Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Dallas, Texas

Criminal defense lawyers in Dallas handle thousands of cases each year at the Frank Crowley Courts Building. Texas penalties are steep. A first-offense DWI alone can mean up to 180 days in jail. Felony charges carry years in state prison and fines up to $10,000. The attorneys listed below defend clients across Dallas County courts. Review their profiles, compare experience, and connect with the right fit for your case.

Our team evaluates Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers on credentials, track record, and client reviews to help you find a good fit.

  • Bar standing and public disciplinary history review
  • Documented case results and courtroom trial experience
  • Peer recognition within the legal community
  • Client reviews, communication, and responsiveness
  • Aggregate satisfaction signals from independent sources

Rankings are determined independently based on public information and editorial research.

Best-Rated Dallas Criminal Lawyers for Felony and Misdemeanor Cases

Screenshot of the Kraft & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.C. Website
2777 N Stemmons Fwy Suite #1300, Dallas, TX 75207, USA

Kraft & Associates is a Dallas personal injury and disability law firm that has served North Texas since 1971. The team handles car accidents, truck collisions, wrongful death, and Social Security disability claims. They also take on DWI defense cases.

Staff members average 25 years with the firm. Attorneys William Stacy Webb, R. Matthew Stewart, and Robert A. Kraft provide Spanish-speaking services and operate on a contingency fee basis.

Screenshot of the The Goolsby Law Firm Website
2650 Valley View Ln, building 2 suite 100, Dallas, TX 75234, USA

The Goolsby Law Firm is a Dallas criminal defense practice led by Mike Goolsby, a former Dallas County prosecutor who served as chief of the family violence court. The firm handles DWI, drug possession, assault, federal crimes, and sex offenses throughout Dallas, Denton, Tarrant, and Collin counties.

Recognized by the American Bar Association and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Goolsby has secured dismissals on felony charges and DWI cases. D Magazine named him among Dallas's best lawyers. Initial case reviews are free.

Screenshot of the Warren Abrams, P.C. Website
10300 N Central Expy #283, Dallas, TX 75231, USA

Warren Abrams, P.C., provides criminal defense in Dallas with over 30 years of trial experience. Warren Abrams is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and holds certification from the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He served as Chief Prosecutor for the Dallas County District Attorney's Office.

Texas Super Lawyers has recognized him for 17 consecutive years. Son Joshua Abrams, also a former Dallas County prosecutor, joins the practice. Together, they handle DWI, drug offenses, assault, murder, federal crimes, and white collar cases. The firm accepts payment plans and offers complimentary consultations.

Screenshot of the Palmer Perlstein Website
15455 Dallas Pkwy Suite 540, Addison, TX 75001, USA

Palmer Perlstein brings over 140 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense, personal injury, civil rights, and appeals cases in Dallas and Fort Worth. The team includes two former assistant district attorneys.

Their attorneys have obtained not guilty verdicts in murder trials and dismissals in sexual assault cases. D Magazine has listed multiple team members among Dallas's best lawyers. The firm also pursues police brutality and excessive force claims. Case evaluations are available at no charge.

Screenshot of the Gallian Firm Website
3500 Maple Ave, Suite 1150, Dallas, TX 75219, USA

Gallian Firm handles state and federal criminal defense along with civil litigation from its Dallas office. The firm has completed over 60 jury trials and resolved more than 500 cases. Partners Gregg and Jaclyn Gallian lead a team that defends DWI, assault, drug charges, fraud, and sex crimes.

Notable results include a not guilty verdict for a physician charged with health care fraud conspiracy and multiple felony dismissals. They maintain 178 five-star reviews online. The firm also represents businesses in commercial disputes and employment defense.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Brian Corrigan Website
1008 Ridge Rd St. 101, Rockwall, TX 75087, USA

The Law Office of Brian Corrigan provides Board Certified criminal defense from Rockwall. Brian Corrigan has tried over 150 jury trials and handled thousands of felony and misdemeanor cases. He spent a decade as a prosecutor, including roles as a Dallas County felony chief and First Assistant District Attorney in Kaufman County.

He never lost a murder or capital murder trial during his prosecution career, winning 11 murder and 7 capital murder cases. Texas Super Lawyers recognized him from 2023 through 2025. He holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. The firm handles DWI, drug crimes, assault, family violence, sex crimes, and federal charges.

Screenshot of the Law Offices Of Robert S. Gregg Website
2024 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201, USA

The Law Offices of Robert S. Gregg focuses on case dismissals for clients charged with criminal offenses in Dallas and Fort Worth. Attorney Robert Gregg brings over 30 years of experience and has handled thousands of criminal matters. The firm maintains a 10.0 Avvo rating and was named a Top 10 Criminal Defense Law Firm by Attorney and Practice Magazine.

Practice areas include DWI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, theft, sex crimes, and weapons offenses. The team also handles personal injury claims.

Screenshot of the Asante Legal PLLC Website
705 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75202, USA

Asante Legal PLLC is a criminal defense firm in Dallas serving clients throughout Dallas, Collin, and Denton counties. Principal attorney Adwoa Asante has handled over 1,000 cases and secured hundreds of dismissals.

She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Ohio State University and With Honors from Emory Law School. The firm defends DWI charges, drug offenses, assault, family violence, felonies, and misdemeanors. Avvo recognized her with a Clients' Choice Award. Payment plans are available.

Screenshot of the The Shapiro Law Firm Website
701 E 15th St #204, Plano, TX 75074, USA

The Shapiro Law Firm has represented criminal defendants in Collin County and Dallas-Fort Worth for over 40 years. Howard Shapiro served as a Collin County prosecutor and municipal judge. Todd Shapiro, a former Dallas County assistant district attorney, tried more than 130 cases as a prosecutor. Peter Ganyard spent seven years as a Collin County prosecutor.

D Magazine named Todd among Dallas's best lawyers in 2023 and 2024. Texas Super Lawyers has selected him multiple years. The firm handles DWI, drug crimes, sex offenses, family violence, and white collar cases.

Screenshot of the Pelley Law Office Website
1312 14th St, Plano, TX 75074, USA

Pelley Law Office serves North Texas clients from Plano with bankruptcy, criminal defense, and family law services. The firm handles DWI, drug charges, and other criminal matters, as well as divorce and custody disputes. Consultations are offered at no cost.

Screenshot of the Haddad Law Firm Website
13601 Preston Rd Suite 765W, Dallas, TX 75240, USA

Haddad Law Firm provides criminal defense and personal injury representation in Dallas. Attorney Manny Haddad handles drug charges, assault, family violence, felonies, and misdemeanors. The firm also takes car accident and truck collision cases.

Clients receive direct access to their attorney throughout their case. The team serves Dallas, Collin, Tarrant, and Denton counties. Initial consultations are complimentary.

Screenshot of the The Beltz Law Firm Website
3200 Broadway Blvd #170, Garland, TX 75043, USA

The Beltz Law Firm handles criminal defense, traffic tickets, and personal injury cases throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Attorney Jeffrey Beltz founded the firm in 2003. The team processes thousands of cases annually and has earned top Google ratings in the region.

Practice areas include DWI defense, felonies, misdemeanors, license suspensions, and occupational driver licenses. The firm also pursues compensation for car and 18-wheeler accidents. Phone consultations are free.

Screenshot of the Winocour Law Website
1511 E Levee St Suite B, Dallas, TX 75207, USA

Winocour Law represents injury victims in Dallas with a 135-year tradition of legal service. The firm handles car accidents, truck collisions, and wrongful death claims. Attorneys are available 24/7 and work on contingency, meaning clients pay nothing unless they recover compensation.

Screenshot of the Mark A. Perez, Attorney at Law Website
3300 Oak Lawn Ave UNIT 700, Dallas, TX 75219, USA

Mark A. Perez is a Dallas criminal lawyer with 35 years of experience in federal and state courts. His firm defends clients charged with drug offenses, DWI, assault, theft, and other criminal matters throughout North Texas. Initial case evaluations are available.

Screenshot of the Peter Barrett Website
3500 Maple Ave Suite 550, Dallas, TX 75219, USA

Peter Barrett is a Dallas criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience and more than 100 jury trials. He defends clients in DWI, drug crimes, assault, theft, and federal cases. Attorney ratings rank him among top practitioners in the region.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Walker Fults Website
3500 Maple Ave, Suite 550, Dallas, TX 75219, USA

The Law Office of Walker Fults defends criminal cases in Dallas with an aggressive, trial-ready approach. Walker Fults earned his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law and his undergraduate degree from Duke University. He completed a federal clerkship at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas.

He has obtained not guilty verdicts at trial and full case dismissals. The firm handles federal crimes, DWI, drug offenses, assault, probation violations, and juvenile cases. He speaks Spanish and Chinese. Walker Fults is a third-generation Dallas trial lawyer.

Screenshot of the The Farmer Law Group, PLLC Website
Bank of America Plaza, Main St, Dallas, TX 75202, USA

The Farmer Law Group, PLLC handles criminal defense and personal injury cases from downtown Dallas. The bilingual team has served clients since 2007. They are available around the clock and defend DWI, drug charges, assault, and other criminal matters while also pursuing injury compensation.

Screenshot of the The Lugo Law Firm, PLLC Website
3300 Oak Lawn Ave UNIT 700, Dallas, TX 75219, USA

The Lugo Law Firm, PLLC provides criminal defense in Dallas with 20 years of legal experience. The firm handles federal crimes, juvenile offenses, DWI, drug charges, and other criminal matters. Attorneys serve clients throughout North Texas and provide complimentary case evaluations.

Screenshot of the James N. Vasilas & Associates Website
13747 Montfort Dr # 250, Dallas, TX 75240, USA

James N. Vasilas & Associates handles both criminal defense and immigration matters from its Dallas office. The firm defends DWI, drug charges, and cases ranging to capital murder. Immigration services include removal defense. This combined practice helps clients facing criminal charges with potential immigration consequences.

Screenshot of the Aulbaugh Law Firm Website
3300 Oak Lawn Ave UNIT 700, Dallas, TX 75219, USA

Aulbaugh Law Firm provides Board Certified criminal defense in Dallas. The firm handles DWI, drug crimes, felonies, and other criminal charges. Consultations are complimentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Dallas?

Fees vary by charge severity. Most Dallas defense attorneys charge flat fees for misdemeanors, starting in the low thousands. Felony cases cost more due to longer timelines and trial prep. Some lawyers offer payment plans. Always ask for a written fee agreement before signing.

How Long Do Criminal Cases Take in Dallas County?

Timelines depend on the charge. Misdemeanor cases in Dallas County often resolve in two to six months. Felony cases can take six months to two years or longer. Complex cases with multiple defendants or forensic evidence stretch even further. Your attorney can give you a realistic timeline after reviewing the facts.

What Happens at a First Court Appearance in Dallas?

You will be arraigned at Frank Crowley. The judge reads your charges and sets bail conditions. Misdemeanor cases go to the County Criminal Courts on the lower floors. Felony cases go to the Criminal District Courts upstairs. Having an attorney at this hearing helps protect your rights from day one.

Can Charges Be Dropped or Reduced in Dallas County?

Yes, dismissals and reductions happen often. Prosecutors may dismiss weak cases or reduce charges through plea negotiations. Your lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the arrest. Dallas County courts also offer diversion programs for certain first-time offenders.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Criminal Cases in Texas?

It depends on the offense. Misdemeanors carry a two-year statute of limitations. Most felonies have a three-year window. Serious crimes like murder and sexual assault have no time limit at all. Time spent outside Texas does not count toward the deadline.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor in Dallas?

A conviction stays on your record. Even a Class B misdemeanor can mean jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. That record affects jobs, housing, and professional licenses. A defense attorney can fight for a dismissal or keep the charge off your record through deferred adjudication.

What If I Am Arrested on a Weekend in Dallas?

You can still get a bond hearing. Dallas County magistrates are available around the clock at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. An attorney can push for a quick bond and start building your defense right away. Do not make statements to police without legal counsel present.

Types of Criminal Cases in Dallas, Texas

DWI and DUI. Drunk driving is one of the most common charges in Dallas County. A first DWI is a Class B misdemeanor with up to 180 days in jail. A BAC of 0.15 or higher bumps it to a Class A. Third offenses become felonies with up to 10 years in prison.

Drug Possession and Trafficking. Texas drug laws are among the harshest in the country. Possession of even small amounts of controlled substances can be a felony. Dallas is a major transit corridor, so federal trafficking charges are also common here.

Assault and Domestic Violence. Assault charges range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. Dallas County prosecutors pursue domestic violence cases aggressively. A family violence finding can trigger a protective order and firearm restrictions.

Theft and Burglary. Theft under $2,500 is a misdemeanor in Texas. Above that threshold, it becomes a felony. Burglary of a habitation is a second-degree felony. Dallas police also pursue organized retail theft rings.

Weapons Charges. Texas allows open and concealed carry for most adults. But unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon is a third-degree felony. Carrying a weapon in a prohibited location also leads to charges.

Federal Crimes. The Northern District of Texas federal courthouse sits in downtown Dallas. Federal charges include white-collar fraud, drug conspiracy, and firearms violations. These cases carry mandatory minimum sentences.

Juvenile Offenses. Dallas County has a dedicated juvenile justice system. Cases involving minors follow different procedures and focus more on rehabilitation. A defense attorney experienced in juvenile law can help protect a young person's future.

How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dallas

Check their courtroom experience. Dallas County has multiple criminal courts, each with its own judge and procedures. A lawyer who regularly appears at Frank Crowley knows the judges, prosecutors, and local court culture. That familiarity matters in negotiations and at trial.

Ask about their case results. Look for attorneys with a track record of dismissals, reduced charges, and not-guilty verdicts. Ask specifically about cases similar to yours. Past results are not guarantees, but they show capability.

Verify their focus area. Criminal law covers a wide range of charges. Some attorneys specialize in DWI defense while others focus on federal cases or violent crimes. Match the lawyer's strengths to your specific charge.

Evaluate their communication style. Your attorney should explain the process clearly and respond to calls or emails promptly. Criminal cases move fast in Dallas County. Missed deadlines or slow responses can hurt your case.

Understand the fee structure upfront. Ask whether fees are flat-rate or hourly. Clarify what is included, such as trial representation, motions, and investigator costs. Get everything in writing before you commit.

Criminal Penalties and Sentencing in Dallas County

Sentencing in Dallas County depends on the offense level and your criminal history. Misdemeanors can bring jail time, fines, and probation. Felonies range from state jail time to life in prison for the most serious charges.

Texas uses a determinate sentencing system. The judge or jury picks a sentence within the range set by law. Prior convictions can significantly increase the punishment range. A second-degree felony can become a first-degree if you have prior felony convictions.

Dallas County courts offer several alternatives to incarceration. Drug courts, mental health courts, and veterans courts provide structured programs for eligible defendants. Deferred adjudication lets first-time offenders avoid a final conviction if they complete probation. Your defense attorney can identify which options apply to your situation.