Frequently Asked Questions

Where is your law firm located?

Our main office is located in Abilene, Texas, and we regularly serve clients throughout Taylor County and surrounding West Texas counties and communities, including San Angelo, Brownwood, Sweetwater, Midland and beyond.

Do I need to come into the office for a consultation?

Not always but we do like to meet you in person. We offer confidential:

• In-person case-reviews and consultations
• Phone consultations
• Virtual meetings (Zoom or similar)

This flexibility allows us to serve clients across the entire state of Texas while still providing attentive, personal service.

Is my case review – consultation confidential?

Yes. All case reviews and consultations are confidential. Speaking with any member of our team does not create an attorney-client relationship unless a representation agreement is signed, but your information is protected.

Hiring an Attorney

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you are facing criminal charges, if police want to talk to you, you are under investigaiton, court and legal deadlines, family changes, or uncertainty about your rights or responsibilities, speaking with an attorney early can help you avoid costly mistakes. Even matters that seem “simple” – such as wills, divorces, or probates – can become complicated without proper legal guidance.

What should I bring to my case review – consultation?

It depends on your case, our intake staff will discuss this with yout, but helpful items may include:

• Court paperwork or notices
• Police reports or charging documents
• Existing wills, trusts, or estate documents
• Divorce decrees or custody orders
• Correspondence from opposing parties or attorneys

If you’re unsure, our intake team can guide you before your meeting.

Do you offer free consultations?

Some matters may qualify for a free initial consultation, while others require a consultation fee. This depends on the type and complexity of the case.

Our staff will clearly explain any costs before scheduling.

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

Legal fees vary based on:

• The type of case
• Complexity of the case and time involved
• Whether the matter is contested
• Court requirements and deadlines

We believe in transparency and will discuss fees and payment structures upfront.

Criminal Defense & DWI – DUI FAQs

Should I talk to the police if I think I can explain my side?

No. Even well-intended statements can (and will) be used against you. Speak with an attorney first.

What should I do if I’ve been arrested?

Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.

We can’t stress this enough: Avoid making statements to law enforcement without legal counsel.

Contact a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Is a DWI a felony in Texas?

It depends. First and second DWIs are typically misdemeanors, but certain factors – such as prior convictions, accidents, or high blood alcohol concentration – can elevate charges to a felony.

Can charges be reduced or dismissed?

Every case is different. Outcomes depend on evidence, constitutional issues, procedural errors, and negotiation with prosecutors. An experienced attorney can evaluate possible defenses and strategies.

Post Conviction & Appeals FAQs

What is post conviction relief?

Post conviction relief allows individuals to challenge a conviction or sentence after the case is final. In Texas, this often involves a writ of habeas corpus (Article 11.07).

Can I appeal my case if I already pled guilty?

Yes, in some circumstances. Certain constitutional violations – such as ineffective assistance of counsel or involuntary pleas – may allow relief even after a guilty plea. There are other circumstances. We do offer a risk free case assessment to help determine if we can help you or your loved one.

How long do post conviction cases take?

Post-conviction proceedings can take months or longer, depending on the issues raised and court timelines. These cases require patience and careful legal analysis.

Estate Planning & Probate FAQs

Do I really need a will?

Yes. Without a will, Texas law decides who inherits your property – which may not reflect your wishes. A properly drafted will provides clarity, control, and peace of mind.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will directs how assets are distributed after death and usually goes through probate.

A trust can help avoid probate, provide privacy, and offer more control over how and when assets are distributed.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate. Some estates require full probate, while others may qualify for simplified procedures or avoid probate altogether with proper planning.

Family Law FAQs

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Texas?

Texas law does not require an attorney for divorce, but having one can help protect your rights, ensure proper division of property, and avoid costly mistakes – especially when children or significant assets are involved.

How is child custody decided?

Texas courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as stability, parental involvement, and the child’s needs.

Final Questions

How do I get started?

The first step is to contact our office to speak with our intake team. We’ll help determine the next best step and schedule a consultation if appropriate.

Why choose Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys?

Our firm is built on experience, integrity, and dedication. We combine legal knowledge with a client-focused approach – ensuring you are informed, supported, and confidently represented at every stage.

Call (325) 307-5974 to request a case review.

We’re here to fight to win, support, and stand beside you.

San Angelo Attorney FAQs

Serving San Angelo & Tom Green County

Do you handle cases in San Angelo?

Yes. We serve San Angelo and Tom Green County, representing clients in criminal, family, estate, and post-conviction matters.

Can you represent me if my case is already in Tom Green County court?

Yes. We can review pending cases and advise whether we can step in as counsel or provide a second opinion.

What family law matters do you handle for San Angelo clients?

We assist with criminal defense, appeals, divorce, child custody, child support, post-divorce modifications, estate planning and probate..

How quickly should I contact a lawyer after an arrest in San Angelo?

Immediately. Early legal representation can be critical in protecting your rights and preserving defenses.

Brownwood Attorney FAQs

Serving Brownwood & Brown County

Do you represent Brownwood clients?

Yes. We regularly work with individuals and families in Brownwood and Brown County.

What estate planning services do you offer in Brownwood?

We help Brownwood residents with:

• Criminal Defense and Appeals
• Family Law matters (Divorce, child custody)
• Wills and trusts
• Probate avoidance strategies

Can you assist with contested probate matters?

Yes. We handle probate litigation involving will contests, fiduciary disputes, and inheritance conflicts.

Is an in-person meeting required?

Not necessarily. Many estate planning and probate matters can begin remotely, with in-person meetings scheduled if needed.

Sweetwater Attorney FAQs

Serving Sweetwater & Nolan County

Do you represent clients in Sweetwater, Texas?

Yes. We represent clients in Sweetwater and throughout Nolan County, including matters filed in local courts.

Can you handle my case if you’re not located in Sweetwater?

Yes. Many cases can be handled remotely, and we routinely appear in courts outside Abilene when representing Sweetwater clients.

What legal issues do Sweetwater clients commonly contact you about?

Common matters include:

* DWI and criminal charges
* Probation violations
* Estate planning and wills
* Probate after the loss of a loved one
* Divorce and custody issues

Will I need to travel to Abilene?

Not always. Depending on the case, much of the communication can be handled by phone or video conference.

Snyder Attorney FAQs

Serving Snyder & Scurry County

Do you handle cases in Snyder, Texas?

Yes. We serve clients in Snyder and Scurry County, providing representation in both trial and post-conviction matters.

Are criminal and DWI cases in Snyder different from other counties?

Each county has its own procedures, prosecutors, and courts. Local knowledge and preparation are critical to navigating these differences.

How do I start if I live in Snyder?

Contact our office. We’ll review your situation and explain your options, timelines, and next steps.

Eastland Attorney FAQs

Serving Eastland & Eastland County

Do you serve clients in Eastland, Texas?

Yes. We represent clients in Eastland and throughout Eastland County, offering guidance across multiple practice areas.

What types of cases do Eastland clients contact you about?

Common matters include:

• Criminal defense and DWI
• Estate planning and probate
• Family law disputes
• Post-conviction relief for older cases

Can you help with older convictions from Eastland County?

Yes. Post-conviction relief may still be available in certain cases, even years after conviction.

How do consultations work for Eastland residents?

Initial consultations may be held by phone or video, with in-person meetings arranged as appropriate.