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At the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz We Offer a Free Initial Consultation, Free Case Evaluation, and Will Only Charge a 25% Contingency Fee When a Case Is Settled or Resolved Without a Lawsuit Being Filed. Being stopped for a suspected DUI in El Paso can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. How you respond in the moments following a traffic stop can significantly impact the outcome of your case. It is important to remain calm, understand your rights, and take the appropriate legal steps to protect yourself. Even if you believe the stop is minor or that you will not face charges, acting carefully can prevent complications down the line. Stay Calm and Composed The first step after being pulled over is to remain calm and composed. Interacting with law enforcement respectfully and following basic instructions can help ensure your safety during the stop. Avoid arguing or attempting to justify your actions at the scene. Any statements made immediately after the stop may be recorded and later used in legal proceedings. Maintaining a calm demeanor protects you and sets the stage for handling the situation more strategically. Understand Your Rights It is crucial to know your legal rights during a DUI stop. In Texas, you have the right to remain silent beyond providing basic identification and vehicle documentation. You also have the right to refuse certain field sobriety tests; however, refusal may have legal implications under the state’s implied consent laws. Understanding your rights and exercising them wisely can prevent inadvertent self-incrimination and preserve your ability to mount a strong defense later. Collect Basic Information While it is important not to obstruct or argue with law enforcement, you can make mental notes or discreetly record key details that may be helpful later. This includes the officer’s name and badge number, the time and location of the stop, and any relevant circumstances such as weather, road conditions, or witness observations. Documentation of these details can help your attorney evaluate the stop and determine if any procedural errors occurred that could impact your case. Avoid Admission or Excessive Explanation Many individuals make the mistake of offering detailed explanations, apologies, or justifications during a DUI stop. Even seemingly harmless statements can be used by prosecutors to establish guilt or impaired judgment. It is always safer to provide only the necessary identification and to follow instructions, politely declining to answer any additional questions until you have legal representation. Seek Legal Representation Promptly After a DUI arrest, contacting an experienced attorney should be your next priority. A skilled DUI lawyer can review the circumstances of the stop, analyze any breathalyzer or chemical test results, and determine the best course of action for your defense. Prompt legal guidance is essential in El Paso, where DUI cases can carry serious penalties, including fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and potential jail time. Preserve Evidence and Follow Procedures If you are issued a citation or taken into custody, it is important to follow all court orders, appear for scheduled hearings, and preserve any evidence that could support your defense. This may include medical records, vehicle documentation, or witness statements. Maintaining organized records and working closely with your attorney increases your ability to challenge errors or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. El Paso DUI Defense Attorney Being stopped for a DUI is a serious matter that requires careful action and immediate attention. Staying calm, understanding your rights, avoiding unnecessary admissions, and seeking prompt legal assistance are critical steps in protecting your future. At Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz, our El Paso team is experienced in handling DUI cases and providing strategic, knowledgeable guidance. We understand the nuances of local courts and work diligently to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. If you have been charged with a DUI, do not navigate the legal process alone—contact us today at (915) 308-8850 to schedule a consultation.

When you are stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in Texas, law enforcement may use two types of tests to assess whether you are impaired: field sobriety tests (FSTs) and chemical tests. Understanding how each test works, what it measures, and how it holds up in court is crucial if you are facing DUI charges. Knowledge is your first step in protecting your rights and making informed decisions about your case. If you are facing DUI charges in El Paso, contact Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz immediately at (915) 308-8850 or fill out our online form. Every minute counts when it comes to protecting your future. What Are Field Sobriety Tests? Field sobriety tests are physical assessments performed on the side of the road to help officers determine if a driver may be impaired. These tests are designed to measure balance, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions—skills that can be affected by alcohol and certain drugs. Common Field Sobriety Tests in Texas Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN): The officer watches your eyes for involuntary jerking as you follow a moving object. Walk-and-Turn Test: You take a series of steps in a straight line, heel-to-toe, while following specific instructions. One-Leg Stand Test: You balance on one leg while counting aloud. While these tests may seem straightforward, many factors—fatigue, medical conditions, poor footwear, or even uneven surfaces—can affect your performance. Limitations of Field Sobriety Tests Results are subjective; they depend on the officer’s observation. Environmental conditions (rain, wind, uneven pavement) can influence performance. Some medical conditions or disabilities may cause someone to fail even if sober. For these reasons, field sobriety tests are not foolproof, and challenging field sobriety tests can sometimes be a key strategy in defending a DUI case. What Are Chemical Tests? Chemical tests measure the alcohol or drug content in your body more directly than field tests. The most common chemical tests include: Breath tests (commonly with a breathalyzer) Blood tests Urine tests (less common for alcohol, more common for drugs) How Chemical Tests Work Breath Tests: Estimate blood alcohol content (BAC) based on the amount of alcohol in your breath. Blood Tests: Measure the exact amount of alcohol or drugs in your bloodstream. Urine Tests: Detect the presence of certain drugs, though not necessarily current impairment. Chemical tests are often considered more reliable than field sobriety tests because they provide measurable, objective results. However, errors can still occur, such as improper handling, calibration issues, or delays between driving and testing. Field Sobriety Tests vs. Chemical Tests: Legal Considerations When it comes to court, the reliability of the evidence matters. Both types of tests can be challenged, but they have different legal weight. Key Differences Objectivity: Chemical tests offer numeric results; FSTs rely on officer observation. Timing Sensitivity: BAC levels drop over time; delays can impact chemical test results. Susceptibility to Error: FSTs can be influenced by weather, physical limitations, or stress. Evidence Weight in Court: Chemical test results are often more persuasive to a jury; however, improper administration can undermine their credibility. A skilled attorney can examine the circumstances of your tests, challenge the officer’s procedures, and assess the reliability of your results. This can make a significant difference in how your case proceeds. Practical Steps if You Are Stopped for a DUI Stay calm: Cooperate politely, but you have the right to remain silent. Do not admit guilt on the scene: Statements made during the stop can be used in court. Ask about your testing rights: Texas law allows you to refuse specific tests, though refusals can carry consequences. Document everything: Make notes about the conditions, officer behavior, and any witnesses. Contact Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz as soon as possible: Early involvement allows your attorney to gather evidence and plan a strong defense. Why Legal Guidance Matters DUI charges can carry severe consequences in Texas, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Understanding your rights and the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence against you is essential. An attorney can: Review the administration of your field sobriety and chemical tests. Identify procedural mistakes that could impact your case. Advise you on the best course of action to protect your future. Every case is different, and a proactive approach can help you navigate the complexities of DUI law more confidently. Challenging Field Sobriety Tests If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges, you do not have to face this alone. Protecting your rights starts with a timely consultation. Contact Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz today at (915) 308-8850 or complete our online contact form to discuss your case and explore your options.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Texas, and those charged with this crime face severe penalties. If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, it is crucial to understand the potential consequences and legal options available to you. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore common DUI penalties in Texas, as well as provide tangible tips and resources to help navigate the legal process. 1. Understanding the DUI Penalties in Texas In Texas, DUI penalties are determined by several factors, including the driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC), previous DUI convictions, and whether the incident resulted in injury or death. Some common DUI penalties in Texas include: Fines: Ranging from $2,000 for a first-time offense up to $10,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Jail time: From 72 hours to 180 days for a first-time offense, and up to 10 years for a third or subsequent offense. License suspension: From 90 days to 2 years, depending on the number of previous convictions. Ignition interlock device (IID) installation: Required for repeat offenders and those with a BAC of 0.15% or higher. Community service: Ranging from 24 to 100 hours, depending on the offense. Alcohol education or treatment programs: Mandatory for all DUI offenders. It is important to note that these penalties can be enhanced if the DUI occurred in a construction or maintenance zone, if the driver had a child passenger, or if the incident resulted in serious bodily injury or death. 2. Legal Options for DUI Offenders If you have been charged with a DUI in Texas, it is essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and explore potential defenses, such as: Challenging the accuracy of field sobriety tests or breathalyzer results. Questioning the legality of the traffic stop or arrest. Arguing that your rights were violated during the arrest process. Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. By working with a knowledgeable attorney, you can increase your chances of achieving a favorable outcome in your case. 3. Resources for DUI Offenders in Texas Several resources are available to help DUI offenders in Texas understand their rights and navigate the legal process. Some helpful resources include: Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): Provides information on DUI laws, penalties, and prevention efforts in Texas. State Bar of Texas: Offers a search tool to help you find a qualified criminal defense attorney in your area. Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS): Provides information on alcohol education and treatment programs for DUI offenders. Utilizing these resources can help you better understand your legal options and make informed decisions about your case. 4. Seek Legal Representation from the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI in Texas, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz can help you understand the potential penalties and navigate the complex legal process. Our team is dedicated to providing aggressive representation and achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.

Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) are a common tool used by law enforcement officers to determine if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, these tests have been criticized for their lack of accuracy and reliability. In this blog post, we will explore the limitations of FSTs and provide tips on how to challenge their results in your DUI defense. Understanding the Limitations of Field Sobriety Tests Field Sobriety Tests are designed to assess a person's physical and cognitive abilities, which can be impaired by alcohol or drugs. There are three standardized FSTs: the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, the Walk-and-Turn test, and the One-Leg Stand test. However, these tests have several limitations: Subjectivity: The results of FSTs are often based on the officer's subjective interpretation of the driver's performance. This can lead to inconsistencies and potential bias. Accuracy: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), FSTs have an accuracy rate of only 65-77%. This means that a significant number of drivers may be falsely identified as impaired. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as neurological disorders, can cause a person to fail an FST even if they are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Environmental Factors: Poor weather conditions, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting can all affect a person's performance on an FST. Challenging Field Sobriety Test Results in Your DUI Defense If you have been charged with a DUI and believe that the results of your FST were inaccurate or improperly administered, there are several ways to challenge the evidence in court: Question the Officer's Training and Experience: In order to administer FSTs properly, officers must undergo specific training. You can question the officer's qualifications and experience in administering the tests, and if they followed the proper procedures. Present Evidence of Medical Conditions: If you have a medical condition that could have affected your performance on the FST, you can present this evidence in court to challenge the results. This may include medical records, expert testimony, or even a demonstration of the condition. Highlight Environmental Factors: If your FST took place in poor conditions, you can argue that these factors contributed to your poor performance. For example, if the test was conducted on an uneven surface or in heavy rain, this could have affected your balance and coordination. Request a Suppression Hearing: If you believe that the officer did not have reasonable suspicion to conduct the FST, you can request a suppression hearing to have the evidence excluded from your case. This may involve arguing that the officer did not follow proper protocol or that the initial traffic stop was unjustified. Seek Legal Representation from a Criminal Defense Attorney Challenging the results of a field sobriety test can be a complex and difficult process. It is essential to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side who understands the limitations of FSTs and can effectively argue on your behalf. At the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz, we specialize in understanding the limitations of field sobriety tests and can help you build a strong DUI defense. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case. Our team of skilled attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome in your DUI case.

Relationships can take turns, and when they do misunderstandings, disagreements, or worse, can lead to domestic violence with the need for restraining orders. Whether you must file an order or follow one, the situation requires professional help. A supportive, competent attorney is a priceless asset for court proceedings and more. Filing An Order Sometimes, people try to work out differences or manage difficult relationships, but their efforts fall short. Protective orders (restraining orders in some states) empower a violence victim to keep an abuser at a distance and call the police if the abuser violates that demand. Emergency Protection Orders are short-term rulings for special cases, such as when police must remove an aggressor from an establishment. Common grounds for restraining orders include: Domestic violence and spousal abuse Threats of abuse and stalking behaviors Repeated violence or abuse leading to an arrest Medical treatment and hospitalizations for assorted injuries An attorney is useful in court to represent victims who are naturally shaken and possibly injured. It is best for all parties to have attorneys coordinate legal paperwork, submit evidence, and argue on their clients' behalves. Following An Order When mistakes and poor judgment lead you to receive a restraining order, you must overcome regret and confusion to protect your rights. You also need to manage the risks of losing access to your children if they are in the middle of the matter. Refusing to follow the order's terms could lead you to arrest, jail time, and loss of credibility. Don’t Speak to the Plaintiff Unfortunately, police do make mistakes, and alleged victims can lie. Police have walked head-on into a domestic dispute and, in the heat of the moment, determined the incorrect aggressor. Although it may not happen often, disgruntled spouses and partners have retaliated with false accusations of abuse. You Deserve Justice An experienced litigator who is informed on Texas family law statutes will build your case, present appropriate evidence, and clear up false criminal allegations. Fair criminal defense attorneys also help clients manage particulars the order affects. These include: Access to your home, vehicle, and belongings if shared with the plaintiff Firearm, ammunition, and weapons removals or reclamation Visitation, custody and financial support for children Employment negotiations, if you work with the plaintiff Contact the El Paso Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz at (915) 308-8850 for expert family law and protective order attorneys. A free consultation begins your fresh start to protecting yourself, your freedoms, and your future.

If a person is pulled over by a police officer and found to be impaired while driving, they may be required to submit to sobriety tests. Driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs can result in a driving while intoxicated, or DWI, charge and possible conviction. In Texas, this includes individuals who are impaired due to marijuana use. What Penalties Can You Face for a Marijuana DWI? Law enforcement has found that there are more people who are testing positive for marijuana while behind the wheel. At the same time, the rules set in place for determining that a person has committed a marijuana DWI are not as definitive as those for an alcohol DWI. Unfortunately, this means there may be charges against a person that are unwarranted, and a savvy defense attorney can contest them. It’s important to understand the consequences of a marijuana DWI. There are specific penalties for drivers who are found to be intoxicated while behind the wheel, which include the following: A minimum of three days to a maximum of 180 days in prison and a fine of up to $2,000 for a first offense Thirty days to one year of a prison term and a fine of a maximum of $4,000 for a second offense Two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for a third offense Unreliable Testing Generally speaking, there are various types of testing law enforcement officers can administer to calculate a person’s blood alcohol concentration, or BAC. If their BAC is 0.08 percent or higher, the individual is considered intoxicated and breaking the law if they are driving. With marijuana in play, THC is measured instead, but there are certain issues with this type of testing, including the following: There is no official breath test to calculate THC levels, so blood or urine tests are required instead If a test is positive, it doesn’t necessarily mean the person recently used marijuana, as THC can remain for weeks in the blood There is no specific level of THC that determines a person is impaired What Law Enforcement Looks For As a result of the inaccuracy of marijuana tests for DWI, the prosecutor tends to trust the word of the law enforcement officer instead. While officers don’t have training on how to identify impairment from marijuana as they do with alcohol, there are certain things they look for. They include the following: Bloodshot eyes Dilated pupils Delayed reaction Increased heart rate In spite of these factors, it’s not uncommon for these cases to be thrown out due to these symptoms matching with other conditions that have nothing to do with impairment. The truth is that many law enforcement officers simply cannot absolutely determine whether someone is truly under the influence of marijuana. If you have been arrested for a marijuana DWI, contact the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz at your earliest convenience.

Domestic violence is a global epidemic. In fact, according to 2018 statistics, roughly 10 million men and women in the US alone are victims of domestic violence annually. Abusive relationship dynamics are a detriment to both the victims and society as the numbers continue to grow. However, just as there are many legitimate domestic violence cases, there are also many false claims filed each year. This is why it’s important to understand how to properly gather evidence to protect your rights in the event that you find yourself wrongly accused. Defining Domestic Violence Domestic violence typically involves abuse between people in an intimate relationship but also can be violence towards a child or among siblings. Domestic disputes impact every demographic and can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. What Counts as Domestic Abuse Evidence? Domestic violence is an umbrella term with subcategories, including verbal, sexual, emotional, and physical abuse. If the victim works, withholding finances can also be considered domestic abuse. Domestic violence can be committed by both parties, which is known as common couple violence. Violence resistance, also known as “self-defense,” is a common case that also requires proof in court. Gathering Necessary Evidence Proper documentation determines if there’s a solid case or opinion-based testimony. Without proper evidence, a domestic violence case may never come to fruition. This also means that if you’ve been wrongfully accused of domestic violence, the victim must present proper evidence to support their claims. Standard evidence includes: Harassment via email/text message Incriminating Facebook posts Pictures of bruises or broken items Domestic related medical records Police reports The Law Offices of Reuben Ortiz Can Help For countless years, our team of experienced El Paso criminal defense attorneys has been helping those who have been wrongfully accused protect their rights. At the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz, we know how to build a strong case to help protect your freedom. If you’ve been wrongfully accused of domestic violence, time is of the essence. Give our team a call today (915) 308-8850 to learn more about how we can help with your situation over a free consultation.

Were you injured in a car accident during adverse weather conditions? If so, you’ll need to know if the weather will impact a personal injury claim. Thankfully, the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz is here to give you the facts! Weather Impacts Car Accidents There is no doubt that terrible weather conditions increase the rate of car accidents. For example, rainfall causes cars to hydroplane, and black ice is seemingly impossible to drive on. As a result of poor conditions, drivers may lose control of their vehicles and cause accidents and personal injuries. Therefore, the weather can impact the rate of car accidents, but does it affect personal injury claims? Drivers Must Exercise Due Diligence Poor weather conditions may seem like the cause of accidents, but they are no excuse for driver negligence. For example, a driver may claim that black ice was the cause of an auto accident, as it was impossible to slow down while on the ice. While that may be true, it means the driver was driving too fast from the start given the weather conditions, which means he or she is accountable for the accident. Poor weather is rarely an excuse for an auto accident. Drivers must take steps to ensure they’re operating their vehicles safely based on road conditions. This means: Slowing down below the posted speed limits Giving enough room to other vehicles and increasing time to stop Maintaining vehicles to ensure visibility is as clear as possible Talk to an Attorney About Your Case No matter how an accident occurred, you’ll need to prove your case in court. Unfortunately, most defendants will put up a fight and say they didn't cause your injuries. However, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you fight back and determine the facts of your case. If you are suffering from auto accident injuries, talk to a personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz today. Call (915) 308-8850 now for a free consultation for your case!

Auto accidents are frustrating and annoying to deal with, and handling insurance companies don’t make it easier. However, the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz is here to help you deal with insurance companies after going through an auto accident. Understanding the Goal of Insurance Companies The first thing to remember about insurance companies is that they are not on your side; they exist to make money. Unfortunately, all that talk about protecting you and your interests goes out the window the moment you’re involved in an auto accident. In short, when you get in an auto accident, your insurance company no longer sees you as a client, but as a liability. Therefore, you need to see your insurance company (and the insurance companies of others involved in the accident) as a threat to you and your recovery. Once you understand this, it’s much easier to handle them appropriately. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Companies Remembering that insurance companies are against you; you should never give a statement directly to an insurance company about your accident. If you handled the accident correctly, you were interviewed by the police who took down your comments and put them into a police report. Insurance companies have direct access to police reports, which means they don’t need a statement from you. The only reason insurance companies gather direct statements from those involved in accidents is to shift blame from the facts written in police reports. Therefore, you should always assume that an insurance company looking for a statement is looking for a testimony that pins the accident on you. Don’t Take an Offer Without Consulting a Personal Injury Attorney Remembering that insurance companies exist to make money, it’s a good idea to never sign an offer from an insurance company without consulting a personal injury attorney first. An experienced car accident attorney can examine your case and determine if the offer makes sense given the circumstances of the accident. If you’re worried that talking to a personal injury attorney will cost you money, there’s no need to fear! The Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz offers free consultations for all personal injury claims. Therefore, there is no harm in talking to us before signing the dotted! Call (915) 308-8850 now for a free consultation concerning your auto accident!

We all agree that responsibility is an integral part of being an adult, but did you know that it’s also a crucial aspect of personal injury lawsuits? The verdicts of all civil (and criminal) cases are contingent on the court’s determination of liability. Therefore, everyone who lives in Texas should know how accountability works in auto accidents. Texas’ Auto Accident Liability System Every state has different laws determining liability in auto accidents, and ours is no different. In Texas, we adhere to a modified comparative fault rule. The rule states that a claimant can recover damages if he or she was at fault for 50% or less of the collision. Therefore, even if an accident is partially your fault, you may be able to recover damages! Comparative Fault & Compensation In comparative fault scenarios, the claimant’s recovery amount is impacted by a determined percentage of fault. Therefore, if the court finds the claimant 10% responsible for causing the accident, the claimant’s compensation total will decrease accordingly. For example, let’s assume a court finds a claimant 20% at fault for an auto accident, and the court determines that the total award amount is $100,000. Due to the comparative fault rule, the claimant’s final recovery amount is reduced by 20%. Therefore, the claimant’s take-home compensation is $80,000. Securing Representation for Your Case In theory, auto accident liability is straightforward, but numerous factors can impact someone’s case. However, the typical claimant doesn’t know the law well enough to argue for their case properly. If you believe you have a claim, you should talk to a knowledgeable El Paso personal injury attorney as soon as you can. A free consultation can help you determine if pursuing a claim is the right choice for your case! Call (915) 308-8850 now for a free consultation! Our firm works on a contingency-fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win!

Police officers often use “sting” operations to make arrests. These operations typically consist of undercover officers who “set up” people by providing them with an opportunity to commit a criminal offense. So when law enforcement officials use a sting operation or a confidential informant, the evidence that the crime was committed may be overwhelming. In those cases, entrapment is considered the only defense. Definition of Entrapment Entrapment is specifically identified as a defense in the Texas Penal Code. It is a defense to prosecution in which an individual engaged in the conduct charged because he or she was induced to do so by a law enforcement agent using persuasion or other means likely to cause a person to commit a crime. Keep in mind, conduct merely affording an individual an opportunity to commit the offense does not constitute entrapment. The defense has the burden of producing evidence to establish the following elements for an entrapment argument: The defendant engaged in the conduct charged Since the defendant was induced to do so by a police officer The police officer used persuasion or other means Those means were likely to cause the defendant to commit the crime Objective Test Texas courts use what is known as an “objective test” to determine whether or not entrapment occurred. The objective standard requires the defendant to prove that the police officers acted in such a manner that any law-abiding citizen would have reacted in the same way. Some examples of police conduct that could result in a positive score in the objective test include: Offering large sums of money in exchange for committing the crime Guaranteeing that the conduct is not considered illegal Promising the crime will go undetected Appealing to sympathy Making threats of violence against a person or his or her family members Extortion Let Our El Paso Criminal Defense Attorney Protect Your Rights & Future If you have been arrested for a crime that might involve the entrapment defense, the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz can offer experienced and knowledgeable legal representation. Our founding attorney understands how alleged offenders can successfully argue this type of defense. Contact us and request a free consultation today.

In regard to starting your case on the best foot possible, preparation is extremely important. It is common to feel a sense of anxiety or dread at the prospect of appearing in court before a judge to face your accusations. You want your initial appearance in criminal court to go well in order to earn the judge’s favor, which can be beneficial for your case. Alas, some people do not know what to expect or how to prepare properly for their day in court. The following are several tips to remember in order to better prepare for your first day in court: Do not be late. Being late is not the best way to start your case. Not only are you wasting your lawyer’s time, the prosecution’s time, and the judge’s time, but it can set back the entire court schedule. Furthermore, it is a negative reflection of your character. It is imperative to plan ahead for any foreseeable traffic you may encounter. Plan on arriving 15-30 minutes before your scheduled arrival time, giving you enough time to get through security and prepare for your case. Dress appropriately. Since a courtroom is a serious venue that commands insurmountable respect, you can demonstrate your respect by the way you dress. Common guidelines include dressing for a wedding or a religious service. For men, wear a button-down shirt and tie, along with slacks and dress shoes. If you have a business suit, we suggest you wear it. For women, do not wear anything revealing and keep your skirts at least knee-length. Always be polite. Whether it is a security guard or the judge, be polite to everyone. Any form of mistreatment by any of the courtroom staff can be heard by the judge. In addition, turn off your cellphone while in court. Do not speak out of turn. In addition to being polite, speaking while in the courtroom is something you should consider very carefully before doing. When an attorney represents you, you will likely not have to say a whole lot. So just listen quietly and pay attention. If the prosecution attempts to attack your character or say something uncalled for, it is best not to speak out of turn. If you were charged with a crime in Texas, contact the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz and schedule a free consultation with our El Paso attorney today.