Grand Jury Packets Attorneys in Dallas

What You Need to Know for Dallas, Denton, Collin, Tarrant, Rockwall, and Ellis Counties

Facing a grand jury investigation in Texas is a critical moment in any criminal case. If you or a loved one is under investigation, one of the most powerful early defense tools is the Grand Jury Packet. But what exactly is a Grand Jury Packet, and how is it handled across North Texas counties like Dallas, Denton, Collin, Tarrant, Rockwall, and Ellis?

Below, we explain the important role of grand jury packets, your rights, and how the process works differently depending on where your case is pending.

What is a Grand Jury Packet?

A Grand Jury Packet is a written submission prepared by the defense attorney that may include:

• A letter explaining why an indictment should not be issued
• Favorable evidence (such as text messages, photos, videos, or documents)
• Character reference letters
• Medical, psychological, or employment records
• Expert reports (where available)
• Polygraph examination results
• Explanations, timelines, and affidavits

The goal: Persuade the grand jury that formal criminal charges (“True Bill”) should not be issued — either by “No-Billing” the case entirely or encouraging reduced charges.

Are Prosecutors Required to Accept Grand Jury Packets?

Short answer: No.

Under Texas law, prosecutors are not legally obligated to accept or present a defense grand jury packet.

However, many prosecutors offices in North Texas do allow them — and in some cases, they encourage the practice.

Article 20A.104 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure states that no one may address the grand jury other than the State’s attorney, a witness, or the accused or their lawyer — and even then, only if the State approves.

This means defense submissions require prosecutor consent.

The policy and openness toward grand jury packets varies significantly by county.

How Grand Jury Packets are Handled in North Texas Counties

Dallas County

• Common Practice: Grand jury packets are widely accepted.
• Presentation: Typically, the prosecutor will review the packet and may summarize its contents for the grand jury.
• Defense Attorney Access: Rarely, a defense attorney may be allowed to make a short presentation, but this is at the State’s discretion.

Denton County

• Available, but Limited: Grand jury packets are accepted, but prosecutors are selective about what will be presented.
• Timing is Critical: Early submission before indictment decisions is key.
• Written Only: Oral arguments to the grand jury are almost never allowed.

Collin County

• Routine Practice: Defense attorneys frequently submit grand jury packets.
• Prosecutorial Discretion: Acceptance is typical but not guaranteed. The prosecutor must agree to submit it to the grand jury.
• Written Only: No live argument unless specifically permitted, which is rare.

Tarrant County

• Structured Process: Defense submissions are allowed but under specific guidelines.
• Formal Review: Prosecutors will often formally evaluate grand jury packets.
• State’s Control: Defense packets do not guarantee any outcome — the State summarizes or presents the content as it deems appropriate.

Rockwall County

• More Conservative: Some acceptance of grand jury packets, but prosecutors are more selective.
• Local Practice: It is important for defense attorneys to coordinate closely with the Rockwall County District Attorney’s Office to ensure any packet is timely and properly considered.

Ellis County

• Less Common but Possible: Defense grand jury packets are less commonly used but are still available in appropriate cases.
• Strategic Decision: Defense lawyers must carefully evaluate whether submitting a packet may help or risk tipping off prosecutors to defense strategies early.

Key Takeaways

• Grand jury packets can be a powerful tool to avoid an indictment or to limit charges — but they must be prepared strategically.
• The prosecutor must approve any packet submission and may or may not fully present all the materials to the grand jury.
• Different counties have different practices — what works in Dallas may not work the same way in Rockwall or Ellis.
• Timing is critical — once the grand jury votes, it is too late.

How Our Firm Can Help

If you are facing a grand jury investigation in Dallas, Denton, Collin, Tarrant, Rockwall, or Ellis County, you need aggressive and experienced counsel immediately.

 Our attorneys:

 Quickly engage with prosecutors

• Prepare persuasive grand jury packets
• Gather affidavits, records, and supportive evidence
• Work to stop an indictment before it happens

Don’t wait until you are formally charged. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

For trusted legal guidance, reach out to a knowledgeable family law attorney in Dallas at Mathur Law Offices, P.C.. Call (888) 867-5191 or contact us immediately to schedule your consultation.