CANLAS DEFENSE
LOOKING FOR AN APPELLATE ATTORNEY IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY?
Reach out to Richard Martin P. Canlas, Attorney at Law today
A criminal case doesn't necessarily have to stay on your record forever. Partner with a qualified appellate attorney near Montgomery County, and receive assistance.
A direct appeal allows you to seek a review of your criminal case conviction or disposition to a higher court. Depending on your issue the higher court may grant you a new trial or order an acquittal if the evidence is legally insufficient.
If the State disposed of your criminal case within the last 30 days you still have time to file a direct appeal. You have 30 days to file a notice of appeal with the trial court or 90 days if you file a motion for a new trial within 30 days.
In your case, the judge may have made an incorrect ruling, the prosecutors may have acted in an unethical manner, or jurors may not have had all the facts necessary to return a fair verdict. When any of these things occur, the law gives you the right to seek relief from a higher court to review your case and possibly get a second chance at justice. A higher court is asked to review specific aspects of a case for legal error or sufficiency of the evidence. Some examples include the following:
- Legally insufficient evidence to convict
- The judge admitting evidence that shouldn't have been allowed
- Withholding evidence that would be advantageous to the accused
- The judge prohibiting the presentation of a defense
- Incorrect laws being applied to the case
- The judge submitting incorrect jury instructions or commenting on the weight of the evidence
- The sentence was inappropriate for the crime you are charged with
It is important to understand that simply not being happy with the outcome of your criminal trial is not sufficient grounds for an appeal-there must have been some key legal mistake(s) which affected your case, may have led to your conviction, or increased punishment.
The appellate legal process is complex and the deadlines are fast. Richard Canlas understands that legal process; his more than 25 years of experience, skill, and training may make a difference and help you avoid a conviction, prison time, or get a lesser sentence. Call him for help from a reliable, professional appellate attorney in any of these areas:
- Conroe, TX
- Spring, TX
- Shenandoah, TX
- Montgomery, TX
- Montgomery County, TX
- Harris County, TX
- Walker County, TX
- Waller County, TX
- Liberty County, TX
APPELLATE PROCEDURE WITH ATTORNEY CANLAS
Attorney Canlas can help with the following case types:
With more than two decades of experience as an appellate attorney under his belt, Attorney Canlas is a potent ally. He's familiar with the intricate minutia of Texas appellate law and can use that knowledge to help you win your case. His extensive experience has earned him a reputation as a reliable attorney in Montgomery County. If you need help, don't worry. Call Canlas Defense today to get assistance from an appeals law firm. Discounts are available for military veterans.
Our Testimonials
4/10/2019 - Google
Great lawyer!! Works hard on getting the job done and always keeps me updated on what's going on and what to do next. read less
Ryan Cusimano
★★★★★
10/19/2017 - Google
We are so grateful to Mr. Canlas for the excellent handling of our sons case.
We had to make sure the right attorney represented our son whom was not only facing erroneous felony charges, but whom had made the mistake of talking willingly to police before obtaining an attorney (never do even when innocent!)
After researching and interviewing a few other criminal law attorneys, whom were highly capable, we hired Richard by the end of our first meeting. His immediate attention and keen knowledge of the legalities of the situation and the avenues to investigate, dispute and apply the best strategy was beyond impressive! He kept my son informed and prepared and had my son's full respect throughout the time and process. 100% sure he was the best and right attorney for our son! Mr. Canlas pursued and won a complete DISMISSAL of the case!!! Highly, highly recommend him!!
L.C.
★★★★★
12/21/2017 - Google
Mr. Canlas was extremely prepared and knowledgeable when coming to court. He had his questions lined up with no pauses and made an impressive argument.
TC
★★★★★
6/02/2014 - Google
Very Smart. Was clearly the best lawyer in the court room.
James Dammeier
★★★★★
4/10/2019 - Avvo
Gets the job done! Great lawyer! Really works hard to find the best outcome. Always updated me on what's going on.
Ryan
★★★★★
3/04/2018 - Avvo
Have Richard Canlas on your side My experience with Richard was Excellent! I worked with him remotely. He always responded to my email questions timely, with... read more
Gary
★★★★★
12/21/2017 - Avvo
GREAT LAWYER!!!! Mr. Canlas was extremely prepared and knowledgeable when coming to court. He had his questions lined up with no pauses and made an impressive argument. We were very impressed with Mr. Canlas and would highly recommend him.
anonymous
★★★★★
5/11/2017 - Avvo
Mr. Canlas got me the best possible outcome in my case. Richard Canlas's represented me in my case (POCS). It was a tough case in an even tougher court. He met my expectations consistently throughout the case. Mr. Canlas communication was excellent, and he made himself available when I had any questions or needed clarification. I was satisfied with the result in my case. I would use Richard again if needed and recommend him to friends or family. He is truly a top tier attorney.
Craig
★★★★★
5/02/2017 - Avvo
Answers on first ring and is the best I've seen. Mr. Canlas was very professional, focused, available, and commited to getting my charge dismissed from a theft charge. He was 100% the best choice i could have made, and always on top of everything. Mr. Canlas gave me the results I wanted!
Alec
★★★★★
3/06/2017 - Avvo
Out Standing Attorney Mr Richard Canlas represented my son, he had 4 felony and he got the DA to drop all but 2, he was facing 25 years and our family did not know what to do since he had a Court appointed attorney that was on the case for a year and nothing was done, then a private attorney was hired and he did not do anything and he was on the case a year, Mr Canlas was hired and within a few weeks after being on the case, and he got the case settled. My son was in jail over 2 years. He is am excellent attorney and I would recommend him very highly. If anyone needs a good attorney he is the one to hire, he gets things done
Lea
★★★★★
2/24/2017 - Avvo
Great lawyer Richard was one of the most straight forward attorneys I have ever hired he was very specific on what was needed to be done before my court date I followed all his steps and succedeed in my case he is very specific on what needs to be done though he may sound rough at first this man knows the law and is very professional very good and professional lawyer if there was more than 5 stars I would without a doubt give It to him I had a possession charge and he was able to put me on a pre trial intervention
Christian
★★★★★
10/12/2016 - Avvo
Outstanding Results Please use Richard Canlas for your needs. This is someone who can immediately recognize your problems & get you to your desired results correctly & effectively. He has the intelligence to correctly visualize & identify the situation & provide the right guidance. In my case he was able to get me to exactly the point that I was going to face. His knowledge & authenticity was remarkable or I should say second to none. Highly recommended by my experience.
Nasir Shah
★★★★★
5/19/2016 - Avvo
Outstanding DWI service Mr. Canlas provided very specific advice on a recent DWI case. After initial consultation and review, options were explained and allowed for an informed defense choice. This case was handled a bit further out (Waller county) than his home base of Conroe, yet it was clear that he had established relationships with prosecutors and court members which smoothed the process. While he appears to primarily handles felonies, he treated this misdemeanor charge with professionalism and ended in a dismissal.
Michael
★★★★★
4/06/2016 - Avvo
The Man I hired Richard Canlas on a felony charge. He was straight forward and very informative. I needed the facts what we could and could not do and how to go about it. He took my case and did exactly what we planned and agreed on. In this situation u want to be represented well he is the man u want. Good job Richard thanks.
anonymous
★★★★★
12/29/2015 - Avvo
Excellent, Professional, Top Quality I was arrested in February 2014 for a possession of marijuana charge. This was a first time offense, and could have led to probation and fines, but Canlas had me go through a few programs and do some community service before my court date was set. In the end, my case was flat out dismissed. He was always available to talk if I needed, and had all court procedures taken care of when I needed to be there.Thank you, Mr. Canlas! You were extremely helpful through these tough times.
James Hutto
★★★★★
11/29/2015 - Avvo
Excellent attorney I hired Mr Canalas a few months ago and I am ever greatful for his excellent work. He is very knowledgeable in criminal legal matters. Right away he understood my case and outlined what he needed to do. He defended me and had the false charges dismissed against me.
JK
★★★★★
11/28/2015 - Avvo
Highly recommend Attorney Canalas I hired Mr. Canalas and liked his wisdom and honesty right away. He outlined the case and what needed to be done and switly followed through. He was approachable and very professional. I recommend him very highly.
Dillan Romoser
★★★★★
11/03/2015 - Avvo
Coach Mr Canlas defended me in a 2 charge felony case and got Both dropped to one class A misdemeanor deferred adjudicated it happened in Montgomery county Texas The worst place this side of Iran to receive true justice. The Police and Da office ignore factual evidence and I really think (but can't prove) they tampered with our witnesses if you find yourself in Willis Texas don't give some redneck cop a reason to shoot you and call. Richard ASAP you will be glad you did
anonymous
★★★★★
10/25/2015 - Avvo
Outstanding lawyer I am forever grateful that I contacted Mr. Canlas during the most difficult time of my life. He is very honest and approachable, highly respected among his peers, and extremely bright. He went the extra distance to make sure I fully understood all of my options and all the possible outcomes. I could not possibly be any more satisfied with the amazing job he did fully resolving my very complicated situation. He should be the top choice for anyone in or around Montgomery County, TX, who is facing any criminal charges.
Brian
★★★★★
9/18/2015 - Avvo
Richard is top notch Richard handled my appeal, a formidable challenge because many potential appellate points were not properly preserved during the trial. He began representing me after trial, and very quickly learned the case and understood the novel legal and factual issues it presented. Richard analyzed the case and developed a legal argument that many lawyers would have either overlooked or given up before understanding the possibilities. Richard's knowledge and confidence gave me hope. Having any criminal case reversed on appeal is rare, and with only one point of error, it is a long shot, at best. But, Richard never wavered and my case was reversed. There was no new trial because the reversal was a legal point. The Court of Appeals ordered the trial court to enter an order of acquittal. The case is not yet completed because the State filed a petition for discretionary review with the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. However, I remain confident that the petition will be refused as the Court has previously refused to hear case(s) on the same legal issue. Richard is professional, responsive and no-nonsense. He handles trials and appeals with expert skill, fearlessness and confidence. I cannot express the extent of my gratitude for my representation.
anonymous
★★★★★
8/11/2015 - Avvo
GREAT ATTORNEY Richard is incredibly knowledge about criminal law. He was personable and a 100 % committed to our case. He was prompt in all correspondence, emails and phone calls. He kept us informed every step of the way. He made our family feel very valued, respected and well represented. He did everything he said he would and more. Richard is no push over, he is a steadfast, passionate advocate. I highly recommend him to anyone fighting against a criminal charge. We were VERY pleased. read less
Jackie Fisher
★★★★★
10/10/2014 - Avvo
Stop looking and hire Richard NOW! I have had what I will call the "unfortunate privilege" of working with Richard when I hired him to help a family member who an accused citizen at the time. His knowledge of the players in local courts, reputation of the local agencies, possible outcomes and analysis of the what best case/worst case/most likely scenarios would be was only over shadowed, during my experience with him was his clear and concise knowledge of the law, possible defense arguments and his ability to craft a comprehensive strategy to create the best possible outcome of bad situation. His professional demeanor and aggressive desire to WIN helped keep a very troublesome situation very tolerable. (albeit no less anxiety filled) I can say this in closing, Richard Canlas delivered! With the surgical precision he was able to execute on exactly what he said he was going to do when he said he was going to do it and kept us informed every step of the way. If you or a loved one in a bad situation my personal advice is to do whatever it takes to secure his services. You will not be disappointed.
anonymous
★★★★★
5/08/2014 - Avvo
Expert legal help Richard Canlas is an outstanding attorney. I acquired his services when I had a serious, time-sensitive issue, and he handled it professionally, without delay. He clearly explained what needed to be done, and addressed all of my concerns in plain and easily understandable language. He was honest about potential outcomes, and offered straightforward solutions as circumstances progressed. The cost was reasonable and the value of knowing my needs were being managed appropriately gave me peace of mind. I will use Mr. Canlas again if I ever require future legal services, and recommend his expertise to anyone facing a legal challenge.
Stacy
★★★★★
4/19/2014 - Avvo
One of the best I've hired Bottom line is, hire this guy if you can? When I first searched for a lawyer, I of course read all the reviews I could find on him as a potential counselor. I got a feeling that he was what I looking for as our case was very serious. Over and over again I read of dismissals, reductions in sentences, cases thrown out and found myself wishing I could be one of those individuals. Well, here I am months later, and I am one of those individuals! I hired Richard Canlas, followed his directions closely, and recently had my case dismissed. It was not without some work on my part. As I said, he gave me directions which were sometimes difficult to complete. I weathered criticism from friends and family that thought things wasn't being handled correctly all the time. It was quite expensive. But in the end with the advantage of hind sight, I can see that hiring him, was the best decision I could have made at the time. I would definitely recommend him! (Federal charges in Montgomery County)
anonymous
★★★★★
8/28/2013 - Avvo
Richard was a Great Help for us! My wife and I met with Mr. Canlas about our particular legal issue by e-mail. He was very thorough and knowledgeable about the circumstances of our case. Mr. Canlas was able to use his expertise and influence to help us win our case. We HIGHLY recommend Richard Canlas if you need a Very Qualified Attorney.
Steve
★★★★★
3/11/2013 - Avvo
Recommend Richard as a Criminal Defense Attorney without Hesistation Richard is an exceptional criminal defense lawyer that genuinely cares for his clients. He represented our child in a criminal case and managed to get the charges reduced significantly. Over the course of the case, he diligently dealt with an unresponsive and inconsistent ADA. Richard managed to get the best possible outcome given the circumstances of the case and the ADA. Richard also negotiated minimal terms for the probation period and quickly was able to get the record sealed.Richard clearly communicates the law, the circumstances of the case, and what his clients should do to improve their case. He always has his client's best interests in mind, both short and long term. I would recommend Richard as a criminal defense attorney without any hesistation.
anonymous
★★★★★
8/04/2012 - Avvo
Couldn't have asked for a better outcome I would highly recommend Mr. Canlas to anyone who wants a lawyer who will aggressively fight to get them the best outcome possible for their case. From our first meeting, I felt like I was in good hands. He is very genuine and easy to talk to, and gets the job done. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney to represent me in court.
Shondi
★★★★★
4/13/2012 - Avvo
Great Lawyer Richard was professional, diligent and effective. His Price was very reasonable and he got my case completely dismissed. I have had dealings with several lawyers in the past, and if you have the opportunity to retain this lawyer jump on it quickly. He is a UT grad and finished high in his class, so his credentials speak for themselves. Overall he is a great person and an even better attorney.
Chris
★★★★★
3/30/2012 - Avvo
Great lawyer Richard is a great lawyer and helped me avoid a dwi conviction on my record. His repution among the district attorneys defiantly helped get me an incredible plea deal. He kept me informed the whole process, and did not sugar coat any of the options i was given and informed me of the risks.
Daniel
★★★★★
3/28/2012 - Avvo
Kept me informed Mr. Canlas was helpful in guiding me towards which action would be best in regards to my case. He was informative and polite.
Amanda
★★★★★
3/12/2012 - Avvo
accessable Confident, experienced and willing to aggressively handle your case. We plead down to a lower charge but felt confident that Richard would have had a pretty good chance of winning if he took it to trial. Made the whole process as painless as possible during a very difficult time.
Rich
★★★★★
4/11/2011 - Avvo
Incredible Man This man faught an impossible fight and won. Not only did he put some hard times he was going through aside to fight for justice. He fought harder to help an innocent men stay out of prison. I would recommand this lawyer to anyone who needs a great lawyer.
Lydia
★★★★★
7/26/2010 - Avvo
stopped for speeding and to my horror accused of reckless driving Mr. Canlas helped me get thru a difficult and stressful situation. I was pulled over for speeding, and to my horror, I was charged with reckless driving which is a misdemeanor charge that is very serious. Mr. Canlas managed to drive the case towards suitable resolution. He was very easy to work with, extremely thorough, and very responsive to my numerous questions throughout the ordeal.
anonymous
★★★★★
7/23/2010 - Avvo
All Clients Treated Equally Mr. Canlas has exceptional writing skills and knows the letter of the law as good as any lawyer which I've been associated. My case was a bit unique and he argued a VERY GOOD issue. Unfortunately it was the FIRST time the issue had been approached in Montgomery County and no precedent had been set. However, because of Mr. Canlas' and Kelly Case's cavalier and well-researched stance, Montgomery County has since changed their terminology on certain forms and affidavits.I believe in the 4th Amendment and Mr. Canlas fought VERY HARD for MY 4th Amendment rights. Once again - unfortunately, Montgomery County - and ALL Texas counties have a different idea of what the 4th Amendment means.However, having been a paralegal in my past probably gives me a little more insight than many others, but it also gives me a different perspective on how the legal system works. Mr. Canlas is an astute diplomat for the United States Constitution and he BELIEVES in the United States Constitution.I would recommend Mr. Canlas to ANYBODY in need of appellate work on their criminal case. He is as knowledgeable as anybody I know when it comes to the application of criminal law and what holes to attack in the prosecutors' case. Though he (and Mr. Case) were court-appointed, I never felt as though I was any less of a priority than their usual paying clients.I have NO problem recommending Mr. Canlas to any of my friends.
Robert
★★★★★
7/22/2010 - Avvo
Outstanding Professional service , A Lawyer who cares Richard Canals is the Outstanding lawyer. His knowledge and skills are second to none! He is the best lawyer in town and a truly gifted defender of the wrongfully accused. His fees are not astronomical and he keeps you well informed and stays in the fight till the end.
Ronald
★★★★★
7/21/2010 - Avvo
Great Lawyer Richard represented in a DWI. I was not guilty and he took this case to the brink of a jury trial. Because he was so insistent that I was not guilty and they the State did not have sufficient evidence, they finally backed down dimissed the case instead of going to trial. The policy in the DA's office in Montgomery County is that they will not dismiss DWI's. I believe that it was Richard's tremendous reputation in the courtroom that cause them to dismiss. He worked hard on my case and kept me informed through the entire process.
anonymous
★★★★★
7/20/2010 - Avvo
Respectable and caring attorney. Approximately 4 months ago I obtained Mr. Canlas to handle the sealing of my son's juvenile record. Mr. Canlas was very professional, prompt and efficient. He researched what all needed to be done in order to seal the records and followed through with all the court requirements. When done, I verified that the records were sealed as requested. I would recommend Mr. Canlas as a very respectable attorney with a keen sense of personal pride and a genuine way of caring for the person he represents.
anonymous
★★★★★
11/23/2021 - Google
Richard Canlas is such a great lawyer to have. If you're in need of a Lawyer to help you with your case, you should choose him. He helped me out and was always responsive. Any information that he needed, I gave it to him and he would handle it according to the law. I am so Grateful and Thankful that I had the privilege to have him as a lawyer. Even though every case is different, I was Blessed and Lucky but I'm positive that he will handle your case accordingly so that you will not have to worry about what your outcome will be. Thank you again Richard. You Tha Man Fa Sho!!!
Monica Traylor
★★★★★
11/23/2020 - Google
Richard Canlas immediately responded after being contacted and hired and began gathering all information needed to forestall false charges and arrest. He kept us well informed and was available to answer all questions regarding the process. I can never thank him enough for preventing the destruction of my son's life. I would recommend Mr. Canlas to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated attorney.
Sandra
★★★★★
7/07/2021 - Avvo
Best Attorney Around After doing some research on other attorneys in the area, I hired Richard Canlas to represent me in my case. He sticks to the facts of the case, and keeps the process as simple and direct as possible. He remains in communication with the courts during the case, and will push toward a jury trial if necessary. I really appreciate the effort he applied. Thanks again
anonymous
★★★★★
6/29/2021 - Avvo
The Best Lawyer to choose. Richard Canlas is such a great lawyer to have. If you're in need of a Lawyer to help you with your case, you should choose him. He helped me out and was always responsive. Any information that he needed, I gave it to him and he would handle it according to the law. I am so Grateful and Thankful that I had the privilege to have him as a lawyer. Even though every case is different, I was Blessed and Lucky but I'm positive that he will handle your case accordingly so that you will not have to worry about what your outcome will be. Thank you again Richard. You Tha Man Fa Sho!!!
Monica
★★★★★
6/04/2021 - Avvo
Honesty. Integrity. Transparency Richard Canlas represented my husband better than I could have ever imagined. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained, My husband's life was truly at risk with the charge he was facing (first-degree felony murder) even tho it was a self defense case the DA was out to take my husband life away. Richard NEVER gave up and worked countless hours on his case, and was always very patient, and professional! We became a family because we cummunicated so much throughout this process, Richard showed his true emotional towards my husband's life and that was our main goal for choosing amazing attorney. Richard and his team put so much preparation into the case I couldn't have asked for anything more! I was particularly impressed with his knowledge of the process and his straightforward advice. He's been doing this for some time and has not only good lawyer instincts but hard earned wisdom. In the trial phase it was clear how thoroughly Richard and his team had prepared, he accepted our case knowing it would be a tough one. He showed compassion for us and the trauma my husband and I had both been through I highly recommend Richard Canlas. He's a WINNER!!!! My husband can still have his life with his 3 daughters and wife again thanks to Richard and his team!!!
Alicia
★★★★★
6/03/2021 - Avvo
Honesty. Integrity. Transparency Richard Canlas represented my husband better than I could have ever imagined. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained, My husband's life was truly at risk with the charge he was facing (first-degree felony murder) even tho it was a self defense case the DA was out to take my husband life away. Richard NEVER gave up and worked countless hours on his case, and was always very patient, and professional! We became a family because we cummunicated so much throughout this process, Richard showed his true emotional towards my husband's life and that was our main goal for choosing amazing attorney. Richard and his team put so much preparation into the case I couldn't have asked for anything more! I was particularly impressed with his knowledge of the process and his straightforward advice. He's been doing this for some time and has not only good lawyer instincts but hard earned wisdom. In the trial phase it was clear how thoroughly Richard and his team had prepared, he accepted our case knowing it would be a tough one. He showed compassion for us and the trauma my husband and I had both been through I highly recommend Richard Canlas. He's a WINNER!!!! My husband can still have his life with his 3 daughters and wife again thanks to Richard and his team!!!
Alicia
★★★★★
10/01/2020 - Avvo
Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor Class B Mr. Canlas represented me when I was 17 years old, and I am thankful to this day that my family hired him. At the time of my crime, I was caught up with a bad crowd and making poor decisions which landed me in some trouble. When Richard came into the picture, he had his work cut out for him because I had already confessed my non-violent crime to the police. It was an uphill battle from there, but he guided me every step of the way. Richard never took any shortcuts and worked to get pre-trial diversion first. When that was unsuccessful he started working on the next best thing, and so on and so forth. Eventually, my case reduced from a felony to a class B misdemeanor and I received 5 months of probation (first time offender). Without Richard, I would not be where I am today. The entire experience put me on the straight, and it wasn't until recently that I realized how lucky I was to have someone like Richard in my corner.
anonymous
★★★★★
8/21/2020 - Avvo
Lifesaver I found myself in a position that I never thought I would never be in, I reached out to some trusted contacts and Richard's name came up repeatedly. I set an appointment, he listened and retained all of the facts, the next day I brought him his retainer and he got to work, he did not over promise and he shot me straight, he really knows his way around the judicial system and I put 100% trust in him and he proved to be the right choice, during our first court appearance, the district attorney made an offer and he could have easily advised me to take it to close the case, but he really encouraged me to keep fighting and I am glad I did, charges dismissed!!! Thank you Richard! Highly recommend!!
Jon
★★★★★
3/19/2020 - Avvo
He is a lifesaver! I will forever be grateful for the work Mr. Canlas did on my son's behalf. He was contacted, immediately responded and collected the information needed to make sure my son was protected from a false charge that would have ruined every aspect of his life. He kept me informed as to what steps were being taken and the progress being made to ensure my son was fully represented. Mr. Canlas is very professional and achieved a successful conclusion.