Legal Question in Criminal Law in Texas

Re: First Time Offense

You are charged with a Class "B" misdemeanor. If you make a plea agreement or other disposition that results in either an admission of guilt or a finding of guilt, your record for this charge will not be eligible for expunction under Texas law, and the only way to clear it will be via a governor's pardon (not a very likely event). You are correct in thinking you need an attorney. You can find one through the State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Program, or you may be eligible for an appointed lawyer, depending on the court you are in. Many County Courts at Law in Texas refuse to appoint counsel for defendants who have had the financial wherewithal to make bond. The best way to hire a lawyer is, of course, to know one personally whom you trust, but this is probably the least often used. Another way is to find out who practices in your area, make appointments, and figure out which one you feel most comfortable with. You may find that you are ok with the first one you talk to, or you may have to talk to several. If you are smart, you will not hire a lawyer solely based on who charges the least. It is often the case that lawyers know what their services are worth. Where are you located? Judging by your zipcode, it looks like you are in the eastern part ot the state.