistance in a criminal law matter, contact Kent, Good, Anderson & Bush, P.C. to understand your rights and options and discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Family Law
One of the most difficult times of a person’s life is when divorce and child custody issues affect your life. Our attorneys are ready to provide you with vigorous representation to protect your healthy relationship with your children and your property rights. Cynthia Stevens Kent, having served as a judge in Texas for 24 years understands the complex and very personal issues in family law litigation. Along with our other experienced family law attorneys, we can bring real life perspective and a focus on the best interest of your children to the courtroom.
Probate
Probate is the process by which a court appoints a representative to administer and distribute the assets of a deceased individual. Our attorneys are experienced in helping clients who have recently lost a loved one with estate-administration matters. Our attorneys can discuss the various probate proceedings with you and decide which process is the best and most economical for you.
Guardianship
Guardianship is a legal proceeding in which an individual is appointed as guardian to make financial and/or healthcare decisions on behalf of an incapacitated person. A guardianship is often necessary when al elderly parent is no longer able to care for himself or herself. A guardianship can also be established for a disabled child when they become an adult. Our attorneys can discuss the guardianship process with you and help you determine if guardianship is appropriate under the circumstances.
