Jarvis & Hamilton Law FirmFindLaw IM Template2026-06-30T23:43:16Zhttps://www.bobjarvis.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1602623/2021/06/cropped-favicon-jarvis512-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[Can a white collar crime charge affect your career?]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472282026-06-30T23:43:16Z2026-06-30T23:43:16ZHow can a criminal charge impact your job?
Many employers conduct background checks or require employees to report pending criminal charges. Depending on your position, your employer may place you on administrative leave, suspend you or even terminate your employment while the case is pending.
Jobs that involve handling money, confidential information or positions of public trust often receive greater scrutiny. Employers may view white collar crime allegations as raising concerns about honesty, judgment or integrity, even if you have not been convicted.
A charge does not automatically mean you will lose your job, but it can create significant employment challenges.
Can a white collar crime charge affect your professional license?
Depending on the profession and the outcome of the case, a licensing board may issue a warning, impose probation, suspend a license or seek revocation. Each profession has its own disciplinary process and standards.
Why early legal representation matters
White collar crime cases often involve complex financial records, digital evidence and lengthy investigations. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and develop a strategy designed to protect both your legal rights and your professional future.
Early intervention may also help address collateral consequences, such as employer concerns or licensing issues, before they become more serious.
Protecting your future
A criminal charge does not automatically define your career or determine your professional future. Every case presents unique facts, and the outcome may significantly affect your employment opportunities and licensing status.
If you are facing allegations of a white collar offense, obtaining experienced legal guidance as early as possible can help you understand your options, protect your reputation and work toward the best possible resolution for both your case and your career.]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[What are geofence warrants, and are they legal?]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472272026-06-30T23:29:24Z2026-06-30T23:29:24Zrecent blog post.
But, can law enforcement use their resources to find out if someone’s phone was in the vicinity of a crime? That’s another question. The U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ruled on that in one of its final decisions before recessing until the fall.
The SCOTUS decision
In a 6-3 decision that brought together several of the more conservative justices and those who are considered liberal, the majority ruled that a modern law enforcement technique known as “geofencing” requires probable cause just like a traditional search warrant to help ensure people’s Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable searches.
The SCOTUS decision does not prohibit the use of geofence warrants, which are a type of “reverse search warrant.” However, it does require that they receive more scrutiny from judges before being signed and must limit the parameters to that of a “reasonable” search in terms of time and location. Writing for the majority, Justice Elena Kagan said, "The Fourth Amendment must, as ever, protect against unjustified government intrusion on the privacy of the individual.”
The case before the court
The specific case that made it to the high court involved a warrant served on Google to determine what cellphones were near or in a bank in a two-hour period surrounding a nearly $200,000 robbery. That information led them to the suspect, who confessed and was convicted before challenging the method used to identify him.
The attorneys for the defendant argued that geofence searches violate the Fourth Amendment because they allow law enforcement "to search first and develop suspicions later." SCOTUS left it to the lower court in this case to determine whether the geofence warrant was valid under the Fourth Amendment.
In his dissent, Justice Samuel Alito chastised the majority for "striking a pose as a great champion of privacy in the digital age." However, as increasingly more information is available if tech companies are required to provide it, it’s critical to ensure that our basic rights are protected.
These geofencing searches can potentially uncover millions of people’s locations. While users can choose not to allow individual phone apps to track them, some apps need to always know a user’s location to work effectively – for example, to notify them of nearby fires and other emergencies.
If evidence is obtained illegally, it can end an entire criminal case. That’s one reason it’s smart to get sound legal guidance as early as possible if you or a loved one is charged with a crime. The law is ever-evolving, and understanding its nuances can impact a case profoundly.]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[How another’s prescription meds can land you behind bars]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472202026-06-18T20:45:02Z2026-06-18T20:45:02ZMany people do not realize that possessing someone else's prescription medication can lead to serious criminal consequences in Texas. Because prescription drugs are often viewed as legitimate medications prescribed by a doctor, individuals sometimes assume there is little risk in borrowing, sharing or carrying another person's prescription. Under Texas law, however, that assumption can be costly.
Prescription medications are prescribed to specific individuals for specific medical purposes. When a person possesses a controlled substance without a valid prescription in their own name, law enforcement may treat the situation as unlawful possession. It does not matter that the medication originally came from a pharmacy or was legally prescribed to someone else.
Unlawful offenses involving prescriptions
Common examples of prescription-related offenses that may be prosecuted by state or federal law enforcement include carrying a family member's pain medication, taking a friend's anti-anxiety pills before a flight or holding prescription drugs for another person. While these situations may seem harmless, they can result in criminal charges if the medication at issue is classified as a controlled substance and an individual lacks legal authorization to possess it.The potential penalties for such offenses depend on several factors, including the type of medication and the amount involved. Unlawful possession of prescription drugs such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, Xanax, Adderall and other controlled substances may result in significant criminal consequences. Depending on the circumstances, a person may face misdemeanor or felony charges, fines, probation or even imprisonment.Prosecutors generally must prove that the accused knowingly possessed the medication. Questions about ownership, access and control of the drugs may become important issues in a defense strategy. For example, medications discovered in a shared vehicle or residence may raise factual disputes regarding who actually possessed them. Depending on the circumstances at issue, a successful defense to prescription-related charges may be possible. ]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[Under investigation for a crime? Remember these 3 rules]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472192026-06-11T17:10:05Z2026-06-11T17:10:05ZIf you discover or suspect that you are under investigation for a crime, it’s important to tread carefully going forward. Certain actions can worsen your situation, while others could potentially improve it.Here are three things you need to remember when you’re in legal jeopardy:
1. Don’t be overly trusting or talkative
Police officers are not obligated to be truthful when they question you. They can lie about the evidence they have – and more – to put pressure on you and push you into a confession. It’s your constitutional right to say nothing, and it’s often best to exercise it and inform the officers you will be doing so. You don’t have to answer any police questions other than to confirm your identity.
2. Don’t attempt to evade an arrest
It’s unnerving to think that the police could be at your door, ready to put you in handcuffs. Do not try to flee, however. Not only could any attempt to evade arrest be seen as consciousness of guilt, but it could also lead to additional charges.
3. Don’t try to influence witnesses
“Witness tampering” covers a wide range of behavior, from asking a friend to tell a “white lie” about where you were one evening to contacting the alleged victim of the case and asking them not to cooperate with the police. Do not try to exert any control over others who may be involved in your case, or you could find yourself facing new accusations. Finally, it’s crucial to remember that, if you are arrested and questioned, the police are obligated to let you know that you have a right to call a legal representative. It’s wise to use it.]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[Can a police officer ask to search your phone?]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472172026-05-28T03:15:33Z2026-05-28T03:15:33ZMany people’s lives are intrinsically tied to their phones. The phone contains location data showing where the individual was, it keeps records of text messages or direct messages, it stores pictures and videos, and much more.
As such, it is natural that police officers want to search a person’s phone while conducting a criminal investigation. Is the officer allowed to do so, or do you have an expectation of privacy with your own device?
Attempts to gain your consent
Yes, an officer can ask, and they are trying to get your consent to search the phone. However, you do not necessarily have to give them your consent. In the same way that you can deny a search of your home or commercial property, you can tell them that you are not going to give them consent to search the device. If you do not, however, they can often get a search warrant from a judge. This would authorize them to search your phone even without your consent.Additionally, the police can sometimes serve these search warrants to third parties that also have access to your information. Facebook has turned over direct message records to the police, for example. They may consider serving the warrant to a social media company or a cloud storage company if you back up your device to the cloud. In these cases, the police can sometimes get the evidence they are looking for without actually unlocking your phone or searching the device itself.
Not all searches are valid
Phone searches can sometimes be controversial, and you may feel that the police illegally searched your device without consent or a warrant. If there are questions about the search procedures or what evidence can be admitted in court, it is important to carefully consider your legal options.]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[What should you know about a plea agreement?]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472152026-05-15T20:57:32Z2026-05-15T20:57:32ZPeople who are facing criminal charges often want to get their case over and done with as soon as possible. One way that this may happen is with a plea deal, which is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense regarding the outcome of the case.
While a plea deal may seem like the perfect way to resolve a criminal case, there are some specific things that a defendant should consider before they enter into an agreement. For example, a defendant should realize that they can’t appeal a plea deal.
Plea deal negotiations
Plea deal negotiations often occur directly between the attorneys handling the case. These discussions often involve the charge that the person will admit to, the penalty that’s being agreed to and any other conditions that are important for either side. It’s possible that charges may be reduced or some counts may be dismissed. Sentence recommendations, which can include incarceration, probation or a variety of others, are also part of the discussion.
After the deal is reached
Once the prosecution and defense reach an agreement, the deal isn’t done. The agreement has to be presented to the court. The judge will question the defendant to determine if they understand the terms of the plea deal. They will also look at the conditions to decide if those are suitable for the case. If the court accepts the agreement, the case is handled accordingly. The court has the option of rejecting the agreement and sending it back for renegotiation. If a new agreement can’t be reached, a trial can proceed. Plea deals are often complex and require an attorney to work through them since most prosecutors will only work with the defendant’s attorney. Understanding the plea deal’s specifics is critical. Until the plea deal is finalized, defendants should work on their defense strategy.
]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[Did federal agents ask to “just talk”?]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472132026-05-14T07:30:06Z2026-05-14T07:30:06ZA friendly tone does not make the interview harmless
Federal investigations often begin long before charges appear. Agents may already have bank records, emails, payroll files, tax records or statements from other people. When they ask to “just talk,” they may be testing your answers against information they already have.
This can happen in many cases involving federal criminal charges, including fraud, embezzlement, conspiracy, money laundering or drug trafficking investigations. In North Texas, a person may first learn about a federal case when agents appear at home, at work or by phone.
The danger is not limited to confessing. A nervous answer, an educated guess or an incomplete explanation can create new problems. Federal law makes it a crime to knowingly give false statements or conceal material facts in matters within federal jurisdiction, including statements made to federal agents under 18 U.S. Code § 1001.
You may not know your role yet
Many people assume agents would clearly say if they were under investigation. That is a risky assumption. A person can start as a witness and later become a target, especially if their answers conflict with documents, financial records or another person’s account.
Before answering questions, pay attention to what agents are asking about. Are they focused on your company’s billing practices? A loan application? Missing funds? A shared bank account? A package, vehicle or firearm? The subject of the questions may reveal the direction of the investigation.
You can remain respectful without trying to explain everything during the first contact. Ask for the agents’ names, agencies and contact information. If they have a warrant, ask to see it, read it carefully if possible and do not interfere with the search. If they only want an interview, you can say that you want to speak with an attorney before answering questions.
What to do before the story gets locked in
After the contact ends, write down what happened while your memory is fresh. Include the date, time, location, agency names, questions asked and anything the agents said about the investigation.
Do not delete emails, texts, financial records or work files. Destroying or altering information can make the situation worse, even when the original issue was unclear. It can also make investigators view ordinary conduct as suspicious.
Why early choices matter
A federal visit does not always mean charges are coming. Still, the first conversation can shape how investigators interpret your role, your intent and your connection to the conduct under review.
When agents ask to “just talk,” a safer response is often calm, polite and limited. You do not have to argue, guess or explain your way through a federal investigation on your doorstep.]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[3 ways to challenge a breath test]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=472022026-05-02T01:20:46Z2026-05-02T01:20:46Zchallenge the results of that test.
Did the officer have the correct training?
First, perhaps the officer made a mistake while giving you the breath test. You may believe the results are not accurate, and you may not be sure the officer was properly trained to use the test. Errors by the police could invalidate the results.
Was the test properly calibrated?
It can also help to look at the maintenance and calibration records for that breath test device. If it has been kept up to date, then the accuracy can likely be trusted. However, if it has been neglected for a significant amount of time, there is no telling if it was properly calibrated and providing accurate results.
Did anything else influence the test?
Finally, certain factors can sometimes produce a higher reading, such as burping while taking a breath test or having residual alcohol in your mouth. If you only had half of a drink but registered as being over the legal limit, these types of factors could have artificially inflated the results.
These are just three potential areas to consider, but it is important to know that you can sometimes challenge your breath test. Be sure you know what legal defense options you have.]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[When the fun stops with an underage DWI: 3 things to know]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=471942026-03-12T14:04:59Z2026-03-12T14:04:59ZA night out with friends can feel carefree, especially for young people who see social drinking as part of growing up. But when alcohol and driving intersect, the situation can change quickly. In Texas, the law treats underage drinking and driving differently than adult offenses, and the consequences can escalate fast.
An underage DWI charge can raise difficult questions for both young drivers and their families. Understanding how Texas law approaches these situations can help clarify what may happen next.
1. Texas applies strict standards to drivers under 21
Texas law takes a strict stance on alcohol use by drivers under 21. In many situations, even a small amount of alcohol in a minor’s system can trigger legal consequences.The state enforces a “zero tolerance” approach to underage drinking and driving. That means a driver younger than 21 can face charges if authorities detect any measurable amount of alcohol in their system while operating a vehicle.Even if the driver does not appear impaired, the presence of alcohol alone can lead to legal trouble. Penalties may include fines, license suspension, alcohol education programs and community service. For young people who rely on driving for school or work, these consequences can quickly disrupt daily life.
2. Carrying young passengers can raise the stakes
The situation can become more serious if other minors are in the vehicle. Texas law imposes stronger penalties when a driver operates a vehicle while intoxicated and carries passengers younger than 15.Although this offense often appears in cases involving adult drivers, it can also apply when the driver is under 21. Prosecutors may treat the presence of younger passengers as an added safety risk, which can result in more severe charges and penalties.When multiple minors are involved, the legal and emotional impact of the situation can grow quickly for everyone connected to the case.
3. A DWI charge can affect the future in lasting ways
An underage DWI does not always end with immediate penalties. A conviction may follow a young person for years, affecting school opportunities, employment prospects and insurance costs.Even when the offense seems like a one-time mistake, the legal system may still impose consequences that extend beyond the initial incident. For many families, the process can feel confusing and overwhelming.These factors show how quickly an underage DWI situation can escalate beyond a single moment of poor judgment.
Looking ahead after a DWI
Facing a DWI charge at a young age can feel frightening. Yet it is important to remember that legal options may still exist. An experienced legal professional can help examine the circumstances of the case and explain possible next steps.Seeking legal guidance can help protect important rights and offer support during a challenging time.
]]>On Behalf of Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm<![CDATA[Can you bring legal marijuana into Texas?]]>https://www.bobjarvis.com/?p=471772026-02-02T17:19:35Z2026-02-02T17:19:35ZIt was not that long ago that recreational marijuana was illegal in every state. You could not grow marijuana plants or consume it, either through smoking or edibles. While some states had medical marijuana programs, anyone caught with marijuana without proper authorization could face criminal charges.
Over the last decade, however, laws have changed significantly. Many states have legalized recreational marijuana, including nearby states such as Colorado. However, marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Texas.This leads some Texas residents to wonder whether they can legally buy marijuana in a state where it is legal and then bring it back home. If the purchase itself is legal, does that mean transporting it is also legal? Could someone theoretically drive to Colorado, buy it at a dispensary, and then drive home to Texas?
They could still face charges
No. Bringing marijuana into Texas is still illegal, even if it was legally purchased in another state. Anyone who does so could still face drug charges. First, marijuana remains illegal under federal law. Transporting it across state lines violates federal law, regardless of whether either state has legalized it. So, even driving from Colorado to Texas with marijuana in your possession is unlawful.Second, once you enter Texas, you are also violating state law. Texas prohibits recreational marijuana possession, no matter where it was purchased. This means a person could potentially face both federal and state charges for transporting marijuana into Texas.If you are facing drug possession charges, it is important to understand your legal rights and defense options. You must know what steps to take moving forward.]]>