In Your Defense: Galveston and Beyond

Probation Violations and Revocations: How Quickly Things Can Go Wrong and What to Do About It

Episode Summary:Mark Diaz explains the complexities of probation in Texas, including what constitutes a violation, how revocations are handled, and the importance of acting quickly. He shares strategies for avoiding pitfalls, the difference between technical violations and new law offenses, and real-life examples of clients successfully navigating probation challenges.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – 02:00: Introduction to probation and why cases aren’t over while on probation.02:00 – 05:00: Common probation violations, including missing appointments and failing to pay fees.05:00 – 08:00: Technical violations vs. new law violations and how courts handle each.08:00 – 10:00: How quickly courts issue warrants or start revocation proceedings.10:00 – 12:00: Revocation hearings, judge discretion, and strategies to avoid jail time.12:00 – 14:00: Misconceptions about legal representation and real-life success stories of clients avoiding revocation.
About the Show:In Your Defense: Galveston and Beyond provides insights from experienced Texas criminal defense attorneys. Each episode educates listeners on legal rights, court processes, and strategies to navigate the justice system effectively.

Domestic Violence Charges in Texas: What You Need to Know Before You Speak to Police

Episode Summary:Mark Diaz explains domestic violence charges in Texas, covering who qualifies as a family member, the differences between misdemeanor and felony charges, and the legal implications before conviction. He shares practical advice on how to protect yourself, the importance of exercising your right to remain silent, and why consulting an experienced attorney is crucial.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – 02:00: Introduction to domestic violence charges and definition of family member under Texas law.02:00 – 05:00: How law enforcement involvement can escalate situations and the impact of arrests.05:00 – 10:00: Bond conditions, firearm restrictions, and collateral consequences even before conviction.10:00 – 12:00: Exercising the right to remain silent, building a defense in he-said/she-said cases, and common misconceptions.12:00 – 13:00: Differences between misdemeanor and felony domestic violence charges and their long-term effects.13:00 – 15:00: Critical advice on speaking with attorneys versus handling cases alone, including potential risks of self-representation.
About the Show:In Your Defense: Galveston and Beyond highlights legal strategies and practical advice from experienced Texas criminal defense attorneys. Each episode provides insights to help listeners understand their rights and navigate the justice system effectively.

Clearing Your Name: The Truth About Expungement and Record Sealing in Texas

Episode Summary: In this episode, Jessica Ebbs breaks down the process of clearing a criminal record in Texas, explaining the differences between expunctions and non-disclosure orders, eligibility requirements, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid. She shares real-life examples of how proper legal guidance can restore careers, protect families, and provide a fresh start.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – 02:00: Introduction to Jessica Ebbs and the topic of clearing criminal records.02:00 – 05:00: Differences between expunctions (erasing records) and non-disclosure orders (sealing records).05:00 – 10:00: Eligibility for expunctions and non-disclosure; offenses that can never be removed; legal technicalities.10:00 – 15:00: Process overview, paperwork, hearings, timelines, and how attorneys handle filings.15:00 – 18:00: Impact on employment, housing, professional licenses, and second chances; common mistakes to avoid.18:00 – 20:00: Importance of filing in the correct jurisdiction and working with attorneys familiar with local courts.20:00 – 22:00: Real-life success story of a client whose record was cleared, preserving her family and career.22:00 – 24:00: First steps for listeners considering clearing their record: running a background check and consulting an attorney.
About the Show:In Your Defense: Galveston and Beyond covers criminal defense and legal strategies for Texans. Each episode features attorneys sharing actionable advice, insights on navigating the justice system, and tips for protecting your rights.

Caught with a Gun During Another Crime: What It Means for Your Case

Episode Summary:
In this episode, criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz discusses the legal implications of being caught with a firearm while committing another offense in Texas. He explains how additional charges can affect cases, potential defenses, and the importance of proper legal representation in such situations.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:25 - Topic Introduction: Guns and concurrent crimes in Texas
00:46 - Unlawful carrying of weapons during DWI and inventory searches
01:54 - Impact on concealed carry license holders
02:37 - How weapon charges affect case outcomes and plea deals
04:29 - Differences between regular citizens and felons with weapons
06:33 - Prosecutor perspectives and plea negotiations
09:40 - Available legal defenses
11:22 - Important details clients should share with attorneys
 
About the Show:
"In Your Defense, Galveston and Beyond" features Mark Diaz, a passionate criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending Texans' rights. The show explores various aspects of criminal defense law, providing valuable insights and legal information.

Your Rights During Search and Seizure: What Police Can — and Can't — Do

Episode Summary:
In this informative episode, criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz breaks down the crucial topic of search and seizure rights in Texas. Mark explains what constitutes legal and illegal searches, the importance of not consenting to searches, and how evidence obtained illegally can be suppressed in court. He shares real-world examples and practical advice for protecting your rights during police encounters.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:24 - Defining search and seizure under Texas law
01:27 - Common mistakes people make during searches
02:28 - Why you shouldn't consent to searches, even if innocent
05:24 - Rules governing police searches of cars, homes, and persons
08:46 - What to do if your rights are violated during a search
10:16 - The "fruit of the poisonous tree" doctrine
11:30 - Final advice on protecting yourself during searches
 
About the Show:
"In Your Defense, Galveston and Beyond" features Mark Diaz, a passionate criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending Texans' rights. The show discusses various aspects of criminal defense law to help listeners understand their rights and legal options.

Understanding Plea Deals: Why They Matter More Than You Think

In this episode of "In Your Defense, Galveston and Beyond," host John Clements and criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz dive deep into the world of plea deals in Texas courts. Mark shares his expertise on how plea bargaining works, the negotiation process, and the important considerations when deciding whether to accept a plea deal. He emphasizes the significance of having legal representation to understand the long-term consequences of plea agreements.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:23 - Mark Diaz's welcome
00:42 - Reality of plea bargaining in Texas courts
01:48 - Judge's role in plea deals
02:14 - Negotiation aspects of plea deals
03:03 - Different scenarios in plea bargaining
04:39 - Risks of trial vs. plea deals
06:00 - Impact of plea deals on criminal records
08:10 - Importance of legal representation
09:40 - How attorneys add value in plea negotiations
11:10 - Value of local legal networks
12:28 - Warning signs in plea deals
 
About the Show:
"In Your Defense, Galveston and Beyond" features Mark Diaz, a passionate criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending Texans' rights. The show explores various aspects of criminal defense law, providing valuable insights for listeners.

What to Do After an Arrest - Your First 72 Hours Matter

Episode Summary:
Criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz discusses crucial steps to take following an arrest in Texas. He shares expert insights on posting bail, finding the right attorney, maintaining silence during arrest, and avoiding common mistakes that could harm your case.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:47 - First priority after arrest: Posting bond
01:06 - How to choose the right lawyer
02:51 - Importance of remaining silent after arrest
04:19 - How to respectfully exercise your right to remain silent
06:57 - Booking and bail process in Galveston County
11:14 - Common mistakes to avoid after arrest
12:11 - Social media risks after arrest
12:58 - Managing stress and maintaining normalcy
 
About the Show:
"In Your Defense, Galveston and Beyond" features Mark Diaz, a passionate criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending Texans' rights. The show discusses various aspects of criminal defense law to help listeners understand their rights and legal options.

Understanding Gun Charges in Texas: Severity and Differences Explained

Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Defense on the Coast," host Kevin Rosenquist and criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz discuss gun charges in Texas, covering various aspects from misdemeanors to felonies, legal possession, prohibited places, and self-defense scenarios.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:24 - Types of gun charges in Texas and their severity
02:00 - Legal vs. illegal gun possession in Texas
03:31 - Self-defense and firearm use
05:25 - Discussion on illegal weapons
06:52 - Consequences of carrying firearms in prohibited areas
08:25 - Texas gun licensing requirements
09:38 - Common gun-related cases
11:37 - Show conclusion
 
About the Show:
"Defense on the Coast" features Mark Diaz, a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending Texans' rights. The show provides valuable insights into various legal topics affecting Texas residents, hosted by Kevin Rosenquist.
 

Navigating Deferred Adjudication: How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

Episode Summary:
In this informative episode of Defense on the Coast, host Kevin Rosenquist and experienced criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz dive deep into deferred adjudication in Texas DWI cases. Mark explains how this alternative to traditional probation works, its benefits, eligibility requirements, and potential risks. The discussion provides valuable insights for first-time offenders and highlights the importance of careful consideration when choosing between different plea options.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:28 - Definition of deferred adjudication and its application in DWI cases
02:10 - Eligibility requirements for deferred adjudication
03:00 - Requirements and conditions of deferred adjudication
03:48 - Alcohol restrictions during probation period
04:14 - Difference between deferred adjudication and standard plea
06:45 - Consequences of violating deferred adjudication terms
08:23 - Factors to consider when choosing deferred adjudication
10:53 - Attorney's approach to DWI cases and defense strategy
 
About the Show:
Defense on the Coast features Mark Diaz, a criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending Texans' rights. The show provides valuable legal insights and information about criminal defense in Texas, particularly in the Galveston area.

Texas Takedown: Understanding Search and Seizure Laws in Drug Cases

Episode Summary
In this episode of Defense on the Coast, criminal defense attorney Mark Diaz, with over 25 years of experience, discusses his journey into criminal law, the importance of knowing the "players" in the courtroom, and his approach to defending clients. He emphasizes the critical role of defense attorneys, the risks of self-representation, and the complexity of navigating legal procedures like non-disclosures and expungements. Diaz also highlights challenges within the criminal justice system, such as harsh sentencing and issues in indigent defense, and shares insights on building trust with clients through accessibility and transparency.
 
Timestamps
[00:00:25 - 00:02:07] Mark Diaz shares his journey into criminal defense.
[00:02:19 - 00:03:55] Importance of understanding courtroom dynamics and key players.
[00:04:49 - 00:06:16] Risks of self-representation and an example of mishandling legal processes.
[00:06:29 - 00:08:17] What sets Mark Diaz apart: accessibility and courtroom experience.
[00:09:06 - 00:10:08] Initial steps after being hired for a criminal defense case.
[00:10:16 - 00:11:16] Building trust with clients through accessibility and honesty.
[00:12:09 - 00:12:36] Importance of full client transparency for effective defense.
[00:12:43 - 00:14:08] Pressing issues in the criminal justice system, including harsh sentencing.
[00:14:14 - 00:15:58] Reflections on the life impact of long-term sentencing.
 
About The Show
Defense on the Coast is a legal podcast hosted by Kevin Rosenquist, featuring Mark Diaz, a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience defending clients in Texas. The show offers in-depth discussions on various aspects of criminal law, from navigating courtroom dynamics to handling complex legal procedures like expungements and non-disclosures. Mark shares his unique insights into the challenges of representing clients, the importance of understanding the legal system's "players," and the critical need for effective legal representation. With a focus on real-world cases and practical advice, Defense on the Coast aims to educate listeners on the intricacies of the criminal justice system while emphasizing the human impact of legal outcomes.