Environmental Crime Attorneys in Midland, TX
Environmental crimes are a growing concern for West Texans and businesses that operate out of this area. Local and federal governments are particularly diligent when investigating and prosecuting these cases. Prior to pressing charges, investigations are often carried out by the EPA, Fish and Wildlife Service, or task forces organized by other local, state, or government agencies, sometimes in conjunction with one another. Afterward, these crimes may be tried by federal prosecutors, such as the Environmental Crimes Section (ECS) lawyers, or settled out of court in a plea agreement. If the case does go to trial, guilty individuals may face incarceration, and individuals and corporations can both be ordered to pay extremely steep fines and restitution.
Criminal charges typically depend on whether it can be shown that the alleged offender acted knowingly or intentionally. This is called “criminal intent.” Criminal intent can sometimes include falsification of records and attempts to cover up violations. Unfortunately, however, many individuals are charged with these crimes despite not knowing their activities were criminal offenses. They can be especially vulnerable to harsh prosecution if they don’t have access to effective legal representation.
If you or your business has been charged with an environmental crime, we invite you to work with our attorneys at Wolf, Stallings & Mayo. We serve Midland-Odessa and the surrounding areas, including Howard, Reagan, Upton, Winkler, Martin, and Ward counties.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation with our environmental crime lawyers in Midland.
Have You Committed an Environmental Crime in West Texas?
General Environmental Crimes
General environmental crimes encompass any activity that adversely affects local ecosystems and, as a result, threatens public health or safety, or otherwise degrades the environment beyond what’s allowed by government agencies. Anyone found guilty of committing one or more environmental offenses could incur direct civil penalties and criminal charges.
These activities include but are not limited to:
- Burning debris at unapproved sites
- Conducting illegal clear-cutting operations
- Disposing of hazardous materials in unequipped landfills
- Diverting municipal stormwater runoff away from authorized drainage channels
- Littering
- Over-harvesting fish
- Releasing toxic substances onto farmland
- Running illegal commercial hunting operations
Why Choose Wolf, Stallings & Mayo?
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Former Prosecutors
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Same Day Appointments
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Spanish Speaking Services Available
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