Manvel, TX Criminal Defense Law Firms & Lawyers

The maximum penalty for armed robbery is a term of years to life. The penalty for the lesser offense of attempted armed robbery will depend on the plea agreement you are able to negotiate with the prosecutor that is acceptable to the judge to whom the case is assigned for disposition. It is permissible for the judge to be involved in the agreement under the Cobbs decision.

You have a good argument for a jury trial: you can argue it was your friend's. He even admitted it. Hire a lawyer to help you and you improve your chances of acquittal. Remember, even misdemeanors can have long lasting effects on your life.

You always have the right to request a change of attorney but the court will usually not grant it unless there is a good reason. If the problem is lack of contact by the attorney, keep a record of the times you have called and sent emails and faxes. It is best if in the communications to him you say what you wish to discuss and keep copies for the judge to see. Do not wait until you are about to go to trial to make the request.  Above all, be sure that a change of attorneys is what you actually want. What you have may be worse than what you get. Check with others at the courthouse to see about his reputation and ability. If you have both felony and misdemeanor cases, you may not get one lawyer appointed for all. You may consider hiring a lawyer so there is an effort to get the best result. You pay for the time that is spent on your cases so a lawyer can often do a better job for you.