Environmental offenses are investigated by numerous agencies including the EPA, state agencies such as TCEQ, local police, city/county inspectors, and Texas Parks & Wildlife. Seemingly minor investigations can rapidly escalate to criminal charges. Some criminal convictions for environmental crimes can result in fines of up to $250,000.00 per day and five years in prison. Our attorneys have environmental and criminal law experience and represent those charged with environmental and regulatory offenses. Our attorneys have substantial experience addressing criminal violations of the state environmental laws prosecuted under the Texas Water Code and Health and Safety Code, including water pollution and unauthorized discharges, illegal storage and disposal of hazardous waste and illegal dumping.
In addition to substantial environmental experience and strong working relationships with environmental agencies, our attorneys have experience with grand jury investigations, search warrants, internal investigations and criminal trials and appeals.
We can quickly and efficiently evaluate criminal investigation issues and determine the best defensive strategy. We can also help our clients create and implement regulatory and environmental compliance policies as part of a broader risk prevention strategy to address or prevent environmental regulatory compliance issues.
