Galveston Criminal Defense Attorney
Experienced criminal defense attorney in Galveston, TX, dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing your freedom
Being accused of a crime is one of the most overwhelming and life-altering experiences a person can face. Whether you’re innocent or you simply made a mistake, the consequences of criminal charges can ripple through every aspect of your life.
Innocent people can and do get wrongfully convicted, and those who are ultimately cleared of wrongdoing may still face lasting repercussions, such as damaged reputations, strained relationships, lost job opportunities, and financial instability.
If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in Galveston, time is of the essence. The decisions you make now can have a lasting impact on your case and your future. At the Neal Davis Law Firm, we understand what’s at stake, and we’re here to provide the experienced and compassionate legal defense you need.
Accused of a crime in Galveston?
Serious charges demand a serious defense.
Neal Davis is Galveston’s go-to attorney for winning results.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
We’ll work relentlessly to protect your future and achieve justice
Defendant accused of over $100 million in an alleged pump-and-dump case—U.S. v. Deel, et al.
Case dismissed (2024)
by contact
State v. S.C. (Harris County, TX)
Dismissed day of trial (2023)
State v. J.L.
Dismissed shortly before trial (2023)
State v. C.G. (Harris County, TX)
Not Guilty (2023)
State v. C.F.
No billed & dismissed (2020)
State v. K.B.
(Montgomery County, TX)
No billed & dismissed (2018)
Nothing matters more than our clients’ freedom
Neal Davis fights for his clients, earning him a reputation throughout Galveston for justice and results.
Comprehensive criminal defense in Galveston
The Neal Davis Law Firm has a proven track record of success handling a variety of criminal defense cases, from misdemeanors to felonies.
Being accused of a serious crime, even if you’re not convicted, can have life-altering repercussions. Neal Davis understands the stakes are high in these cases.
That’s why he works hard to defend clients against a wide range of sex crime charges, including soliciting prostitution, aggravated sexual assault, and other related offenses. Neal is known for achieving swift and discreet outcomes, often resolving sex crime cases quietly and without the need for a trial.
Cases involving child pornography and related offenses such as possession, distribution, promotion, or receiving obscene material carry serious penalties and lifelong consequences.
Neal Davis has significant experience defending clients against these challenging charges, including both state and federal cases. With a meticulous approach to examining evidence and crafting strategic defenses, Neal works to protect his clients’ rights, minimize damage to their reputations, and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Defending against allegations of child sex abuse—such as indecency with a child by contact, sexual assault of a child, or aggravated child sex abuse—is among the most challenging areas of criminal law. These charges carry immense gravity, as they are not only viewed as some of the most severe offenses by the public but are also often treated as top priorities by prosecutors.
Neal Davis brings extensive experience and strategic insight to these types of cases, rigorously analyzing evidence and questioning assumptions to ensure his clients’ rights are protected.
Online solicitation of a minor involves using the Internet or electronic communication to engage in inappropriate conversations or attempt to meet a minor for illegal purposes. These cases often rely on undercover operations, and the accused may face aggressive tactics from law enforcement, who focus on public shaming and extracting incriminating statements.
Prosecutors frequently aim to secure convictions swiftly, and juries, influenced by the emotional nature of these cases, may impose severe penalties. Neal Davis defends clients by challenging evidence, exposing flaws in law enforcement’s methods, and ensuring the accused receives a fair and just defense.
Title IX campus sexual assault and rape allegations can have repercussions both on and off campus. Colleges typically treat these claims with the same rigor as a criminal investigation, gathering evidence and requiring responses from the accused. Losing a Title IX case can lead to expulsion, a permanent disciplinary record, and damaged future opportunities.
Additionally, these allegations can escalate into criminal charges, bringing the possibility of prison time and mandatory sex offender registration. Neal Davis provides experienced representation to protect the accused’s rights and future in these high-stakes situations.
Family violence charges, such as aggravated domestic assault or continuous violence against the family, carry severe consequences in Texas. Repeat offenses can escalate to third-degree felony charges, with penalties including 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Common defenses include self-defense, where the accused must show they were threatened with unlawful harm and acted appropriately to protect themselves.
Neal Davis also has experience exposing false claims, which often arise in highly emotional situations. His thorough, strategic approach aims to protect his clients’ rights, reputations, and futures.
Facing charges like murder, manslaughter, or vehicular manslaughter can lead to life-changing consequences, including long prison sentences or even the death penalty.
At the Neal Davis Law Firm, we’ve successfully defended clients in even the toughest homicide cases, often leading to criminal charges being dropped. By thoroughly investigating every detail, uncovering critical evidence, and crafting a tailored defense strategy, Neal ensures a comprehensive and vigorous defense for clients facing these serious allegations.
Facing a drug possession charge is serious, and mounting a strong defense requires a lawyer well-versed in the complex laws surrounding searches, seizures, and the connections between a defendant and the alleged drugs.
Neal Davis and his legal team have extensive experience handling a variety of state and federal drug charges, including possession, trafficking, distribution, manufacturing, and conspiracy. Neal has used a number of successful defense strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case, such as proving a lack of knowledge about the drugs, demonstrating lawful possession, or exposing unlawful police searches and seizures.
Texas has some of the strictest laws in the nation regarding inappropriate relationships between teachers and students, making it a felony offense even if the student is over the age of 17. Teachers and school employees convicted under this statute face second-degree felony charges, with potential penalties of 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, even for first-time offenders.
While protecting students from adult misconduct is vital, it’s equally important to ensure that educators are protected from false sex abuse allegations and overzealous investigations that can destroy careers and reputations. Neal Davis and his team are experienced in navigating these complex cases, building strong defenses to safeguard the rights and futures of their clients.
Powerful advocacy groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving push for zero-tolerance policies, which means law enforcement and prosecutors pursue DWI cases aggressively. Neal uses proven strategies to defend his clients, such as scrutinizing police procedures, challenging the accuracy of field sobriety tests, and identifying weaknesses in the evidence.
Neal knows that assumptions—such as confusing distracted driving behaviors with intoxication—can lead to unfair charges, and he’s committed to challenging those assumptions to build the strongest defense possible for his clients.
FAQs about criminal charges in Texas
What is considered a sex crime in Texas?
In Texas, sex crimes encompass a wide range of illegal activities involving sexual conduct, including but not limited to:
- Indecency with a child by exposure or contact
- Sexual assault and rape
- Aggravated sexual assault (involving threats, violence, date rape drugs, or victims under certain ages)
- Possession or promotion of child pornography
- Online solicitation of a minor (communicating with a minor for sexual purposes)
- Improper relationships between educators and students
- Prostitution and solicitation of prostitution
- Sexual harassment in certain severe criminal contexts
These offenses carry severe penalties, including prison time, fines, and sex offender registration, making it crucial to seek legal counsel if accused.
Do all sex offenders have to register in Texas?
In Texas, most individuals convicted of sex-related crimes, such as sexual assault, indecency with a child, possession of child pornography, and online solicitation of a minor, are required to register as sex offenders. This applies to both convictions and deferred adjudications for qualifying offenses.
Navigating these exceptions and understanding your rights makes having an experienced attorney essential. A skilled attorney can advocate for you, explore options to avoid registration, and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
How long do sex offenders go to jail in Texas?
The length of jail time for sex offenders in Texas depends on the specific charge and its classification under the law. Here’s a general breakdown:
- State jail felony. For offenses like certain non-violent sex crimes, the penalty may include 180 days to 2 years in a state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Second-degree felony. Offenses like sexual assault often result in 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Capital felony. Crimes such as sexual abuse of a minor under certain circumstances may result in life imprisonment without parole.
- Third-degree felony. Crimes such as indecent exposure to a minor can carry a sentence of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- First-degree felony. Aggravated sexual assault and similar serious offenses can lead to 5 to 99 years or life in prison, along with a fine of up to $10,000.
The severity of the sentence can also depend on aggravating factors, such as the age of the victim, prior criminal history, and whether a deadly weapon was involved. If you’re facing such charges, working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer is critical to ensuring your rights are protected.
Are criminal charges public record in Texas?
Yes, criminal charges are generally public record in Texas. This means that most criminal cases, including arrests, charges, and convictions, can be accessed by the public unless the records have been sealed or expunged. Certain cases, such as those involving juveniles or sealed records, are not publicly accessible.
If you’re concerned about the impact of criminal charges on your reputation, it’s essential to consult with a qualified attorney. They can provide guidance on whether your records are eligible for sealing or expungement, helping to protect your privacy and future opportunities.
How can a criminal case be dismissed in Texas?
A criminal case can be dismissed in Texas through various legal avenues, depending on the circumstances of the case. Dismissal typically occurs when the prosecution decides not to proceed or a judge finds insufficient grounds for the charges.
Below are common reasons a criminal case might be dismissed in Texas:
- Insufficient evidence. The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence is lacking or unreliable, the prosecutor may dismiss the case.
- Violation of rights. If law enforcement violated the defendant’s constitutional rights, such as conducting an unlawful search or seizure, the court might exclude critical evidence, leading to dismissal.
- No probable cause. If a judge determines there was no valid reason for the arrest or charges, they may dismiss the case.
- Procedural errors. Mistakes in filing charges, missing deadlines, or failing to follow legal protocols can result in the case being thrown out.
- Lack of witness cooperation. If key witnesses are unwilling or unable to testify, the prosecution may lack the evidence needed to proceed.
- Plea bargains. In some cases, charges are dismissed as part of a plea agreement for a lesser offense.
To pursue a dismissal, it’s critical to work with a local Galveston criminal defense attorney who can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, advocate on your behalf, and explore all available legal strategies to protect your rights and freedom.
Can you press charges against someone for making false accusations in Texas?
Yes, you can press charges against someone or sue them for making false accusations in Texas if their claims are proven to be intentionally false and damaging. This could lead to criminal charges such as perjury or filing a false police report, depending on the circumstances. In some cases, you may also have grounds for a civil defamation lawsuit to recover damages caused by the false allegations.
Why choose Neal Davis to defend you against criminal charges in Galveston?
When your freedom and reputation are on the line, choosing the right attorney is crucial. Here’s what sets the Neal Davis Law Firm apart:
Extensive experience
With over 25 years of trial and criminal law experience, Neal Davis has successfully handled a wide range of criminal cases, including capital murder, federal white-collar crimes, child sex offenses, and intoxication manslaughter. His proven strategies have led to countless dismissals, favorable outcomes, and successful resolutions before trial.
Client-focused service
We believe every client deserves respect, discretion, and an expert defense. We handle each case with the utmost care and personal attention, working diligently to protect your freedom and reputation. Neal’s clients consistently praise his tireless effort to achieve winning results.
Aggressive advocacy
If brought into a case early, Neal Davis can often resolve investigations without charges ever being filed. When cases proceed to trial, he draws on decades of courtroom experience to fight for the best possible outcome.
Proven expertise and board certification
Neal Davis has been board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 2009—a distinction held by only 10% of licensed attorneys. This certification reflects the highest level of knowledge, skill, and experience in criminal law.
Where can I find the best Galveston criminal defense attorney near me?
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, whether awaiting a bail hearing, out on bail, or accused of a crime and under investigation, having a strong legal advocate on your side is crucial. The Neal Davis Law Firm is here to protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
With over two decades of experience, Neal Davis is a highly respected criminal defense attorney who has defended clients in hundreds of state and federal cases, including serious offenses like sex crimes, homicide, and white-collar crimes. Neal has successfully argued cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and has earned a reputation for securing dismissals before trial and acquittals in court.
At the Neal Davis Law Firm, we believe in early intervention, personalized strategies, and aggressive advocacy. We understand how overwhelming criminal charges can be and are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process with care, expertise, and determination.
Contact Galveston’s Neal Davis Law Firm today for a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your freedom and reputation.
