FAQ

All communications with clients or potential clients are confidential.
Basic background and relevant information the client has to help determine what I can do to help immediately or to form a plan to address the particular needs of the client.
Yes, as well as telephone consultations.
The range of maximum possible punishment determines the level or classification of any offense. Felonies are an offense that may receive oner a year in jail, while a misdemeanor punishment cannot be beyond a year.
There are several different ways: 1) by agreement between the State (prosecutor) and the Defense (you), negotiated by me (Defense Attorney); 2) By the Judge without an agreement between the parties; & 3) by either the Jury or Judge (Defendant’s choice) after a trial has been had and a guilty verdict returned.
Even before you are arrested, you must understand you have a right not to answer questions. You legally obligated to provided identification and/or valid identification information, possibly insurance information if it involves a vehicle, and can decline to answer all other questions. Be polite, but respectfully decline to answer until you have had an opportunity to consult with an attorney. Do not consent to any searches. If the police have probable cause they can search anyway, they don” need your permission, so simply don’t consent. Be patient and do not answer any questions. You will be booked and processed and then taken before a Magistrate (Judge) to set a bond. Once bond is set, contact family, friends or an attorney to arrange for the bail to be posted and then you will be released pursuant to the bond and conditions. Remember anything you say can be used against you and all phone conversations are recorded, so do not discuss the facts or circumstances of the arrest with anyone except your attorney.
Either post bail using a bonding company, whereby you pay them a percentage of the bond (usually 10-15%) as their fee to post the full amount; or Post a cash bond in the full amount of the bond and then you get all of that money back once the case is resolved.
Unless you have a working knowledge of the Code of Criminal procedure, the Rules of Evidence, and at least some experience in the criminal justice system and courts, the answer yes.
many, such as a right not to answer questions, the right to an attorney, the right against self-incrimination, the right to release on bond, the right a jury and, many more that a skilled and experienced attorney will use to defend you on whatever criminal charges you are facing.
The only way to “erase” records of conviction is via pardon from the Governor of Texas.
A DUI in many states refers to what we in Texas call a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). However, in Texas, a DUI refers to a Minor Driving with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system, but not intoxicated under the definition of intoxicated.
Driving while intoxicated is an individual operating a motor vehicle while: not having the normal use of their mental or physical faculties by reason of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two; or having a blood alcohol level above a .08.
A first offense is typically a Class B Misdemeanor and the levels go up depending on blood Algol levels and the number of convictions.
These may be conditions of community supervision (probation) and/or things that a person may agree to as part of a plea agreement.
A person may be charged with Intoxication Manslaughter, Intoxication Assault, Felony Murder or Aggravated Assault, depending on the circumstances, but all are extremely serious felony charges and can result in prison time. An experienced criminal defense attorney should be consulted immediately.
A person who is stopped and arrested for DWI with a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle may be charged with a felony DWI.
There are usually suspensions associated with conviction as well as administrative actions that should be addressed immediately upon being arrested.
Fraud can take many forms and fall under many different charges, but essentially, it is when property or money is accessed without consent or under circumstances that the actor intended to defraud someone of their property of money.
Consult an experienced criminal trial attorney as soon as possible.
I have represented many people accused of possession of all kinds of illegal substances (i.e. drugs, marijuana, controlled substances, dangerous substances, etc…), as well as those accused of manufacturing and distributing those substances. I am well-versed in the classification of substances, as well as the common pharmacological properties and trends in the criminal justice system.
Yes, but even before that may happen, consulting with an attorney may be a good idea. Texas has an assortment of rather confusing weapons-related offenses, as well as many exceptions and defenses. If you are considering carrying any kind of weapon, it may be a good idea to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can answer questions and advise you of what may or may not be considered “legal” to reduce the possibility of negative interaction with law enforcement or the public at large.
This offense has many facets and can be very serious in both Texas and the Federal Courts, so good legal representation is strongly advised.
These are increasingly difficult situations with many circumstances to consider. The sooner you can consult with an experienced criminal attorney the better to understand what has happened, what to expect going forward, and making a strategy that best protects both yourself and your family.
Not directly, as I typically represent a person who has been charged with a crime and/or are being investigated for commission of some offense. However, I can give you the information about who you should contact immediately and who can help you, give you sound advice so you may address the situation and protect yourself and your family from further abuse. Your local law enforcement should be contacted immediately to make a report and if you need further assistance, such a s a protective order, your local District Attorney should assist. Contact their Victim Services section and they can give you much more information and many times even represent you in that process.
Yes. I have represented many who have found themselves facing such an allegation, whether it arose from last night or twenty years ago. These are fraught with anxiety, uncertainty, and stress, so an attorney can help you understand where you may be in the process and how you should consider moving forward in defending yourself. If anyone contacts you that even suggests such an allegation has been made or want to question you about such, you should consult with an experienced attorney before you make any statements or answer questions to ensure you understand your rights.
Not in the legal sense, however, I can get you in touch with the people who you should report such. Your local law enforcement agency should be contacted immediately to file a report and the Criminal District Attorney for the County will be responsible for pursuing criminal charges.
Yes, these are the types of cases people hire me to defend all the time. I have vast experience in these matters and can discuss with you how one should begin to defend themselves.
It’s important to consult with an experienced attorney so they can understand the situation, ask questions, and help you determine what, if any criminal exposure you may have from the incident.
I would recommend you make a report to your local law enforcement agency immediately, so they can assist, assess the threat and refer for charges if warranted or direct you to the local prosecutor who may be able to assist in seeking a protective order if necessary.
Not in the legal sense, however, I can get you in touch with the people who you should report such. Your local law enforcement agency should be contacted immediately to file a report and the Criminal District Attorney for the County will be responsible for pursuing criminal charges. Additionally, I can refer you to other attorneys who specialize in possibly seeking civil damages from those who have assaulted you.
Of course. Much of Juvenile Law, while different in some respects, is very closely associated with the adult legal system and I represent minors on a regular basis.
Absolutely and have represented many juveniles accused of criminal offense throughout my career. While the juvenile system parallels the adult system, there are some significant differences that I am keenly aware of and can explain to those families experiencing such.
I tidelands on how the charge was ultimately resolved, but I can discuss and research those records to determine if you may qualify for expunction. The effect of the expunction is: 1) the release, dissemination, or use of the expunged records and files for any purpose is prohibited; 2) you may deny the occurrence of the arrest and the existence of the expunction order, with the exception of the following; 3) you or any other person, when questioned under oath in a criminal proceeding about an arrest for which the records have been expunged, may state only that the matter in question has been expunged. (See Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Art. 55.03).
Expunction is the mechanism for doing so and I have vast experience in researching and seeking expunctions for many clients in the past 26+ years of my practice.
I really enjoyed getting to know Scot. He is a professional & caring criminal defense attorney. He gave me... read moreI really enjoyed getting to know Scot. He is a professional & caring criminal defense attorney. He gave me a really neat book that published that has all sorts of helpful advice on life in general. read less
I hired Scot when I was charged with a DWI. He made the process quick and painless while I was... read moreI hired Scot when I was charged with a DWI. He made the process quick and painless while I was going to school and working. He handled everything with class and fought very hard in the courtroom. He is the best and I mean the best court room lawyer you can have. He does his homework and will blow you away with his skills and knowledge. The only reason I gave him 4 stars is cause I can say life isn't fair and we did loose the case. Now DWI can go either way and with my situation we took it to a jury trial. Scot did everything in his power to fight for me, but the jury made their own descision when it was said and done. He did get my punishment reduced from the original offer that the state offered in the first place. What ever situation your in Scot can assist you and will treat you like family throught the process. read less
Mr. Scot Courtney was actually one of the last people I called in regards to my situation but he ended... read moreMr. Scot Courtney was actually one of the last people I called in regards to my situation but he ended up giving me the best advice. I called a few different lawyers that seemed only interested in my money but Mr. Scot talked on the phone with me for as long as I felt comfortable. He actually worked with the county that I was reporting to for a while, so he was very knowledgeable about what to do in regards to my particular situation, and you can tell by talking to him that he knows his stuff. He actually advised me to NOT hire him because I could go a cheaper/more suitable route (for my situation) which I found very commendable on his part. He knew more off the top of his head about what I was trying to explain to him than what I could attempt to research. This man is very genuine and you can tell that he actually does care about who he represents. I felt like I had to leave a review because of the positive experience I had with him even though I didn't pay him anything. Give this man a call, when you talk to him you'll understand what I mean. read less
Scot has helped me with a few legal issues and in each case he has always done a fantastic job.... read moreScot has helped me with a few legal issues and in each case he has always done a fantastic job. He makes the process as painless as possible and treats you like family. I would 100% refer him to family and friends who need legal counsel. You will not find a more dedicated professional than Scot. I can't thank him enough for helping my family. read less
Scot was an incredible advisor through a very stressful time in my life. He was punctual to every court date... read moreScot was an incredible advisor through a very stressful time in my life. He was punctual to every court date and had every answer to the questions my family asked. He broke everything down to where we could understand it and made us feel that I was not only a client but a friend. I remember how confident he was that he would get my case resolved the first time I met him, and low and behold everything he said came true. Cant express how much gratitude I have toward him and his practice. read less
Mr. Courtney provided prompt, attentive service during extremely stressful times. He breaks everything down into layman's terms and helps you... read moreMr. Courtney provided prompt, attentive service during extremely stressful times. He breaks everything down into layman's terms and helps you cut through all of the "legal speak" to focus on the reality of the situation at hand. His breadth of knowledge and decades of experience gave me confidence that never waivered. I appreciated his willingness to communicate openly with me and my family members, no matter how many questions we had or assurances we needed. Should my family ever need future legal advice or representation, I wouldn't hesitate to call on Mr. Courtney again. read less
Scot did an incredible job assisting me during my college years at Texas State. He explained everything very clearly, and... read moreScot did an incredible job assisting me during my college years at Texas State. He explained everything very clearly, and he handled my case quickly and professionally, especially when I did not know where to go or what to do in my situation at that time. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney, and I'm thankful he stepped up and took care of me. I would highly recommend him to all my friends and family in the San Marcos and Central Texas area. read less
Scot Courtney did a fantastic job while advising me through the court process. Scot was extremely professional and informative throughout... read moreScot Courtney did a fantastic job while advising me through the court process. Scot was extremely professional and informative throughout the criminal process. He has always made me feel comfortable in dealing with the legal system. He explained everything clearly and made sure I understood what was going on through the entire process. We were able to get everything taken care of just as Scot said it would be and for that I am grateful. I would highly recommend Scot to anyone who asked. read less
About a year ago, my son was charged with a very serious crime. If he had been convicted of it,... read moreAbout a year ago, my son was charged with a very serious crime. If he had been convicted of it, his life would have changed forever. This was serious business and we knew it. Even though Scot was recommended to us, we chose to go with another attorney. It quickly became apparent that this attorney was not one that we would have confidence in to handle the case. We had met with Scot before and were both impressed. Once we changed counsel, we were also relieved. His obvious grasp of the issue and the players was encouraging and his calm demeanor throughout the process made us feel that he was confident of his ability to get us the result we were seeking. Scot's knowledge of the law, the courthouse and the people in it were invaluable in getting the case settled and we were always sure that he had a winning plan in mind and the experience to implement it. Ultimately, the case was settled in the best way possible for my son and we can't thank him enough for getting it done. I would strongly recommend his services if you find yourself in the situation we were in. read less
Scot Courtney did an amazing job in advising and helping us through an extremely difficult time for our family. Scot... read moreScot Courtney did an amazing job in advising and helping us through an extremely difficult time for our family. Scot represented our young adult son, defending him against a serious drug charge. Scot, I wanted to thank you for everything you've done for my family and I over the past few years. Your guidance, devotion and dedication have helped us from the time of our son's arrest, until now, with expungement of his record right around the corner.Words cannot describe how much we appreciate all you have done. You made this difficult situation much easier to handle and gave my family and I comfort knowing we were in good hands. I cannot thank you enough. read less
Very Professional Scot is a very well educated and very professional lawyer. I used him for a case that was eventually dismissed... read moreScot is a very well educated and very professional lawyer. I used him for a case that was eventually dismissed last year. I at all times felt that he would get the best outcome and felt he always had my best interest in mind. I would recommend his service to anyone in need. read less
Great Attoryney We never had to worry about anything with Scot. We could fully trust that he would get my son the... read moreWe never had to worry about anything with Scot. We could fully trust that he would get my son the best outcome in the cases he handled for him. Whenever I had a question or didn't understand something, Scot was always quick to get back to my emails or phone calls. I had heard he was a good criminal lawyer before we hired him and we are definitely not sorry. We are very, very pleased with Scot and do highly recommend him. read less
Best attorney ever I have had lawyers in the past and Scott surpassed them all. He will keep you very informed throughout the... read moreI have had lawyers in the past and Scott surpassed them all. He will keep you very informed throughout the entire ordeal. He is always accessible by phone and will meet pretty much anywhere. His demeanor is extremely professional both in and out of the courtroom. He examined all the details of my case and fought for me throughout the whole process. Best courtroom attorney that I have ever seen in action! We had our backs against the wall and he pushed through using his expertise and knowledge to gain a favorable outcome. I would recommend him to anyone! read less
Scot Scot has worked on several of my cases and each time has done an excellent job. He gets things done... read moreScot has worked on several of my cases and each time has done an excellent job. He gets things done quickly and with his clients best interests in mind. read less
Criminal Defense Scot is an excellent attorney. Scot was able to achieve an excellent result for me. I highly recommend him. He... read moreScot is an excellent attorney. Scot was able to achieve an excellent result for me. I highly recommend him. He was quick to respond to calls and emails. He was always on time and never kept me waiting. read less
Colleague of Mr. Courtney I work in the same field as Mr. Courtney and have known him for around 10 years. He is very... read moreI work in the same field as Mr. Courtney and have known him for around 10 years. He is very knowledgeable and is aggressive when necessary. He has a good rapport with his clients. Our office has worked several cases with him, and we often refer cases to him. I would not hesitate to call Mr. Courtney if I was in need of a criminal defense attorney. read less
Scot Courtney Scot Courtney is the MOST courteous, professional, responsive attorney I have ever dealt with. He is prompt and provides excellent... read moreScot Courtney is the MOST courteous, professional, responsive attorney I have ever dealt with. He is prompt and provides excellent communication to his clients. I was 100% happy with his service. read less
Professional, Honest, and Highly Recommended Attorney!!! Mr. Courtney was extremely professional and attentive. He really listened to my situation, which put me at ease as I... read moreMr. Courtney was extremely professional and attentive. He really listened to my situation, which put me at ease as I knew I was in good hands from the start. Scot was great about answering his phone and getting back to me. He was also extremely informative of what to expect during the process. My case was rare and the charges ended up not being filed so Mr. Courtney was extremely honest and refunded me the portion of money for services not yet rendered. Highly Recommended! read less
Trustworthy, Prompt and Knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend Scot R. Courtney. Mr. Courtney ensured that I was aware of every option I had as a client and also went the extra... read moreMr. Courtney ensured that I was aware of every option I had as a client and also went the extra step of making sure I clearly understood all the benefits and risks associated with each option. Ultimately his consultations, recommendations and representation placed me at an advantage in my case. I feel Mr. Courtney always had my best interests put front and center. He was very accessible and punctual to boot. read less
The information contained on this website is presented for informational and marketing purposes only and is not to be understood as legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice respecting your individual needs. The Law Offices of Scot Courtney looks forward to speaking with you about your particular needs. Please note, however, that the mere act of contacting our firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. As a result, you should never send any confidential information to our office until a Representation Agreement has been signed by both you and The Law Offices of Scot Courtney.