San Antonio Criminal Defense Backed By Prosecution Experience

Last updated on March 18, 2025

Facing an investigation for a state or federal criminal offense demands immediate attention. Every second counts as the authorities build their case against you. This urgency demands a defender who understands the prosecution’s playbook, decisively protecting your rights.

Daniel Vela brings a valuable perspective as a former assistant district attorney to your defense. His knowledge of the criminal justice system, combined with established relationships throughout the courts, provides your case with the strategic advocacy it deserves.

If you’re under investigation or already charged with a crime anywhere in Texas, don’t wait any longer. Call Vela & Del Fierro, P.C., Attorneys at Law, today and let our prosecution experience become your strongest defense asset.

Our Full Range Of Experience

In this critical moment, you need straightforward counsel, not empty promises. Felonies and misdemeanors carry serious consequences, including potential jail time. Our criminal defense attorneys put decades of courtroom experience to work pursuing charge dismissals and, when evidence challenges your case, fight strategically to minimize penalties.

Our practice includes representation of clients facing grand jury charges for federal offenses as well as serious crimes and misdemeanor charges in state courts throughout Texas, including:

• DWI defense, including drunk driving charges and DWI charges involving an accident with injuries or fatalities
• Narcotics offenses, including state and federal felony drug offenses and prescription drug charges
• Violent crimes, including guns and weapons charges, domestic violence, assault bodily injury, sexual assault and murder charges
• Property crimes, including burglary, theft, shoplifting, and white collar offenses such as fraud and embezzlement
• Probation and parole violations

Having stood on both sides of the courtroom, we anticipate prosecution tactics and build stronger defenses for our clients.

Take These Steps After A Texas Arrest

Getting arrested can be overwhelming, but specific actions can protect your rights and future.

During the arrest, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Call a criminal defense lawyer or have someone you trust contact one on your behalf. If necessary, clearly state that you need medical assistance.

Do not discuss your case or make statements to the police, even if you believe you did nothing wrong. Wait for your attorney to arrive before speaking further. Your silence and patience can make a significant difference in the outcome of your situation.

How We Can Help After A Conviction

A criminal record impacts far more than just your freedom. Conviction consequences include restricted access to public services, firearm ownership prohibition and limited employment opportunities. Travel restrictions and social stigma can also impact your personal and professional life.

Our firm offers post-conviction relief services, including expungement and record sealing, to help mitigate these long-term effects. These legal remedies can restore your rights, improve employment prospects and enhance your overall quality of life. Our experienced attorneys guide you through each step of this process, working diligently toward giving you a fresh start.

If you have criminal charges or convictions on your record, let us review your case to determine whether we can clear your record through the expungement process or seal your record from public view.

Let Us Answer Your Most Pressing Questions

Facing criminal charges raises urgent concerns that deserve clear answers:

Do I need to let the police into my home if they knock?

No. Without a warrant, you have the constitutional right to refuse police entry to your home. Always ask to see a warrant first and verify its validity before allowing entry.

What do I say if I’m put under arrest?

Invoke your Miranda rights by clearly stating: “I am exercising my right to remain silent and I want to speak with an attorney.” Avoid providing explanations or answering questions until your legal counsel is present.

What is probable cause, and how do I know if the police have it?

Probable cause is reasonable evidence that you may have committed a crime. Police must have this legal standard to arrest you or obtain a search warrant. For example, an officer smelling marijuana coming from your vehicle during a traffic stop may constitute probable cause for a search, but an officer’s “hunch” or your nervous demeanor alone would not be sufficient. You can ask officers to explain their probable cause, but determining its validity often requires legal knowledge.

How long can San Antonio police hold me without bringing charges?

In Texas, police typically must bring you before a magistrate within 48 hours of arrest for a probable cause determination. This time frame may vary based on circumstances, but extended detention without charges can violate your rights.

What happens if the Texas cops violate my rights?

Evidence obtained through rights violations may be excluded from court through a suppression motion. Additionally, you may have grounds for a civil rights lawsuit. Document everything and inform your attorney immediately about any potential violations.

Every case is unique, and these general answers may not address your specific situation. Contact our office today for legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

Start Building Your Defense Today

The sooner you reach out about your criminal charges, the better positioned we’ll be to protect your rights. Call us at 210-617-3925 or use the email contact form to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys right away.