Carmen Michele Burleson Smith, Criminal Defense Attorney in Waco, Texas

Carmen concentrates on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile. Each area below outlines the kind of case Carmen handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Family Law

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• Juvenile

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Carmen's primary office is at 504 Austin Ave., Waco, TX, 76701. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Carmen usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Carmen discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Carmen for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Carmen walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Carmen offer a free consultation?

  Carmen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Carmen's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Carmen's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Texas typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Carmen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Carmen take my case if I'm outside Waco?

  Carmen is licensed in Texas. Matters governed by Texas law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Carmen will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Carmen?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Carmen will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Carmen accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Carmen's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.