Frequently asked questions.

If you have been accused of a crime in Houston or surrounding communities, you must realize that the odds are stacked against you. In addition to the embarrassment of a criminal arrest, you also face the possibility of spending time in jail and a permanent criminal record. If you have been notified that you are under investigation for a criminal offense, the best thing that you can do to protect your reputation and your future is to contact a reliable criminal defense lawyer.

Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC understands the serious nature of your situation, and we have helped over 300,000 clients fight misdemeanor and felony charges throughout the Houston area. To learn more about your criminal charges and the type of cases that Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC handles, please review the answers below. For additional information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Why do I need an attorney for a simple traffic violation?
In Texas, all Class C misdemeanors, even traffic violations such as those punishable by fine only, are considered criminal charges. If you pay a traffic ticket, you are, in essence, pleading guilty to a criminal offense, which equals a criminal conviction on your record. A traffic offense conviction can turn out to be a far more serious matter than one might originally think.

It can result in higher insurance premiums, DPS surcharges, the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, or even the loss of your job. Acquiring the help of an attorney can increase your chances of avoiding these consequences and keeping your driving record clean.

What types of cases do you handle?
Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC proudly defends clients against a wide range of criminal offenses, arranging from Class C misdemeanors and City Ordinance violations, to first degree felony charges. With over 60 years of combined extensive experience, the knowledgeable attorneys at Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC have the skills and understanding to navigate the inner workings of the criminal justice system to provide you with the utmost services to handle even the most complex criminal cases.

How much will you charge for my case?
At Rene Gonzalez & Associates, we understand that everyone deserve quality representation regardless of their financial means. Our fees for traffic violations start at just $45, and include all phases of representation, from arraignments, to bench and jury trials, to any subsequent legal services as deemed necessary, such as motions, appeals, and consequent court appearances. Our attorneys are ambitious and dedicated, which means you will never have to worry about sacrificing superior legal representation for affordability.

What courts will you represent me in?
The attorneys at Rene Gonzalez and Associates, PLLC will represent you in all judge and jury courts at the Houston Municipal Courts; Justice of the Peace Courts of Harris County; and misdemeanor and felony courts at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center. We are also exceptionally experienced in providing legal representation to our clients in Pasadena, Jacinto City, West University, the City of Bellaire, Galena Park, Jersey Village, Southside Place, Hedwig Village, and South Houston.

Additionally, our attorneys have prior working relationships with municipalities such as the Cities of Galveston and Pearland, which allow us to handle your cases directly with the cities’ prosecutors and judges, all without you having to attend court. This provides invaluable flexibility and convenience to our clients, and allows you to receive the same superior legal services that Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC provides to all of our clients, while at the same time save your money, your time, and your record.

Am I going to go to jail?
Jail is always a possibility when facing criminal charges. Contrary to popular belief, most traffic violations are arrestable offenses. Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC is committed to providing you with superior defense services so your chances of being found guilty are reduced significantly. Furthermore, Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC always aggressively negotiates with the prosecution for a reduction or dismissal of your charges to avoid a conviction or jail time.

What are common penalties for a criminal conviction?
The penalties for a criminal conviction will largely depend on the type of crimes committed. Penalties for a felony crime are much more severe than those for a misdemeanor offense. Furthermore, certain facts surrounding your case may also increase the penalties, such as whether or not you have any prior convictions on your record, whether weapons were involved in the crime, if the crimes lead to injury or death, and more.

Generally, the penalties for a criminal conviction typically include fines, probation, time in jail or prison, community service, driver’s license suspension, and a conviction on your permanent record. At Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC, we will examine the charges against you in detail with the goal of obtaining a resolution that is favorable and satisfactory to you.

Can I get my charges reduced or dismissed?
Absolutely! At Rene Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC, our attorneys will always try to negotiate for a reduction or dismissal of your charges. Our excellent relationship with the prosecution and police officers mean that it is very rare when the charges in your case cannot be negotiated for a reduction or dismissal.