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San Antonio Criminal DefEnse Lawyers Former Federal & Texas Prosecutors Defending the Rights of Clients in San Antonio and Throughout Texas
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    Criminal Defense Attorney in San Antonio

    A criminal accusation can affect your entire world. 

    When you are accused of a crime in San Antonio, you are immediately thrown into the complex Bexar County legal system, facing prosecutors from the District Attorney's Office and proceedings at the Cadena-Reeves Justice Center. We understand the profound stress and uncertainty this creates for you and your family.

    Our purpose at Lance Kennedy Law is to lift that weight. We stand with you to demystify the legal process, protect your constitutional rights, and meticulously build a defense against the state’s allegations. Every step we take is dedicated to our top priority: helping you get your life back.

    Contact our criminal defense attorney in San Antonio at (737) 324-7540 for a free, confidential review of your case.

    You Deserve an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney on Your Side

    Our founding attorney brings a wide range of experience to clients, including:

    • Former Assistant United States Attorney
    • Former Assistant District Attorney
    • U.S. Army Judge Advocate
    • 7 Federal Jury Trials & 50+ Texas Trials
    • Holds degrees from Southern Methodist University Law School, Harvard University, & University of Texas at Austin
    • Worked with the FBI, IRS, DEA, ATF, HSI, Border Patrol, Texas Rangers, and local law enforcement agencies

    If a criminal charge has turned your life upside down and you don’t know how to get it back, we understand. The criminal justice system in Texas is complicated. We’ve successfully handled thousands of criminal cases and understand the system from beginning to end. We are committed to helping you navigate the complex legal process and fight hard for you so you can get your life back.

    Nationally Recognized. Locally Respected.

    • Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers
    • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
    • BBB A+
    • Super Lawyers
    • Texas Bar College
    • Texas Bar Foundation - Fellow
    • NACDA - Top Ten Ranking 2024
    • Austin Chamber - Proud Member

      REsults that change lives

      • Dismissed Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon of a Police Officer
      • Dismissed Assault Family Violence
      • Dismissed DWI
      • Dismissed Fictitious License Plate
      • Reduced to Misdemeanor Sexual Assault
      • Dismissed Public Intoxication

      Trusted by those who needed us most

        I appreciate his compassion and proactive strategy that got my son the best possible outcome.
        “Lance took the time to talk to me explained the process and scenarios, he answered all my questions I felt completely confident he was the one we needed to represent my son.”
        - Jenny B.
        I highly recommend Lance for your legal needs.
        “Lance Kennedy Law provided excellent service when I needed legal representation for a family member. Their communication was prompt, keeping me up to date on our case.”
        - Sandy S.
        All in all, I’d give him a 10/10! Great job!
        “He was very professional, answered all my questions in a timely matter. Even on the same day”
        - Bri J.

        Our Practice Areas

        At Lance Kennedy Law, we provide strategic defense services for those facing criminal charges in Austin and throughout Texas. We focus our legal practice in Texas exclusively on criminal law to deliver the highest level of defense counsel to our clients. Our goal is to offer not just legal representation, but a pathway to a clearer future.

        A Resolute Defense Built on Experience

        When your future is at stake, the foundation of your defense matters. Our legal insight is shaped by the direct experience as a former Assistant District Attorney and a U.S. Army Judge Advocate of Lance Kennedy, the founder of Lance Kennedy Law. This history on the other side of the courtroom gives us a distinct advantage in understanding prosecutorial tactics and building a defense designed to counteract them.

        Having managed over 3,500 cases and litigated more than 50 trials in Texas, we offer representation grounded in real-world courtroom proceedings. To serve our community better, we make ourselves available 24/7, provide free consultations, and have Spanish-speaking staff ready to help.

        When to Call a San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney

        The most crucial moments for your defense happen long before a trial. If a detective from the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) or Bexar County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) leaves a voicemail asking you to "come in and clear things up," the time to call an attorney is before you respond. We can act as your intermediary, protecting you from questioning designed to build a case against you.

        If an arrest has already occurred, the need is even more urgent. Your rights are most vulnerable in the hours before your first court appearance at the Bexar County Central Magistrate's Office. We can intervene immediately to advise you, manage all communication with law enforcement, and begin working on bond conditions.

        Invoking your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney is not an admission of guilt. It is the wisest action you can take to protect your future and allows us to build your defense from the strongest possible position, well before your case is formally filed by the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office.

        Do not wait to get the help you need. Contact our criminal defense lawyer in San Antonio online or call (737) 324-7540 to begin building your defense today.

        Criminal defense insights

        frequently asked questions

        • If authorities arrested you or a family member in Austin, here are some key steps to consider:

          • Exercise your right to remain silent. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer.
          • Request an attorney immediately. If you can’t afford one, ask for a court-appointed lawyer.
          • Contact a family member or trusted friend to inform them of your situation.
          • Do not resist arrest or argue with law enforcement, even if you believe the arrest is unjustified.
          • Remember details about your arrest, including officer names and badge numbers if possible.
          • Attend your arraignment, where you’ll be informed of charges and can enter a plea.
          • Gather relevant documents and information for your case.
          • Follow all court orders and attend all scheduled hearings.
          • Consider contacting a bail bondsman if bail is set and you need assistance posting it.
          • Contact Lance Kennedy Law for a free consultation about potential defense strategies and the next steps in your case.
        • Whether you should plead guilty or not guilty is a serious legal decision that requires careful consideration of the specific details of your case. This choice can have major consequences for your future.

          The best course of action is to consult criminal defense attorney Lance Kennedy, who can review the evidence, charges, and circumstances of your case. I’ll examine your case at no cost, advise you on the potential outcomes of different pleas, and help you make an informed decision. Contact Lance Kennedy Law as soon as possible so we can get started on your case.

        • Three things: Contact a criminal defense lawyer in your county and then call a bail bondsman to see about getting your friend or family member released.

          Tell your friend or family member not to answer any questions about the incident and to ask for a lawyer, which should stop any police questioning.

        • Instead of waiting out the resolution of your case in jail, bail allows you to be released if you put up a financial deposit as a promise to appear in court.

          Typically, people accused of a crime hire a bail bondsman. The bondsman will pay the county the entire bail amount in exchange for you paying the bondsman 10% of the bond.

          For example, a typical aggravated assault bond in Comal County is $30,000. You can pay that amount to the county to get released, and the bail bondsman will refund it to you after your case is over.

          Or you can pay a bail bondsman a non-refundable fee of $3000 (10% of the bail amount) in exchange for them posting the entire amount.

        • Yes. I typically require half the fee to be paid up front, and clients can pay the balance over time.

        Working With us is Easy

        We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and stressful. As dedicated federal criminal defense attorney with years of experience, I am committed to providing personalized legal counsel for your defense. My approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you have an ally to help get your life back.

        1. 1
          Get a Free Case Review
          Let’s discuss your case, your goals, and what strategies are right for you.
        2. 2
          Resolve Your Case
          I will lead you every step of the way. Together, we will fight for a dismissal.
        3. 3
          Get Your Life Back
          Work to get the best results possible so you can get your life back.

        Setup a free Case Review

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        Our Promise to You

        Choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Austin is an important decision. At Lance Kennedy Law, our criminal defense attorneys understand the weight of this choice and the trust you place in your legal representative. Our promise to you goes beyond just words, it’s a tangible commitment to excellence, transparency, and relentless advocacy as we navigate your case together.

        • We’ll go to work immediately on your case.
        • We’ll be honest with you.
        • We’ll answer your questions.
        • We’ll keep you informed and up-to-date.
        • We’ll go the extra mile.
        • We’ll advocate for you at every turn.