Being accused of a crime—even a misdemeanor—can be a frightening experience. A misdemeanor conviction can carry jail time, fines, criminal records, and long-term consequences for employment, housing, and reputation. If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in Houston, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side. That’s where Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler comes in.
In this article, we’ll explore:
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What constitutes a misdemeanor in Texas
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Common types of misdemeanor charges you might face
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Possible penalties and collateral consequences
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How Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler approaches misdemeanor defense
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How he builds your criminal defense strategy
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Why you should act quickly and how to get started
What Is a Misdemeanor Under Texas Law?
In Texas, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense less serious than a felony but more serious than an infraction (or citation). Misdemeanors are divided into classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. The classification affects potential penalties.
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Class C misdemeanors are the least serious. Often punished by fines only (up to $500). No jail time.
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Class B misdemeanors can carry up to 180 days in county jail and fines up to $2,000.
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Class A misdemeanors are more serious and may carry up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $4,000.
Although misdemeanors are “lesser” offenses, a conviction still results in a criminal record, which can damage your future prospects. That’s why a strong defense is crucial—even in misdemeanor cases.
Common Misdemeanor Charges You Could Face
A wide variety of everyday offenses may be charged as misdemeanors in Texas. Below are some of the more common ones you might see:
| Misdemeanor Offense | Description / Examples | Potential Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Driving While Intoxicated (DWI / DUI) | Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs | Class B or A misdemeanor with possible jail, fines, license suspension |
| Public Intoxication | Appearing in public drunk or impaired to the point of danger | Class C, fines |
| Disorderly Conduct / Disturbing the Peace | Fighting, making unreasonable noise, using offensive language in public | Class C or B, fines or short jail |
| Simple Assault | Causing bodily injury without aggravating factors | Class A or B, depending on injury severity |
| Theft / Shoplifting (petty theft) | Stealing property of smaller monetary value | Class A or B, possibly elevated to felony if value is high |
| Possession of Small Amounts of Marijuana / Controlled Substances | Possession of small amounts under state threshold | May be Class A or B, or in some jurisdictions even decriminalized—depends on circumstance |
| Possession of Drug Paraphernalia | Possession of items used for drug use | Class C or B, depending on items and context |
| Trespassing | Unlawful entry onto property | Class C or B, depending on damage or intent |
| Harassment / Disorderly Conduct | Verbal threats, harassment, fighting words | Class C or B, fines or jail |
| Driving Without a Valid License / No Insurance / Minor Traffic Offenses | Many are Class C | Fines even if no jail |
| Domestic Violence (when elevated mildly) | Involving partners but without aggravating circumstances | May qualify as misdemeanor assault |
Note: Any offense can potentially be elevated to a felony under aggravating circumstances (e.g. bodily injury, use of weapon, prior record, amount of value in theft). The classification depends heavily on facts, prior convictions, and the prosecutor’s charging decision.
Penalties & Collateral Consequences of Misdemeanor Convictions
Although misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, the consequences can still be serious.
Possible Penalties
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Jail time (for Class A or B misdemeanors)
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Fines (from a few hundred to several thousand dollars)
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Probation / Community supervision
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Court costs, fees, and restitution
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Driver’s license suspension (especially with DWI)
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Community service, classes, or other court orders
Collateral (Hidden) Consequences
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Criminal record that appears on background checks
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Employment challenges, particularly for jobs requiring background checks
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Housing / rental issues
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Professional licensing difficulties
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Immigration consequences (for non-citizens, even misdemeanors may have ramifications)
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Loss of certain civil rights or reputational damage
Because of these effects, many clients assume “it’s just a misdemeanor, no big deal.” In reality, even misdemeanors deserve serious attention and professional legal defense.
How Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler Can Help You
Experienced in Misdemeanor and Felony Cases
Mike Kohler handles a full range of criminal defense matters, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. His deep courtroom experience means he understands local prosecutors, judges, and court procedures across Houston and surrounding counties.
Personalized & Aggressive Defense
Mike is known for providing personalized case strategy rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. He listens to each client’s circumstances and designs a defense that aligns with the client’s goals—whether that means dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea.
He also uses vigorous advocacy: challenging evidence, questioning police procedures, negotiating assertively with prosecutors, and—when necessary—taking cases to trial.
Strategic Defense Approach
An effective defense isn’t just reactive—it’s strategic. For misdemeanor cases, Mike Kohler employs steps such as:
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Early investigation to examine arrest procedures, search and seizure law, witness statements, body cam / video evidence, etc.
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Motion practice to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or narrow issues.
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Legal analysis of applicable laws and case precedents to exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
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Plea negotiation or alternative resolution, seeking reduced charges, deferred adjudication, diversion, or probation.
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Trial readiness—even if you hope for a plea, showing a willingness to go to trial often strengthens your negotiating position.
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Post-trial remedies such as appeals, expunctions, or sealing records (where applicable).
To delve deeper into his defense methodology, see the firm’s page on criminal defense strategy in Houston.
Focus on Client Rights & Due Process
A critical role of any defense attorney is to protect your constitutional rights—and Mike is diligent in this regard. Whether it’s ensuring Miranda rights are honored, fighting unlawful stops, or demanding full disclosure of evidence, he works to hold the system accountable.
Accessibility & Local Presence
His firm operates under the name Defense Lawyer Mike based in Houston. Because he practices locally and has familiarity with Houston’s courts, he has insight into local judges, jury tendencies, and prosecutorial habits.
Also, his credentials are publicly verifiable: he is licensed with the Texas Bar and has years of experience in criminal defense.
If you want to learn more about his broader criminal defense services, check out his main website: Defense Lawyer Mike.
How Mike Kohler Tackles Specific Misdemeanor Cases
DWI / DUI (Driving While Intoxicated)
This is one of the more serious misdemeanor charges. Mike may challenge:
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Legality of the traffic stop
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Reasonable suspicion or probable cause
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Accuracy and calibration of breathalyzers or blood tests
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Proper administration of tests
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Chain of custody, lab reports, results
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Field sobriety test procedures
If evidence is weak or flawed, the case may be dismissed. Otherwise, he may negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing (e.g. monitoring, treatment, community service).
Simple Assault
Even though called “simple” assault, this charge can still have serious consequences. Defense strategies may include:
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Demonstrating self-defense or defense of others
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Disputing intent or showing no injury occurred
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Arguing that the testimony of complaining witness is unreliable
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Highlighting procedural errors by police
If successful, the charge might be dismissed or reduced.
Theft / Petty Theft / Shoplifting
In theft cases, Mike will examine:
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Whether the value threshold was miscalculated
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Whether there was intent to permanently deprive the property
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Whether shopkeeper procedures were properly followed
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Whether video evidence supports the claim
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Whether a plea to misdemeanor or diversion is possible
He may negotiate restitution, probation, or reduced charges depending on facts.
Drug Possession / Paraphernalia
Although some substance offenses are felonies, possession of small amounts or paraphernalia might be charged as misdemeanors in certain contexts. Defense might explore:
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Whether the search was illegal
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Whether the quantity supports misdemeanor classification
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Whether the items are truly paraphernalia
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Whether the defendant was entrapped or lacked knowledge
Alternate sentences or dismissals are possible if evidence is weak.
Disorderly Conduct / Public Intoxication / Harassment
In these lower-level offenses, Mike might argue:
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The behavior did not actually disturb the peace
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There was no clear, credible evidence
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The statute was overbroad or vague
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The complaining witness lacked credibility
Often, these cases are resolved via plea or negotiation—but the strength of your defense still matters.
Why You Should Act Quickly
When facing misdemeanor charges, time is not your friend. Here’s why you should reach out to a defense attorney like Mike Kohler early:
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Evidence can vanish — Witnesses move, surveillance footage may be deleted, memories fade.
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Statutes of limitation / deadlines — For some motions or appeals, time is limited.
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Pretrial motions matter — Early suppression motions or demand for discovery can make or break your case.
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Plea negotiations have limits — The earlier you engage, the more leverage the lawyer has.
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Bail / bond and release conditions — A good attorney can protect your freedoms while awaiting trial.
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You’ll want legal counsel ready from day one — Don’t try to go it alone.
What to Expect When You Hire Mike Kohler
Here’s a rough outline of the process when you retain Defense Lawyer Mike for a misdemeanor case:
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Initial consultation
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You meet or speak to discuss the facts, charges, and your goals
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He evaluates the strengths and weaknesses
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He explains the process, fees, risks, and possible outcomes
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Case investigation & discovery
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Obtain police reports, bodycam / dashcam video, lab reports
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Interview witnesses, hire investigators if needed
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Analyze evidence and look for suppression or procedural issues
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Motion practice & pretrial legal work
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File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss counts
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Challenge legality of stops, searches, or arrests
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Demand full disclosure from the prosecution
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Negotiation / plea bargaining
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Use evidence strengths/weaknesses to push for reduced charges or favorable terms
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If diversion or deferred adjudication is available, negotiate those options
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Trial (if needed)
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Prepare defense for court presentation: cross-examination, expert testimony, arguments
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Present your side, challenge prosecution evidence
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Seek acquittal or favorable verdict
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Post-trial or post-conviction work
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Explore appeals where applicable
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Seek record expunction, sealing or nondisclosure if eligible
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Guide you through fulfilling court orders (probation, classes, etc.)
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Throughout, your attorney should be responsive, transparent, and keep you updated on strategy and developments.
Why Choose Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler?
Here are some of the advantages of working with Mike Kohler:
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Local Houston knowledge — He understands local prosecutors, courts, and judges, which helps strategy.
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Criminal defense focus — His practice is devoted to criminal law (misdemeanors, felonies).
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Personal service — Rather than handing you off to associates, you’ll work with him directly.
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Track record in misdemeanors, state jail, and felony cases — He handles a broad spectrum of offenses.
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Tough defense coupled with negotiation skill — He can push for dismissals or reduced penalties where possible but is ready to take a case to trial when needed.
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Accessibility and accountability — He works in your jurisdiction and is personally invested in your case.
Tips for People Charged with Misdemeanors: What You Should Do (and Avoid)
Here are best practices to protect yourself:
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Don’t talk to police without a lawyer present — You have the right to remain silent.
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Don’t consent to searches — Unless warranted, you may refuse.
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Write down everything you remember — Times, witness names, what was said.
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Gather and preserve evidence — Photos, videos, receipts, messages.
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List potential witnesses and contact info
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Stay off social media — Don’t post anything about your case.
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Seek legal help immediately — Don’t wait until the last minute.
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Be honest with your attorney — The more he knows, the better he can defend you.
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Follow court orders and deadlines — Late filings or lack of compliance can hurt your case.
Sample Scenarios & How Defense Lawyer Mike Could Help
To bring things into sharper focus, here are a few hypothetical case scenarios and how Mike might approach them:
Scenario 1: First-time DWI (Class B Misdemeanor)
A client is pulled over for erratic driving. The officer suspects intoxication, administers field sobriety tests, and later a breathalyzer, which shows a blood alcohol content above legal limits.
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Mike will scrutinize whether the traffic stop was lawful
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Check whether field tests and breathalyzer were properly administered
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Verify calibration and chain of custody of the test
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Argue suppression of flawed evidence
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Negotiate for reduced charge (e.g. “wet reckless”) or deferred adjudication if possible
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If negotiations fail, take case to trial demanding prosecution meet its burden
Scenario 2: Simple Assault in a Bar
Client is accused by another patron of shoving someone during a heated argument.
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Investigate whether the other patron instigated
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Find witnesses or video to contradict complaint
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Show that no injury occurred or minimal contact
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Argue that behavior did not rise to assault under statute
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Seek dismissal or reduction to a lesser offense
Scenario 3: Shoplifting / Theft (Low Value)
Client is accused of taking merchandise under $1,000, charged with misdemeanor theft.
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Confirm that store value is correct
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Challenge evidence (e.g. video not clear, mistaken identity)
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Seek diversion or deferred adjudication so no formal conviction
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If not possible, negotiate to a lesser charge
Scenario 4: Possession of Marijuana (Small Amount)
Client found with a small amount of marijuana, initially charged as a misdemeanor.
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Challenge search – was it lawful?
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Confirm quantity is within misdemeanor limits
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Argue that items are not paraphernalia but ordinary items
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Seek reduction or elimination of charge
When a Misdemeanor Could Become a Felony
Be aware that certain aggravating factors can elevate a misdemeanor to a felony or make the case significantly more serious. Examples:
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Use of a weapon
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Serious bodily injury
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Prior criminal history
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The amount or value in theft exceeds felony thresholds
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Drug trafficking or distribution
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Domestic violence enhancements
Even if the charge is initially a misdemeanor, the prosecutor may push for felony-level charges. That makes it even more vital to engage a robust defender like Mike Kohler early.
How to Get Started
If you or someone you know is arrested or charged with a misdemeanor in Houston, here’s how to begin:
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Contact Defense Lawyer Mike as soon as possible to schedule a consultation.
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Gather all documents and notices you’ve received (complaint, citation, arrest report).
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Write down your recollection of events while fresh.
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Avoid further incriminating behavior or statements.
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Follow your attorney’s instructions especially on court appearances and deadlines.
Your case deserves attention, and time is of the essence. The earlier you engage a defense attorney, the better the chances of mitigating or even eliminating the charges.
Conclusion
Misdemeanor charges might sound “minor,” but their impact on your life can be major—ranging from jail time, fines, and criminal records to lost opportunities for work, housing, and professional licensing. That’s why having a skilled, experienced defense attorney is crucial.
Defense Lawyer Mike (Mike Kohler) is well-positioned to defend you. His deep experience in Houston, his aggressive yet personalized approach, and his dedication to protecting clients’ rights make him a valuable ally in misdemeanor cases. Whether your charge is DWI, assault, theft, drug possession, or another offense, Mike Kohler has the knowledge and strategy to fight on your behalf.
To learn more about how he crafts legal defenses and strategies, visit the page on criminal defense strategy in Houston. For more details about his broader practice and services, refer to the main site: Defense Lawyer Mike.
If you are facing misdemeanor charges—or simply want to understand your rights—don’t wait. Reach out today to protect your future.
