Legal Question in Criminal Law in Texas

in texas in 2006..I was convicted of "tampering w/govt record" (37.10) second degree felony because when I was an LVN I signed off on narcotic record that they claim the pill was missing and accused me of "taking" the pill, although I don't have an accurate memory of situation, I don't believe it can adequately be proven that I took it...inaccurate accusations were posed (including a statement from an ex bf who is a meth addict) that I took them and either sold or gave them to him!!! there was a "secret indictment" through grand jury that to this day I have no idea in the world what happened (I also have the strong sense that an ex gave false testimony in order to get outof his own criminal case but I don't really know) now, as I had no friend/family support of any kind and mental illness (and NO experience with any criminal matters)and was just stuck in jail, my court-appointed attorney pretty much scared me into accepting a plea bargain, with the promise that a)I would get probation or b)he would apply for shock-probation for me within 6 months (he didn't) C) that if I did go to prison I would be paroled within a year. and d) he scared me into thinking if we went to trial i would wind up with 25 years!!! It didn't take me too long to figure out that I had been screwed!! However with no money and little support, I was not able to do anything while locked up (i served 2.5 years on an 8 yr sentence) now my entire existence is ruined besides financial debt...I have nothing but medical experience and can't get a decent job!!! What options do I have I would like my life back! I definitely feel as tho my attorney didn't do much of anything for me and even now, other ex-cons, my parole officer etc etc ALL are shocked that I got such a big sentence and no probation instead. Help I need some advice on what my options are. also, i have earned just barely too much to qualify for Legal Aid.


Asked on 8/25/10, 6:44 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Keith Engelke Law Office of S. Keith Engelke

The consequences of a felony conviction are dire in any your field.. Unfortunately the only option that offers the chance of an acquittal is trial. If you were convicted you do face the possibility of the full range of punshment.

My suggestion is that you apply to the board of pardons and paroles for a pardon. A pardon would make you eligible for an expunction which would remove the arrest and conviction from your criminal record. You need to see an attorney that practices in this area.

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Answered on 8/30/10, 11:49 am


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