Decatur & Wise County Criminal Defense Attorney

Cities and Communities

What cities in Wise County does Sloane Law Firm offer criminal defense representation? 

Wise County is made up of 14 cities, towns, and municipalities. The Sloane Law Firm proudly offers criminal defense representation in every community across Wise County, ensuring clients receive skilled legal support wherever their case arises, including: 

• Aurora
• Bridgeport
• Decatur
• Lake Bridgeport
• New Fairview
• Newark
• Paradise
• Rhome
• Runaway Bay
• Alvord
• Chico
• Boyd
• Briar
• Pecan Acres

Wise County Courts

What courts does Sloane Law Firm practice in Wise County? 

The Sloane Law Firm provides aggressive, experienced criminal defense representation in every court in Wise County, from local justice and district courts all the way to the Second Court of Appeals and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. Whether your case involves trial, appeal, or post-conviction relief, our team has the knowledge, skill, and dedication to fight for you at every level of the Texas criminal justice system.

Criminal Trial Courts

What court in Wise County will my case be handled in? 

In Wise County, criminal cases are assigned based on the severity of the charge. 

Misdemeanor offenses—such as DWI charges, simple assault, and minor drug possession cases—are handled in the Wise County Court, where the county judge presides over all Class A and Class B misdemeanor matters. 

• Wise County Court at Law Number 1 
  • Judge Greg Lowery
  • 306 W. Main Street Decatur, Texas 76234

Felony cases, including more serious offenses like aggravated assault, sexual assault, drug delivery, and habitual offender cases, are heard in the 271st District Court, the primary felony court serving Wise County. 

• Wise County 271^st District Court 
  • Judge Brock Smith
  • 308 W. Main Street Decatur, Texas 76234

Understanding which court will hear your case is critical, as each has its own procedures, expectations, and courtroom dynamics that can significantly impact your defense strategy.

Second Court of Appeals

What court will handle an appeal from a Wise County criminal court?

If a criminal case from Wise County is appealed, it is reviewed by the Second Court of Appeals, which serves Fort Worth and several surrounding counties, including Wise County. 

This appellate court does not retry the case or hear new evidence; instead, it examines the trial record to determine whether any legal errors, constitutional violations, or improper rulings affected the outcome. The judges evaluate issues such as incorrect jury instructions, improperly admitted evidence, or insufficient evidence to support a conviction. 

A successful appeal can result in a new trial, a reduced sentence, or even a complete reversal of the conviction, making the Second Court of Appeals a critical venue for safeguarding a defendant’s rights after a Wise County trial.

Texas Second Court of Appeals contact information:

• Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center

401 W. Belknap, Suite 9000

Fort Worth, TX 76196

• Phone: (817) 884-1900

Court of Criminal Appeals

What court will handle an appeal from the Second Court of Appeals? 

If a Wise County criminal appeal is taken beyond the Second Court of Appeals, it moves to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA)—the state’s highest court for criminal matters. 

The CCA reviews cases only on specific legal or constitutional issues that have statewide significance or involve potential errors in how the law was applied. Like other appellate courts, it does not hear witnesses or consider new evidence; instead, it evaluates whether the lower courts correctly interpreted and followed Texas criminal law. 

A successful ruling from the Court of Criminal Appeals can overturn a conviction, order a new trial, or clarify important legal principles that affect future cases across Texas.

Wise County District and County Court Clerks

The Wise County District Clerk and Wise County Clerk play essential roles in the administration of the local criminal justice system. 

The District Clerk is responsible for maintaining records for all felony criminal cases, managing court documents, processing filings, issuing warrants and subpoenas, and supporting the operations of the 271st District Court. 

• Wise County District Clerk – Loucrecia Biggerstaff
  • 308 W. Main Street 

Decatur, Texas 76234

• (940) 627-5535

The County Clerk, on the other hand, handles records for misdemeanor criminal cases, including Class A and Class B offenses heard in the Wise County Court, as well as managing related court filings, dockets, and essential documentation. 

• Wise County Clerk – Blanca Tuma
  • 200 N. Trinity Street 

Decatur, Texas 76234

• (940) 627-2138

Together, these offices ensure that criminal cases are properly recorded, tracked, and processed as they move through the Wise County courts.

Wise County District Attorney

Who is the felony prosecutor in Wise County? 

The Wise County District Attorney, James Stainton, serves as the chief prosecutor for all felony offenses committed within the county and plays a central role in the local criminal justice system. 

This office is responsible for reviewing criminal investigations, determining which charges to file, presenting cases to grand juries, and prosecuting felony crimes in the 271st District Court. 

The District Attorney and their team work closely with law enforcement, victims, and witnesses throughout the life of a case, from investigation through trial. 

Their decisions—and the strategies they pursue—have a significant impact on the outcome of criminal cases, making the DA’s office a powerful force in Wise County’s legal landscape.

Wise County District Attorney Contact Information: 

• 101 N. Trinity Street Suite 200 

Decatur, Texas 76234

• (940) 627-5257

Wise County Attorney

Who is the misdemeanor prosecutor in Wise County? 

The Wise County Attorney, Che Rotramble, is responsible for prosecuting misdemeanor criminal offenses committed within the county, including Class A and Class B misdemeanors heard in the Wise County Court. 

This office reviews police reports, files charges, negotiates plea agreements, and presents cases at trial when necessary. In addition to handling misdemeanors, the County Attorney may also advise county officials and represent the county in certain civil matters. 

As the primary prosecuting authority for lower-level criminal cases, the Wise County Attorney plays a crucial role in determining how misdemeanor offenses are handled and resolved in the local justice system.

Wise County Attorney Contact Information: 

• 101 N. Trinity Street Suite 300 

Decatur, Texas 76234

• (940) 627-3321

Wise County Law Enforcement

County Sherriff

The Wise County Sheriff, Cary Mellema, is the chief law enforcement officer for the county and plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and supporting the local criminal justice system. 

The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for patrolling unincorporated areas, enforcing state laws, executing warrants, and conducting criminal investigations in coordination with other agencies. The Sheriff also oversees the Wise County Jail, ensuring the secure housing, transportation, and care of individuals in custody. 

Additionally, the office provides courtroom security and assists with civil processes, making the Wise County Sheriff an essential component of law enforcement and judicial operations throughout the county.

Wise County Sheriff’s Contact Information

• 200 Rook Ramsey Drive

Decatur, Texas 76234

• (940)627-3797

Decatur Police Department

The Decatur Police Department serves as the primary law enforcement agency for the City of Decatur, working to protect residents, enforce local and state laws, and maintain public safety within city limits. 

Its officers handle a wide range of responsibilities, including responding to emergency calls, conducting criminal investigations, making arrests, and collaborating with other local and state agencies when needed. The department plays a key role in initiating criminal cases that may later be prosecuted in Wise County courts by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing offense reports. 

As the frontline of law enforcement in Decatur, the department’s actions and investigations often form the foundation of criminal cases arising in the city.

Constable 

The Wise County Constable serves as a certified peace officer responsible for enforcing the law throughout their assigned precinct, with duties that support both the justice courts and the broader criminal justice system. 

Constables execute arrest warrants, civil process, subpoenas, and court orders, and they may also conduct traffic enforcement, assist in criminal investigations, and provide support to other law enforcement agencies when needed. Their work ensures that court directives are carried out efficiently and that justice court operations function smoothly. 

As an integral part of Wise County’s law enforcement network, the constable’s office plays a key role in maintaining order and upholding the rule of law across the community.

Start Your Defense TODAY – Contact Sloane Law Firm for Decatur and Wise County Criminal Defense 

When you’re facing criminal charges in Wise County, you deserve a defense team that knows the local courts, understands the stakes, and fights relentlessly for your freedom. The Sloane Law Firm offers comprehensive criminal defense representation for every offense, combining decades of experience, proven results, and a deep commitment to protecting our clients’ futures. With a track record of helping thousands and a reputation built on trust and success, we stand ready to defend you in any Wise County courtroom. When everything is on the line, choose the local team that knows how to win.

Contact the dedicated criminal defense lawyers and schedule a FREE consultation to determine how they can help you!