What happens after your consultation
We don’t just take your case — we help you take control of your future. Here’s what you can expect after Turnbull begins working for you.
Houston Criminal Defense Attorney FAQ
What is the difference between a criminal lawyer and a criminal defense lawyer?
The terms "criminal lawyer" and "criminal defense lawyer" are sometimes used interchangeably, but they can mean different things depending on context. A criminal lawyer can refer to any attorney working in criminal law, which includes both prosecutors (who work for the government) and criminal defense attorneys (who represent accused individuals). Remember, Ned Turnbull has worked on both sides.
A criminal defense lawyer specializes specifically in defending individuals who have been charged with crimes. Criminal defense attorneys work exclusively for clients accused of crimes, advocating for their rights and interests against the prosecution. If you’re looking for a criminal defense attorney in Houston, a Conroe criminal defense lawyer, or a Bryan criminal lawyer, you’re in the right place.
How a Texas defense attorney protects you from the criminal justice system
While many believe that the criminal justice system is designed to protect their best interests, the truth is that once you’re in the system, it’s the prosecution’s job to convict you. The process is complicated, long, and not designed to be navigated without an attorney who can protect your rights.
The criminal justice process in Texas and how Turnbull protects you at every step:
- Arrest: We protect your constitutional rights against illegal search and seizure, and make sure the police follow the law when making their arrest.
- Arraignment: We appear with you, make sure you understand charges, and advocate for reasonable bail.
- Preliminary hearing: We challenge the prosecution's evidence and demand proof of probable cause.
- Grand jury review: We investigate and challenge the strength of the case before indictment.
- Plea negotiations: We leverage our experience to negotiate the best possible terms.
- Trial: We defend you with aggressive courtroom advocacy and expert preparation.
- Sentencing: We advocate for reduced sentences and alternative sentencing options.
With over 25 years of experience and 200+ felony jury trials, Ned Turnbull knows how to make the Texas criminal justice system a safer place for you, and how to protect your rights at every step. The earlier you put a skilled attorney in your corner, the faster we can get to work defending your future.
Why knowledge of local courts matters
Local court knowledge and relationships make a massive difference in case outcomes, and Texas criminal defense requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction. This is why having an attorney who knows the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in your specific county is a major tactical advantage.
Why local expertise matters:
- Judge preferences: Each judge has different views on bail, sentencing, and trial strategy.
- Prosecutor tendencies: Different prosecutors have varying negotiation styles, priorities, and plea offer patterns.
- Court procedures: Local rules and filing requirements differ between counties.
- Community standards: Local juries have different perspectives on what constitutes reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing guidelines: Judges in different counties may apply Texas sentencing guidelines differently.
- Relationships and trust: Judges and prosecutors respect attorneys they know and have worked with over years.
Ned Turnbull has tried hundreds of cases in Harris County, Brazos County (Bryan), and Montgomery County (Conroe) courts. As a former State District Court Judge and Chief Prosecutor, he knows these systems from the inside. This experience in these counties and relationships within these courts doesn’t just make your case go more smoothly — it gives you a competitive advantage from the moment you hire Turnbull Legal Group.
Why is it better to hire a Montgomery County criminal lawyer or a criminal defense attorney in Bryan than a Houston-based firm?
While large Houston-based firms may seem impressive, hiring a Montgomery County criminal lawyer or Bryan-based criminal defense attorney can often give you a significant advantage that can directly impact your case outcome.
Some advantages of hiring local include:
- Judge and prosecutor knowledge: Local attorneys have worked with the same judges and prosecutors for years. These working relationships matter when negotiating, requesting bail adjustments, or advocating for your case.
- Court culture familiarity: Each courthouse has unwritten rules and preferences. Montgomery County and Brazos County courts operate differently than Houston courts, and a local attorney understands these nuances.
- Personalized attention: Montgomery County and Bryan-based firms typically handle fewer cases and provide more direct attorney attention, not just paralegal follow-up.
- Community trust: Judges and prosecutors respect local attorneys they've worked with repeatedly. This credibility translates to better negotiating positions.
Whether you’re looking for a Conroe DWI attorney, a Bryan DWI lawyer, or an attorney in College Station for an assault charge, Ned Turnbull can help. He isn't just a Houston attorney with a branch office in Bryan or Conroe; he's a former State District Court Judge who presided over cases in these counties and knows these court systems intimately.
When you hire Turnbull Legal Group in Montgomery County or Bryan, you're getting an attorney with decades of local experience — not a junior attorney from a Houston firm treating your case as a file number.
How do I find the right criminal defense attorney in Harris County?
There are hundreds and hundreds of criminal lawyers practicing in the Greater Houston area, which means you’ll need to pay attention to a few important factors. Some of the most important things to look for in a criminal lawyer are:
- Specialized experience: First and foremost, look for an attorney who specializes in criminal defense. Look for distinguishing factors in their background like prosecutorial experience, or particular success in your charge type.
- Local court knowledge: An attorney familiar with Harris County judges, prosecutors, and court procedures has a significant advantage.
- Trial experience: Ask how many jury trials they've tried, not just how many cases they've handled.
- Specific charge experience: If you're facing DWI, drug charges, or violent crime, ensure they have specific experience with your charge type.
- Communication: You should have direct access to your attorney, not just paralegals or office staff. During your consultation, you should be put at ease; your gut will tell you a lot about whether a law firm is right for you.
Whether you’re facing a DWI in Houston or a simple assault charge, the attorneys at Turnbull Legal Group can help you defend your future. Why? Because of Ned Turnbull’s experience on both sides of the bench, 25+ years of experience, and hundreds of jury trials.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Texas?
Criminal defense costs in Texas vary widely depending on the complexity of your case, the severity of charges, and whether your case goes to trial. Many criminal defense attorneys charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500+ per hour, though some cases may be handled on a flat-fee basis.
In general, simple misdemeanors will cost you in the low thousands, and serious felonies that go to trial can reach into the tens of thousands — but you’ll never know for sure until your consultation.
At Turnbull Legal Group, we believe in transparent pricing and will discuss costs openly during your free consultation. Investing in experienced, local criminal defense pays dividends through reduced charges, dismissed cases, or favorable plea agreements that minimize long-term consequences. If you have the ability to fight for your future, it’s always worth it to do so.
