Prior Convictions Raise the Stakes When the Past Comes Back
A criminal conviction doesn’t just go away. If you’re facing a new charge, your record can seriously affect the outcome. It might change how the judge sees you. It could limit your options. And in some cases, it might even change the charge itself.
at probation or diversion programs. Your bail might be set higher. Prosecutors may push for jail time, even if they wouldn’t normally for a first-time offender. There’s also something called Texas’ “habitual offender” rule. If you already have two felony convictions and pick up a third, you could be looking at 25 years to life, no matter what the third charge is. That’s not just a scare tactic. It’s written into the law, and prosecutors know how to use it. We’ve seen this kind of thing play out in real cases. A client might have a relatively minor drug charge, but because of a theft conviction on their record from years ago, prosecutors will try to use that to argue for harsher punishment. Even though the charges aren’t related, their record still follows them into the courtroom. It’s not just about the charges you face today. Courts look at patterns. They want to know whether this is a one-time mistake or part of a longer history. And if you’ve made progress in your life since a prior conviction, you need to tell that story clearly and early in the process. If you or someone you care about is facing charges and already has a record, don’t wait. The impact of prior convictions can be serious, and the right legal approach can make all the difference.
In Texas, certain prior offenses can raise the stakes fast. Take a DWI, for example. A first or second offense is
usually a misdemeanor. But if you already have two on your record, the next DWI becomes a felony. That upgrade can mean longer jail time, bigger fines, and a much harder path forward. Prior convictions also play a role when it comes to sentencing. Judges look at your entire history. The penalties can increase if you’ve been in trouble before, especially for a similar offense. You might lose the chance
Creamy Cauliflower Soup
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
Ingredients • 1 large head
2. On a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, toss cauliflower with 2 tbsp olive oil. 3. Arrange cauliflower in a single layer, sprinkle with a little salt, and bake 25–35 minutes until tender. 4. In a soup pot, heat remaining olive oil and cook onion and 1/4 tsp salt until soft. 5. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant, then add broth. 6. Add all but 4 cauliflower florets to the pot and simmer for 20 minutes. 7. Transfer mixture to a blender, add butter, and blend until smooth. Then blend in lemon juice and nutmeg. 8. Garnish with cauliflower florets and serve. Add parsley, onion, and chives as desired.
cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt, plus more • 1 medium red onion, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced • 4 cups vegetable broth • 2 tbsp unsalted butter • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg • 2 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley, chives, or green onions for garnish
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