My felony case was dismissed "in the interest of justice"-how to recoup bond, UA fees, etc.?

Question

The arresting officer lied to a Grand Jury in order to file charges. Part of the bond condition added by the Judge was weekly UA's, which came to several hundred dollars. I spent almost 5 mos. in jail on a contempt charge, which would have never occured had these charges not been filed. My utilities were shut off during my incarceration, lost work, & now stay with friends while trying to put my life back together. Can I sue for the time spent in jail? Can I be reimbursed for the cash spent on bond and on the UA fees? I live in Johnson County, Texas. Should I get a lawyer? (Mine was court appointed). Thanking you in advance for your kind consideration in this regard, I am

Sincerely,
Callie

Answer 1

Yes, you should get a lawyer. Even in Texas, these are serious violations of your civil rights. You will need to make claims against the officer and maybe the DA or AG, depending on whose grand jury it was. The bond you should get back more or less automatically.

Answer 2

This is a very tricky subject, and I do suggest you get a lawyer to deal with this. In most cases, there is very little you can do against an overturned arrest dealing with the courts, but, you might have a case against the cop if you can show intent by the police officer.

Answer 3

Generally you cannot do anything. As long as there were ground (probable cause) for your arrest it is totally legal. Pre-trial release conditions are typical and they are generally not refundable.

I suggest you take the dismissal and be happy that it was dismissed. Count your blessings, it could have been continued on and on and one; or it might still have been left as an open case.