Criminal charges do not always respect county lines. A client living in Montgomery County may face allegations in Houston, or a local investigation may involve neighboring jurisdictions. Effective criminal defense requires a lawyer who is in that specific courthouse week in and week out, who knows the local prosecutors, and who understands the specific procedures of that jurisdiction.

Not sure which court handles your case? If you were arrested in the Greater Houston area, you can use this directory of local cities, counties, and courthouses to determine exactly which jurisdiction will file your charges.

When a case is better served by local counsel outside of our primary practice area, we do not guess. We rely on a vetted professional network of trial lawyers whom we know, respect, and have worked alongside.

Evaluating the Right Representation

Summary: If you are facing charges outside of our jurisdiction, choosing the right lawyer is the most important decision you will make. We evaluate outside counsel using the same rigorous standards we apply to our own practice. To help our clients navigate this process, our firm collaborated with our trusted Houston colleague, Sam R. Cammack III, and our extended professional network to establish clear guidelines. Together, we co-authored these comprehensive resources to help you answer the most critical questions before making a hiring decision.

  • How do you choose the right criminal defense lawyer?

    The Short Answer: Prioritize actual trial experience, deep familiarity with the specific local courthouse, and a proactive approach to building a defense. Evaluate their track record of fighting cases, not just pleading them out.

    ↳ Read the full collaborative guide: How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer

  • What does a criminal defense attorney actually do?

    The Short Answer: Their work extends far beyond standing next to you in court. A rigorous defense involves conducting independent investigations, filing motions to suppress illegal evidence, and systematically dismantling the prosecution's case behind the scenes.

    ↳ Read the full collaborative guide: The Day-to-Day Role of a Defense Attorney

  • What are the risks of hiring the wrong lawyer?

    The Short Answer: A passive or inexperienced attorney can result in unexamined evidence, waived rights, and permanent convictions. The damage done by inadequate representation is often irreversible once a plea is entered or a verdict is handed down.

    ↳ Read the full collaborative guide: The Consequences of Hiring the Wrong Attorney

OUR TRUSTED NETWORK

Criminal Law

A criminal charge in another county moves fast, and the outcome often depends on a lawyer who knows that courthouse, its judges and its prosecutors. When a client is charged outside Montgomery County, we refer the case to an experienced trial lawyer who practices there every week and will fight the case, not just process it.

Houston criminal defense attorney Sam R. Cammack III seated in front of a fireplace.

Sam R. Cammack III

Jurisdiction: Harris County & Greater Houston
Focus: Complex Felonies, Murder, Serious Assault
Phone: 713-224-4444
Website: yourhoustoncriminallawyers.com

Sam Cammack is a former felony prosecutor and a tenacious Houston trial lawyer. Licensed the same year as Jo Ann Linzer (2002), they have handled complex cases together. He builds cases rather than reacting to them, making him our first call for serious matters in Harris County.

Immediate Help in Harris County: Need to look up a court date, locate an inmate, or check bond information? Access Sam's Harris County Jail, Bond & Court Resource Hub.

View Sam's Profile →

Business Law

Starting, operating, or growing a business involves important legal decisions that can affect its long-term success. From establishing a company and negotiating contracts to resolving disputes and protecting business assets, knowledgeable legal guidance can help business owners minimize risk and protect their interests.

JOHNSEN LAW

Jurisdiction: Texas and Florida
Focus: Transactions, Corporate Formation, Employment, Commercial Real Estate, Litigation and Appeals
Phone: 832-786-8646
Website: johnsenlaw.com

Johnsen Law, led by attorney Chris Johnsen, provides comprehensive business law services to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and established companies throughout the Greater Houston area. The firm's services include business and LLC formation, contract drafting and review, partnership and shareholder agreements, mergers and acquisitions, commercial real estate transactions, employment matters, regulatory compliance, and ongoing general counsel services. Johnsen Law also represents clients in business litigation, including breach of contract claims, partnership disputes, fraud, and other commercial conflicts.

With a practical, business-focused approach, Johnsen Law helps clients navigate legal challenges, protect their investments, and make informed decisions at every stage of business ownership.

See Chris' Profile

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