Guadalupe County Criminal Defense Attorney
Former Chief Prosecutor & Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist Defending Clients in Seguin, Schertz, Cibolo & Across Guadalupe County
When you’re facing criminal charges in Guadalupe County, you don’t just need a lawyer — you need someone who understands how cases are actually prosecuted in Seguin.
Brad Thornton is a former Chief Prosecutor and a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization — a distinction earned by only a small percentage of Texas attorneys. He now uses his insider knowledge of prosecution strategy to defend individuals charged with DWI, drug crimes, assault, and other serious offenses in Guadalupe County.
Call (210) 439-5627 for a Free Case Evaluation
Why Your Choice of a Guadalupe County Lawyer Matters
Guadalupe County is not Bexar County.
Cases in Seguin are often handled differently than in San Antonio. Prosecutors in the 25th Judicial District Court and 274th Judicial District Court are known for being aggressive — especially in felony DWI, drug, and family violence cases.
As a former Chief Prosecutor in the neighboring 81st District Attorney’s Office, Brad Thornton understands:
How local prosecutors build their cases
How plea negotiations are structured in smaller counties
When diversion or reduction is realistic — and when trial strategy is necessary
If you were arrested by the Seguin Police Department, stopped by a DPS trooper on I-10, or investigated by the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office, your defense strategy must reflect how those agencies document and prosecute cases locally.
Real Results. Real Clients. Real Defense.
See what our previous clients are saying about their experience with us.
“He made sure to represent me with his best work…”
Brad Thorton as my defense attorney went out of his way to explain my case to me and what to expect. He made sure to represent me with his best work and even had my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
Markus P.
“He’s smart, reliable, and trustworthy.”
Brad is an amazing attorney. He’s smart, reliable, and trustworthy. I highly recommend him!
Amanda P.
“We got all charges dismissed”
I contacted Bradlee Thornton about 5 months ago, on 5 charges 2 being second degree felony’s with a prior so punishment was automatically 2-20. Working with Brad and his knowledge about the in’s—and out’s of the criminal justice system. We got all charges dismissed and one misdemeanor guilty verdict. No probation no jail, just a fine. If I ever need criminal representation again I will use Bradlee hands down. I suggest if you want a solid attorney who works the system for you don’t hesitate to c...
Brandon
“My issue was resolved much faster than anticipated and out of court!”
I have used at least a dozen attorneys in the area and none of them were even close to being as professional and responsive as Thornton Criminal defense was. My issue was resolved much faster than anticipated and out of court! Well worth every penny.
Linnea C.
“He is an expert in his field and compassionate with his clients.”
We’re forever grateful to Brad Thornton and his team!!! He took care of our situation. He is an expert in his field and compassionate with his clients. I highly recommend Brad Thornton as your attorney. I assure you, you will be so happy to have him on your side!!
Yvonne S.
What Happens After an Arrest in Guadalupe County?
If your loved one has been arrested, here is what typically happens in the first 24 hours:
1. Booking at the Guadalupe County Jail
Most individuals arrested in Guadalupe County are taken to:
Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office & Jail
2617 N. Guadalupe Street
Seguin, TX 78155
(830) 379-1224
During booking:
- Fingerprints and mugshot are taken
- Charges are formally entered
- Property is inventoried
- The inmate is placed in a holding cell
2. Magistration (Seeing a Judge)
Within roughly 24 hours, the person must appear before a magistrate judge.
At magistration:
- The judge informs the defendant of the charges
- Bond is set
- Conditions of release are imposed (no contact orders, GPS, drug testing, etc.)
This hearing often determines how quickly someone can get out of jail — and under what restrictions.
3. Posting Bond
Release options may include:
- Cash bond
- Surety bond (bail bond company)
- Personal bond (if approved)
Weekend arrests: Bond can still be posted. Acting quickly often makes a major difference.
You can search inmate custody status through the Guadalupe County jail search or Vinelink. If you want a more detailed breakdown of the process, read our complete guide to what to do if you’re arrested in Guadalupe County.
Cases We Handle in Seguin & Guadalupe County
Guadalupe County DWI Defense
DWI arrests frequently occur:
- Along the I-10 corridor near Seguin
- On Highway 46
- On rural roads like FM 725
- During DPS Highway Patrol traffic stops
Brad Thornton previously served on a DWI Task Force as a prosecutor. He understands:
- Field sobriety testing errors
- Breath and blood testing challenges
- Crash investigations and fatality cases
- License suspension (ALR) hearings
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Guadalupe County, your case may be filed in County Court at Law or District Court depending on prior convictions. For a deeper explanation of breath tests, blood warrants, and license suspension hearings, visit our San Antonio DWI defense lawyer page.
Drug Possession & Task Force Arrests
The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office is active in multi-agency narcotics task forces.
Common charges include:
- Marijuana possession
- Controlled substance possession (Penalty Groups 1–4)
- Drug delivery or manufacture
- Search warrant-based arrests
Defense often centers around:
- Illegal traffic stops
- Search and seizure violations
- Confidential informant credibility
- Lab testing issues
Questions about THC vape pens and Texas law are common. Read our detailed breakdown of THC vape pen legality in Guadalupe County.
Assault & Family Violence Cases (456th District Court)
Domestic violence cases in Guadalupe County are taken seriously and often assigned to District Court.
Consequences may include:
- Protective orders
- Firearm restrictions
- Bond conditions
- Immigration consequences
These cases often hinge on witness statements, 911 recordings, and body camera footage. Early intervention by a defense lawyer can significantly impact outcome.
The Former Prosecutor Advantage
Brad Thornton’s background is your strategic advantage.
Before becoming a defense lawyer, he:
- Prosecuted major felony cases
- Supervised criminal prosecutions as Chief Prosecutor
- Worked alongside law enforcement and DWI task forces
Now he uses that experience to:
- Identify weaknesses in police reports
- Challenge probable cause
- Negotiate from a position of strength
- Prepare cases for trial when necessary
His Board Certification in Criminal Law signals advanced expertise and peer recognition across Texas. Learn more about why hiring a former prosecutor can change the trajectory of your case.
Guadalupe County Court Information
Most felony cases are handled at:
District Courts (Felony Jurisdiction)
- 25th Judicial District Court
- 2nd 25th Judicial District Court
- 274th Judicial District Court
- 456th Judicial District Court
All located at:
211 W. Court Street
Seguin, TX 78155
County Courts at Law (Misdemeanors)
211 W. Court Street
Seguin, TX 78155
Justice of the Peace & Municipal Courts
Located in Seguin, Schertz, and Cibolo for Class C offenses and traffic matters.
If you are unsure which court your case is in, we can help you determine jurisdiction quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (Guadalupe County Criminal Cases)
- Arrest & Booking: Processed at the Guadalupe County Jail.
- Magistration: Bond is set by a judge (usually within 48 hours).
- Filing: The County or District Attorney reviews the police report to "file" formal charges.
- Arraignment: Your first official court appearance to enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Hearings: Discovery of evidence and negotiations for dismissal or plea deals.
- Trial or Resolution: The final stage where the case is either dismissed, settled, or taken to a jury.
Contact a Board-Certified Guadalupe County Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been arrested in Seguin, Schertz, Cibolo, or anywhere in Guadalupe County, early action matters.
Brad Thornton provides:
- Direct attorney access
- Clear explanation of your options
- Strategic defense planning from day one
Call (210) 439-5627 for a Free Consultation
Thornton Criminal Defense
Serving Guadalupe County, Texas
Former Chief Prosecutor | Board Certified in Criminal Law
Serving Clients Across South Texas
While this page focuses on Guadalupe County cases, we also defend clients in neighboring counties, including Bexar County.
