Criminal Defense Overview

Grand Jury Investigations

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers

In Texas, an indictment is generally required to charge a felony offense. Only a grand jury can return an indictment. The level of proof (probable cause) at a grand jury is significantly lower than the level of proof (beyond a reasonable doubt) required to convict a defendant at trial. While the defendant can testify at the grand jury, the rules of evidence do not apply, the defense lawyer cannot be present, and anything the defendant says can be used against him.

Grand juries in large counties hear up to a hundred or more cases a day. The vast majority of cases presented to the grand jury are indicted. Several of our lawyers have sat as grand jurors and have special insight into how the grand juries perform their duties. Many times, our attorneys have successfully persuaded grand juries not to indict our client, including in high-profile cases such as State v. Tavey, wherein Tavey was accused of having kidnapped five children from a Houston home

If you received a grand jury subpoena, immediately contact a criminal defense lawyer at DeGuerin & Dickson. You may be a target or a suspect in a case. The actions you take next may be critical and you should consult with an attorney.

If you have not received a grand jury subpoena but charges against you may be referred to a grand jury, you should contact a lawyer. The lawyer can then determine the best strategy for investigating the case and for presenting evidence to the grand jury.

Contact our Houston law firm to schedule a consultation with a defense lawyer or call (713) 223-5959. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer calls. Se habla español.