San Antonio 210-500-0000
Corpus Christi 210-500-0000

Nationally Distinguished Award-Winning Criminal Defense Firm

1000+   cases & clients
300+   5 star reviews
100+   jury trials
BL Rankings

The Best Lawyers in America

Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, has been honored by The Best Lawyers in America, a prestigious legal recognition program, showcasing their exceptional legal experience and commitment to excellence in the field.

Thomas Reuters

Super Lawyers

Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, is acknowledged by Super Lawyers, an esteemed rating service, highlighting their top-tier legal skills and outstanding performance in the legal profession.

BL Rankings

Lawyer of the Year

The Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year" showcases exceptional abilities and accomplishments.

"Top 40 Under 40"

Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, is proud to have lawyers recognized in the "Top 40 Under 40" by the National Trial Lawyers

AV Preeminent Rating

Many of our lawyers hold the prestigious AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a reflection of the team's superior ethical standards and legal experience.

Million Dollar Advocates Forum

Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, signifying our achievements in securing million-dollar settlements.

All awards above are from 2022 and 2023 for attorney Gary J. Barton.

“Fantastic Service.

Perfect Results.” - J.B.

Gary J Barton and Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC:

A Stable of AGGRESSIVE Attorneys At Your Disposal

At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, we focus on two key areas of law, each handled by dedicated and experienced attorneys in their respective fields. Each attorney has their own committed niche area of law they focus on without blending over, so you know your case is being handled by a heavy-hitting, highly skilled lawyer.

Our team is composed of top-tier attorneys who bring their specialized knowledge to help you navigate some of life’s most challenging situations.

Our family law attorneys are extremely aggressive and committed to helping you restore balance in your personal life and ensuring your priorities are our priorities. Whether you are seeking to dissolve a difficult marriage, secure custody or visitation rights for your children, or resolve other family law matters, we provide compassionate and results-driven representation to get your life back on track.

Our criminal defense attorneys are zealously dedicated to defending clients against allegations, investigations, and prosecutions that could jeopardize both your freedom and your reputation. We understand the high stakes involved and are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.

For the most critical legal issues, Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, is the name you can trust to stand by your side and guide you through.

Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC

Dedicated to Fighting for You in Both Family Law and Criminal Defense

Gary J. Barton and his team at Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, are dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in both criminal defense and family law. Whether you are facing criminal charges or navigating the complexities of a family law matter, our firm is here to protect your rights and fight for your future.

In criminal defense, Gary J. Barton has built a reputation for defending individuals accused of crimes, preventing wrongful convictions, and stopping unjust incarceration. Our criminal defense attorneys take nothing for granted. Mr. Barton and his experienced team thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case, meticulously analyzing and recreating the circumstances surrounding your arrest. This rigorous approach ensures that we develop a powerful and well-constructed defense strategy to give you the best possible chance of success in court.

In addition to criminal defense, our firm is equally committed to family law, where we provide compassionate and dedicated representation in matters such as divorce, child custody, and property division. We understand the emotional and legal complexities of family law cases, and our attorneys are focused on helping you secure your family’s future. Whether you’re seeking a fair divorce settlement, fighting for custody of your children, or ensuring a just division of assets, Barton & Associates will stand by your side every step of the way.

At Barton & Associates, we fight for you—whether it’s protecting your freedom in criminal court or securing your family’s best interests in a divorce.

Our firm handles a wide range of
criminal defense cases

including but not limited to:

Drug Offenses

Assault

Theft

White-Collar Crimes

Federal Offenses

DUI/DWI

We believe in building strong attorney-client relationships based on trust, open communication, and a deep understanding of your unique circumstances. By conducting thorough investigations, meticulously analyzing evidence, and leveraging our in-depth legal knowledge, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice on your behalf.

When you choose Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, you can rest assured that you have a dedicated and skilled legal team fighting relentlessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. We are committed to providing aggressive advocacy, unwavering support, and tireless representation at every stage of the legal process.

Our firm handles a wide range of
family law cases

For most of us, family is the cornerstone of our lives, and we strive to do whatever it takes to safeguard it from harm. Hiring an experienced family law attorney ensures that your family and your rights are protected both now and in the future. Our family law team brings a thorough understanding of all aspects of family law and is ready to meet your legal needs. Family-related legal matters are often emotionally charged, making it difficult to remain objective. Having a skilled family law attorney by your side can help you navigate these challenges with clear, focused guidance.

Divorce & Separation

Child Custody

Child Support

Guardianship

Mediation

Alimony & Spousal Support

If you or a loved one are needing assistance
with a family law or criminal defense case,

Contact Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step towards securing the strong legal defense you deserve.

Dedicated to

Fighting For You

Gary J. Barton has dedicated himself to defending individuals accused of crimes, preventing wrongful convictions, protecting rights, and stopping incarceration. The criminal defense attorneys at our firm take nothing for granted. Mr. Barton and his highly experienced team of professional attorneys investigate every possible option by thoroughly researching, analyzing, and recreating the circumstances surrounding an arrest. Our careful and meticulous operation will provide a powerful and well built defense strategy for your case.

There is Nothing More Expensive

than a Cheap Lawyer

As with anything in life, you get what you pay for.

As with anything in life, you get what you pay for. Whether you’re facing the emotional and legal challenges of family law, such as divorce or child custody, or defending against criminal charges, this is not the time to cut corners. Hiring a cheap or inexperienced lawyer can lead to devastating results. We’ve seen countless cases where clients come to us after previous attorneys have mishandled their situations, leaving their cases damaged beyond repair. Simply searching for a “family lawyer near me” or “criminal lawyer near me” won’t ensure you get quality representation.

Investing in an experienced and established Law Firm is essential for protecting your family’s future or your freedom. At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, we’ve represented thousands of clients in both family law and criminal defense and understand the critical nature of these cases.

In family law, we focus on safeguarding your parental rights, securing fair asset division, and guiding you through the complexities of divorce or custody disputes. Our goal is to protect your family’s future while providing compassionate, results-oriented representation.

In criminal defense, we leverage our extensive experience to protect your job, keep your case discreet, and, most importantly, prevent a conviction from damaging your life. Whether it’s working to clear your record or keeping you out of jail, we fight tirelessly for your rights.

Don’t leave your future or your family’s well-being in the hands of an inexperienced lawyer. In both family law and criminal defense, Barton & Associates provides the skilled, dedicated representation you need.

fast, personal

service

The firm’s founding strength is the rare personal touch that is hard to find with most law firms.

Our lawyers are always “on call” as is every single member of our professional support staff. Evenings, weekends, and even holidays, we will reply to client texts, emails, and phone calls. We are available to non-clients for telephone interviews and fast assistance 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 7 days a week. Once we accept a case, we offer retainers and payment options to qualified clients. Most of our clients hire us over the phone, and we are in court with them the next day or a few days later.

are you the client for us?

A separating factor at our firm is that we DO NOT take every case that walks through the door. We treat our clients as if they are our own family, with respect and dignity. We expect our clients to treat us the same way we treat them. We will not tolerate clients that are rude or mistreat our staff. We will fire a client who exhibits inappropriate behavior or lies and misleads us.

SCHEDULE A CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION

DWI & Felony DWI

DWI cases have fast become a non-negotiable offense for many counties in Texas. In order to beat any DWI accusation, you will need top representation. 

Divorce with Kids

Navigating a divorce with children in Texas involves complex considerations around custody, support, and maintaining a stable environment for the kids. We can help you find balance.

Weapon Crimes

The 2nd Amendment only extends so far. If you’re accused of any weapons crime, it is imperative to have this charge removed from your record. Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon can have severe consequences on your ability to own or purchase firearms in the future.

High-Profile Divorce

High-profile divorces in Texas require discreet handling and strategic planning to protect the interests and privacy of individuals in the public eye.

Rape & Sexual Assault Crimes

Being accused of Sexual Assault or Sexual Assault of a Minor is one of the most serious offenses anyone ever faces. There are many differences with these cases compared to others; even the rules of evidence can be different. A law firm with a history of handling these cases is the only way you should fight these accusations.

Father’s Rights

Fathers in Texas have legal rights regarding custody and visitation, and understanding these rights is essential for advocating for their role in their children’s lives.

Murder, Homicide & Manslaughter

Anytime a person is killed, the State of Texas will come after you with everything it has. Often, a person dies because of an act of Self Defense or dies because of an accident. Defending these charges is what our firm’s reputation is based upon. These accusations can be fought with the help of a proven law firm willing to go to battle for you.

Shared or Joint Custody

Fathers in Texas have legal rights regarding custody and visitation, and understanding these rights is essential for advocating for their role in their children’s lives.

White Collar Crimes

Mistakes happen in business. But a mistake doesn’t mean you have committed a crime. We undertake several White Collar cases at our firm and have the resources to handle these complex situations.

Enforcement of Family Court Orders

Enforcing family court orders in Texas is crucial for ensuring compliance with custody, support, and visitation agreements, and may require legal intervention when violations occur.

Theft

Even the smallest theft accusation can have a devastating impact on your life. Anytime an employer sees a theft accusation on your record, you can be certain you’re not getting the job. These accusations can have a far greater impact on your record than you ever imagined. Make sure the job is done and done correctly to put you in a position to succeed in life.

Adoption

The adoption process in Texas involves specific legal requirements and procedures, ultimately aiming to provide a loving, stable home for children in need of a family.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Criminal Law

How long will my case take?

It’s important to understand that the duration of a case can vary significantly based on various factors, including the nature of the charges, the complexity of the evidence, and the court’s schedule. But in order to fight a case properly, usually it takes a minimum of six months to a year before a case is resolved with a win.

I have court; what does that mean for me, and what do I wear to court?

Do not worry about your court date appearances. We will be with you every step of the way. For the most part, court appearances will be limited to simply showing up to court on time while we handle the rest. You don’t have to speak at all; that is what we are there for. Dress as if you were attending church with your grandparents.

I wasn’t read my Miranda Rights, will my case get dismissed?

Possibly. But in most circumstances, Miranda only applies to statements made while under arrest. If there are incriminating statements made while in the custody of an agency, we may be able to keep those out of evidence and thus be able to help your case significantly.

Can I sue the police or my accuser?

In cases where you believe the accuser lied or the police acted inappropriately, it is crucial to discuss the specific details of your situation to assess the potential legal avenues available to you.

To determine the viability of a lawsuit against the police or your accuser, we would need to conduct a thorough review of the evidence, witness statements, and any relevant documentation. Our legal team specializes in evaluating such cases and will provide you with an accurate assessment of your options.

It is important to note that suing the police or your accuser can be a complex legal process, and success depends on various factors, including the availability of evidence, applicable laws, and the strength of your case. We will diligently evaluate the merits of your situation and advise you on the most appropriate course of action.

We understand the frustration and impact that false accusations or inappropriate police conduct can have on your life, and we are committed to seeking justice on your behalf. Please schedule a consultation with our team so that we can discuss your case in detail and provide you with tailored legal advice based on the specific circumstances involved.

What about my driver’s license after a DWI arrest?

No matter where your driver’s license is with DPS, we can help you get back on the road legally. It is important to note that Texas operates under an administrative license revocation (ALR) system. This means that your license may face an automatic suspension if you fail or refuse to submit to a breath or blood test. However, we can help you navigate the ALR process by requesting an administrative hearing on your behalf, where we can challenge the license suspension and fight for the reinstatement of your driving privileges.

Our team has a deep understanding of Texas DWI laws, administrative procedures, and the intricacies of defending against DWI charges. We will guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest defense possible.

Please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us, where we can discuss the details of your case in-depth and provide you with personalized legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances. We are here to support you, fight for your rights, and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your DWI case and the status of your driver’s license.

Will I go back to jail?

The potential for jail time largely depends on the specific details of your case, including the nature of the charges, the evidence against you, your criminal history, and other relevant factors. As experienced criminal defense attorneys, we will thoroughly evaluate your case and advise you on the potential outcomes and the likelihood of facing jail time.

Our goal is to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We will meticulously examine the evidence, challenge any weak points in the prosecution’s case, and explore all available legal avenues to build a strong defense on your behalf.

If jail time is a possibility, we will work diligently to mitigate the potential consequences. This may involve negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges, pursuing alternative sentencing options, such as probation or community service, or presenting a compelling defense at trial.

During our initial consultation, we will discuss the specifics of your case and provide you with an honest assessment of the potential outcomes, including the likelihood of serving jail time. We will also explain the legal strategies we can employ to fight for your rights and minimize the impact of the charges against you.

Please remember that every case is unique, and the information provided here is general in nature. To obtain a more accurate understanding of your specific situation and the potential consequences you may face, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team.

Family Law

How long does it take to get a divorce in Texas?

We wish we could give you a straightforward answer, but the time it takes to get a divorce in Texas can vary. Some factors that influence the timeline include whether the divorce is contested or uncontested and whether children are involved.  In our experience uncontested divorces can take a few months to finalize, contested divorces typically take over a year. If your divorce goes to trial it can take several years if the cae is complex or the court needs to resolve disputes.

Do I need an attorney for my divorce?

While it is possible to represent yourself in a divorce, having an experienced family law attorney is highly recommended, especially if your case involves complex issues like property division, child custody, or spousal support. An attorney ensures that your rights are protected and helps navigate the legal process efficiently.

How is child support calculated in Texas?

Child support is calculated based on a percentage of the paying parent’s income, with guidelines set by the state. The percentage depends on the number of children being supported, with allowances for other factors such as the cost of health insurance and the needs of the child. Courts may deviate from the standard guidelines in certain cases to meet the child’s best interests.

What happens if my spouse doesn’t want the divorce?

Even if one spouse does not agree to the divorce, the other spouse can still proceed with a contested divorce. While it may complicate the process, the court will eventually grant the divorce after addressing issues such as property division and child custody.

What is spousal support, and how is it determined in Texas?

Spousal support, or alimony, may be awarded in certain situations, such as when one spouse lacks sufficient property or income to meet basic needs or if they are unable to work due to disability or taking care of a child with special needs. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, the financial resources of both spouses and the contributions of each spouse to the marriage when determining whether spousal support is appropriate.

How is child custody determined in Texas?

In Texas, the courts determine child custody based on the best interests of the child. This includes factors like the child’s emotional and physical needs, the ability of each parent to provide a stable home, the child’s relationship with each parent, and sometimes the child’s own wishes. Custody can be granted as joint managing conservatorship (where both parents share rights and responsibilities) or sole managing conservatorship (where one parent has primary rights).

How is property divided in a Texas divorce?

Texas is a community property state, meaning that most property acquired during the marriage is considered jointly owned and is divided equally between spouses. However, the court may consider factors such as the financial situation of each spouse, the length of the marriage, and fault in the divorce to create a fair division of property.

What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including child custody, property division, and spousal support. In a contested divorce, the spouses cannot agree on one or more issues, requiring negotiations, mediation, or court intervention to resolve the disputes.

We first met with Gary and he was very informative and said from the beginning he believed my husband’s case can be dismissed. We worked with Andrea and she always answered our questions in a timely matter. Then we met Brittany. Brittany was amazing!! Once in court after 24 hours we had a motion for dismissal filed. She was very thorough and explained everything to us. She answered all our questions. Highly recommend Barton & Associates to anyone!

Jessica Horne

I highly recommend Barton & Associates! Very professional and punctual. Andrea M explained the entire process and relieved the stress when she negotiated no jail time on MTR! Lauren M. Is by far the most friendliest and fastest staff to respond with any concerns I had. If you want a lawyer that has your best interests, Gary Barton & Assoc should be your first choice! They go above and beyond for you!

Ann Perez

Look no further. I was charged with a Class A misdemeanor with an additional charge in the toughest county in Texas (Comal County). Not only did they manage to get the state prosecutor to drop the additional charge but they also managed to lower my charge from a class A misdemeanor to a class B misdemeanor which resulted in a plea deal that only involved differed adjudication probation for me. This means that once my probation is over, the charge would be dismissed and ultimately expunged from my record. Throughout the whole process, any and all questions were quickly answered, and all paperwork was done perfectly and on time. I never had to worry about anything as the law firm made sure to contact me and inform me of everything. I am very glad that I chose this law firm. The price for services was fair and a payment plan was even offered. When it comes defending yourself from state prosecution you get what you pay for. I can only imagine how bad things would of been if I had taken a court appointed lawyer. Glad I chose Barton & Associates.

Jorge Dorantes

I wanted to wait until my case had every “i” and “t” dotted – and I know that making this review says a bit about me — but Barton & Assoc. have been an incredible and examplar help in my case, which was one of plainly dumb error. You will probably not have a basis of comparison, much like I didn’t, because most normal humans don’t look up reviews of criminal attorneys often. There may eventually come a time where a normally law abiding person needs their services though, and when you do this firm is exceptional.

Alfred MacDonald

I cannot express enough how amazing this law firm is!!! The situation I was in was over the top stressful beyond measure. But then I came across Barton & Associates and it’s like everything just felt at ease after I asked them to handle my case. To start, I was originally denied to travel to Florida to do Hurricane work for the State of Florida Government by the State of Florida. But Mr. Barton was NOT having that. He knew it was my career, my bills, and my life. Mr. Barton wrote a letter within half an hour to the State of Florida and not even a couple hours later, the state approved my license to work. I knew right then that this firm wanted the best for me and my career. Then came the time for my court date about a year later. I cannot express enough how professional, amazing, and informative my lawyer, Anthony Rodriguez, was during this whole process. He’s like the super hero of lawyers I swear!! Anthony did his research, kept me informed, and kept my anxiety at ease. Anthony was able have my case completely dismissed, charges dropped, and was able to put me on a fast track to get everything expunged!! Anthony Rodriguez literally saved my career and now I can focus on my future marriage with my soulmate and her three amazing kiddos. Thank you to the ENTIRE team at Barton & Associates!! If anyone ever needs a PERFECT legal team on your side, it’s them!!! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you a billion times!!!! I’m forever grateful for you all!!

Seth Phillips

Gary is a tremendous person, I sat down with him, and let him know how I was feeling, and how I saw things proceeding. Gary told me it was going to be alright no matter what and listend intently. I feel like he had my best interest in mind as a person and treated me kindly and honestly. I left his office way better than I walked in and I cant be more thankful for that.

Stephen Joseph

01.

We understand the personal toll that both criminal charges and family law matters can take. Whether you are dealing with a criminal accusation or navigating a difficult divorce or custody battle, we approach every client with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to maintaining their dignity throughout the legal proceedings.

02.

When you choose Gary J. Barton and Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, you are choosing a legal team that will fight tirelessly to protect your rights, provide strategic counsel, and secure the best possible outcome for your case. Whether you’re facing criminal charges or seeking resolution in a family law matter, with us, you are never alone in your legal battle.

03.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and discover why Gary J. Barton and his esteemed law firm are the right choice for your criminal defense or family law needs. Take the first step toward securing your future and putting your trust in experienced, capable hands.