Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT are changing industries, and the practice of criminal law is no exception. Many lawyers are experimenting with these technologies to innovate and streamline their practice. What is Chat GPT? Artificial intelligence comes in many different forms, but it’s important to look at some definitions from the outset: Generative –Continue reading “Lawyers and ChatGPT: Important Ethical Considerations in Criminal Practice”
Category Archives: Alsbrooks Blog
How Domestic Violence Pleas in Texas Impact Your Federal Firearm Rights
When you’re facing charges for domestic violence in Texas, you must be extremely careful if you’re negotiating a plea bargain. A plea bargain might seem like your best option if the government’s case is strong, but you need to make sure you’re considering all the collateral consequences that come with this type of charge. TheContinue reading “How Domestic Violence Pleas in Texas Impact Your Federal Firearm Rights”
Montgomery County Dog Search Law: What Pettit v. State Means for Passenger Rights
I’ll just come right out and say it – I love working on and reviewing K-9 dog sniff cases. I helped to write Law for the Dog during my time as a prosecutor. I just love dogs. So, one of the most interesting court decisions of 2025, in my opinion, came down from the Texas Court ofContinue reading “Montgomery County Dog Search Law: What Pettit v. State Means for Passenger Rights”
Owens v. State: Harassment Law, Free Speech, and Future Prosecutions in Texas
In Owens v. State, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals issued a meaningful opinion that pushes back against the broad use of one portion of Texas’s harassment statute, specifically Penal Code §42.07(a)(7). This case marks an important potential shift in how courts will evaluate harassment prosecutions, especially when electronic communications and the First Amendment intersect. Background: TheContinue reading “Owens v. State: Harassment Law, Free Speech, and Future Prosecutions in Texas”
Hardridge: Texas Higher Court Affirms That Affidavit Without Verbal Oath Invalidates Search Warrant
In a significant ruling for Texas criminal defense, the Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas recently affirmed that an affidavit supporting a search warrant must be sworn under oath before a qualified officer or magistrate. An officer simply signing the document is not enough. The case, State v. Hardridge, serves as a powerful reminder of theContinue reading “Hardridge: Texas Higher Court Affirms That Affidavit Without Verbal Oath Invalidates Search Warrant”
What Is Reckless Driving in Texas?
Under Texas Transportation Code § 545.401, a person commits reckless driving when they operate a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” While that verbiage may sound like lawyer-speak, this vague and outdated language often leaves ordinary drivers wondering what actually qualifies as reckless driving in Texas. Reckless Driving Is aContinue reading “What Is Reckless Driving in Texas?”
Texas Hit-and-Run Laws Go Beyond Just Injury Accidents
What You Need to Know About Fixtures and Unattended Vehicles 1. Striking an Unattended Vehicle (Section 550.024) Say you’re backing out of a parking lot and accidentally bump into another vehicle. There’s no driver around, and the damage looks minor. Do you have to do anything? Yes – you do, and failing to act couldContinue reading “Texas Hit-and-Run Laws Go Beyond Just Injury Accidents”
Charged with Fraudulent Use of Identifying Information in Montgomery County? Here’s What You Need to Know
Being accused of identity theft under Texas Penal Code § 32.51 is a serious matter. This law, often referred to as Fraudulent Possession or Use of Identifying Information, carries steep penalties and long-term consequences. If you or someone you know has been charged under this statute, understanding the law is the first step toward building an effective defense.Continue reading “Charged with Fraudulent Use of Identifying Information in Montgomery County? Here’s What You Need to Know”
Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Can Be Unfair and Unrealiable in DWI Investigations
When someone is pulled over on suspicion of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Montgomery County, Texas, law enforcement officers often rely on a set of roadside tests known as Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs). These tests include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), Walk and Turn (WAT), and One-Leg Stand (OLS). While these tests are supposed to help officersContinue reading “Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Can Be Unfair and Unrealiable in DWI Investigations”
Why Drug Recognition Exams (DREs) in Texas Can Be Unreliable and Unfair
Montgomery County, Texas law enforcement is aggressively prioritizing catching those driving under the influence of drugs – with particular attention to marijuana and opiates. In addition to typical standardized field sobriety testing, officers will also occasionally utilize the Drug Recognition Exam (DRE). Defense attorneys have long sounded the alarm with horror stories about these examinations.Continue reading “Why Drug Recognition Exams (DREs) in Texas Can Be Unreliable and Unfair”