Frisco Violent Crimes Lawyer

Compassionate Legal Support When the Stakes Are High

Getting arrested for a violent crime in Frisco, TX, can upend everything—your freedom, your reputation, your job, and even your relationships. If you’re the one charged, or someone close to you is, you’re probably worrying nonstop. You likely have a thousand questions about what happens next and how this could affect your future.

A Frisco violent crimes lawyer at Whalen Law Office can step in immediately to protect your rights and guide you through each stage of the process. Our firm defends people accused of serious charges like assault, robbery, and even homicide—handling each case with tireless attention and strategic focus. From initial investigation through trial, their goal stays the same: fight for the best outcome and give you a clear path forward.

Whether you’re under investigation or already arrested, don’t wait. Reach out to Whalen Law Office for a confidential consultation and get the answers you need.

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Violent Crime Statistics

Law enforcement in Frisco reports a lower violent crime rate compared to other parts of Texas, but serious incidents still occur throughout the city. In recent years, the Frisco Police Department has recorded an uptick in assaults and domestic disturbances, particularly in areas near high-traffic zones like Stonebriar Centre, Preston Road, and around Main Street.

As a state, Texas continues to report a higher incidence of violent crimes compared to the national average. According to the most recent crime statistics from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the state recorded 431.9 violent crime incidents per 100,000 residents, outpacing the U.S. average of 380.7 per 100,000.

When measured against other states, Texas ranks 12th in the nation for violent crime frequency. The breakdown of these offenses shows the following rates per 100,000 people:

• Homicide (including nonnegligent manslaughter): 7 per 100,000
• Reported rapes: 50 per 100,000
• Robbery cases: 71 per 100,000
• Aggravated assaults: 305 per 100,000

These figures highlight the volume and variety of serious crimes reported statewide in a single year, underscoring how often individuals are charged with violent offenses in Texas.

What Are Violent Crimes in Texas?

Texas law defines violent crimes as offenses that involve the use—or threat—of physical force against another person. These charges carry significant penalties because prosecutors treat them as a danger to public safety.

Some of the most common violent offenses in Texas include:

• Aggravated assault: Using a weapon or causing serious injury
• Robbery: Using force or intimidation to take property
• Sexual assault: Non-consensual sexual contact
• Kidnapping: Holding or transporting someone against their will
• Murder or attempted murder: Taking or attempting to take another person’s life
• Domestic violence: Assault involving someone you live with or have a close relationship with

Even lesser charges like simple assault can bring jail time and create a permanent criminal record. The consequences only get more severe if a weapon was involved or if the alleged victim was a child, elderly person, or public servant.

When Do Charges Become Federal for Violent Crimes?

Most violent crimes are prosecuted at the state level in Texas. However, certain conditions can shift the case into federal jurisdiction. Federal prosecutors usually step in when the crime crosses state lines or involves specific federal laws.

Examples of Federal Violent Crimes

• Kidnapping someone and transporting them across state boundaries
• Bank robbery involving a federally insured institution
• Using a firearm during a federal drug offense
• Hate crimes tied to race, religion, or nationality
• Terrorist threats or actions, including certain forms of cyber violence

If federal agents get involved, the investigation often includes surveillance, search warrants, and cooperation from multiple agencies. Federal penalties also tend to be more severe, with mandatory minimum sentences and limited parole options.

What Are the Potential Penalties for Violent Crimes in Texas?

Texas classifies violent crimes by degree—misdemeanors, state jail felonies, and felonies of the third, second, or first degree. Each level brings different sentencing ranges, but even the lowest-level felony can affect your life for years.

Possible Consequences

• State Jail Felony: 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000
• Third-Degree Felony: 2 to 10 years in prison
• Second-Degree Felony: 2 to 20 years in prison
• First-Degree Felony: 5 to 99 years or life in prison
• Capital Felony: Life without parole or the death penalty

Beyond prison time and fines, violent crime convictions often bring:

• Permanent felony records
• Loss of gun ownership rights
• Immigration consequences
• Difficulty finding housing or employment
• Restrictions on child custody or visitation

A guilty plea without legal guidance can seal your fate. But a strong defense can change everything.

What Is the Process for a Violent Crime Case?

From arrest to resolution, violent crime cases move through a series of steps. Acting quickly and working with the right legal team gives you the best chance to build a strong defense early on.

The Process Typically Includes:

1. Investigation: Police may question witnesses, collect evidence, and monitor suspects. You might not even know you’re under investigation at this stage.
2. Arrest and Booking: Once probable cause exists, officers can make an arrest. They’ll book you into jail, take fingerprints, and begin formal charges.
3. Arraignment: You’ll appear before a judge, hear the charges, and have the chance to request bond or bail.
4. Pretrial Hearings: Attorneys may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. This phase also includes plea negotiations.
5. Trial: If no plea deal is reached, the case moves to trial. Both sides present evidence, and a jury delivers a verdict.
6. Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on the offense and any prior criminal history.

At every stage, your defense lawyer’s job is to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your rights, and push for the best possible result.

What Should I Do If Arrested for a Violent Crime in Frisco?

If officers arrest you in Frisco, whether in your home near The Trails, a store off Eldorado Parkway, or anywhere in Collin or Denton County, your actions in those first moments matter.

Key Steps to Take:

• Stay silent: Don’t try to explain or justify anything to the police. Politely decline to answer questions without your attorney.
• Request a lawyer: Ask for a defense attorney immediately. You have that right, and using it can protect you from giving away damaging information.
• Don’t resist: Even if you believe the arrest is wrong, don’t argue or struggle with officers.
• Avoid discussing your case: Don’t talk about the situation with friends, family, or cellmates. Those conversations aren’t private.
• Contact Whalen Law Office: Get legal help as soon as possible. The sooner your attorney gets involved, the better they can protect you.

What Are the Most Common Defenses for Violent Crimes?

Every violent crime case has its own story. The right defense depends on the evidence, the events leading up to the incident, and your own background. Some defenses focus on your actions; others target the police or prosecution’s conduct.

Below are some of the most effective and commonly used defenses in violent crime cases across Texas.

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

One of the most well-known defenses is self-defense. Under Texas law, a person has the right to use force to protect themselves—or someone else—from harm, as long as that force is reasonable and proportional. For example, if someone physically attacks you in a parking lot and you strike back to stop the attack, your actions may fall within your legal right to defend yourself.

To support this claim, your attorney may use witness testimony, surveillance footage, medical records, or physical evidence from the scene.

False Allegations

In some cases, the alleged victim or a witness makes a false claim, either out of anger, revenge, or misunderstanding. These situations happen more often in cases involving people who know each other—such as domestic disputes, former partners, or family members.

A defense attorney may uncover inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements, bring in communication records, or reveal motives that show the allegation doesn’t match the facts.

Lack of Intent

Violent crime charges often require proof that the accused acted intentionally or knowingly. If your actions didn’t involve intent to cause harm—such as during an accident or when you acted under extreme stress—your attorney can raise this as a defense.

This can be particularly important in assault cases where a sudden fight escalated but wasn’t planned or deliberate.

Mistaken Identity

Law enforcement can sometimes arrest the wrong person based on poor lighting, rushed witness descriptions, or unreliable identification methods. In robbery or assault cases, especially in crowded or chaotic situations, mistaken identity becomes a valid and powerful defense.

Surveillance footage, alibi witnesses, or physical differences between you and the real perpetrator can all play a role in showing you weren’t involved.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

Every person accused of a crime has legal protections. If the police stopped, searched, or arrested you without following proper procedures, your rights may have been violated. For example:

• Evidence collected without a warrant or probable cause might be thrown out
• Statements made without being read your Miranda rights could be excluded
• Illegal detention could lead to dismissal of the case

A defense built around these violations doesn’t just focus on your actions—it challenges how the case was built from the start.

How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney from Whalen Law Office Help?

Whalen Law Office takes on violent crime cases across Frisco and the surrounding areas with precision and persistence. The firm begins by thoroughly reviewing the facts of your case, identifying weak points in the prosecution’s arguments, and building a defense that reflects your story—not just what’s on paper.

The legal team works directly with clients to:

• Gather evidence and witness statements
• Challenge unconstitutional police conduct
• Negotiate favorable plea deals when appropriate
• Prepare thoroughly for trial
• Advocate strongly for dismissal or reduced sentencing

From the neighborhoods near Frisco Square to developments off Panther Creek Parkway, the firm represents clients from all walks of life. They understand that every case is personal, and they treat it that way—never cutting corners or passing your case off to someone else.

Texas Violent Crimes Charges FAQ

Can I get bail for a violent crime charge in Texas?

Yes, but it depends on the severity of the charge and your criminal history. First-degree felonies may have higher bail amounts, and the judge considers whether you’re a flight risk or danger to the community.

Will a violent crime conviction stay on my record forever?

Most violent crime convictions in Texas remain on your criminal record permanently and can’t be sealed or expunged. That’s why fighting the charge early is so important.

What’s the difference between assault and aggravated assault?

Aggravated assault involves serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon. Simple assault usually doesn’t include those factors and often brings lighter penalties.

Can a victim drop charges in a violent crime case?

Not necessarily. Prosecutors make the final decision on whether to pursue charges, even if the victim doesn’t want to press forward.

How long does a violent crime case take to resolve in Frisco?

Every case moves at its own pace. Some wrap up in a few months through plea deals, while others take a year or more if they go to trial.

Contact Our Experienced Frisco Violent Crimes Lawyers Now

Violent crime charges carry life-changing consequences in Texas. One misstep can lead to years behind bars and a permanent criminal record. That’s why you need someone who knows how to fight back, protect your rights, and guide you toward the best possible resolution.

Whalen Law Office offers strategic, high-level defense for people accused of violent crimes in Frisco. Whether you’ve been arrested in Grayhawk, Heritage Lakes, or near the Star, the legal team is ready to stand with you every step of the way.

Call (214) 368-2560 now for a confidential consultation. Let the Frisco criminal attorneys at Whalen Law Office take the legal burden off your shoulders—so you can focus on moving forward.

Contact us

Whalen Law Office – Frisco Location

9300 John Hickman Pkwy #501
Frisco, TX 75035
P: (214) 368-2560