Criminal Law

Defending Your Rights, Protecting Your Future.

Sam is the primary attorney at Mehaffey & Watson dedicated to criminal defense. With a deep understanding of Texas criminal law and a proven track record in and out of the courtroom, Sam believes in the “art and the science” of criminal defense. The art of criminal defense focuses on understanding the goals, and intentions of everyone involved to determine what they will do next.  This includes law enforcement, witnesses, judges, juries, and the prosecutor.  Sam’s diverse criminal practice includes all state and federal crimes, parole and probation violations, driver’s and professional licenses, expunctions, and non-disclosures. Sam’s unique blend of the art and science of criminal defense means that his strategy varies significantly from one case to another.  

Sam often will often say that he is the most important person in his client’s life.  This is not out of arrogance, but the realization that in serious criminal cases Sam’s actions will affect the rest of his client’s life more than anything the client can do for himself while the case is pending.  Sam sees this jaw dropping responsibility for what it is.  There’s a lot at stake in a criminal case.  Fortunately, Sam’s a fighter.

Although, not every criminal client is facing a life sentence or years in prison.  Every case is important to Sam.  Less serious cases allow Sam more time to devote to focusing on his clients’ lives after the case is over. Sam starts the process of helping his client’s repair their lives and get back on their feet with the first interview.  Sam understands that he has the power to change lives even after a criminal case is over whether or not he was the attorney of record during the case.  Sam does appeals, early terminations of community supervision, amended conditions of community supervision which is normally shorter and less restrictive, and institutional parole.  Expunctions and non-disclosures are also an important way to help clients get back on their feet after the conclusion of a criminal case.  The results are obvious.

Nearly every day someone calls Sam because he represented their father, best friend, or aunt, or because he is “highly recommended.”  Most of his new clients come from former clients who trust him enough to refer the people they care about most. That kind of trust is earned through results, honesty, and unwavering commitment. To Sam clients are lifelong, and he remains a resource long after the courtroom battle is over.     

Either way, Sam’s fighting for you and will ensure you understand his direction, goals, and the reason for each step. Sam has fought for justice inside and outside the courtroom his entire adult life. Let him fight for you.