What Happens After a Theft or Fraud Arrest in Galveston or Brazoria County?

Being arrested for theft or fraud in Galveston or Brazoria County can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system. From the moment you're taken into custody, a series of legal steps begin—booking, bond hearings, arraignment, and potentially a trial. Each stage comes with deadlines, rights, and critical decisions that could affect your future. In this post, we walk you through what to expect after an arrest, how local courts typically handle these cases, and what you can do to protect yourself. If you're looking for a knowledgeable lawyer near you, now is the time to act.

What Happens After a Theft or Fraud Arrest in Galveston or Brazoria County?

Being arrested for theft or fraud in Galveston or Brazoria County initiates a complex legal process. Understanding the steps that follow can help you navigate the system more effectively and protect your rights.Topek & Topek+1Topek & Topek+1

Immediate Aftermath of an Arrest

1. Custody and Booking

After an arrest, law enforcement will transport you to the local jail for booking. This process includes recording personal information, taking fingerprints and photographs, and listing the charges against you. In Brazoria County, booking also involves checking for outstanding warrants and may include a full-body search .Texas Criminal Defense Group+2Jail Exchange+2marybethharrell.com+2 Texas Criminal Defense Group

2. Initial Appearance and Bail

Within 48 hours of arrest, you will appear before a magistrate judge. The judge will inform you of the charges, advise you of your rights, and set bail. Bail amounts are determined based on the severity of the offense and your criminal history.Texas Criminal Defense Group+6Texas Defenders+6Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak+6 Galveston County+1Chernoff Law+1

Legal Proceedings

3. Filing of Charges

The District Attorney's office will review the evidence and decide whether to file formal charges. In Brazoria County, it may take 60 to 90 days from the arrest date for your case to be filed with the County Clerk’s Office .Brazoria County Clerk | Home

4. Arraignment

At the arraignment, you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is also an opportunity for your attorney to address bail conditions and other pretrial matters.

5. Pretrial Proceedings

Pretrial activities may include discovery, plea negotiations, and motions to suppress evidence. Your attorney will work to build a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the prosecution's evidence or negotiating a plea deal.

6. Trial

If your case goes to trial, both sides will present evidence and arguments. A jury will determine your guilt or innocence. If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on the offense's severity and other factors.

Post-Conviction Options

7. Appeals and Expungement

If convicted, you have the right to appeal the decision. Additionally, under certain circumstances, you may be eligible to have your record expunged or sealed, which can help mitigate the long-term impact of a criminal conviction.

Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the criminal justice system can be daunting. An experienced attorney can provide guidance, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.

If you or someone you know is facing theft or fraud charges in Galveston or Brazoria County, contact Walker Law Office at (713) 228-2611 or visit https://www.walkerlawhouston.com/contact/ to schedule a consultation and protect your rights.

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