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Legal Insights

Whether you’re looking for more information on charges you’re currently facing or looking for ways to educate yourself on Texas law, the Guzman Law Firm blog is full of valuable insights for any Texan. Filter through a multitude of topics for advice, informaton, and more in our blog.
A man standing trial in federal court

What to Know about Federal Conspiracy Charges

If you’re facing a federal conspiracy charge, the weight of the federal government is against you. Unlike state-level charges, federal conspiracy cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice...
two police officers searching the trunk of a motorist’s car.

What Is Probable Cause in a Search for Drugs or Firearms?

If you or a loved one has been subjected to a search for drugs or firearms, you might be wondering whether the search was legal — and what the police...
Several vehicles involved in the same accident

Who Is Liable in a Multi-Vehicle Accident in Texas?

When multiple vehicles are involved in a crash, untangling who is liable becomes a complicated and frustrating process — and getting compensation can be even harder. Whether you were rear-ended...
A motorist taking a breathalyzer test

What Happens if You Refuse a Breathalyzer in San Antonio?

If you’re pulled over in San Antonio on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) and you refuse a breathalyzer test, you could be facing serious legal consequences, including an automatic...
A judge’s gavel resting on a calendar with a date labeled “court.”

What Are the Consequences of Missing a Court Date in Texas?

Missing a court date in Texas isn’t something to take lightly. Whether you forgot, misunderstood the schedule, or deliberately ignored the summons, the consequences can be serious, ranging from bench...
two Texas motorists in a car accident

How Texas Law Handles Uninsured Drivers in Car Accidents

Car accidents in Texas are stressful enough on their own, but when one or more parties involved don’t have car insurance, things can get even more complicated. In Texas, laws...
Man pointing a gun

What Is the Punishment for Firearm Trafficking in Texas?

If you’ve been charged with firearm trafficking in Texas, you’re facing a potentially life-altering legal situation that requires immediate attention. These charges carry some of the most severe penalties in...
An overhead highway sign that says state law no driving while impaired

DWI Checkpoints in San Antonio: Are They Legal?

One of the most common questions residents have about the driving while intoxicated (DWI) laws in Texas is about the legality of DWI checkpoints. Are these checkpoints legal? Can law...
A person in handcuffs beside a firearm

First Time Gun Charges in Texas: What to Expect

Texas is well known for its strong gun culture and the relative accessibility of firearm ownership. You might conflate this accessibility with leniency when it comes to Texas gun laws...
A big rig that has been pulled over by a police officer

What Happens if Your CDL Is Suspended for a DWI in Texas?

Commercial truck drivers in Texas work hard to make a living, and their livelihood depends on keeping a clean driving record. If you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI)...
A man in handcuffs standing beside drug paraphernalia

The Difference Between State and Federal Drug Charges in Texas

Drug-related offenses in Texas can lead to serious legal consequences, but not all drug charges are made equal. Some cases are prosecuted at the state level, while others escalate to...
A personal injury lawyer helping a client file a lawsuit

How to File a Claim for Personal Injury in Texas

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for personal injury in Texas — but getting what you deserve can be anything but...
A man being led away in handcuffs by a police officer

What Is the Penalty for Assault in Texas?

Assault charges in Texas carry severe penalties, ranging from fines and probation to years in prison, depending on the circumstances of the case. Whether an assault is classified as a...
A person brandishing a knife

Penalties for Aggravated Assault in Texas

Aggravated assault is a serious criminal offense in Texas that carries severe legal consequences, including substantial fines, long-term imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. If you or someone you know...
Two Texas motorists involved in a car accident

What Is Comparative Negligence in Texas Personal Injury?

If you’ve been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. However, determining fault in a personal injury case isn’t always straightforward —...
Drunk man reaching for his car keys

5 Things to Know about a Third DWI in Texas

Being charged with a third DWI in Texas isn’t just another offense — it’s a felony that could dramatically alter the course of your life. While you may have navigated...
A motorist who has experienced personal injury as a result of a car accident

How to Pursue Damages for Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality in Texas, where high speeds and big trucks combine to create one of the most dangerous roadway systems in the country. Because of these...
A judge’s gavel beside a paper marked “criminal record”

Do I Qualify for DWI Expungement in Texas?

If you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, you may be wondering if it’s possible to have your record wiped clean. A DWI charge can have long-term...
Judge’s gavel and a marijuana leaf on a table

How to Get a Possession Charge Dismissed

Facing a possession charge in Texas can be an overwhelming and life-altering experience. Whether you’re carrying a lot or a little, the consequences of a conviction can impact your future...
Man in handcuffs, how to beat a simple assault charge in Texas

How to Beat a Simple Assault Charge in Texas

If you or a loved one has been charged with assault, you may be wondering how to beat a simple assault charge in Texas. The first step is to remain...
Married couple on a sofa facing away from one another

What Is a No-Fault Divorce in Texas?

Ending a marriage can be an emotionally challenging process, but no-fault divorce laws aim to simplify some of the legal complexity. So, what is a no-fault divorce? A no-fault divorce...
two cars involved in a head-on collision

What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas

There’s no way around it, being involved in a car accident is awful. The accident itself puts your life in danger, but the aftermath can be just as bad, leaving...
Police officers looking inside a suspect’s vehicle

When Can the Police Search Your Car?

In Texas, police officers can only search your car under specific circumstances dictated by state and federal law. Whether you were stopped for a traffic violation or suspected of criminal...
a lawyer reviewing his client’s DWI case

How to Choose the Best DWI Lawyer in San Antonio

Facing a DWI (driving while intoxicated) charge in San Antonio can make it feel like your life is over. We won’t lie to you, from the legal consequences to the...
2nd DWI In Texas: Penalties And The Possibilities Of Jail Time

Second DWI in Texas: Penalties and Defenses

A second DWI charge in Texas is no small matter. The state imposes significantly harsher penalties for repeat offenders compared to first-time DWI charges. If you’re facing a second DWI...
Divorce lawyer pointing at where to sign on the divorce paperwork.

How To File for Divorce in Texas

Going through a divorce is one of life’s most challenging experiences, and the legal process can feel overwhelming when you’re already dealing with the emotional stress of leaving a relationship...
Unhappy married couple sitting on the couch

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Texas?

Going through a divorce is emotionally draining, and the uncertainty about how long the process will take can add another layer of stress to an already challenging time for your...
A health insurance claim form, a stethoscope, and money

Can You Sue the Insurance Company?

If you’ve ever felt wronged by an insurance adjuster, you may have wondered “Can you sue the insurance company?” The short answer is yes. Insurance companies are legally obligated to...
a person in handcuffs holding a shot glass and car keys

What’s the Difference Between DWI vs DUI in Texas

If you’ve been charged with high or drunk driving in Texas, you may be confused about whether you’re facing a DWI or DUI charge. This confusion is completely understandable, as...
First DWI in Texas: What to Expect

First DWI in Texas: What to Expect

Facing a first DWI in Texas can be nerve-wracking and stressful. What probably started out as an innocent night on the town with a few drinks quickly ended with your...
A couple signing divorce papers

What to Look for in a Divorce Lawyer in San Antonio

Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences of your life. Tensions are high and the stakes are even higher; divorces usually determine things like the...
people crossing illegally through a border fence

The Texas Good Samaritan Law and Smuggling Cases

The Texas Good Samaritan Law applies to lawful and emergency aid situations, but cannot shield anyone from prosecution for participating in or enabling criminal activities, including smuggling.  While this law...
A police officer discovering illicit drugs in the back of a car.

What Are the Federal Drug Trafficking Sentencing Guidelines?

Federal drug trafficking charges carry serious consequences, often resulting in long prison sentences, hefty fines, and a criminal record that can follow you for life. For residents of Laredo and...
a big rig truck on the highway

How to Appeal a CDL Suspension in Texas

If your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) has been suspended in Texas, you’re likely feeling nervous about getting back on the road. A CDL suspension can have a profound impact on...
Marijuana joints on a table.

What Are the Penalties for Repeat Offenders for Marijuana in Texas?

Although the substance is legal in many states around the country, Texas maintains some of the strictest laws regarding marijuana, and penalties can be especially severe for repeat offenders. If...
A clenched fist

What Is the Difference between Assault and Aggravated Assault?

In Texas, while assault and aggravated assault are both serious criminal offenses, they carry distinct charges and therefore different legal implications. While both crimes involve causing harm or threatening harm...
Car smuggling humans getting pulled over by the police

Smuggler vs. Trafficker: What’s the Difference?

One of the largest difference makers that will greatly affect your federal charges for border-related offenses is whether you’re accused of smuggling or trafficking. While smuggling and trafficking are terms...
Judge sitting at the desk with a handful of drug money from a case

How to Fight Asset Forfeiture in Drug Trafficking Charges in Texas

If you’ve had your assets seized due to drug trafficking charges in Texas, you’re likely feeling frustrated, angry, and overwhelmed. This loss on top of criminal charges creates an enormous...
Border patrol looking for an undocumented immigrant in Texas

Consequences of Transporting Undocumented Immigrants in Texas

If you or a loved one are facing charges for transporting undocumented immigrants, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed when confronted with potential legal consequences. Confronting the extreme penalties for alien...
Marijuana gummy bear edible next to cannabis buds

Are Edibles Legal in Texas?

The legal landscape for cannabis products in Texas is confusing, with evolving but strict laws and a cavalcade of technically legal substances rocketing to popularity in quick succession. It’s no...
A pair of hands emerging from inside of a freight trailer

Legal Defenses against Human Smuggling Charges in Texas

Facing human smuggling charges in Texas is a serious and potentially life-altering situation. These charges carry significant legal penalties and can negatively affect your freedom and reputation. If you or...
A person exchanging money for drugs

Steps to Take if Accused of Conspiracy Charges for Drugs

Being accused of conspiracy charges for drugs is a serious matter that can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. Beyond the severity of drug conspiracy...
a set of car keys next to an alcoholic beverage

What Is Intoxication Manslaughter in Texas?

What is intoxication manslaughter in Texas? Simply put, it is a serious charge that occurs when an individual causes the death of another person due to intoxication from drugs or...
Judge’s gavel and a marijuana leaf on a table

What to Do if Arrested for Marijuana Possession in a National Park

Getting arrested for marijuana possession in a national park can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when different rules apply depending on where you are. While marijuana laws in Texas have...
a personal firearm being stolen from a safe

What Are the Penalties for Theft of a Firearm in Texas?

Theft of a firearm is a serious crime in Texas, carrying significant legal penalties including up to two years in jail and $10,000 in fines. Not to mention the social...
a big rig truck on the highway

What Felonies Disqualify You from Getting a CDL?

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is essential for anyone looking to pursue a career in professional driving in Texas, where the thousands of miles of integral highway support plenty of...
A patrol car pulling over another vehicle

What Is Illegal Search and Seizure in a Vehicle?

Illegal search and seizure in a vehicle is a serious issue by which law enforcement can infringe upon your constitutional rights. It occurs when law enforcement officers conduct a search...
A judge passing sentence while a defendant and his lawyer look on

The Chances of Winning an ALR Hearing in Texas

For commercial drivers, retaining their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) after a DWI arrest is critical, not just for your career but for your livelihood. Given the high stakes, navigating the...
An array of illicit drugs on a table

Do CDL Drivers Get Drug Tested?

Commercial drivers are the backbone of the U.S. economy. Truck drivers work long, tough hours keeping the supply chain moving and helping ensure that goods and products reach their destinations...
Man in an orange prison uniform being led from a courtroom

What Are Some Human Smuggling Examples?

Human smuggling charges are terrifying for their steep potential punishments, but also for their extreme complexity. Human smuggling crimes often exist at the intersection of both federal and Texas law...
Back view of truck driver getting into his truck

What Disqualifies You From Getting a CDL in Texas?

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas is essential for those seeking to pursue a career in commercial driving. However, to get a CDL in Texas, you must meet...
Woman being arrested for possession of a controlled substance

When Should You Get a Lawyer for Felony Drug Charges?

When facing felony drug charges, it is essential to know when and why you should seek legal assistance in these situations. These charges are serious and can have significant legal...
A judge holding legal documents and a gavel

What is an ALR Hearing in Texas: a Guide for CDL Holders

When facing a DWI charge in Texas, one of the crucial steps in the legal process is the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Following an arrest for a DWI, an...
Trucker opening the door of his semi-truck

Can You Get a CDL with a Felony in Texas?

Navigating life after a felony conviction can be incredibly challenging, especially when it comes to securing and maintaining a stable career. If you’re thinking about getting a Commercial Driver’s License...
Burglar intruder inside a house with a flashlight

The Difference Between Burglary vs. Robbery in Texas

In Texas, the primary difference between burglary vs. robbery lies in the target of the crime and the presence of victims.  This article will dive deeper into the legal definitions...
Two men trading money with a smuggled woman in the background

What Is Human Smuggling in Texas?

Human smuggling, particularly in areas like Texas, has become a significant legal and humanitarian issue. When discussing “what is human smuggling,” it’s vital to differentiate it from human trafficking, another...
CDL driver with his hands on the wheel of a semi-truck