Law Office of Scott C. Smith - Practice Areas

The Law Office of Scott C. Smith represents clients in a wide array of matters ranging from the simple to the highly complex. Mr. Smith has litigated such matters as illegal search and seizure, improper investigation, and police misconduct. He is experienced in utilizing expert witnesses in such fields as cyber-forensics, neurology, breath-testing, pharmacology and psychology. The Law Office of Scott C. Smith maintains a high standard of professionalism. To protect the confidences and privacy of every client, the specific details of prior cases cannot be revealed.


Alcohol Related Offenses including DWI, Intoxication Assault, & DUI
Mr. Smith has handled hundreds of cases involving basic accusations of driving while intoxicated to complex cases involving serious injuries and technical issues pertaining to blood and breath-testing. As a certified NHTSA Standard Field Sobriety Test Practitioner, he is well-versed in evaluation and cross-examination of police officers who conduct DWI investigations. He has also worked with experts in the fields of toxicology, breath-testing and blood-testing in successfully challenging intoxication accusations. See frequently asked questions for more information about, "What to do if you are stopped for DWI" and "What is an ALR hearing and should I request one?"


Computer-Related Crimes
An increasing number of accusations involve computer-related issues. Some offenses pertain specifically to the use of computers and actions taken over the Internet. Many more offenses involve evidence which originates on or is stored on computers. Mr. Smith is experienced in handling both types of computer related crimes and working with cyber forensic experts to locate, preserve and analyze digital data that may be helpful in defending persons accused in such cases.


Sex Crimes
"Sex Crimes" are among the most dangerous and serious accusations lodged today and can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Often times, the accusations are based on flimsy evidence and the cases are poorly investigated, leading to false accusations.


Drug Offenses
The firm handles a broad array of drug offense cases, whether the client is charged with possessing a small amount of marijuana or distributing large quantities of controlled substances. Often, drug cases involve issues relating to the legality of the search and seizure of the contraband and how the contraband is linked to the accused to prove that the person charged is responsible for possession of the substance. Mr. Smith is experienced in litigating issues that involve complex analysis of the 4th Amendment of the United States Constitution, federal and state exclusionary rules, and other laws that govern how police may conduct searches and seizures.


Domestic Violence & Assault Charges
Allegations that are characterized as "domestic violence" usually involve charges of assault, though they may also encompass other charges such as harassment, interference with 911 calls, and criminal mischief. It is not unusual to see situations in which charges like these are filed even though all parties to the alleged offense desire that no charges be filed. This occurs because the prosecutors who file charges are not bound to follow the desires of the parties. It is also common for false charges to be lodged by one spouse or partner against another as a means of retaliation or to gain advantage in divorce proceedings. The firm has successfully defended many such cases and can often negotiate a dismissal of charges.


Financial Crimes
“Financial Crimes” include a broad array of accusations relating the operation and financing of businesses, including: wire fraud, mortgage fraud, conspiracy, false statements related to loans, illegal commissions or gifts for loans, embezzlement, theft, and misapplication of fiduciary property. Mr. Smith has represented clients accused of such offenses in both state and federal court, as well as those who are under investigation, but not yet indicted.


Grand Jury & Investigation Representation
Mr. Smith is experienced in providing advice and representing clients who are under investigation before charges are filed in a case. Many people make the mistake of not immediately securing legal representation when they learn that they have been accused of a crime. In many such situations, it is critical to carefully assert legal rights afforded to the accused and respond to the accusations appropriately. Failure to do so can significantly reduce one’s ability to successfully defend against the accusation, even if it is false. On the other hand, a careful response to the accusation can lead to a successful conclusion of the investigation before any charges are filed.


Federal Court Practice
Mr. Smith's practice spans both state and federal court practice.  Charges that are prosecuted in federal court are subject to very different rules and laws than apply in Texas courts.  See FAQ "How are federal cases different than Texas cases?"  Mr. Smith is experienced in handling cases federal cases and has represented clients in federal courts in Texas, Missippi and Washington, D.C.  If you are accused of an offense in federal court or have even been contacted with regard to an investigation by a federal agency such as the DEA, the FBI, or the IRS, it is important to consult with legal counsel as soon as possible and before speaking with the investigating agents.