Author name: Law Offices of Bill J. Stovall

If you’re under investigation or suspect that you might be charged with a crime in Texas, one of the first questions you may ask is: How long can the state wait before filing charges? The answer depends on the type and severity of the offense. Texas law sets specific deadlines—known as statutes of limitations—that determine […]

What You Need to Know About Texas Self-Defense Laws Texas has some of the strongest self-defense protections in the country. However, these laws don’t give unlimited permission to use force. The right to defend yourself depends on when and how the force is used—and whether it’s considered reasonable under Texas law. Understanding these laws can

Understanding Expungement in Texas A criminal record can have lasting effects on your life—affecting your ability to find a job, secure housing, or even volunteer in your community. The good news is that Texas law provides certain opportunities to erase or seal criminal records under specific conditions. This process, known as expungement, can give you

Understanding the Texas Statute of Limitations in Criminal Cases When facing a criminal charge in Texas, timing matters just as much as the facts of the case. The statute of limitations sets a legal deadline for prosecutors to file charges. Once that time expires, the state typically loses the right to pursue criminal prosecution. Knowing

Motorcycle accidents can be overwhelming and traumatic, often resulting in severe injuries and costly damages. Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident in Texas can help protect your health, safeguard your rights, and strengthen any potential legal claim. Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health The first and most important step is to seek

Drug crimes prosecuted at the federal level often carry far harsher penalties than state charges. One of the most important factors in determining punishment is the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which provide judges with a framework for deciding sentences. If you or a loved one is dealing with federal drug charges, understanding how these guidelines apply

Assault charges in Texas can carry serious consequences, but not all charges are treated the same. It’s important to understand the difference between simple and aggravated assault in Texas if you or someone close to you is facing these charges. What Is Simple Assault in Texas? Under Texas law, simple assault generally involves: In Texas,

When it comes to impaired driving charges in Texas, many people use the terms DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) interchangeably. While both involve operating a vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs, the law makes important distinctions between the two. Knowing the difference between DWI and DUI in Texas is critical

If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property in Plano, you may have a valid premises liability claim. Property owners in Texas are legally obligated to maintain reasonably safe conditions for guests, tenants, and customers. If they neglect this responsibility and someone gets hurt, they can be held legally liable for

Drug trafficking is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face in Texas—and Plano is no exception. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, and the consequences can include steep fines, long prison sentences, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. If you’ve been accused of trafficking drugs in Plano, understanding the law and