3 Reasons Why DWI Cases Spike During the Summer Months

Considered the deadliest time of the year for drivers and pedestrians, summertime stands out for its rapid increase in DWI cases. Between 2019 and 2020, this increment slowed down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as we get closer to achieving herd immunity and are slowly getting back on track, DWI incidents are already on… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    July 6, 2021

If I’m Arrested for DWI and Someone Dies, What Are the Charges?

If you were arrested for DWI in Texas, the charges can vary based on a wide range of factors. Unfortunately, causing someone’s death because of personal recklessness (in this case, intoxication) elevates the punishment dramatically. You can be charged with intoxication manslaughter if you are legally found intoxicated and you kill someone by accident or… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    July 5, 2021

Boating While Intoxicated: What You Need to Know Before Going Out on the Water

After 18 months or so of largely remaining indoors because of the pandemic, people are finally putting their summer plans into action. As you kick-start the festivities, make sure you put safety first. Under Texas law, operating a watercraft while intoxicated is a serious offense. In fact, the punishments for operating a watercraft while intoxicated… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    July 4, 2021

Quality Of A Good Lawyer

A good lawyer is compassionate, creative, assertive and a good listener. Here’s why these qualities matter when you are looking to hire a criminal defense attorney. Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    July 2, 2021

4th of July

Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July from the Law Office of JL Carpenter As the 4th of July weekend is upon us, what does that mean and how does it apply to us? On July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the 2nd Continental Congress of the Thirteen Colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence. The colonies broke free… Read More »

  • JL Carpenter

    July 1, 2021

teens hanging out at the beach

How to Protect Your Child’s Rights When They Are Charged with Serious Drug Charges as a Minor

Parents may not always know that their child is involved with drugs until they receive a call from their school or, worse, the police. However, even though your child is a minor, they can still be charged with possession in Texas. Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    May 21, 2021

a police officer holding breath testing device

Stopped for a DWI: How to Answer Common Questions

You’re out having some drinks with friends one night. As a responsible drinker, you know your limits and drink only a moderate amount. Remember, it is NOT illegal in Texas to consume alcoholic beverages and then drive your vehicle. But it IS illegal to drink WHILE driving your vehicle. Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    May 20, 2021

car accident due to a DUI

Should I Consider a Plea Bargain for My DWI Case?

Roughly 90% of criminal cases in the U.S. are resolved by plea bargains instead of jury trials—including DWI cases. These plea deals are essentially a compromise. By agreeing to “no contest” or pleading guilty, the defendant can possibly receive a more lenient charge or penalty. This is one way both the prosecution and the defendant (you)… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    May 19, 2021

a woman making a motion to quiet the viewer

When Women Use Sexual Assault Charges as Revenge Against Former Lovers

False sexual assault accusations happen more often than you might think. They have severe consequences for the accused and can potentially ruin their lives. These types of accusations also have negative consequences for women who have been victims of sexual assault. Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    May 18, 2021

3 Reasons Why You Should Hire Attorney J.L. Carpenter for Criminal Defense in the Clear Lake Area

Facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges is never easy, whether it’s a first offense, second offense, or more. As you grapple with what to do next, you may feel stressed, overwhelmed, and yes, guilty. While those feelings are normal, it’s a time to put your emotions aside and remember that you have rights—and that you… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    April 29, 2021

Penalties for Juvenile Drug Possession in Texas

If your child is charged with misdemeanor drug possession—typically small amounts of marijuana or prescription drugs—they will lose their driver’s license for at least six months no matter what their age. They will likely be charged in juvenile court, but if your child is about to turn 18 years old, the court may opt to… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    April 28, 2021

3 Reasons Why Your Record Cannot Be Expunged

Getting your criminal record expunged is a great way to reset it to the status that it was before you were arrested. By getting a record of criminal arrest erased, you can start with a clean slate, making it as though the arrest never happened. However, there are certain situations in which you may not… Read More »

  • Attorney JL Carpenter

    April 27, 2021