What to Do If You’re Being Investigated for a Crime in Texas

Being under investigation for a crime in Texas can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, mistaken identity, or a genuine concern that you may face charges, what you do in these early stages can make a huge difference in how your case unfolds.

At The Law Office of Silverio Martinez, we want you to understand your rights, what law enforcement can—and can’t—do, and how to protect yourself before formal charges are filed.

A criminal investigation is the process by which law enforcement gathers evidence to determine whether a crime has occurred and who is responsible. In Texas, this can include interviewing witnesses, collecting physical evidence, monitoring your communications, or even questioning you directly.

However, being investigated does not mean you are guilty—and it doesn’t necessarily mean you will be arrested. But how you respond during this time can affect everything that happens next.

If you’ve already been arrested or believe charges may be coming soon, read our detailed guide on What to Do If You’re Arrested in Texas to learn what steps to take immediately after an arrest.

If law enforcement contacts you or asks you to “come in and talk,” it’s crucial that you do not make any statements without legal representation. Even if officers say they just want to “hear your side,” their goal is to gather information that could later be used against you

You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney under the Fifth and Sixth Amendments. Exercising these rights early can protect you from unintentionally damaging your defense.

To understand your rights during questioning, check out our post on Understanding Your Miranda Rights in Texas: What They Really Mean.

Anything you say—online, in texts, or in private conversations—can be discovered and used as evidence.
Texas law allows prosecutors to subpoena communication records or call witnesses who might testify about what you said.

👉 Pro tip: Stay off social media entirely while being investigated. Even innocent posts can be misinterpreted.

Having a criminal defense lawyer early in the investigation can make a dramatic difference in your case. A skilled attorney can:

At The Law Office of Silverio Martinez P.C., we handle state and federal criminal investigations across Texas, providing strategic and aggressive representation when you need it most.

Learn why choosing the right attorney matters in our article on The Importance of Hiring a Local Criminal Defense Lawyer in Laredo.

You may not always be told that you’re the subject of an investigation, but some common signs include:

If any of these happen, don’t wait—consult a lawyer immediately. The earlier your attorney is involved, the more opportunities there are to prevent charges altogether.

If your investigation leads to an arrest, it’s important to understand what comes next. You’ll be booked, formally charged, and scheduled for a court appearance.

Learn more in our post on What Happens After a Felony Arrest in Texas: Step-by-Step Process.

Even if you are charged, a proactive defense strategy can still lead to dismissed charges, reduced penalties, or a favorable plea bargain.

If you suspect you’re under investigation or have been contacted by police, do not wait for an arrest. At The Law Office of Silverio Martinez P.C., we have over 20 years of experience protecting clients’ rights across Texas and the United States.

Our firm handles investigations involving:

Let us protect your rights and your future before things go further.

📞 Call (956) 724-5047 or contact us online for a confidential consultation today.