Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney 5 Star Client Rating

Attorney Derek Emmons is a former Bexar County Assistant District Attorney and has unparalleled experience and reputation in the legal community.

San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyer

Aggressively Defending Your Rights in Bexar County, TX

For many people, a criminal conviction is simply not an option. Whether you have been accused, arrested, or are under investigation for a crime, you need a criminal defense attorney in San Antonio who can aggressively defend your rights in any situation. If you face criminal charges, you should immediately seek legal assistance so a qualified criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights from the start.

You’ll find dedicated legal representation at Law Office of Derek W. Emmons, P.C.. Attorney Derek W. Emmons provides experienced, compassionate, and determined counsel. He represents clients against both state and federal criminal charges in San Antonio and throughout Texas. He has deep knowledge of Texas criminal laws and delivers the legal support you both need and deserve.

When you choose Law Office of Derek W. Emmons, P.C., you work with a criminal attorney who understands the complexities of the legal system in San Antonio. Our local experience means we know Bexar County court procedures and how judges and prosecutors approach cases. We use this insight to build defense strategies, putting your needs first.

The San Antonio area presents unique challenges for anyone dealing with criminal charges. Local ordinances and Texas law often affect the direction of a case. Our team keeps up with changes in the law that influence anyone facing criminal charges in Bexar County or surrounding communities. By staying current on Texas criminal law and area court procedures, we position ourselves to defend your rights at every stage.

Understanding the Criminal Court Process in Bexar County

Bexar County follows procedures that reflect both state law and local rules. After an arrest, authorities generally must bring the person before a magistrate within 48 hours. At magistration, the magistrate reads the charges, provides statutory warnings, determines whether probable cause exists, and sets bond or release conditions. These warnings include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to have an attorney present during police questioning. Some felony bail decisions are made by a judge rather than a magistrate, and a judge can deny bail for certain violent and sexual felonies after a hearing. If the case proceeds, further hearings take place through the criminal courts in San Antonio. Municipal citations and juvenile matters can be assigned to different court buildings depending on the case. Our familiarity with these courts helps clients understand what to expect and prepare for every step along the way.

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Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in San Antonio?

You may consider handling your case on your own, but hiring a criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference. The long-term cost of an unfavorable result without representation is often much higher than investing in an advocate to defend you from a conviction. At the earliest stage, the process includes a preliminary hearing or grand jury review, which determines whether a case continues. A criminal defense attorney in San Antonio, such as Derek W. Emmons, examines your investigation for issues and applies proven defense strategies. With knowledge and experience, our team provides guidance as you move through the system. We have the time and commitment to invest in your case.

The court system in San Antonio can move quickly and often requires local knowledge for effective navigation. Working with a defense lawyer familiar with Bexar County gives you the benefit of years of courtroom experience. We understand the requirements, timelines, and preferences of local judges, allowing us to advise and support you as your case progresses. Whether facing a first-time DWI or a more serious felony, our understanding of local standards equips you for each stage.

He has experience defending those with both misdemeanorand felonycharges, some cases that he has helped clients with include:

Sex Crimes- Sexual Assault, Indecency with a child, Online Solicitation of a minor, Sexual Assault of a child, Indecent Exposure
Assault
Battery
Domestic violence
Aggravated Assault
Expungements, including expunction matters that seek to completely remove an arrest or charge from the public record. An order of non-disclosure is different because it restricts public access rather than removing the record.
Criminal mischief
Trespass
DUI/DWI
Drug crimes, including drug possession, distribution or sale, and/or drug manufacturing
Larceny
Theft, including robbery and burglary
Auto/Grand Theft
Petty theft/Shoplifting
Juvenile Crimes
Violation of probation, including representation in a motion to revoke probation proceeding based on an alleged violation
White Collar Crimes

Our Services

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Schedule a Free Consultation We Are Ready to Help

Attorney Derek W. Emmons is an experienced trial lawyer who gives his personal attention to every one of his clients. At Emmons Law Firm, PLLC, our San Antonio criminal defense attorney works hard to get our clients the outcome they’re looking for and deserve. If you’re facing criminal charges in Texas and would like to discuss your case with a professional attorney, contact Attorney Derek W. Emmons today. During a free consultation, he will listen to the details of your case, answer your questions, and decide whether or not he feels equipped to help with your case. Don’t wait any longer; call the Law Office of Derek W. Emmons, P.C. today!

What Is the Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A criminal defense attorney advises you of your rights, helps you navigate the legal system, and advocates for your best interests. A criminal attorney defends individuals charged with misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors can carry jail time of up to one year, while felonies may mean more than a year in prison. All criminal charges have serious consequences, so finding an experienced, professional criminal lawyer in San Antonio is essential.

The role of a criminal defense lawyer covers multiple areas, from protecting your rights during police interviews and interrogations to advocating for reduced bail and advising you on your plea choices. You have the right to remain silent and request an attorney during police questioning. A San Antonio criminal defense attorney will interview witnesses, gather evidence, examine police searches for legality, and assess chemical tests as part of your defense. Texas law generally requires a warrant before police search a cell phone or another wireless communication device incident to an arrest. The lawyer represents you at hearings, helps you decide on the right plea, stands with you at trial, and represents you at sentencing if needed.

Working closely with your criminal defense attorney lets you build a defense strategy focused on your specific case. In Bexar County, judges and prosecutors approach each case based on the circumstances and prior record. We review police reports, prosecution evidence, and whether officials followed Texas law and local procedures. Texas law excludes evidence obtained in violation of state or federal law from use against a defendant in a criminal case. This thorough approach allows us to determine a path as your case moves through San Antonio’s courts.

Put Over 20 Years of Legal Experience on Your Side

Every criminal case is different, but every client deserves an experienced, determined legal advocate. Hiring a criminal defense attorney who understands Texas law and stands up for you gives you informed representation throughout the criminal process.

You remain innocent until proven guilty and have the right to legal protection throughout your case. Attorney Derek W. Emmons puts his skill, resolve, and years of practice to work for you, standing up for your legal rights every step of the way. A former Bexar County Assistant District Attorney, he has handled more than 1,000 cases and taken over 80 criminal cases to trial.

When you visit our office, you receive aggressive representation, personal attention, and focused service. With over 20 years in practice, San Antonio criminal lawyer Derek W. Emmons defends people charged with all types of offenses. He is licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas and the Western District of Texas Federal Court System. Clients work directly with Mr. Emmons rather than being assigned to junior associates.

Discuss Your Criminal Case with Derek W. Emmons

We offer free, confidential consultations for people facing an investigation, arrest, criminal charge, or upcoming court setting. You can discuss the details of your situation privately before Mr. Emmons determines whether he is equipped to help.

Contact our San Antonio criminal defense lawyer for a free, confidential consultation and case evaluation. Call (210) 702-3054or submit an online contact form today.

People in San Antonio and Bexar County often ask about the steps following an arrest or formal charge. Local police departments, including the San Antonio Police Department and Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, may have their own investigation protocols. Our legal team keeps local procedures in mind as we guide you through the process.

Penalties & Sentencing for Common Offenses in San Antonio

San Antonio courts impose penalties based on Texas statutes, but actual consequences depend on the charge, the person’s prior record, and other case-specific factors. Texas classifies misdemeanors as Class A, Class B, or Class C. A Class A misdemeanor carries up to one year in county jail and a fine up to $4,000. A Class B misdemeanor carries up to 180 days in county jail and a fine up to $2,000, while a Class C misdemeanor carries a fine up to $500 and no jail term.

Texas felony classifications include state jail, third-degree, second-degree, first-degree, and capital felonies. A state jail felony carries 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and a fine up to $10,000. Third-degree felonies carry two to 10 years in prison, second-degree felonies carry two to 20 years, and first-degree felonies carry five to 99 years or life. Our understanding of how judges approach sentencing in Bexar County helps guide our clients and prepares them for what lies ahead.

A DWI arrest can also trigger Administrative License Revocation, a civil Texas Department of Public Safety process that can suspend a driver’s license after a refused or failed blood or breath test. A driver has 15 days after receiving the suspension notice to request a hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Bail Work in San Antonio?

Bond can involve a cash bond, surety bond, personal recognizance bond, or specific release conditions. The requirements depend on the charge, prior record, flight risk, community safety considerations, and the official authorized to make the bail decision.

What Happens If I Miss a Court Date in Bexar County?

Missing a scheduled court appearance often results in a new criminal charge for Failure to Appear and may trigger a warrant for your arrest. The court can also forfeit bond and potentially increase the amount required for release. Contact your lawyer as soon as possible if you miss a court date.

Are All Criminal Charges Handled at the Same Courthouse?

No. The assigned court and courthouse depend on the type of charge, the court with jurisdiction, and whether the matter involves an adult or juvenile.

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Our Client Reviews

“Best DUI attorney in San Antonio if you ask me!”
“Always available to discuss your concerns about your case. Always promptly gets back to you to answer your questions.”

- Steve N.
“He handled my case with professionalism”
I enthusiastically recommend Derek Emmons to anyone with legal needs in his areas of practice. He handled my case with professionalism, provided me with clear expectations throughout an unfamiliar process, and advocated tirelessly on my behalf to ensure the best possible outcome.

- George R.

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Victories We've Won For Clients

Reputation for Excellence

Dismissed State of Texas vs. A.E.
Indecent Exposure
Dismissed State of Texas vs. A.C.
Assault Bodily Injury
Probation Terminated Successfully State of Texas vs. A.B.
Theft $50-$500
Rejected State of Texas vs J.D.
Assault Bodily Injury-Family
Dismissed State of Texas A.A.
Assault Bodily Injury/Married
Dismissed Day of Trial (Medina County) State of Texas vs. C.B.
Possession of Controlled Substance 1-4 grams

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Contact Us For a FREE Consultation

Start Your Defense

If you are facing criminal charges or if you even believe you are merely under investigation for a crime, contact the Emmons Law Firm, P.C. as soon as possible for a free and confidential consultation. With over 20 years of legal experience, Attorney Derek Emmons understands what you are up against—and what it will take to aggressively advocate for your rights. You need an attorney who understands all sides of the criminal justice system; you need the Emmons Law Firm, P.C.

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You Should Trust Your Defense Attorney

Get to Know Attorney Derek Emmons

Over 20 Years of Criminal Trial Experience
Honest, Straight-Forward Communication
Hands-On Service
5 Star Client Rating
Former Prosecutor