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If you have any questions about this or if you're being charged with a crime, feel free to call us at 210-405-6410 or click here to schedule a free consultation.

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
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Courtroom testimony isn’t a free-for-all; it’s a tightly defined system that decides which voices the jury hears and how much weight they carry. We break down the three types of witnesses—those with personal knowledge, expert witnesses, and character witnesses—and show exactly how each one shapes a criminal case from the first question to the final verdict.

We start with eyewitnesses, including police officers, and clarify what they can and cannot say under the hearsay rules. You’ll hear how a defendant’s own statements can come in as an exception, why an officer can describe injuries but not speculate on their cause, and how a 911 call gets authenticated through a records custodian before it reaches the jury. Then we shift to experts, the people who translate lab data into plain English. In DWI cases, that means breath-test operators and blood analysts who explain calibration, chain of custody, and uncertainty ranges—details that can make or break a number-driven case.

Finally, we talk strategy with character witnesses and the defendant’s choice to testify. Character testimony can help establish credibility or peacefulness, but it also opens the door to rebuttal. We walk through two common scenarios—family violence and DWI—to show the usual witness lineup, the flow of evidence, and the key pressure points where a defense can challenge reliability and raise reasonable doubt. Along the way, we share practical guidance on preparing for testimony, spotting hearsay pitfalls, and focusing the jury on what’s admissible and persuasive.

If you or someone you love faces charges in San Antonio, we’ve linked a free guide with five steps to take right now, plus a way to schedule a no-cost consultation. If this breakdown helped, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find clear, actionable legal insights.

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

If you're being charged with a crime, there are three ways your case can end: dismissal, trial, or a plea. If you accept a plea, your case will not be dismissed. This sounds simple, but it's something most people don't think of when they're deciding whether or not to accept a plea. Most cases that get dismissed are dismissed later in the case. Once the state is preparing for trial on a case, there are certain problems that may come up that were not clear just from reading the police report. Obviously, not every case is going to get dismissed. If you want your case dismissed (everyone does) to think about the reason you want your case dismissed and how badly you want it dismissed. Are you willing to take your case to trial if the state doesn't dismiss your case?

If you have any questions about this video, or if you're being charged with a crime in San Antonio, feel free to call me at 210-405-6410 or click the link below to schedule a free consultation:
https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

We also have a free download for you: 4 Things You Should Do Right Now If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/2Xjj9Eh

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

If you have any questions about this or if you're being charged with a crime, feel free to call me at 210-405-6410 or click here to schedule a free consultation.

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt

We lay out the four biggest mistakes people make after a family violence arrest and show how to avoid new charges, warrants, and stress. We also explain how a trusted attorney can seek safer bond terms, keep you compliant, and protect long‑term rights.

• what no contact and emergency protective orders actually restrict
• how violations create new criminal charges and warrants
• why bondsman and pretrial check‑ins matter and how to stay compliant
• consequences for missing the first court date and how to prevent it
• long‑term risks of family violence convictions for guns, custody, and enhancements
• how to evaluate whether your attorney is responsive, respectful, and strategic
• steps to modify bond or protective terms through your lawyer
• where to get a free checklist and a no‑cost consultation

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

If you have any questions about this or if you're being charged with a crime, feel free to call me at 210-405-6410 or click here to schedule a free consultation.

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt

We have represented several clients who were arrested for unlawful carry of a weapon when they had no idea they were breaking the law. Many people, including police, judges, and prosecutors, get the law on unlawful carry incorrect. If you have a handgun in your car, you have to have it hidden (not in plain view) or in a holster. You also cannot be committing another crime, like DWI or possesion of any illegal drugs while you have a gun. Many people are pulled over for speeding and when the officer sees that there's a handgun in between their seat and the center console that is not in a holster, they end up getting arrested. We also see people who are arrested for DWI and also get charged with unlawful carry because there is a gun somewhere in the car. 

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

If you have any questions about this or if you're being charged with a crime, feel free to call me at 210-405-6410 or click here to schedule a free consultation.

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt

Navigating the criminal justice system feels like walking through a minefield without a map. What evidence should police collect? Can an arrest alone derail your career? How do you find the right attorney when your freedom hangs in the balance?

The truth about forensic evidence might shock you. When police fail to collect fingerprints and other crucial evidence, they're not "saving the system money" as some claim. The real cost comes later—in lengthy court battles, wrongful convictions, and lives destroyed. I break down why fingerprinting drug containers could solve cases faster and more accurately, especially when multiple people had access. The police investigation forms the foundation of everything that follows, yet receives the smallest investment. More troubling is the suggestion that jurors should lower their expectations about proof beyond reasonable doubt.

Family violence charges become public record immediately upon arrest—not conviction. Your employer can find this information with a simple search, and many professions require immediate reporting of arrests. Teachers, nurses, commercial drivers, and countless others face suspension or termination based solely on accusations. This devastating reality underscores why finding an attorney who pursues dismissals aggressively matters so much.

Choosing the right defense attorney might be your most crucial decision. Look beyond promises and focus on accessibility, respect, and specialized experience with your type of case. Can they be reached easily? Do they listen to your concerns? Have they successfully handled similar cases? Client reviews reveal patterns that brochures won't. No-contact orders present another complex challenge, particularly in family violence cases, where modifications depend on victim input, court tendencies, and case specifics.

Have questions about your specific situation? Reach out through the contact information in the show notes. Your future deserves a thoughtful, strategic approach with someone who understands what's at stake.

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

If you have any questions about this or if you're being charged with a crime, feel free to call me at 210-405-6410 or click here to schedule a free consultation.

https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

The legal aftermath of a criminal charge—even a misdemeanor—can haunt you for years if you don't take proper action. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, I share why misdemeanor charges deserve serious attention and proper legal representation.

My own DWI charge from my early twenties followed me through job applications, law school admissions, and attorney licensing because I didn't understand my options for record cleaning. This experience drives my passion for helping clients avoid similar pitfalls. Family violence cases particularly demand careful handling, as Texas law imposes consequences more severe than many felonies—permanent record stains, lifetime firearm restrictions, and significant custody implications. 

Most people don't realize that "family violence" extends far beyond marriage to include dating relationships, co-parents, and even roommates. A college dormitory dispute could potentially carry devastating legal consequences under Texas law. While most charges allow for record sealing after successful completion of deferred adjudication, family violence cases with that formal finding remain permanently on your record unless dismissed or won at trial.

San Antonio's recent 12% decrease in homicides contrasts with the politically-motivated approach to family violence arrests, where officers often feel pressured to make arrests regardless of circumstances. This explains why over half of misdemeanor family violence cases here eventually get dismissed—but not before causing significant disruption to lives and livelihoods.

Knowledge truly is your best defense. If you're facing criminal charges in San Antonio, especially involving family violence allegations, contact the Sean Hendrickson Law Firm at 210-405-6410 or through our website to schedule a free consultation. We'll map out a strategic game plan to protect your rights and your future.

If you have any questions about this or if you're being charged with a crime, feel free to call me at 210-775-0852 or click here to schedule a free consultation.

https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt
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#SanAntonioLawyerFreeConsultation
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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

The criminal justice system operates on rules that often surprise those caught in its machinery. Whether you're facing charges or supporting someone who is, understanding these realities can make a critical difference in case outcomes.

Most people believe that when a victim wants charges dropped, prosecutors simply comply. The truth is far more complicated. As we explore in this episode, victims don't control criminal prosecutions—they're essentially witnesses in cases brought by the state. While victim cooperation matters, prosecutors make the final call on whether cases proceed. This misunderstanding leads many defendants to false expectations and missed opportunities for effective defense strategies. We break down what actually influences dismissal decisions and how attorneys work within these constraints.

What happens at your first court date? Many expect immediate resolution or feel pressured to accept whatever offer is presented. Instead, these initial appearances are primarily administrative, with judges confirming attendance and attorneys beginning negotiations that typically span multiple court settings. Making uninformed decisions at this stage can have lasting consequences. We walk through exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and why rushing to resolution rarely serves your interests.

Perhaps most crucially, we tackle the dangerous myth that innocent people should freely speak with investigating officers. Recent firings of San Antonio police officers for falsifying statements and other misconduct highlight why even truthful statements can be twisted or misrepresented. The alarming conditions at Bexar County Jail—with eight deaths already this year—further demonstrate why protecting your rights from the beginning is essential. Don't navigate this system alone. 

If you have questions about anything we say in this podcast or if you're being charged with a crime in the San Antonio area, call us at 210-775-0852 or click the link below to schedule a free consultation.
 
 https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt

You can also find out answers to some of your questions on our Youtube page:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEE2yL2fEakGBmbTGzl2FUA
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#SanAntonioLawyer
#TXLawyer
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#CriminalDefenseLawyerSanAntonio
#CriminalDefenseLawyerBexar
#SeanHenricksenLawFirm
#Lawyer
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#DWI
#Assault
#Marijuana
#Possession
#Dismissed 

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

If you're being charged with a crime in San Antonio, use the link below to schedule a free consultation where we'd be happy to discuss your case with you: https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

The criminal justice system often presents defendants with difficult choices that can profoundly impact their futures. In this episode, we dive into one of the most challenging dilemmas: whether to accept a short jail sentence or lengthy probation. After a viral TikTok video showed someone celebrating nine years of probation instead of 30 days in jail, we explore why this might not be the victory it appears to be. The extended probation period creates nearly a decade of vulnerability where any misstep could result in severe consequences—potentially much worse than the original jail sentence.

We also address a frustration many defendants experience: why criminal cases seem to move at a glacial pace. From waiting on crucial evidence like body camera footage and lab results to understanding how prosecutors prioritize cases, we break down the factors that contribute to delays and what you can realistically expect during the process. For those seeking dismissals or heading to trial, we provide perspective on timeline expectations and management.

The recent arrest of a city councilwoman for DWI—the third such incident involving council members in three years—provides a timely case study on what to do (and not do) when encountering law enforcement. We discuss practical strategies for protecting your rights during traffic stops, including when to remain silent and decline field sobriety tests. Plus, we share preventative measures like using personal breathalyzers that could help you avoid DWI situations altogether. Whether you're currently facing charges or simply want to be prepared, this episode delivers essential guidance from an experienced criminal defense perspective. 

Download our free guide "Five Things You Should Be Doing Right Now If You've Been Arrested" from the show notes and reach out if you need personalized assistance with your case.

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

This episode explores the appeals process in criminal law, clarifying common misconceptions and outlining the essential steps involved when a trial verdict is contested. Listeners learn about the timeline, different levels of appellate courts, and the potential outcomes of an appeal, empowering them with the knowledge to navigate this critical aspect of the legal system.

• Understanding what an appeal truly entails 
• Key timelines for filing an appeal 
• Different types of appeals categorized 
• Overview of appellate courts in Texas 
• The briefing process and oral argument opportunities 
• Potential outcomes of the appellate court's decision 
• Limitations on appeals following non-guilty verdicts 
• Importance of timely communication with attorneys 

If you have any questions about appeals, give me a call at 210-775-0852 or you can click this link to schedule a free consultation where we will discuss your case. https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

We also have a free download for you: 4 Things You Should Do Right Now If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/2Xjj9Eh

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com

Send us a text

Can cleaning up your criminal record truly transform your future? In this episode, I share my personal journey through the challenges of a DWI arrest and the pivotal moment I discovered the power of record expungement. You'll learn about the two primary methods available in Texas to clear your record: expunction and non-disclosure. Understand how expunction, the gold standard, can allow you to deny your arrest ever happened by destroying all records, and discover the eligibility criteria such as case dismissal, completion of a pre-trial diversion program, or being found not guilty at trial. We'll also walk you through the process of obtaining an expunction, from filing a petition to securing a judge's signature.

For those who may not qualify for expunction, we dive into the benefits of obtaining an order of non-disclosure, especially if you've completed deferred adjudication or have misdemeanor convictions like DWI. Learn how an order of non-disclosure can effectively shield your past from most private employers and housing background checks, covering about 80% of scenarios. If you're unsure about your eligibility or the steps to clean up your record, this episode is a must-listen. Take proactive steps to reclaim your future opportunities and peace of mind. Join us to explore these processes and understand how they can pave the way for a fresh start.

If you have any questions about this episode or if you're being charged with a crime in San Antonio, feel free to call us at 210-775-0852 or click the link below to schedule a free consultation.
https://seanhenricksen.com/schedule-consultation/

Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt

You can also find out answers to some of your questions on our YouTube page:
https://www.youtube.com/SeanHenricksenLawFirm
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#TXLawyer
#BexarCountyLawyer
#CriminalDefenseLawyerSanAntonio
#CriminalDefenseLawyerBexar
#SeanHenricksenLawFirm
#Lawyer
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#DWI
#Assault
#Marijuana
#Possession
#Dismissed 
#Expunction
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San Antonio, Texas
www.SeanHenricksen.com

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Sean Henricksen Law Firm

[email protected]

210-405-6410

106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445

San Antonio, Texas 78205

www.seanhenricksen.com