Lubbock Criminal Defense Lawyer
Nationally Recognized Trial AttorneysIf you’ve been arrested for a criminal offense in Lubbock County, you’re facing serious consequences in one of Texas’s most challenging legal environments.
Lubbock has one of the highest crime rates in America, which means prosecutors are aggressive and judges see repeat offenders daily.
You need more than just any attorney—you need a former federal prosecutor who understands how the system works from the inside.
At Keith & Lorfing, our West Texas Tough™ approach means we fight relentlessly for every client, using insider knowledge of prosecution strategies to build unbeatable defenses.
Don’t gamble with your freedom. Contact us now for immediate help.
Facing Criminal Charges in Lubbock County? You Need Immediate Help
Why Lubbock's High Crime Rate Means Aggressive Prosecution
Lubbock faces a harsh reality: crime statistics show a rate of 41 per 1,000 residents—one of the highest in America. Your chance of becoming a crime victim here is 1 in 25, higher than 97% of Texas communities.
This creates a perfect storm for criminal defendants:
- Overworked Prosecutors: The Lubbock County District Attorney’s office has struggled with staffing shortages, leading to plea-bargain pressure
- Tough Judges: Local judges see serious crimes daily, making them less sympathetic to defendants
- Zero Tolerance Policies: Law enforcement takes a hard line on everything from student arrests to repeat offenses
⚠️ Even “minor” offenses in Lubbock can spiral into lasting consequences because of high crime rates and overworked courts.
The Stakes: What You're Really Up Against
Criminal charges in Lubbock County don’t just mean potential jail time. A conviction can:
- End Your Career: Professional licenses revoked, employment opportunities eliminated
- Destroy Your Education: Federal student aid automatically disqualified (essential for Texas Tech students)
- Eliminate Housing Options: Banned from many rental properties and student housing
- Create Permanent Records: Background checks revealing convictions for decades
For Texas Tech Students: Criminal charges trigger both legal consequences AND academic discipline through Title IX proceedings, potentially resulting in suspension or expulsion.
Common Criminal Charges in Lubbock County
Texas Tech Student Arrests: Campus and Off-Campus Issues
As home to Texas Tech University, Lubbock sees unique criminal defense challenges involving students. Texas Tech Police have broad jurisdiction both on-campus and in surrounding areas where students live and party.
Common Student Charges:
- Alcohol possession/consumption by minors
- Drug possession (especially Adderall and study drugs)
- Public intoxication at sporting events
- DUI/DWI charges affecting campus driving privileges
- Assault charges from party altercations
- Sexual assault allegations with Title IX complications
Students face double jeopardy—criminal courts AND university disciplinary proceedings. The wrong approach can result in both a criminal conviction and academic expulsion.
Drug Possession and Distribution Cases
Lubbock’s location makes it a transit point for drug trafficking, resulting in aggressive enforcement. Even small amounts often lead to felony charges under Texas’s harsh penalty group system.
What We See Regularly:
- Penalty Group 1 charges (cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine)
- Prescription drug cases (Xanax, Adderall without prescriptions)
- Marijuana possession (still illegal in Texas)
- Federal charges for larger quantities or interstate trafficking
DWI/DUI Charges Throughout Lubbock County
With Texas Tech’s party culture and Lubbock’s bar scene, DWI arrests are common. But these aren’t just traffic tickets—they’re serious criminal charges with devastating consequences.
Lubbock DWI Reality:
- First offense: Up to 6 months jail, $2,000 fine, license suspension
- Commercial drivers: Career-ending consequences
- Students: Loss of campus driving privileges, federal aid complications
- Multiple offenses: Felony charges with years in prison
Assault and Violent Crime Charges
Lubbock’s high violent crime rate means prosecutors take assault charges seriously, even in cases involving self-defense or minor altercations.
Assault Charge Variations:
- Simple assault (Class A misdemeanor)
- Aggravated assault (felony with weapons or serious injury)
- Domestic violence (enhanced penalties, protective orders)
- Bar fight situations (often over-charged by police)
Assault & Battery Lawyer Lubbock
Assault charges in Lubbock County range from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies depending on circumstances and severity. Bar fights, domestic disputes, and self-defense situations can quickly escalate into serious criminal charges carrying jail time, fines, and permanent records.
Common Assault Charges:
- Simple assault (Class A misdemeanor)
- Aggravated assault with weapons (felony)
- Domestic violence (enhanced penalties, protective orders)
- Bar fight situations (often over-charged by police)
Drug Crimes Lawyer Lubbock
Drug charges carry some of Texas’s harshest penalties, with even small amounts often resulting in felony convictions. Lubbock’s location as a transit point leads to aggressive enforcement by local and federal authorities.
Typical Drug Charges:
- Marijuana possession (still illegal in Texas)
- Cocaine, methamphetamine (Penalty Group 1 felonies)
- Prescription drugs without valid prescriptions
- Student cases involving Adderall and study drugs
Sex Crimes Lawyer Lubbock
Sex crime allegations demand immediate, aggressive defense due to serious social stigma and severe legal consequences. These cases often involve complex DNA evidence, digital communications, and witness testimony requiring expert analysis.
Sex Crime Defense Issues:
- Sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault charges
- Online solicitation and child pornography cases
- Sex offender registration (lifelong consequences)
- Title IX proceedings for Texas Tech students
Weapons Charges Lawyer Lubbock
Weapons charges range from misdemeanor carrying violations to federal firearms trafficking, with consequences including prison time and permanent loss of gun rights. Texas has complex weapons laws varying by location and permit status.
Common Weapons Violations:
- Unlawful carrying of weapons
- Carrying in prohibited places (Texas Tech campus)
- Weapons violations during other crimes
- Federal charges for trafficking or prohibited persons
Federal Crimes Lawyer Lubbock
Federal criminal charges require specialized knowledge of federal court procedures and sentencing guidelines that differ significantly from state court. As a former federal prosecutor, Russell Lorfing understands exactly how these cases develop.
Federal Jurisdiction Includes:
- Drug conspiracy and trafficking cases
- Firearms violations and trafficking
- White-collar crimes (fraud, embezzlement)
- Internet crimes and immigration offenses
Felony Crimes Lawyer Lubbock
Felony charges carry serious consequences including prison time, substantial fines, and permanent criminal records affecting employment, housing, and professional licenses. Texas classifies felonies from state jail felonies to capital felonies.
Felony Consequences:
- Prison sentences from six months to life
- Loss of voting rights and gun ownership
- Professional license revocation
- Enhanced punishment for repeat offenders
Expungement Lawyer Lubbock
Criminal record expungement and orders of non-disclosure can help move forward after arrests by sealing records from public view. Texas law allows expungement for certain dismissed charges, acquittals, and cases where charges were never filed.
Record Clearing Options:
- Expungement for dismissed charges and acquittals
- Non-disclosure orders for deferred adjudication
- Removes barriers to employment and housing
- Complex eligibility requirements and strict procedures
Theft and Property Crime Defense
Property crimes are common in Lubbock, especially around the university area. These charges can range from shoplifting to burglary, each carrying serious consequences.
Property Crime Impact:
- Retail theft: Automatic civil penalties plus criminal charges
- Burglary: Felony charges even for minor incidents
- Vehicle theft: State jail felony minimum
- Academic consequences for students
Our experienced criminal defense team has successfully defended clients against all types of charges throughout Lubbock County and West Texas. React out now to schedule a free consultation.
Lubbock County Courts and Prosecutor Strategies
⚖️ Prosecutors push for high conviction rates; judges expect efficiency. Skilled counsel can leverage this environment to negotiate better outcomes.
The District Attorney's Office Approach
The Lubbock County District Attorney’s office operates under the mission to “do justice by rendering professional, high quality, legal service to and on behalf of Lubbock County and the State of Texas.”
What This Means for Your Case:
- Prosecutors focus on conviction rates and community safety
- Recent staffing improvements mean more resources for prosecution
- Enhanced penalties sought for repeat offenders
- Limited plea bargain options without skilled negotiation
How Local Judges Handle Criminal Cases
Lubbock County operates multiple courts handling criminal matters:
- District Courts for felony cases
- County Courts-at-Law for misdemeanors
- Specialty courts for alternative sentencing
Judicial Tendencies:
- Judges see high case volumes, favoring efficient resolution
- Repeat offenders face increasingly harsh sentences
- First-time offenders may receive consideration with proper advocacy
- Drug-related offenses are often referred to specialty courts
Federal vs. State Charges in West Texas
As a former federal prosecutor in West Texas, Russel Lorfing understands the essential differences between state and federal charges. Lubbock County’s location means many cases could be prosecuted in either system.
Federal Jurisdiction Triggers:
- Drug trafficking across state/international borders
- Firearms violations
- Crimes involving federal property (including Texas Tech)
- Internet-based offenses
- Cases involving multiple states
Federal courts have different rules, harsher sentences, and limited plea options. Knowing which system offers better outcomes is essential.
Alternative Sentencing: Lubbock County Specialty Courts
Adult Drug Court Program
Lubbock County operates specialty courts designed to address underlying issues rather than just punish offenders.
Adult Drug Court Benefits:
- Treatment-focused rather than punishment-focused
- Potential for charge dismissal upon completion
- Intensive supervision with counseling support
- Alternative to prison for qualifying defendants
DWI Court Options
For alcohol-related offenses, Lubbock County offers specialized DWI court programs focusing on addiction treatment and monitoring.
Veterans Treatment Court
Established in 2019, Lubbock County’s Veterans Treatment Court provides specialized support for military veterans facing criminal charges.
Veterans Court Focus:
- PTSD and combat trauma consideration
- Specialized counseling and support services
- Alternative sentencing for service-related issues
- Community support network involvement
CRTC and Treatment Programs
The Lubbock County Court Residential Treatment Center (CRTC) offers residential substance abuse treatment as an alternative to incarceration.
CRTC Program Details:
- 164-bed residential facility
- Cognitive-behavioral treatment approach
- Multiple specialized programs
- Bridge between criminal justice and treatment
Getting into these programs requires experienced legal representation who knows the qualification requirements and application process.
Your Constitutional Rights in Criminal Cases
💡 Many cases collapse when rights violations are exposed. Illegal stops, bad warrants, or coerced statements often open doors to dismissal.
Fourth Amendment: Search and Seizure Protections
Many criminal cases hinge on whether police violated your Fourth Amendment rights during an investigation.
Common Violations:
- Illegal traffic stops: Police need reasonable suspicion for stops
- Unlawful searches: Consent must be voluntary and searches limited in scope
- Warrant problems: Search warrants must be specific and properly executed
- Campus searches: Texas Tech students have rights even in dorms
When police violate these rights, evidence gets suppressed—often destroying the prosecution’s case.
Fifth Amendment: Your Right to Remain Silent
Despite what you see on TV, many people don’t understand their Fifth Amendment rights.
Critical Points:
- You can remain silent during questioning
- Anything you say CAN and WILL be used against you
- Police can lie during interrogations
- Requesting a lawyer immediately stops questioning
Title IX proceedings have different rules than criminal cases. What you say in one can affect the other.
Sixth Amendment: Right to Effective Counsel
You have the right to an attorney, but not all attorneys provide effective representation in criminal cases.
Effective Counsel Requires:
- Knowledge of local court procedures
- Experience with similar charges
- Knowledge of constitutional law
- Ability to investigate and challenge evidence
- Skill in plea negotiations and trial advocacy
Don’t trust your freedom to inexperienced counsel. Our criminal defense team has the expertise these serious charges demand.
What to Do After a Criminal Arrest in Lubbock
Immediate Steps to Protect Your Rights
First 24 Hours Are Critical:
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Say nothing except “I want a lawyer”
- Don’t Consent to Searches: Police may search anyway, but don’t give permission
- Contact Experienced Counsel: Call immediately—don’t wait for business hours
- Document Everything: Write down what happened while memory is fresh
- Don’t Discuss Your Case: With anyone except our attorney
Notify our attorney about any pending Title IX proceedings—these cases intersect in complex ways.
How We Investigate Your Case
Comprehensive Case Analysis:
- Constitutional Review: Examining every aspect of police contact for rights violations
- Evidence Evaluation: Challenging chain of custody, testing procedures, witness credibility
- Discovery Analysis: Reviewing all prosecution evidence for weaknesses
- Witness Investigation: Interviewing witnesses before memories fade
- Expert Consultation: Using specialists when technical evidence is involved
Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and surveillance footage gets deleted. We begin immediately upon retention.
Building Your Defense Strategy
Every case requires an individualized approach based on specific facts, evidence, and circumstances:
Defense Strategy Components:
- Constitutional Challenges: Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Factual Disputes: Challenging prosecution witnesses and evidence
- Alternative Sentencing: Pursuing specialty courts and treatment programs
- Plea Negotiations: Achieving reduced charges through skilled advocacy
- Trial Preparation: Building comprehensive defense for cases going to trial
The goal is to achieve the best possible outcome whether through dismissal, acquittal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing.
Don’t Let One Mistake Destroy Your Future
📌 With the right defense, dismissals, reductions, and specialty court outcomes are realistic—not just trial victories.
Criminal charges feel overwhelming, but they’re not hopeless. With experienced representation, many cases result in:
- Charges dismissed due to constitutional violations
- Evidence suppressed because of illegal searches
- Reduced charges through skillful negotiation
- Alternative sentencing through specialty court programs
- Not guilty verdicts after thorough trial preparation
The key is acting quickly and hiring our attorney who understands Lubbock County’s unique challenges.
Your Freedom Can’t Wait—Call Now
Criminal arrests don’t happen during business hours, and your defense shouldn’t wait either.
When you hire Keith & Lorfing, you’re getting:
- A former federal prosecutor who knows how the system works
- Decades of experience in Lubbock County courts
- Aggressive West Texas Tough™ representation
- Someone who will fight for your freedom like it’s his own
Whether you’re a Texas Tech student facing your first arrest, a professional worried about career consequences, or someone dealing with serious felony charges—we have the experience and local knowledge to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Your future is worth fighting for—contact us today. Let’s get started today. Call (325) 246-9410 immediately for confidential consultation—available 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense Cases
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Lubbock, Texas?
Criminal defense attorney fees in Lubbock County typically range from $2,500-$5,000 for misdemeanors and $5,000-$15,000+ for felonies, depending on case complexity. Many attorneys require retainers upfront, with additional costs for trial preparation, expert witnesses, and appeals. Keith & Lorfing offers free consultations to discuss your specific case and provide transparent fee structures. Payment plans may be available for qualified clients. The cost of experienced representation is minimal compared to the lifelong consequences of conviction, including job loss, professional license revocation, and permanent criminal records.
How long do criminal cases take to resolve in Lubbock County?
Misdemeanor cases in Lubbock County typically resolve within 2-6 months, while felony cases can take 6-18 months or longer depending on complexity. Factors affecting timeline include court schedules, discovery disputes, plea negotiations, and whether the case goes to trial. Cases involving specialty courts like drug court or veterans court may take 12-24 months but offer treatment alternatives to prison. Federal cases generally move faster than state cases but involve more complex procedures. Early attorney involvement can significantly impact both timeline and outcome through strategic case management and negotiation.
Can I get my criminal charges dismissed in Lubbock County?
Yes, criminal charges can be dismissed in Lubbock County through various methods including constitutional violations, insufficient evidence, witness problems, or prosecutorial discretion. Common dismissal grounds include illegal searches and seizures, Miranda violations, chain of custody issues, and lack of probable cause. First-time offenders may qualify for pretrial diversion programs that result in dismissal upon completion. Some cases are dismissed due to witness unavailability, evidence contamination, or police misconduct. Our experienced criminal defense attorney will identify dismissal opportunities and file appropriate motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
What happens if I miss my court date in Lubbock County?
Missing a court date in Lubbock County results in an automatic bench warrant for your arrest and additional charges of failure to appear. Bond may be revoked, requiring you to remain in jail until trial. Failure to appear is a separate criminal offense carrying additional fines and jail time. Contact our attorney immediately if you miss court – they may be able to file motions to quash the warrant and reschedule your appearance. Some courts allow attorneys to appear on your behalf for certain hearings, but this must be arranged in advance through proper legal channels.
Do I need a lawyer if I'm planning to plead guilty in Lubbock County?
Yes, you absolutely need an attorney even if planning to plead guilty in Lubbock County. Prosecutors often overcharge defendants, and our experienced attorneys will negotiate reduced charges, lesser sentences, or alternative sentencing options like probation or specialty courts. A guilty plea has permanent consequences including criminal records, employment barriers, professional license impacts, and potential immigration consequences. Our attorney will ensure your plea is truly in your best interest, that you understand all consequences, and that the court properly accepts your plea. Many cases that seem hopeless actually have viable defenses or mitigation strategies.
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In the West
Our every action is driven by a deep-seated commitment to fighting for hardworking Texans. Each client we represent and every case we undertake reflects our dedication to ensuring fairness and justice.
Our roots run deep in West Texas. Many of our attorneys hail from modest backgrounds, with family histories steeped in professions like farming, mechanics, labor, firefighting, and military service. These humble beginnings instilled in us the value of hard work, a principle we uphold daily.
We consciously choose to stand with the everyday people rather than corporations or the elite. Our focus is on representing dedicated, family-oriented Texans who aspire to provide a better future for their children. This often means challenging big insurance companies that attempt to undercut rightful claims. 
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