Arrested in Bastrop County? A Former Prosecutor Can Help You Take Control
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Bastrop County, you don’t have time to waste. Criminal charges can affect your freedom, your job, your reputation, and even your immigration status. Whether your case is in Bastrop, Elgin, Smithville, or anywhere else in the county, Jorge Vela can help you take immediate action to protect yourself.
Jorge Vela is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with experience on both sides of the courtroom. As a former state and federal prosecutor, he brings a deep understanding of how criminal cases are built and how to dismantle them. Today, he uses that experience to fight for individuals facing charges across Bastrop County.
I highly recommend Mr. Vela. Without question he's the best lawyer I've ever had. He was extremely honest and helpful in all aspects dealing with not just my case but me as a individual.
Robert Smith
Jorge also talked to me like a person and not a CASE! Jorge called me directly! This time in my life caused me so much loss and suffering and Jorge defended me and I am so grateful that I walked into his office two years ago.
Tommy Cash
This law officer has worked wonders for my case and I cannot thank Mr. Vela enough! Very well at communicating throughout the process and works hard to get favorable end results.
Billius Zuniga
Local Knowledge Makes a Difference in Bastrop County Courts
Every court system has its own personality, and Bastrop County is no different. Local judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement have unique approaches to case handling, plea negotiations, and sentencing. Jorge knows how to navigate these dynamics with precision.
He has prosecuted violent felonies and complex federal crimes, and now brings that insider knowledge to his clients’ defense in Bastrop County. Whether your case is pending at the Bastrop County Courthouse or you were arrested by the Elgin or Smithville Police Departments, Jorge tailors your defense strategy to fit the jurisdiction and the specifics of your case.
Jail Release and Bail Representation in Bastrop County
If someone you care about has been taken to the Bastrop County Jail, your first priority should be getting them out. Jorge Vela assists clients with bond motions, emergency hearings, and pretrial release strategies in Bastrop County.
The earlier you involve a defense lawyer, the more options you have. Jorge acts quickly to reduce bond amounts, argue for release conditions, or prevent unnecessary delays in the legal process. Fast, strategic action in these early stages can set the tone for a stronger defense.
Legal Defense for All Charges in Bastrop County
DWI Defense
Driving While Intoxicated is aggressively prosecuted in Bastrop County, especially on highways like TX-71 and rural roads. Whether it’s a first DWI or a felony repeat offense, Jorge Vela challenges every element—from the traffic stop to the breath or blood test. His goal is to protect your driving privileges, your record, and your freedom.
Drug Charges
From marijuana possession to methamphetamine distribution, drug charges can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Jorge defends clients against both state and federal drug charges in Bastrop County, including possession, trafficking, and conspiracy. He pushes back against illegal searches and seeks dismissal or reduction where possible.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence allegations can result in arrest, protective orders, and lasting consequences. Jorge defends clients accused of family violence, assault, and violating protective orders, taking a strategic and fact-driven approach. Many cases involve one-sided reporting or misunderstandings—he ensures your side is heard.
Sexual Assault & Sex Offenses
Being charged with a sex crime can be devastating. Jorge has the skill and courtroom experience to handle these serious cases with the attention they require. He defends against charges including sexual assault, indecency with a child, and online solicitation, challenging both physical evidence and witness credibility.
Violent Felonies
Bastrop County prosecutes violent offenses like robbery, aggravated assault, and homicide with intensity. Jorge previously handled these same types of cases as a prosecutor. Now, he uses that insight to build defenses that anticipate the prosecution’s moves and uncover weaknesses in the state’s case.
Federal Crimes
Federal charges come with high stakes, lengthy investigations, and severe penalties. Jorge has litigated complex federal cases involving drug conspiracies, illegal reentry, firearms trafficking, and financial crimes. If you are under federal investigation or already indicted, he provides the aggressive representation needed in federal court.
Criminal Immigration Defense
If you’re a non-citizen facing charges in Bastrop County, your defense strategy must protect your immigration future. Jorge evaluates every plea deal, charge, or resolution through the lens of immigration law to help clients avoid consequences like detention, denial of relief, or deportation.
Illegal Reentry
Returning to the U.S. after deportation is a federal offense. Jorge represents clients charged with illegal reentry by investigating their prior removal history and identifying legal strategies that can result in reduced sentences or case dismissals.
Alien Smuggling Defense
Federal prosecutors often pursue smuggling charges in cases involving the transport or harboring of undocumented individuals. Jorge builds defenses that challenge surveillance, attack search warrants, and expose weak points in the government’s case.
Immigration Aggravated Felonies
Some convictions automatically trigger deportation under immigration law. Jorge works to avoid these outcomes by negotiating charges, fighting for alternative resolutions, and preserving eligibility for immigration relief.
What Sets Jorge Vela Apart in Bastrop County
Jorge doesn’t just know criminal law—he’s lived it on both sides. As a former prosecutor, he understands how the state builds its case and how to counter it effectively. As a defense attorney, he brings that knowledge to each client, crafting defense strategies that work.
Clients trust him because he’s responsive, thorough, and direct. He explains what you’re up against, what options you have, and what strategy gives you the best chance of success. You’re never left in the dark.
Posted on Brady MaldonadoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Siempre intentaron facilitarme la communicacion y me resolvieron todas mia dudas. Vale totalmente la pena contratarlos.Posted on Sara Alicia AlmanzaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El abogado Jorge vela vale por mil abogados lo recomiendo le resolvió el caso a mi esposo Ya lo veíamos por perdido el caso Pero cuando el tomo el caso no dió Muy buenas esperanzas de ganar Luego nos dijo esto lo puedo resolver Es muy responsable con su trabajo Está al pendiente de todo En menos de 3 meses lo termino Y no te afecta a tu futuroPosted on bryan medinaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great work by the group of Jorge vela thanks to the lawyer Maricela for her great workPosted on Estrella RengifoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jorge y su equipo son los mejores abogados en Austin Texas con un alto nivel de conociendo, Inteligencia, ética e integridad humana Desde la primera consulta hasta el final Jorge y Marisela me explicaron cada detalle de mi caso con mucha honestidad, sinceridad, y paciencia. Jorge y su team estuvieron disponibles y le dieron la importancia merecida a mi caso. Es sumamente importa para mi poder confiar en mi abogado y con Jorge y Maricela, pude sentirme en confianza ya que me demostraron ser unos excelentes profesionales con un alto nivel de conocimientos, sabiduría, integridad y honestidad . Si pudiera darle 1000 estrellas a Jorge y su team lo haría.Posted on Wiston RuizTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Antes de llamar A la oficina del jorge vela. Le pedí a Dios en oración que me guiara. Le doy a gracias. Dios por ponerme este gran abogado. Muy pero muy honesto y realmente profesional en todo momento. Lo recomiendo no duden en llamarlo no se van arrepentir.Posted on Melzar Garcia SuarezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best lawyer do recommend.Posted on waldemar matosTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with Vela was 100% positive. The Lawyer always spoke to me with the truth and he had already explained everything that happened in my case clearly to me. 100% recommended. Thank you Vela and Veronica. Case dismissed!!Posted on Hadi AshourTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I think that is the best lawyer in the world and I prefer everyone to go to him I had a case and he was able to get it dismiss for me lesson then six months and thank you so much, Mr. Jorge vale to help me get my case dismissed and one more time I prefer for everyone to go to him. He is very nice and very hard worker. Thank you so muchPosted on Jairo MacorTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Recomiendo al licenciado Jorge vela junto con sus grupo de apoyo son muy eficientes y muy eficaz en su trabajo ..me siento muy satisfecho por su trabajo.
Speak With a Bastrop County Criminal Defense Lawyer Now
When your freedom is at stake, delay can cost you everything. If you’re facing charges or under investigation in Bastrop County, call (512) 537-1237 to schedule a confidential consultation. We respond quickly—often within an hour—and are available 24/7 to assist with jail release, case evaluations, and emergency legal needs.
We represent clients across Bastrop, Elgin, Smithville, Cedar Creek, and surrounding areas. Let Jorge Vela put his experience to work for you.
Call now or send us a message to tell us what happened.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after an arrest in Bastrop County?
You will be taken to the Bastrop County Jail, booked, and likely arraigned within 24 to 48 hours. Having a lawyer early can speed up bond and improve your position.
Can I get out of jail the same day?
Possibly. We assist with jail release and bond reduction to minimize time in custody.
Will a criminal charge affect my immigration status?
It can. Jorge evaluates your case to avoid deportation and protect your ability to apply for immigration relief.
Do you handle federal charges in Bastrop County?
Yes. Jorge has extensive experience with federal drug, immigration, and conspiracy cases.
Is my consultation private?
Absolutely. All communications with our office are strictly confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege.