Need An Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer?

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When you ask the question, "who needs the services of a criminal defense attorney," most people do not think of their own friends, neighbors, or family. The reality, however, is that it is not uncommon to know one or more persons in your immediate circle who has needed, or will at some point need the representation of a criminal defense attorney. Ordinary, everyday people can get caught up in the criminal justice system, sometimes without knowing that they are breaking any laws, or even intending to. Charges can be the result of reckless behavior, or simply poor judgment brought on by intoxication, jealousy, or other factors.

Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys handle a wide spectrum of real-life scenarios that happen to regular people just like the ones you know. It is not surprising to learn that a friend or neighbor once had a hot-check case, driving with a suspended license, DWI, or maybe pot possession. Trouble happens to regular folks. Teachers, engineers, plumbers, students... nobody is immune to acting irrationally, maybe partying a little too hard, or using poor judgment from time to time. Occasionally, those things can get you arrested. That's when you should start looking at Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys.

At Tillman Braniff, PLLC, we are Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys who defend individuals in every type of felony or misdemeanor case.  We strive to show the case through the eyes of the Defendant to achieve the best possible result for each individual client. We can often provide jail release or at least provide assistance outside of Travis County. In addition to criminal cases, we also do Expunctions, Motions for Non-Disclosure, Probation Revocations and Early Discharges. We can also help if you have a pending warrant that needs attention. Below are a few of our most common types of cases:


DWI

Driving While Intoxicated, Boating While Intoxicated, Driving Under the Influence

This is one of the most common, if not the most common, case that a criminal defense attorney will find themselves involved in. It is not that hard to find yourself in court facing charges of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated. The legal blood alcohol limit is .08, which means anytime yours is above this and you are driving, you could be charged with a DWI. What does this translate to for the normal person? Typically, it is just a few beers or glasses of wine, which means that virtually everyone you know has done this at some point. In a breath or blood test case, how you feel, or whether you look or feel impaired has very little to do with the outcome. The prosecutor will merely try to prove that you were breaking the law by showing that you were operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level that is higher than the legal limit of .08. If your alcohol content is higher than .15, the potential penalties double regardless of whether you have any prior offenses. DWI cases are never simple to resolve, and you should always have a criminal defense attorney to make sure that your case is diligently and professionally handled.


Drug Crimes

Possession of Marijuana, Cocaine, Possession of Controlled Substance (Ecstasy, Meth, Xanax, Oxycontin, Mushrooms), Growing Operations, Distribution of Marijuana or Cocaine

Prosecution of these case have exploded since the launch of the war on drugs. Possession of small amounts of marijuana can result in drug charges, being pulled over for a speeding ticket and the officer finding paraphernalia can result in a drug charge, even having prescription medication without having the prescription can result in a controlled substance change that will require the services of a criminal defense attorney. While some states such as Colorado, Washington, and Oregon have decriminalized marijuana, law enforcement in other states (Texas included) still fully prosecute cases of possession, regardless of whether the drugs were purchased legally elsewhere or if intended for personal or medical use. All prescription drugs that you possess without a presciption can get you arrested. And even a small amount of recreational, or party drugs, can result in serious felony charges. If you choose to engage in personal use, then having a criminal defense attorney at your back is a wise choice. Early involvement is the best defense to potentially serious consequences.


Theft Crimes

Theft by Check, Shoplifting, Theft, Robbery, Credit Card Abuse

Stealing is a crime. Everybody knows that, and yet far too often people can find themselves prosecuted for taking money or property without permission or ownership. Shoplifting is a common occurrence, and stores like HEB, WalMart, Target, and Home Depot aggressively detain and charge shoppers who meander past the last point of sale without paying. We have also represented many people on hot check charges that sat for years, only to discover a warrant they never knew about. These types of cases are referred to as "moral turpitude crimes" which means they have to do with dishonesty or deceit.  Obtaining the services of a criminal defense attorney for even simple theft charges is crucial, because few employers want to hire a candidate with a theft conviction. Also, regardless of the size of the theft, repeat offenders can face serious jail time, so it is best to get an attorney involved as early as possible.


Violent Crimes

Assault, Aggravated Assault, Murder, Burglary

In these types of cases, most people immediately realize the need for a criminal defense attorney. Violent crimes can include family violence, assault, battery, murder, and burglary. While it may be hard to imagine being in a violent situation, assault charges are surprisingly common. Heated discussions can easily get out of hand, and extra factors such as intoxication or jealousy can lead to injury, and criminal charges. Causing another individual physical pain is often enough to sustain an arrest with nothing more. People with assault convictions are often deemed violent or confrontational, and can have a difficult time finding employment or a decent apartment to rent. Because of the negative implications of these cases, having a criminal defense attorney to work on your case is crucial.


Assault- Family Violence

Assault on a family member, spouse, relative, boyfriend/girlfriend, or even a past or present roommate.


Sex Crimes

Rape, Sexual Assault, Prostitution, Indecent Exposure, Indecency with a Child, Possession of Child Pornography


White Collar Crimes

Embezzlement, Bribery, Bank Fraud, Welfare Fraud, Fraudulent Use of ID, Insurance Fraud, Money Laundering

White collar crimes are ones that involve fraud, embezzlement, use of a fake ID, identity theft, and others. These are often carefully plotted crimes that you may never suspect somebody of committing. Everything from insurance fraud to money laundering fall under the auspices of white collar crimes, and are most often prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Accused of a white collar crime? You need a criminal defense attorney immediately because these are serious charges that could end up carrying significant amounts of jail time.


Probation

Probation Revocation, Motion for Early Termination, Motion to Modify Probation


Parole

Parole Review, Parole Revocation Hearing, Parole Packet


Warrants

We can check for warrants in Travis County and advise you on the best way to proceed in clearing them. Personal Bond, Cash Deposit Bond, Walk-Through, Voluntary Surrender, Bond Forfeiture.


Jail Release

24 Hour Service. We are happy to assist in getting your friend or loved one out of Travis County Jail. Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys can often arrange for Personal Bonds when the person doesn't qualify on their own, or arrange a "cash deposit bond" in other instances. It is not always possible to get someone released from jail quickly, or at all. We prefer to have our clients on the outside and make every effort to make that happen.

Speak with Austin Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

People make mistakes. From driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol to violating their parole or ignoring a warrant that can be issued for having too many parking tickets. All of these are everyday events that can cause you, your friends, neighbors, or family to need the services of Austin criminal defense attorneys.  When you do, we are here to help. To get started, contact Tillman Braniff at (512) 472-6565 or contact us HERE.

Or call: 512-472-6565 to speak to a lawyer.

I just want to start of by saying I can't be more grateful to have found Mr. Rhett and his wonderful team. They walked me step by step in a very delicate situation that I was in. They were very attentive and accommodating through out the whole process. I will forever be grateful🙏. I greatly recommend this firm to any one going through a legal matter. They will fight for you and will go way beyond to find justice for their clients. I'm a testament to this. They will not disappoint.
Angelica Clark
Angelica Clark
20:55 21 Feb 24
I am very pleased with Mr. Braniff and his team. He was very humble and friendly. Worked with me on payments, and in the end my case was dismissed. I would definitely recommend him to my family and friends.
justin wuthrich
justin wuthrich
23:28 21 Dec 23
Over the past year, I helped an unhoused woman on the long journey of regaining her identity and her life, after 13 long years on the streets. One of the things we needed to do during this time was to clear up an outstanding legal issue from years earlier. As she hadn’t had an address or mailbox for years, she had been sent lots of court date notices and other things, which never reached her. That seemed to just make things worse. She was assigned a public defender, who was, quite frankly, a mean human, and insisted that the best we could hope for was jail time. After talking to Rhett about what we should do, he volunteered to take on her case. Through an agreement to do monitoring and counseling, which actually helped her in ways even she didn’t expect, he was able to have the charges against her dismissed. This was a huge win for someone who wanted to be on the road back to being recognized as a member of society. She is thankful, beyond words, for the genuine care that Rhett approached this issue with, and for enabling the best possible outcome for her.
Jen Lee
Jen Lee
19:55 16 Dec 23
Brian fought for me over 20 years ago in Vermont and I owe my freedom to him, Nicholas and Jeanine. I would probably be spending the rest of my life in prison if it were not for that team all those years ago. Thank you!!
HUMBLE GREEK
HUMBLE GREEK
22:45 27 Jul 23
Brian Tillman is a professional, caring and experienced attorney. He has acted on behalf in 2 cases and both times he fought to get me plea agreements that were much better than I would have expected.
Brianna Miller
Brianna Miller
14:34 01 Jan 21
Brian Tillman is legit I would hire him again.
Slowbalt
Slowbalt
05:30 22 Oct 20
I hired Brian Tillman to represent my beloved niece when she got mixed up with drugs, when everyone in the family was saying, “let her go, ie, deal with a court appointed attorney, if it’s meth she’s beyond help, don’t throw your money away”. But I knew Lisa, and knew she could turn her life around.I found the legal fees to be very reasonable, and I deeply appreciated the payment plan.I am very pleased with the outcome. I think her relapse while on probation (after getting detoxed and spending a month at a rehab center in Dallas, sigh)was the best thing that could have happened.A couple weeks in Travis County Jail made her realize that she did not like jail, and never ever wanted to go to jail again.She graduated the SMART program last fall and got a spot in a sober living house, and a job that she really likes and is very good at (refurbishing electronics). She has gotten three raises and two promotions in less than a year. I co-signed on a car loan for her. She celebrated a year’s sobriety in March, and has paid off all her probation fees.She’s happy and healthy, and I firmly believe she would not have been able to accomplish these things without expert legal counsel and advice given by Brian Tillman.Happy Father’s Day, Brian! You’re a good dad and a good father figure to many.I hope you get some good BBQ and beer and relaxing on Sunday.
B McCabe
B McCabe
22:18 19 Jun 20
Did an amazing job on my case. A better word is unbelievable!!!
Perry Hemphill
Perry Hemphill
22:24 04 Nov 19
I've had an extremely rough two years. After the loss of a 14-year-old son, and my mother just over a year later, I felt beat down. Adding to that stress, was some issues that we're looming over me, creating a sense chaos and anxiety to my life that was hard to deal with. I found Brian Tillman through a friend that recommended him to me. I sat down with Brian at his office and felt that for the first time in those two years, someone took the time to not only hear me, but empathize with me regarding my circumstances. The process was long and confusing, it wasn't by our choosing, but Brian was extremely communicative and knowledgeable through the whole process and made sure that I knew everything that was going on. He stayed on top of my case, and after a sometime of dealing with it, both of my cases we're dismissed - which was the outcome that we were expecting. He understood the looming anxiety that I was experiencing and every time I felt frustrated, angry and discouraged, Brian was there with a word of encouragement and a "Hang in there" when I truly needed it. It was good to hear that from my attorney, he helped get me through some pretty rough times. I have zero issues in recommending Brian Tillman as your attorney, he truly cares, he'll do right by you. I can't thank him enough.I would say, I'd definitely use him again, but I sure as hell hope I dont have to, but...if I do, he's definitely my guy.
Aaron
Aaron
11:57 27 Sep 19
This is a guy you want representing you, in my time of unjust incarceration, Brian stepped in to protect me. He provided information, advice, and made sure to answer all my questions 100% so I was certain of my options. Brian proved me innocent, he saved an innocent young professional from our Justice System, and I 5/5 would recommended him for your defense.
I couldn’t have asked for better representation. I felt comfortable and confident in Brian’s abilities. Would recommend.
J
J
22:27 05 Feb 19
awesome attorney !!! real easy to communicate with and takes care of business.
Noe Garcia
Noe Garcia
17:23 15 Nov 18
Brian was extremely helpful with handling my case. He is polite and friendly. He seems like he genuinely cares about you. I can't recommend him enough. Thank you Brian for all your hard work.
John Garrett
John Garrett
19:44 01 Nov 18
Brian Tillman was very friendly and informative. I called for advise and possibly to hire him. He answered the first time, called me back when he said he would and gave all the information I was looking for and also gave me great advice. Based on his advise I didn't end up using his firm and with that knowledge he still called me back and emailed me all the information I needed. What a nice helpful guy!Thank you Brian and you can bet I will keep your number around.Charlie
Charles Whilden
Charles Whilden
19:25 06 Dec 17
This guy is the one you befriend at a BBQ and establish true genuine trust with professional care and understanding. I was able to beat my case with the best possible outcome and given my line of work where travels are high, I only had to appear in court once. Brian is reasonably priced and personable,(he maintains contact via his cell phone...seriously this guy will make you feel like your father is lawyer and goes out of his way to get things done. My friend parked his car into someone's living room and Brian was able to get a lot of charges reduced or dropped WITH the possibility of it never showing on record.Don't play around with your life...Hire this guy, he gets it DONE!!!
Ignatius Mwela
Ignatius Mwela
01:17 02 Nov 17
Rhett Braniff was a joy to work with and made the process so simple and straight forward. Couldn't recommend him highly enough!
Mark McEvoy
Mark McEvoy
18:35 31 Oct 17
Rhett Braniff was the right lawyer at the right time. I was impressed with his quick grasp of my situation, knowledge of what I needed to do, and his availability to answer my questions. I felt in good hands. I have found Rhett to be honest and have integrity. I would, without any hesitation, recommend Rhett Braniff.
David Liggett
David Liggett
19:09 24 Jun 17
In the sometimes overwhelming world of the Travis County justice system, Tillman Braniff are able to break down where you stand with your case, as well as what you can expect throughout the long (and sometimes irritating) process.
Christian Long
Christian Long
18:45 03 May 17
He helped me on my case I couldn't be any happier
EJ McCarty
EJ McCarty
17:47 07 Feb 17
Mr. Tillman and his staff were extremely friendly, accommodating, and profesional while still fighting for the best outcome! My case was an open and shut one for the prosecutors, but Mr. Tillman remained cool, calm and collected as we waited out the other side for a better deal. He took the time to get to know me, conveyed who I was to the prosecution, in which got me a lesser charge! If you are someone who is scared out of their mind about going to court, Mr. Tillman will explain everything, and make a bad situation seem winnable. I'm extremely thankful that he stood up for me and helped me navigate these overwhelming waters. If he hadn't, a lot of doors I'm still trying to open would not be opened for me.
Jet Diop
Jet Diop
03:22 15 Nov 16
I was referred to these two rockstar attorneys through a license attorney in Houston, and I have to say that it was by far the best decision I ever made. Brian Tillman and Rhett Braniff are two of the most knowledgeable and compassionate Criminal Defense Attorneys I've ever met. I had actually stumbled across their website and had read various posts on their blogs before getting referred to them, and one of the posts had stood out to me. It was a post about hiring a defense attorney and how important it is that you and the attorney mesh well, so to say. That couldn't be more true. I had found myself in a hellacious predictiment that required the utmost level of care. I had spoken with numerous attorneys before meeting with Brian and Rhett and I learned more from them in my initial consult than I had in all my other conversations combined in regards to the law and what the State of Texas could and could not do. I felt reassured that no matter what, they would have my best interest at heart and that practicing law was more than just a payday for them. I couldn't have been more pleased with the sincerity and compassion they showed me towards my situation. I truly felt like they would fight for me which is what I've needed because at the end of the day and after all is said and done, I'm the one that has to live with the outcome not them. I gained a friend through this process and I'm greatful for the care and attention they showed me and my situation. The only regret I have is that I didn't hire them sooner. I currently live in a different city now and had a friend who had ended up with a Dwi, and after listening to what he has said about the attorney he hired, I wished Tillman Braniff would have been handeling his case cause I'm absolutely sure the outcome would have been very different. I highly recommend contacting their firm if you or anyone you know has any legal issue in Central Texas. It will be the best thing you can do for yourself or loved one.
Cameron Hale
Cameron Hale
18:32 27 Oct 16
Okay. Lawyers have a bad reputation I know. Most often they get hated on because they exploit the fact that we know little about the law and we are in dire straits scared. Most of the time lawyers inflate charges and prolong cases which incurs extra costs for their benefit.However, not Tillman. This guy is upstanding!For our family, we hired him because my son got into some trouble as a teenager a while back and left the state before finishing out the conditions of his dismissal agreement. I know. What an idiot move. Well, years later, the seemingly small case was refiled in family violence court and a warrant had been issued for my son's arrest! (We had no idea and found out when he went to try signing into the military)Of all the lawyers we contacted Tillman was the MOST knowledgeable and charged the LEAST! I know. We were lucky. Anyway, right away Tillman moved on the case and resolved the case with the best possible outcome.We are grateful that Tillman was familiar with the type of case my son had, that he listened to what we needed, and acted in ways that demonstrated he meant to advocate on my son's behalf. For instance, he arranged it so my son didn't have to appear in court which in turn preserved his job, and Tillman kept us abreast of any changes or continuances via text and email and attachments.Now, my son has all but satisfied the conditions and the case will be dismissed soon, for good this time, but Tillman leading us through all the jargon and warning us of the pitfalls really made all the difference. I think he just has good intentions.Real talk. Hire this guy. End of story.
valerie hernandez
valerie hernandez
22:54 16 Sep 16
I would highly recommend Tillman-Braniff. Brian Tillman helped me out a lot when I didn't know how the whole processed worked. He even worked with me on payment and helped me get paperwork long after the case ended.
Daniel Rendon
Daniel Rendon
17:52 19 Jul 16
Brian Tillman is a professional and experienced lawyer. He listens to what you have to say about your case, gives his professional opinion, and also explain the legal terminology In a manner that is easy to comprehend. I would definitely recommend him as your lawyer.
Jazmine
Jazmine
20:42 24 Jun 16
Brian is very professional and very straightforward about your options. He makes you feel comfortable in knowing that you are being represrepresented by someone looking out for your best interest and the best possible outcome for you. I highly recommend Mr.Tillman.
Blake Roth
Blake Roth
01:02 12 Apr 16
Brian was a terrific lawyer, he helped me regarding my domestic violence incident and when I first reached out to him, he immediately made time to talk to me in his busy schedule. He made me feel like I was being understood and he had a clear method to handle my case. He also met me in person early on a Saturday morning and was completely willing to meet based on my schedule. Brian is a lawyer that gets things done in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Jorge Gallaghar
Jorge Gallaghar
06:08 03 Jun 15
I am so grateful I chose to hire Brian Tillman to handle my cases. Facing criminal charges is undoubtedly extremely challenging, but Brian made me feel quite at ease. He guided me through every step of the process, advised me on possible outcomes, and provided excellent results. While under Brian's counsel, he was able to provide the most desirable outcome beyond what I could have imagined while facing two DWI charges. He made himself available to answer any and all questions I had regarding the legal process and has continued to offer guidance to me during my probational period. Brian made certain my quality of life did not diminish throughout this process. If you are looking for an attorney to not only handle your case with professionalism, but also take your personal goals into consideration while negotiating with the court, I strongly believe Brian Tillman is the attorney for you.
Jaimee Harris
Jaimee Harris
20:22 11 Feb 15
Brian Tillman was incredibly easy to work with. He was very knowledgeable, prompt and accessible. I felt very comfortable talking with him and he was more than willing to spend extra time discussing the different ways we could approach my case. I would highly recommend these guys to anyone I know!
Josh Hanson
Josh Hanson
03:07 17 Aug 12
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