Houston Criminal Lawyers | Harris County Texas Defense Attorneys: Grand Jury Indictment

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Houston Criminal Attorney Andy Nolen Fights and Wins Cases Before a Grand Jury

Experienced Houston Criminal Attorneys should fight more felony cases before the grand jury. Few attorneys take advantage of this opportunity to get their client's case dismissed early on. To be indicted, a grand jury must find that there is probable cause (a probability) that the accused committed the criminal offense. In order for a case to be indicted by a grand jury, at least 9 grand jury members have to vote to true bill (indict) the case. However, if fewer than 9 members vote to indict, then the case is no billed (dismissed).

I have talked with prosecutors who have worked rotations at the grand jury and they agree that only a few attorneys regularly take advantage of the process. If a felony case is indicted (which happens in about 90% of felony cases), then the next step would be taking the case to trial. Of course, if the States' evidence is overwhelming and there is very little for the defense, then that case would be not good for presenting to the grand jury. Or, if the State's case is strong and the defense does not want to reveal their defensive theory, then the defense for strategic reasons may not want to contest the case before the grand jury.

As a matter of saving legal fees for my client as well as their anxiety of trial, I try to defend as many felony cases before the grand jury as possible.

To adequately prepare a grand jury defense packet can take many hours of work--sometimes as much time as it takes to prepare the case for trial. However, in the long way, it is a win win situation all around--the county saves money from not having to try the case and from not having to house the accused and the accused saves bond money (if still in jail).

Houston Criminal Attorneys Andy Nolen and Associates represent clients charged with crimes in State and Federal courts in Houston, Galveston, Houston, Houston, Texas, Beaumont, Austin, San Antonio, Waco, Dallas, Ft. Worth, Tyler, Sherman, Del Rio, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, Mc Allen, El Paso, Hempstead, Houston, Texas and all counties in Texas. The law firm of Andy Nolen and Associates is located in Houston, Texas; however, Attorney Andy Nolen appears in all criminal, juvenile, and family courts in Texas.

Houston Criminal Attorney Andy Nolen has over 22 years experience representing persons accused of committing criminal violations of State and Federal law.

Houston Criminal Attorney Andy Nolen treats every person they represent as if they were a friend and neighbor. When you call, likely Andy Nolen will answer your call himself. You will be dealing with Attorneys, not secretaries, assistants, or answering machines.

If we can be of any assistance, or you just want to talk about your situation, please call Houston Criminal Attorney Andy Nolen at 832-480-8951.