Zhonghua Lai, Criminal Defense Attorney in Austin, Texas

Zhonghua concentrates on criminal defense, estate planning, and immigration. Each area below outlines the kind of case Zhonghua handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Estate Planning

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• Immigration

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Zhonghua's primary office is at Austin, TX. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Zhonghua usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Zhonghua discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Zhonghua for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Zhonghua walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Zhonghua offer a free consultation?

  Zhonghua charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Zhonghua's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Zhonghua's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Texas typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Zhonghua gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Zhonghua take my case if I'm outside Austin?

  Zhonghua is licensed in Texas. Matters governed by Texas law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Zhonghua will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Zhonghua?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Zhonghua will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Zhonghua accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Zhonghua's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.