Criminal Defense Attorney McAllen

Criminal cases in Texas are governed by the Texas Penal Code and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. However, how these laws apply in practice often depends on how the case is challenged.

You are not required to prove your innocence—the burden rests entirely on the State. Prosecutors must establish every element of a charge beyond a reasonable doubt.

You are also protected by important constitutional rights, including:

• The right to remain silent
• The right to legal counsel
• Protection against unlawful searches and seizures
• The presumption of innocence

A criminal defense attorney’s role is not simply to explain the charges, but to rigorously test the prosecution’s case, challenge its evidence, and enforce your rights at every stage.

Every criminal case is shaped by the evidence—how it was obtained, how it was handled, and whether it can withstand legal scrutiny.

A strong defense begins with a focused review of how the case was built, including key questions such as:

• Was there lawful probable cause for the stop or arrest?
• Were constitutional rights violated during the investigation?
• Is the evidence reliable, or can it be challenged?
• Are there inconsistencies in witness statements or official reports?

Building an effective defense may involve:

• Reviewing police reports and bodycam footage
• Analyzing surveillance, digital, and forensic evidence
• Evaluating laboratory and toxicology results
• Challenging intoxication testing procedures
• Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
• Identifying gaps or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case

Dr. Patino works with an experienced legal team, including long-standing litigation paralegal and investigator Ramiro “Ram,” who supports evidence review, case analysis, and defense preparation.

Dr. Patino’s medical background can be particularly valuable in cases involving personal injury allegations, intoxication testing, and disputed forensic evidence. This includes evaluating how injuries are interpreted, analyzing blood alcohol or toxicology results, and identifying inconsistencies between medical findings and the prosecution’s theory.

No two cases are the same. Outcomes depend not only on the charges, but on how early the defense intervenes, how effectively the evidence is challenged, and how the case is handled from the outset.

Possible outcomes may include:

• Dismissal of charges
• Reduction of charges
• Entry into diversion or alternative programs
• Negotiated plea agreements
• Acquittal at trial

Developing a defense strategy as early as possible can create more opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s case and influence the outcome.

If you are arrested or believe you may be under investigation:

• Do not make statements to law enforcement
• Do not consent to searches without legal guidance
• Request an attorney immediately
• Avoid discussing your case with others
• Seek legal advice as early as possible

Early decisions can significantly impact how evidence is used and how the case develops.

Criminal cases in McAllen are typically handled within the Hidalgo County court system. Less serious matters may begin in municipal or justice courts, while more serious charges proceed to county or district courts.

Law enforcement agencies involved in these cases include:

• McAllen Police Department
• Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety

Major roadways such as Interstate 2 and U.S. Highway 83 are frequent locations for traffic stops, DWI investigations, and drug-related arrests.

Because of McAllen’s proximity to the Mexico–United States border, some cases may also involve additional factors, including cross-border travel issues, customs investigations, or federal jurisdiction.