Law Office of Tony Lopez
Law Office of Tony Lopez
  • Home
  • The Criminal Process
    • From Arrest To Trial
    • Right To Counsel
    • Discovery
    • Plea Bargain Process
    • Trial Process
  • DWI & Driving Offenses
  • Assault/Violent Offenses
  • THEFT & PROPERTY CRIMES
  • WEAPONS & FIREARM CHARGES
  • DRUG CHARGES
  • SEX CRIMES
  • OTHER CRIMINAL DEFENSE
  • More
    • Home
    • The Criminal Process
      • From Arrest To Trial
      • Right To Counsel
      • Discovery
      • Plea Bargain Process
      • Trial Process
    • DWI & Driving Offenses
    • Assault/Violent Offenses
    • THEFT & PROPERTY CRIMES
    • WEAPONS & FIREARM CHARGES
    • DRUG CHARGES
    • SEX CRIMES
    • OTHER CRIMINAL DEFENSE
  • Home
  • The Criminal Process
    • From Arrest To Trial
    • Right To Counsel
    • Discovery
    • Plea Bargain Process
    • Trial Process
  • DWI & Driving Offenses
  • Assault/Violent Offenses
  • THEFT & PROPERTY CRIMES
  • WEAPONS & FIREARM CHARGES
  • DRUG CHARGES
  • SEX CRIMES
  • OTHER CRIMINAL DEFENSE

CRIMINAL PROCESS: FROM ARREST → TRIAL

1. Arrest - You are taken into custody by law enforcement.

2. Magistrate/Bond Hearing - You'll see a judge within 24–48 hrs.

2. Magistrate/Bond Hearing - You'll see a judge within 24–48 hrs.

A pair of metallic handcuffs on a reflective surface.

• You may be questioned
• You are booked into jail
• Charges are filed or reviewed

Our role:
We step in early to protect your rights & advise you before mistakes are made.

2. Magistrate/Bond Hearing - You'll see a judge within 24–48 hrs.

2. Magistrate/Bond Hearing - You'll see a judge within 24–48 hrs.

2. Magistrate/Bond Hearing - You'll see a judge within 24–48 hrs.

A judge in black robe holding an open law book with a red cover.

• Bond is set
• Conditions of release may be given
• In some cases, a PR bond may be granted

Our role:
We push for the best possible bond conditions & guide your family through getting you released quickly.

3. Release from Jail

2. Magistrate/Bond Hearing - You'll see a judge within 24–48 hrs.

Close-up of a rusty chain-link fence with blurred windows in the background.

You may be released by:
• Posting bond
• Using a bondsman
• Receiving a PR bond

Our role:
We help coordinate the fastest and most practical way to get you out & back home.

4. Hire an Attorney - MOST important step.

Early legal representation allows us to:
• Protect your rights immediately
• Begin building your defense
• Communicate with prosecutors early

Our value:
We don’t wait. We act fast, stay responsive, and start working your case from day one.

5. First Court Appearance - Your case is officially called in court.

5. First Court Appearance - Your case is officially called in court.

A woman confidently speaking in a courtroom with a judge in the background.

• The judge reviews your case status
• Future court dates are set
• Your attorney begins handling the process

Our role:
We appear on your behalf when possible & keep you informed so you’re never left guessing.

6. Discovery & Case Review - The prosecution provides evidence.

5. First Court Appearance - Your case is officially called in court.

This may include:
• Police reports
• Body cam footage
• Test results (DWI cases)

Our value:
We carefully review every detail to find weaknesses, inconsistencies, & opportunities to challenge the case.

7. Negotiations / Pre-Trial - Many cases are resolved BEFORE trial.

7. Negotiations / Pre-Trial - Many cases are resolved BEFORE trial.

7. Negotiations / Pre-Trial - Many cases are resolved BEFORE trial.

Possible outcomes:
• Case dismissal
• Reduced charges
• Pre-trial programs (PTI)

Our value:
We negotiate strategically, not quickly. The goal is the BEST outcome, not the fastest one.

8. Trial (if necessary)

7. Negotiations / Pre-Trial - Many cases are resolved BEFORE trial.

7. Negotiations / Pre-Trial - Many cases are resolved BEFORE trial.

If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial.

What happens:
• Evidence is presented
• Witnesses testify
• A judge or jury decides the outcome

Our role:
We prepare thoroughly and fight to protect your rights in court.

9. Resolution - The case is finalized.

7. Negotiations / Pre-Trial - Many cases are resolved BEFORE trial.

9. Resolution - The case is finalized.

Possible outcomes:
• Dismissal
• Not guilty
• Plea agreement
• Sentencing

Our value:
We focus on minimizing the impact on your record, your future, & your life.

IMPORTANT

The first 24–48 hours after an arrest MATTER.

Waiting can limit your options.

If you or a loved one has been arrested, DON'T wait.

Call or text: (281) 713-3445

SPEAK WITH AN ATTORNEY

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