Criminal Defense Attorneys in Plano
Assisting Good People Through Tough Times
When you have been accused of a crime, it is important that you seek competent legal representation as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances of your particular case, you could be dealing with a wide range of penalties, including jail time, expensive fines, and more. Zen Law Firm helps protect your rights, your future, and your freedom.
Contact our Plano criminal defense lawyers to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options. Call (469) 361-8561 for a prompt response. We are proud to serve clients throughout Collin & Denton Counties.
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Former Prosecutor on Your Side
With firsthand knowledge of how cases are built and prosecuted, our team anticipates strategies and builds stronger defenses.
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Trial-Tested Experience
We’ve handled hundreds of trials and thousands of hearings across state and federal courts—and we prepare every case as if it’s going to court.
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Full-Service Representation
From criminal defense to personal injury and immigration, we offer skilled legal support across multiple practice areas.
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Broad Strength, Local Access
With offices in Plano, Fort Worth, and San Antonio, you get personalized service backed by a firm with statewide reach.
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"In Good Hands"Jason and I spoke on the phone as long as I needed to know that I was in good hands. Over the next two months, between a couple phone calls and some texts, and following Jason's advice, my case was dismissed.- Patrick L.
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"Affordable & Dependable"Jason was very kind, very thorough and not judgemental. I was scared on the first day of court and he reassured me and got me an amazing deal that day so we wouldn't have to go back to court.- Faythe S.
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"Surpassed My Expectations"Jason has surpassed my expectations and got it dismissed without me even having to attend a court date. We had other questions on other matters and gave us great advice on those also.- Zach R.
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"Proactive Communication"His responsiveness and attention to detail made all the difference in my case, and I can only imagine how hard he would fight for clients in more critical situations.- Doug C.
Handling a Wide Range of Criminal Cases
Crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies, and even though some crimes may be considered more or less serious, any arrest can be detrimental to your reputation. If you have been arrested or charged with any illegal activity, you may have been wrongfully accused, or the justice system may be treating you more harshly than you deserve.
Our attorneys have broad experience working on both sides of cases. We are well-versed in the law and well-known in local courtrooms, and use this to the advantage of all of our clients. From DWI defense to drug crimes and violent offenses, work with a legal team you can trust.
Protect Your Rights
After an arrest, remember that you have certain legal rights granted by the U.S. Constitution. These include:
- The right to have an attorney present during questioning
- The right to remain silent
- The right not to incriminate yourself
It is very important you exercise these rights in order to protect your freedom and give you the best possible chance at a successful outcome. Call our attorneys as soon as you are able – we are available when you need us.
Criminal Defense FAQ
We'll Be Your Resource at Every Step
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 469-361-8561 today!
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How long do criminal proceedings take?
This always depends on the specific facts of the case. Factors to consider include whether the defense attorney and prosecutor can reach a plea agreement, whether charges can be reduced or dismissed, and whether the case goes to trial. In addition, the defense may appeal a guilty verdict if doing so makes sense, and an appeal would extend the process. Whatever your situation may be, an experienced criminal defense attorney’s advice and representation are essential to understanding your rights and options, and what to expect from the process in your particular case.
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Why would I need an attorney if my case seems straightforward?
You have a right to be heard before a court, regardless of how hopeless you think your case is. An experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate more favorable terms with the prosecutor to protect your rights. An attorney can also put your charges into a different perspective and look for weaknesses in the prosecutor’s arguments or faults in law enforcement’s actions. Remember, you have a right to fight the charge, and the best way to do that is to put an experienced defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible.
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What does the Texas criminal law process look like?
The process starts after an arrest or receiving a notification to appear in court. At this point, it is important to choose an experienced criminal attorney as soon as possible to represent you. If you fail to appear in court, the judge will issue an arrest warrant against you.
The next step is the first court appearance to hear the charges. At this hearing, the judge may also determine bail. If bail is not granted, the defendant will have to remain in jail during the legal process.
During a preliminary hearing, a prosecutor will submit evidence to show there is enough evidence to bring a case against the defendant. This is also an opportunity for the defense to argue against the prosecutor’s case. If the defense is successful at this stage, a judge may dismiss the charges.
If the process continues, then pretrial negotiations will start. A criminal defense attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea bargain — perhaps involving reduced or dismissed charges — or the defense lawyer and prosecutor may agree on specific terms the defendant will have to meet in order for charges to be dropped or reduced. If the defense attorney and prosecutor cannot reach an agreement, the pretrial motions and hearings start. At this stage, a criminal defense attorney will file motions — for example, to dismiss charges due to lack of evidence or to suppress evidence or witness testimony. It may also be possible at this stage to reach a favorable plea bargain after submitting the appropriate motions.
If the prosecutor and defense attorney do not reach an agreement or plea bargain during the previous stages, the case may go to trial.
IMPORTANT: It is always up to the defendant to choose to accept a plea agreement or go to trial. An experienced criminal defense attorney can advise on whether a plea deal or a trial is appropriate in your case.
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What are the differences between a felony and a misdemeanor?
In Texas, misdemeanors are crimes divided into three classes (A, B, and C) that could lead to less than a year of jail time and/or a fine not exceeding $4,000. Examples of misdemeanors in Texas include first-offense DWI, shoplifting, and disorderly conduct.
Felonies refer to the most serious crimes under Texas law. Punishments may range from a year in prison to life imprisonment or even the death sentence.
Under certain circumstances, an individual could have a misdemeanor criminal record expunged. Expungement essentially means removing the conviction from your record. However, felonies are more difficult to expunge. Another vital difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is that a person convicted of a felony could be prohibited from voting or owning a firearm. A felony conviction can also result in restrictions on job opportunities and where the convicted individual can live.
How a Former Prosecutor Can Help You
Texas is known for its harsh criminal justice system. This is the last place you want to attract the scrutiny of law enforcement. Jason Zendeh Del brings unique experience to his clients’ defense. He formerly served many years as a prosecuting attorney for the state of Texas, where he personally handled thousands of criminal cases.
As a former successful prosecutor, he has an overwhelming advantage over the average defense attorney. He has an intimate understanding of exactly how the prosecution thinks and acts. He uses those insights to search for holes in the government’s case and maneuver for the best result. The benefits of being represented by a lawyer who has worked on “the other side” are immeasurable.
Put Your Future in Our Hands
We understand what is at stake. Zen Law Firm will pursue every possible angle in your defense. You need an attorney with the credentials and courtroom reputation to get the job done.
We can be reached online or by calling (469) 361-8561. Schedule your free case consultation with one of our Plano criminal defense attorneys today.
