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Criminal Law FAQ
Our Fort Worth criminal law FAQ answers common questions about arrests, court appearances, penalties, and record sealing. Browse the topics below or schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.
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Fort Worth Criminal Law FAQ
What happens after an arrest in Tarrant County?
After booking, an arrested individual generally receives a magistrate hearing within about 48 hours, where bail and initial conditions are set. From there, the case proceeds through the Tarrant County criminal court system, often at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center, toward arraignment and, if needed, trial.
What happens at a magistrate hearing in Tarrant County?
After an arrest, a person generally receives a magistrate hearing within about 48 hours, where the magistrate informs them of the charges and sets bail conditions before the case proceeds through the Tarrant County court system.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Under the Texas Penal Code, misdemeanors (Class C, B, or A) generally carry fines or up to a year in jail, while felonies (state jail through first-degree) can carry prison sentences exceeding one year and substantially higher fines.
Can a criminal record be sealed or expunged in Texas?
Depending on the case outcome, Texas law allows expunction (complete removal, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55) for certain dismissed or acquitted charges, and nondisclosure orders for some other qualifying cases — eligibility depends heavily on the specific charge and outcome.
Where are Tarrant County criminal cases heard?
Tarrant County criminal cases are commonly processed through the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center in downtown Fort Worth, though specific court assignments vary by charge type and severity.
After an arrest, the next steps may include booking, a magistrate hearing, bond conditions, an initial court setting, and discussions with the prosecutor. The exact sequence depends on whether the accusation is a misdemeanor or felony and on the court assigned to the case. Keep every notice, bond document, and court date together, and avoid missing deadlines or violating release conditions. A defense attorney can review the allegations, available evidence, possible defenses, and the range of outcomes that may apply. Questions about expunction or an order of nondisclosure require a separate eligibility review because the result can depend on the charge, disposition, waiting period, and prior history. Before a consultation, write a short timeline, list potential witnesses, and gather messages, photographs, videos, receipts, or other records that may provide context. Do not contact an alleged victim or witness if a protective order, bond condition, or attorney advises against it. Online answers are educational and cannot account for every fact, local practice, or change in Texas law. Prompt legal advice can help you understand immediate obligations, protect important evidence, and make informed decisions about the next stage of the case.
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