Where Cutting-Edge
Criminal Defense
Meets Texas Justice

Bryan Computer Crimes Attorneys

As technology advances, so do the methods of criminal activity, with computer-related offenses becoming increasingly prevalent in our digital age. These crimes encompass a wide range of illegal activities, from hacking into computer systems to perpetrating online fraud and identity theft. Computer crimes often present complex legal challenges. Individuals accused of these crimes need a skilled Bryan computer crimes lawyer to navigate the intricacies of the legal system effectively.

A local lawyer specializing in criminal defense can provide invaluable assistance, drawing on their knowledge of both state and federal laws governing computer-related offenses. From conducting thorough investigations to challenging evidence and crafting strong defense strategies, a dedicated computer crimes attorney can work tirelessly to protect the rights and interests of their clients.

Bryan Computer Crime Guide

Why Choose a Bryan Computer Crimes Lawyer from the Law Office of Shane Phelps?

full team

Whether facing allegations of hacking, online solicitation, or other computer-related charges, having a trusted legal advocate by your side can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome in your case.

Our team of experienced attorneys understands the nuances of state and local laws governing computer-related offenses, providing you with tailored legal solutions that are specific to the Bryan community. As active members of the local area, we are deeply invested in your well-being and are readily accessible for consultation and support.

By choosing a Bryan computer crimes lawyer from our firm, you can benefit from personalized attention, timely communication, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Call us today at 979-596-6843 for a free consultation and let us put our experience to work for you.

Our Law Office in Bryan, Texas

The Law Office of Shane Phelps, P.C., is located at 400 N. Washington Avenue, Bryan, TX 77803. We are in the heart of Bryan, at the corner of E. 23rd Street. Contact us for a free consultation.

Computer Crimes in Bryan, Texas

Computer-Crimes

 

In Texas, computer crimes generally fall under the Texas Penal Code, specifically in Chapter 33 titled “Computer Crimes.” This chapter outlines various offenses related to computer and internet use, including unauthorized access to computer systems, tampering with computer data, online solicitation of minors, and offenses involving computer security breaches.

These offenses are often classified as white-collar crimes due to their non-violent nature and the use of technology for financial gain or deception.

Here are some key sections within Chapter 33 of the Texas Penal Code that address computer crimes:

  • § 33.01 – Breach of Computer Security: This section prohibits unauthorized access to computer systems or networks with the intent to obtain information, disrupt services, or cause harm.
  • § 33.02 – Online Solicitation of a Minor: It addresses the solicitation of minors through electronic means, including the Internet, for sexual or illicit purposes.
  • § 33.07 – Online Impersonation: This section deals with the unauthorized use of someone else’s identity online with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten.
  • § 33.021 – Online Harassment: It prohibits the use of electronic communication to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment, or embarrass another person.
  • § 33.122 – Unauthorized Use of a Telecommunications Service: This section addresses the unauthorized use of telecommunications services, including accessing computer systems or networks without consent.

Computer-related prosecutions are becoming more and more common. The Penal Code and Federal Statutes are being amended regularly to address offenses involving the use of computers and/or the Internet. The laws are regularly updated to address emerging technologies and online threats. In many cases, the punishment, if convicted, can include prison time.

To adequately defend your rights, you must retain an attorney who knows both the technical and legal implications of properly defending these types of offenses. We have litigated numerous cases involving the use of computers and the Internet. Our team has worked closely with forensic computer examiners and knows how to properly investigate and defend computer-related cases.

Our founding attorney Shane Phelps helped draft Texas’ Online Solicitation of a Minor statute, testified before the Texas Legislature, and was with Governor Perry when the bill was signed into law.

avvo

When facing computer-related charges, you can expect a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies specializing in cybercrimes. This investigation may involve digital forensics to gather evidence from electronic devices, including computers and smartphones. You should be aware that law enforcement may seize electronic devices during the investigation process.

Potential Consequences for Computer Crimes

Potential legal consequences for computer-related charges can vary depending on the severity of the offense and applicable state or federal laws. These consequences may include fines, probation, restitution, and imprisonment. In cases involving sensitive information or online exploitation, individuals may also face civil lawsuits from affected parties.

An experienced cybercrime lawyer can help you understand your legal options and navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. We work together with you to ultimately find the best possible outcome for your case.

How Can a Bryan Computer Crimes Lawyer Help Me?

shane-home-hero-1

 

Throughout the legal process, the role of legal representation is crucial. A skilled attorney who focuses on computer crimes can provide guidance and advocacy at every stage, from the initial investigation to court proceedings. Your lawyer can challenge evidence obtained through digital forensics, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties, and vigorously defend your rights in court.

Here’s how we can help:

  • Legal Skill: A computer crimes lawyer possesses specialized knowledge and experience in laws on cybercrimes, allowing them to provide knowledgeable guidance and representation tailored to your specific case.
  • Defense Strategy: Your lawyer will assess the details of your case, including the evidence against you, and develop a strategic defense plan to protect your rights and interests. This may involve challenging the legality of evidence obtained through digital forensics, identifying procedural errors, or negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties.
  • Understanding Technology: Computer crimes often involve complex technical aspects. A knowledgeable lawyer understands the intricacies of technology and can effectively navigate digital evidence to build a strong defense on your behalf.
  • Protecting Your Rights: Your lawyer will advocate for your rights throughout the legal process, ensuring that you are treated fairly and that any potential violations of your rights are addressed promptly.
  • Mitigating Consequences: If convicted, a computer crimes lawyer can work to minimize the consequences you face, such as reducing fines, probation terms, or imprisonment sentences.

If you are being investigated for any white-collar offense such as theft, fraud, misapplication of fiduciary property, securing execution of a document by deception, wire fraud, or mail fraud, investigators will attempt to seize any computers you either work with or use at home. These computers will be forensically examined for evidence of illegal activity and the results of that examination will be used against you.

This is why having the most competent legal representation you can find is so important. Your attorney should examine the computer and work with a retained forensic computer examiner to make sure that the examination performed on your computer was done properly.

Often, evidence that might help to prove your innocence is overlooked by law enforcement. An experienced attorney can work to find this evidence and effectively challenge the prosecution’s case as well as present such evidence on your behalf.

Facing criminal charges can be daunting, but a computer crimes lawyer will provide you with the guidance, support, and reassurance you need during this challenging time. A skilled attorney is key to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Understanding Digital Security and Cybercrime Protection

home-split-2

 

In today’s digital age, protecting digital rights and privacy is paramount, especially amidst increasing scrutiny and surveillance in cyberspace. Individuals and businesses must be vigilant in safeguarding their online activities to prevent unauthorized access and potential involvement in computer-related offenses.

Robust cybersecurity measures include using strong and unique passwords, regularly updating software and antivirus programs, and encrypting sensitive data. Additionally, individuals should exercise caution when sharing personal information online and be mindful of phishing scams and other fraudulent activities.

Businesses should establish comprehensive cybersecurity policies and procedures, conduct regular audits and risk assessments, and provide ongoing training to employees on cybersecurity best practices.

Ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations is essential to reduce or eliminate the risk of being implicated in computer-related offenses. This includes familiarizing yourself with local, state, and federal laws governing cybercrimes, data privacy, and intellectual property rights.

Contact the Law Office of Shane Phelps to Talk to a Computer Crimes Lawyer

At the Law Office of Shane Phelps, our team has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against cybercrime allegations. We understand the complexities of technology and the laws surrounding these cases, allowing us to provide you with the knowledgeable and effective legal representation you need.

Our firm founder, Shane Phelps, stands as a leader in shaping computer crime legislation, providing our team with a unique advantage in representing individuals facing these complex charges. His insight into the intricacies of technology laws not only sets our firm apart but also empowers us to offer unparalleled legal representation to our clients.

When facing allegations of computer-related offenses, trust in our firm’s experience and dedication to securing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wait to protect your rights and future – contact us today and let us help you navigate this challenging legal situation. Call Shane Phelps Law today at 979-596-6843 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable Bryan criminal defense lawyers.

Shane Phelps

Shane Phelps

Lead Attorney

Reilly Garrett

Reilly Garrett

Attorney

Aaron Kleinschmidt

Aaron Kleinschmidt

Attorney

Case Results

How We’ve Helped Others In Your Shoes

Appellate Reversal and Dismissal

Murder x 2

State v. D.L.
2019

Sexual Assault

Dismissed

Wilson County v. T.M.
2024

Harassment

Dismissed

State v. D.C.
2022

Title IX

Accusation of Sexual Assault

Not responsible
State v. Z.M
2023

Dismissed with Agreement to Immediately Expunge (on day of trial)

Attempted Theft $2,500-$30,000

Attempted Securing Execution of a Document by Deception
State v. G.M.
2023

Sexual Assault

Rejected after our investigation

Sexual Assault
Rejected after our investigation
State v. Z.M.
2023

Refused After Our Investigation

Prostitution (Class B)

Refused after our investigation 2014 (State v. I.I.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 3, less than 28 grams (Class A), Possession of Marijuana, less than two ounces (Class B) – Both reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudications, Expunction Pending 2015 (State v. D.O.)

Reduced to Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 2, less than one gram (State Jail Felony) – Reduced to misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication 2014, early termination of probation 2015 (State v. P.B.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Criminal Mischief $500-$1500 (Class A)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication 2015 (State v. I.S.)

Dismissed

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 1, less than one gram (State Jail Felony) – Dismissed 2014 (State v. L.P.)

Refused Following Our Investigation

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 2, 4-400 Grams (2nd Degree); Three counts Misdemeanor controlled substance charges – Refused following our investigation; three misdemeanor charges to be dismissed. 2015 (State v. J.D.)

Dismissed

Possession of Marijuana

2-4 Ounces, Drug Free Zone (State Jail Felony) – Dismissed 2015 (State v. S.A.)

Negotiated pre-trial diversion on Class B

Possession of Marijuana

2-4 Ounces, Drug Free Zone (State Jail Felony) – Negotiated pre-trial diversion on Class B misdemeanor, seized vehicle and more than $15,000 recovered for client 2015 (State v. C.M.)

Dismissed

Possession of Child Pornography (Two Counts; 3rd Degree)

(Two Counts; 3 rd Degree) – Both counts Dismissed, no sex offender registration 2015 (State v. B.M.)

Dismissed

Failure to Identify (Class B)

Dismissed, Expunction Pending 2015 (State v. L.W.)

Reduced to Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication

Theft $1,500-$20,000 (State Jail Felony)

Reduced to Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication 2014 (State v. K.J.)

Refused

Possession of False ID

Possession of False ID (Class A)/Minor in Possession (Class C) – Class A Refused and MIP Dismissed 2015 (State v. B.B.)

Refused Following Our Investigation

Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor (Class A)

Refused following our investigation 2015 (State v. M.G.)

Refused Following Our Investigation

Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 1A, 4-400 Grams (1st Degree) – Refused following our investigation 2015 (State v. R.A.)

Refused Following Our Investigation

Tampering with Evidence (3rd Degree)

Refused following our investigation 2015

No Billed by Grand Jury

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon/Bottle (2nd Degree)

No Billed by Grand Jury following our investigation 2014 (State v. G.H.)

Dismissed

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance: Dismissed

Dismissed

Assault by Contact (Class C)

Dismissed 2014 (State v. A.M.)

Reduced to Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 2, less than one gram (State Jail Felony) – Reduced to misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication 2014 (State v. D.D.)

D.W.I Refused, POM Reduced

D.W.I (Class B); Possession of Marijuana

D.W.I (Class B); Possession of Marijuana under two ounces (Class B) – D.W.I refused, POM reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication 2014 (State v. P.D.G.)

Dismissed

Assault on Peace Officer (3rd Degree)

Harassment of a Public Servant (3rd Degree) – Dismissed 2014 (State v. A.Y.)

Dismissed

Theft $20,000-$100,000 (3rd Degree)

Dismissed 2015 (State v. C.S.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Possession of Marijuana

Possession of Marijuana under two ounces (Class B) – Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication, expunction eligible 2015 (State v. S.P.)

All Charges Refused

Aggravated Kidnapping (1st Degree)

Aggravated Kidnapping (1st Degree), Sexual Assault of a Child (2nd Degree), Improper Visual Photography (State Jail Felony) – All charges refused after our investigation 2014 (State v. Z.H.)

Refused After Our Investigation

Tampering with Evidence (3rd Degree)

Refused after our investigation 2014 (State v. O.S.)

Refused After Our Investigation

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 2, 4-400 grams (2nd Degree) – Refused after our investigation 2014 (State v. D.B.L.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Criminal Trespass to a Habitation (Class B)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication 2013 (State v. J.K.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Altered Handicapped Placard (Class A)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication, expunged 2013 (State v. L.W.)

All Charges Dismissed

D.W.I. (Class B)

D.W.I. (Class B), Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon (four counts, Class A), Possession of Marijuana under two ounces (class B), Possession of a Dangerous Drug (Class A) – All charges dismissed except POM deferred adjudication with agreement for expunction; all weapons recovered for client. 2013 (State v. K.Y.)

Case Dismissed

Criminal Trespass – Property

Criminal Trespass – Property

Both Charges Dismissed

2 Counts of Aggravated Assault

2 Counts of Aggravated Assault

Motion to Adjudicate Dismissed

Motion to Adjudicate on Possession of Marijuana 4oz. – 5 lbs

Motion to Adjudicate on Possession of Marijuana 4oz. – 5 lbs

Evidence Suppressed

Murder/Aggravated, Robbery/Prohibited Weapon
State v. S.S.
2022

Refused After Our Investigation

Theft (State Jail Felony)

Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. S.K.)

Reduced to Class C Misdemeanor

Theft $50-$500 (Class B)

Theft $50-$500 (Class B) – Reduced to Class C Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication 2015 (State v. P.C.)

Reduced to Class C Misdemeanor

Criminal Trespass to Habitation (Class A)

Reduced to Class C Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication (Pending expunction) (State v. W.A.)

Reduced to Misdemeanor

Burglary of a Habitation (2nd Degree)

Reduced to Misdemeanor 2014 (State v. P.M.)

Dismissed

Motion to Adjudicate/Burglary of a Building (State Jail Felony)

Dismissed 2015 (State v. B.R.)

Reduced to Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon/knife (2nd Degree)

Reduced to Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication 2015 (State v. P.M.)

Dismissed

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon/knife (2nd Degree)

Dismissed 2013 (State v. M.N.)

Dismissed

Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child (1st Degree)

Dismissed 2014 (State v. C.L.)

Not Guilty by Jury

Indecency w/Child by Contact (2nd Degree)

Not Guilty by jury 2013 (State v. J.Z.)

Dismissed

Aggravated Assault/Deadly Weapon/Peace Officer

Dismissed 2015 (State v. A.H.)

Negotiated Deferred Prosecution on lesser charge

Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child/Juvenile

Negotiated Deferred Prosecution on lesser charge, no sex offender registration 2015 (In the Matter of R.C.)

Refused After Our Investigation

Sexual Assault (2nd Degree)

Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. T.G.)

Dismissed at Trial

Aggravated Robbery (1st Degree)

Dismissed at trial 2015 (State v. J.M.)

Dismissed at Trial

Assault/Family Violence (Class A)

Dismissed at trial 2015 (State v. N.G.)

Acquitted

Indecency with a Child

Acquitted by jury

Acquitted

Indecency with a Child

Acquitted by jury

Quashed and Dismissed

Fleeing a Police Officer

Quashed and dismissed

Reduced

Driving While License Suspended

Reduced to Class C Misdemeanor deferred

Sentence Reversed

Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

15-year sentence reversed on Motion for New Trial

Refused After Our Investigation

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon/firearm (2nd Degree)

Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. G.B.)

Dismissed

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon (2nd Degree)

Dismissed 2015 (State v. S.M.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Theft $50-$500 (Class B)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication, Expunction Pending 2015 (State v. M.D.)

Negotiated Misdemeanor Pre-Trial Diversion

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Penalty Group 1, less than a gram, Drug Free Zone (3rd Degree); Possession of Marijuana under two ounces, Drug Free Zone (Class A) – Negotiated misdemeanor pre-trial diversion with agreement for expunction 2015 (State v. L.L.)

Dismissed

Possession of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 2, less than a gram (State Jail Felony)

Penalty Group 2, less than a gram (State Jail Felony) – Dismissed 2015 (State v. C.F.)

Reduced to non-aggravated Manslaughter charge

Murder (1st Degree)

Reduced to non-aggravated Manslaughter charge (2nd Degree), 8 years 2014 (State v. B.S.)

Dismissed

Burglary of a Vehicle (Class A)

Dismissed 2015 (State v. R.R.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Possession of Marijuana (Class B)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication, Expunction Pending 2015 (State v. J.H.)

Refused After Our Investigation

Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon (Class A)

Refused after our investigation; arrest expunged 2015 (State v. G.S.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Possession of Marijuana (Class B)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication, Expunction Pending 2015 (State v. B.C.)

Refused after our investigation

Assault/Family Violence (Class A)

Assault/Family Violence (Class A) – Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. V.K.)

Dismissed

Sexual Assault of a Child (2nd Degree)

Sexual Assault of a Child (2nd Degree) – Dismissed at trial 2015 (State v. J.J.)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication

Theft $50-$500 (Class B)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication, Expunction pending 2015 (State v. A.B.)

Refused After Our Investigation

Criminal Mischief $1,500 – $20,000 (State Jail Felony)

Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. J.W.)

Refused After Our Investigation

Assault/Family Violence (Class A)

Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. D.K.) Expunged 2015.

Reduced to Class C

Theft $50-$500 (Class B)

Reduced to Class C Deferred Adjudication 2015 (State v. R.R.) (Pending Expunction)

Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor Assault

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon/Bottle (2nd Degree)

Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor Assault 2015 (State v. C.F.)

Refused after our investigation

Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon/handgun (2nd Degree)

Refused after our investigation 2015 (State v. W.M.)

Not Guilty Verdict

Not Guilty Verdict

Aggravated Robbery/Murder x2
2023
State v. M.R.

Found Not True

Motion to Adjudicate/Felony Assault Family Violence (3rd Degree)

Found Not True by Court after contested hearing 2013 (State v. R.R.)

Not Guilty Verdict

Not Guilty Verdict

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
2023
State v. T.H.

Dismissed

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Brazos County
State v. J.M.

Dismissed

Evading Arrest with a Vehicle (3rd Degree)

State v. J.E.
Evading Arrest with a Vehicle (3rd Degree)
Dismissed
Milam County

What You Need to Know

Shane’s Top Ten Rules

Avoid Trouble at A&M, Blinn, & Beyond
top-10