I'm a criminal defense attorney in San Antonio. When I was in my early 20s, I was arrested for DWI. I had no idea what to expect or what was going on with my case because my attorney didn't let me know what to expect. Now that I'm an attorney, I want to make sure that you don't have to go through the same experience that I did. This podcast will let you know what you can expect to happen at the different stages of your case. Even though it focuses on how cases in San Antonio are handled, it will be helpful even if you're charged somewhere else. If you've been arrested for DWI, assault, possession, or anything else, you probably have many questions about what will happen in your case. You'll probably have more questions while your case works through the system. This podcast will answer many of your questions.
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
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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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Sean Henricksen Law Firm
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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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Sean Henricksen Law Firm
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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
sean@seanhenricksen.com
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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ADVERTIESEMENT
Sean Henricksen Law Firm
San Antonio, Texas
www.SeanHenricksen.com
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Sean Henricksen Law Firm
sean@seanhenricksen.com
210-405-6410
106 S. St. Mary's St., Ste 445
San Antonio, Texas 78205
www.seanhenricksen.com
What if we told you that, even with a minor legal misstep, there's a potential path for redemption that could end with the expunction of your criminal record? In this episode, I walk you through the maze of pre-trial diversion programs in Texas, with a spotlight on Bexar County. I explain the benefits and pitfalls of these programs designed for first-time offenders or those with minor criminal history. We also discuss how enrolling in such a program could fast-track your case resolution and what you need to do to succeed.
I'll also help you understand how pre-trial diversion can help you qualify for an expunction faster than a dismissal can. The programs will usually require you to attend classes, perform community service, and pay fees. We'll also talk about the possible consequences if you fall short of fulfilling all the program's requirements or face a new charge. This episode is packed with valuable insights about your rights and the legal system. If you're navigating a charge in San Antonio or the surrounding areas, this episode might be the lifeline you need. So, tune in, and let's steer your way through this together.
If you're being charged with a crime in San Antonio, use the link below to schedule a free consultation with us:
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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If you accept a plea or if you're found guilty at trial, you could end up on probation. Here I'll tell you what probation is and what to expect if you end up on probation.
If you're being charged with a crime in San Antonio, use the link below to schedule a free consultation with us:
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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When you're charged with a crime, your case can end in three ways. It could be dismissed, you could accept a plea, or it could go to trial. In this episode we discuss what trial is, when to take your case to trial, and what a trial looks like.
If you're being charged with a crime in San Antonio, use the link below to schedule a free consultation with us:
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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Most people want their case to be dismissed. What exactly does it mean to have your case dismissed and how does it happen? If your case is dismissed, what do you need to do next?
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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ADVERTIESEMENT
Sean Henricksen Law Firm
San Antonio, Texas
www.SeanHenricksen.com
While your case winds its way through the system, you will likely receive an offer on your case. What is an offer and should you take it? If you accept an offer, you will go in front of a judge with a plea agreement. Usually that will you pleading guilty or no contest to a charge in exchange for an agreed upon punishment. What's less clear is whether trying to determine whether or not its better to take an offer or take your case to trial.
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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ADVERTIESEMENT
Sean Henricksen Law Firm
San Antonio, Texas
www.SeanHenricksen.com
If you're being charged with a possession case, there are several things that are specific to those types of cases that you should know about. In these types of cases, the main issues are whether the search that led to to cops finding the illegal substance or object (drugs, guns, identification, etc) was a legal search and can they prove that you were the one possessing the illegal object. If the search was illegal or if they can't tie the substance to you, your charges may be dismissed. If you're being charged with a crime in the San Antonio area, I would be happy to answer any questions that you have and discuss your case with you. You can call me 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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ADVERTIESEMENT
Sean Henricksen Law Firm
San Antonio, Texas
www.SeanHenricksen.com
If you're being charged with a family violence case (assault, violation of protective order, terroristic threat, interfering with an emergency call), there are several things that are specific to those types of cases that you should know about. In these types of cases, there aren't usually any witnesses other than you and the alleged victim. The victim may even want the case dismissed. If you're being charged with a crime in the San Antonio area, I would be happy to answer any questions that you have and discuss your case with you. You can call me 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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ADVERTIESEMENT
Sean Henricksen Law Firm
San Antonio, Texas
www.SeanHenricksen.com
If you're being charged with DWI, there are several things that are specific to DWI cases that you should know about. One of those is that when you're arrested for DWI, DPS is also trying to suspend you drivers license. There is also a lot of science that goes into whether your blood alcohol is above or below .08. If you're being charged with a crime in the San Antonio area, I would be happy to answer any questions that you have and discuss your case with you. You can call me 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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When you're charged with a crime, the defendant and his attorney have the right to review the evidence against the defendant. In this episode we discuss what your rights to review evidence in your case and we discuss the differences between misdemeanors and felonies.
If you have any questions about the topic in this episode or if you're being charged with a crime in the San Antonio area, feel free to click the link below to schedule a free consultation or call us at 210-775-0852.
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
When someone is arrested and bails out of jail, they're given a court date. One of their most common questions is, "What is going to happen on my first court date?" We discuss what your first court date will be like and try to let you know what you can expect at your first setting. 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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When you get out of jail, there are some things that you need to do that will help you get the best result on your case.
If you're being charged with a crime in the San Antonio area (Bexar County) I would be happy to help you. You can call me 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
If you have any questions or would like to suggest topics for me to cover, you can email me at sean@seanhenricksen.com
Thank you for listening.
What happens when a cop arrests you? In this episode, I talk about what you should do and what you shouldn't do when you're being investigated for a crime and when you're arrested. I also discuss bonding out and conditions of bond. 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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Sean Henricksen Law Firm
3011 Nagocdoches, Bldg 1
San Antonio, TX 78217
I'm a criminal defense attorney in San Antonio and when I was in my early 20s I was arrested for DWI. I had no idea what to expect or what was going on with my case because my attorney didn't let me know what to expect. Now that I'm an attorney, I want to make sure that you don't have to go through the same experience that I did. This podcast will let you know what you can expect to happen at the different stages of your case. Even though it focuses on how cases in San Antonio are handled, it will be helpful even if you're charged somewhere else. If you've been arrested for DWI, assault, possession or anything else, you probably have a lot of questions about what is going to happen on your case. While your case works it's way through the system, you'll probably have more questions. This podcast will answer many of your questions.
If you are being charged with a crime in San Antonio or if you have any questions about this podcast, feel free to call me at 210-775-0852 or schedule online.
Click the link below to receive 4 Things You Should Do If You've Been Arrested:
https://bit.ly/3tDOVbt