Serious Representation for San Antonio & South Texas.

For over 20 years, I’ve helped people in San Antonio and South Texas navigate their toughest moments—from defending your rights in court to protecting your family’s future through probate. Whether you’re facing a criminal charge or recovering from an accident, you don’t have to handle it alone.

Ready to Discuss Your Case?

Serving San Antonio and South Texas

San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense,
Estate Planning &
Personal Injury

Over 20 Years of Experience

State and federal courts throughout San Antonio and South Texas.

You Work Directly With Me

Not a paralegal or junior associate. Personal attention on every case.

Se Habla Español

Serving Bexar County and South Texas since 2003.

Practice Areas

San Antonio Criminal Defense & Personal Injury Attorney

Alien Smuggling Defense

Over 200 federal alien smuggling cases defended in the Western and Southern Districts of Texas. First-time charges, driver cases, and multi-defendant conspiracies.

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DWI Defense

Charged with DWI in Bexar County? Attorney Cortez reviews your BAC results, field sobriety tests, and dashcam footage to build the strongest defense possible.

Drug & Controlled Substance Charges

State and federal drug charges including possession, distribution, and conspiracy. Attorney Cortez challenges searches, chain of custody, and evidence at every stage.

Motion to Revoke Probation

An MTR asks the judge to end your probation and send you to jail. The first step is finding out whether bond has been set or you are Remanded Without Bond (R.W.O.B.).

MTR Defense

Wills, Probate & Estate Planning

Protect your family’s future with a properly drafted will. Individual wills starting at $300. Bexar County probate representation also available.

Wills & Probate

Car Wrecks & Personal Injury

Injured by a negligent driver in San Antonio? We represent car accident victims and UIM claimants throughout Bexar County. No fee unless we recover for you.

Car Wreck Attorney

San Antonio Criminal Defense

Attorney Genaro R. Cortez has over 20 years of experience defending state and federal criminal cases in San Antonio and South Texas. Whether it is a first-time DWI case or a complex federal drug crime, Attorney Cortez works directly with each client to develop a defense to meet each client’s goals. Call today for a free case evaluation.

Charged with DWI in Bexar County?

Attorney Genaro R. Cortez has defended hundreds of DWI cases in San Antonio. Bilingual service available. Free consultation.

Free Consultation (210) 733-7575

San Antonio Probate and Estate Planning Attorney

Attorney Genaro R. Cortez prepares simple wills, powers of attorney, and medical directives to help families plan for the future. All wills are compliant with Texas Law. Finally, we can help you with digital asset planning to address your crypto currency and social media accounts.

Protect Your Family’s Future — San Antonio Wills & Estate Planning

Attorney Cortez prepares wills, powers of attorney, and advance directives for San Antonio families. Bilingual service available. Free consultation.

Learn More (210) 733-7575

Car Accident Attorney in San Antonio

Attorney Cortez handles car accident cases in San Antonio and South Texas. We negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. And we sue bad drivers and their insurance companies if they do not make a fair offer. Call today for a free consultation.

Injured in a San Antonio Car Accident?

Don’t let the insurance company lowball your claim. Attorney Cortez represents injury victims and UIM claimants throughout Bexar County. No fee unless we win.

Learn More (210) 733-7575

Bexar County Criminal Defense, Estate Planning, and Personal Injury Attorney — Call 210-733-7575

Whether you are facing criminal charges, need a will drafted, or were injured by a negligent driver, the Law Office of Genaro R. Cortez, PLLC is here to help. All consultations are free and confidential. Bilingual service in English and Spanish is available.

Free ConsultationRead More

What should I do immediately after a Bexar County, Texas arrest?

First, secure release by hiring a bond company for state charges. If it is a federal charge, then consult with an experienced defense attorney to help you get a bond at a detention hearing. Once released, schedule a meeting with your San Antonio criminal defense attorney to review evidence, such as body cam footage or sobriety tests, before your first court date.

Do I have to fight a first-time DWI charge in San Antonio, Texas?

While many choose to fight first-time DWIs through a jury trial—especially if field sobriety tests were performed well—others may prefer to seek a plea to avoid jail time. I can help you weigh these options based on your specific BAC results and video evidence.

How do federal charges differ from state charges in San Antonio, Texas?

Federal cases, often involving alien smuggling or drug conspiracy, are handled in the San Antonio or Del Rio Federal Courthouses. The penalties are generally more severe, and the options for avoiding jail time are narrower than in Bexar County state court, making specialized federal defense critical.

Can the government seize my property in a federal fraud case?

Yes. In cases involving mail, wire, or bank fraud, the government may attempt to seize property if they can prove it was purchased with proceeds from the alleged fraud. A defense attorney works to protect your assets and challenge the government’s evidence.

What should I do if my probation officer filed a Motion to Revoke (MTR) in San Antonio?

An MTR is serious — it asks the judge to end your probation and send you to jail. The first step is to find out if a bond has been set in your case or if you are Remanded Without Bond (R.W.O.B.). From there, your attorney can file a motion to set bond and guide you through the MTR hearing process. Learn more about how to fight a Motion to Revoke Probation in Bexar County.

Why do I need a Will or Estate Plan in San Antonio?

A personalized estate plan ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and helps your family avoid the lengthy and expensive Bexar County probate process. At the Law Office of Genaro R. Cortez, PLLC, we help you protect your legacy with Wills, Trusts, and Power of Attorney documents.

Do I need a will if I live in San Antonio, Texas?

Yes. Without a valid will, Texas law decides how your assets are distributed — and that may not reflect your wishes. A will lets you name who inherits your property, who raises your minor children, and who manages your estate. At the Law Office of Genaro R. Cortez, PLLC, I can draft a legally sound will that protects your family and gives you peace of mind.

What is the probate process in Bexar County, Texas?

Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a deceased person’s will and distributing their estate. In Bexar County, probate cases are filed in the Bexar County Probate Court. The process typically involves appointing an executor, notifying creditors, paying debts, and transferring property to heirs. Texas law generally requires probate to be filed within four years of the date of death.

How long does probate take in San Antonio, Texas?

A straightforward, uncontested probate case in Bexar County can take anywhere from a few months to about a year, depending on the size of the estate and whether any disputes arise. Having an experienced San Antonio probate attorney guide the process helps avoid unnecessary delays and keeps the case moving forward efficiently.

What happens if someone dies without a will in Texas?

If a person dies without a will — known as dying “intestate” — Texas intestacy laws determine who inherits the estate. This can lead to outcomes the deceased never intended, including assets going to estranged relatives or a surviving spouse receiving less than expected. A San Antonio wills attorney can help you avoid this outcome by getting a proper will in place now.

San Antonio criminal defense, estate planning, and personal injury attorney serving Bexar County and South Texas. Attorney Genaro R. Cortez defends DWI, drug, and federal charges, drafts wills and estate planning documents, and represents injury victims. Over 20 years of experience. Free consultations: (210) 733-7575.

730 West Hildebrand Avenue Suite 2 San Antonio, Texas 78212
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday9:00 am – 5:00 pm
210-733-7575
541110
Law Office of Genaro R. Cortez, PLLC
2004
1-3

Practice Areas
  • Possession of Controlled Substances.
  • Smuggling of Persons in Texas.
  • DWI and DUI Defense.
  • First-Time Alien Smuggling Charges.
  • Mail and Wire Fraud.
  • Auto Accident Lawyer.
  • Personal Injury Cases.
Bar Admissions

Practice Areas

Criminal and Injury Attorney in San Antonio.

Criminal-Immigration defense lawyer gavel and law book representing legal pathways.

San Antonio Federal Immigration Defense Attorney — Illegal Reentry, False Statements & More

San Antonio Federal Immigration Defense Attorney

Charged With a Federal
Immigration Crime
in South Texas?

From illegal reentry to lying to federal agents, immigration-related criminal charges carry serious federal prison time and permanent immigration consequences. Attorney Genaro R. Cortez defends clients across San Antonio, Del Rio, and South Texas in federal and state court.

200+
Federal Cases Defended
20+ Yrs
Federal Court Experience
Free
Initial Consultation
⚠️
Federal Immigration Charges Move Fast — Don’t Wait Federal agents and prosecutors build strong cases quickly. Statements you make after arrest can be used against you. Retain experienced defense counsel immediately and do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.
Call Now

Federal Immigration Crimes Carry Consequences Far Beyond Deportation

Many people don’t realize that immigration-related criminal charges are separate from — and far more serious than — civil immigration proceedings. A federal criminal conviction means prison time, permanent criminal record, and bars to ever returning to or remaining in the United States.

01

Federal Prison Time

Immigration crimes prosecuted in federal court carry mandatory sentencing guidelines. Even a first offense can result in months or years in federal prison — on top of any immigration consequences — and federal sentences are served at 87% with no early parole.

02

Permanent Immigration Bars

A federal criminal conviction for immigration offenses can permanently bar someone from obtaining legal status, re-entering the United States, or naturalizing as a citizen. The criminal case and the immigration case must both be defended strategically.

03

Your Statements Will Be Used Against You

Federal agents are trained to gather admissions during arrests and interviews. Statements made without an attorney present — even seemingly innocent ones — become key evidence. The right to remain silent and demand counsel is critical from the first moment of contact.

04

South Texas Federal Courts Are Aggressive

The Western and Southern Districts of Texas handle more federal immigration criminal cases than almost any other district in the country. Local federal prosecutors and judges handle these cases routinely — you need an attorney who knows these courts just as well.

Federal Immigration Charges We Handle in San Antonio

  • 🔄

    Illegal Reentry After Deportation — 8 U.S.C. § 1326

    It is a federal felony to reenter or be found in the United States after having been deported, removed, or denied admission. A first offense carries up to 2 years in federal prison — but if the prior removal followed a felony or aggravated felony conviction, the penalty rises to 10 or 20 years. We challenge the underlying removal order, the sufficiency of the prior deportation, and the government’s evidence of alienage and knowing reentry.

  • 🛑

    Alien Smuggling — 8 U.S.C. § 1324

    Transporting, harboring, or encouraging undocumented immigrants to enter or remain in the U.S. is a federal felony. Penalties range from 5 to 20 years depending on financial gain, injury, or death. Attorney Cortez has defended over 200 federal alien smuggling cases in the Western and Southern Districts of Texas.

  • 🗣️

    Lying to Federal Agents — 18 U.S.C. § 1001

    Making any false statement to a federal agent — including ICE officers, Border Patrol, FBI, or HSI — is a federal felony carrying up to 5 years in prison. This charge catches many people off guard: you do not have to be under oath for your statement to be prosecutable. The safest approach is always to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.

  • 👊

    Assaulting a Federal Agent — 18 U.S.C. § 111

    Any forcible interference with a federal officer — including Border Patrol, ICE, or HSI agents — during their official duties is a federal felony. Simple assault carries up to 8 years; assault with a deadly weapon or causing bodily injury carries up to 20 years. These charges frequently arise in alien smuggling and immigration enforcement contexts in South Texas.

  • 🔫

    Undocumented Alien in Possession of a Firearm — 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5)

    Federal law prohibits any person who is illegally or unlawfully in the United States from possessing a firearm or ammunition. This charge carries up to 15 years in federal prison and is often paired with drug or alien smuggling charges. We challenge the search and seizure, the government’s proof of immigration status, and the knowing possession element.

  • 📋

    Document Fraud & Identity Theft

    Using, possessing, or obtaining fraudulent immigration documents — including false Social Security numbers, fraudulent visas, or counterfeit green cards — is a federal crime. Aggravated identity theft adds a mandatory 2-year consecutive sentence on top of any other prison time, making early and aggressive defense critical.

  • 🏠

    Harboring Undocumented Immigrants

    Knowingly concealing, harboring, or shielding undocumented immigrants from detection by federal authorities — including providing housing or transportation — is a federal offense. Penalties increase significantly when done for financial gain, and each individual harbored can be charged as a separate count.

Arrested for a Federal Immigration Crime?

Federal prosecutors in South Texas move quickly. The sooner Attorney Cortez is involved, the more options you have. Call today for a free, confidential consultation.

📍 730 W. Hildebrand Ave, San Antonio, TX
🕐 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Request Free Consultation

Confidential · No obligation · Available 24/7 for emergencies

Federal Immigration Crime Penalties at a Glance

Federal sentencing guidelines govern these cases and often result in mandatory prison time. Verify current penalty ranges with your attorney as statutes are subject to change and prior convictions dramatically increase exposure.

Offense Classification Prison (Max) Notes
Illegal Reentry § 1326 (1st offense) Federal Felony Up to 2 years Guidelines often result in 0–6 months for first offense
Illegal Reentry (prior felony) Federal Felony Up to 10 years Dramatically enhanced by criminal history
Illegal Reentry (prior aggravated felony) Federal Felony Up to 20 years Highest reentry exposure
Alien Smuggling § 1324 (no financial gain) Federal Felony Up to 5 years Per alien smuggled; charges stacked
Alien Smuggling § 1324 (financial gain) Federal Felony Up to 10 years Each alien is a separate count
False Statements § 1001 Federal Felony Up to 5 years Does not require oath; applies to any federal agent
Assaulting Federal Agent § 111 Federal Felony Up to 20 years 8 yrs simple; 20 yrs if injury or weapon
Undocumented Alien w/ Firearm § 922(g)(5) Federal Felony Up to 15 years Often charged alongside smuggling or drug counts
Aggravated Identity Theft § 1028A Federal Felony 2 years mandatory (consecutive) Runs on top of any other sentence — cannot be reduced

Your Defense, Step by Step

01
Free Case Review

We review the charges, the arrest circumstances, and any statements made — at no cost. We identify every defense avenue available from day one.

02
Challenge the Evidence

We examine the legality of the stop and arrest, the immigration status evidence, any statements made, and the government’s proof of each element of the charge.

03
Build Your Strategy

From motions to suppress, to attacking the underlying deportation order in illegal reentry cases, to negotiating with federal prosecutors — every option is on the table.

04
Fight for You

In federal court at every stage — from bail hearings to trial — we stand beside you and fight for the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Western & Southern Districts San Antonio, TX
Genaro R. Cortez
San Antonio Federal Immigration Defense Attorney

With over 20 years of experience defending clients in the Western and Southern Districts of Texas, Attorney Genaro R. Cortez understands how federal immigration prosecutions work from the inside out. He has defended more than 200 federal immigration cases — from first-time alien smuggling charges to illegal reentry, false statements, and federal firearms offenses.

Whether the issue is challenging the legality of a traffic stop, attacking a prior deportation order used to enhance an illegal reentry sentence, or cross-examining federal agents about Miranda violations and cell phone searches — no detail goes unexamined. South Texas federal courts are demanding environments. You deserve an attorney who knows them as well as the prosecutors do.

200+ Federal Immigration Cases Defended Since 2003
Western & Southern Districts of Texas
Illegal Reentry, Alien Smuggling & Federal Immigration Crimes
False Statements, Federal Agent Assault & Firearms Defense
Free Consultation — Confidential & No Obligation

Federal Immigration Defense FAQ

What is illegal reentry and can it really mean prison time? +

Yes. Illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 is a federal felony — not just a civil immigration violation. A first offense without prior criminal history carries up to 2 years, but prior felony or aggravated felony convictions can increase exposure to 10 or 20 years in federal prison. Federal sentencing guidelines govern the actual sentence, which an experienced attorney can work to reduce.

Can I fight an illegal reentry charge if I was deported before? +

Yes — and one of the most powerful defenses is a collateral attack on the underlying deportation order. If the prior removal proceeding was fundamentally unfair or violated your due process rights, we can challenge whether the deportation was legally valid. This can result in the dismissal of the entire illegal reentry charge. Attorney Cortez evaluates this defense in every reentry case.

What happens if I lied to a Border Patrol agent after my arrest? +

Statements made to federal agents — including Border Patrol, ICE, and HSI — can be charged as false statements under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 or used as evidence in the underlying case. However, statements made before Miranda warnings were given, or after you requested an attorney, may be suppressible. We examine the full circumstances of every post-arrest statement.

Do I have the right to remain silent when stopped by Border Patrol? +

Yes. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney before answering questions. At a Border Patrol checkpoint, you may be required to state your citizenship, but beyond that, you are not required to answer questions about your immigration status or activities. The safest thing you can do is politely decline to answer further questions and request an attorney.

What is the difference between civil deportation and criminal immigration charges? +

Civil deportation (removal) is handled by immigration courts and results in being required to leave the country. Criminal immigration charges are federal crimes prosecuted in federal district court and can result in prison time on top of removal. Both proceedings can happen simultaneously — and a criminal conviction can make it far harder to ever obtain immigration relief in the future.

Can my phone be searched at the border without a warrant? +

Border searches operate under different constitutional rules than interior searches. While basic manual phone searches have been permitted at the border without a warrant, forensic searches — downloading and analyzing phone contents — have faced more constitutional scrutiny. Do not consent to a phone search. Requiring agents to obtain a warrant preserves your rights and may result in evidence being suppressed.

Will a federal immigration conviction affect my family members’ immigration status? +

Potentially yes. A federal criminal conviction can affect pending immigration applications for family members, disqualify you as a petitioner for family-based immigration, and in some cases trigger scrutiny of family members’ status. Attorney Cortez considers the full family immigration picture when advising on defense strategy and plea decisions.

How soon should I hire an attorney after a federal immigration arrest? +

Immediately. Federal initial appearance hearings — including bail hearings — happen within 24 to 72 hours of arrest. Having an attorney at the bail hearing significantly improves the chances of pretrial release. Evidence is also freshest immediately after arrest, and early intervention gives your attorney the most options. Call Attorney Cortez as soon as possible after any federal arrest.

Facing Federal Immigration Charges
in South Texas?

With over 200 federal immigration cases defended since 2003, Attorney Genaro R. Cortez knows these courts — and knows how to fight for you. Call now for a free, confidential consultation.

Free consultation  ·  Confidential  ·  No obligation
San Antonio Drug Defense Attorney Genaro R. Cortez. Poss. CS PG 1-4.

Federal Criminal Lawyer San Antonio.

  • Help with federal drug charges;
  • Federal drug conspiracy defense;
  • Federal methamphetamine drug crimes;
  • Help clients qualify for Safety-Valve Protection and 5K1.1 Substantial-Assistance Relief; and
  • Handle simple drug possession crimes.

San Antonio Wills and Probate Packages from $300 by Attorney Genaro Cortez

San Antonio Wills and Probate

San Antonio Wills & Probate
San Antonio Wills Preparation

Protecting Your Family’s Future Starts with a Plan.

Simple, effective, and legally sound wills drafted by a San Antonio attorney with over 20 years of legal experience.

Individual Wills Starting at $300  ·  Texas Estates Code Compliant
Why It Matters

What Happens Without a Will in Texas?

Without a Will

Dying intestate in Texas means the state decides who receives your home, your savings, and your car. It often leads to expensive, multi-year proceedings in Bexar County probate court — and a judge who doesn’t know your family makes decisions that affect them for life.

With a Properly Drafted Will

A Texas-compliant will that requests Independent Administration allows your executor to settle your estate with minimal court supervision — saving your family months of waiting and thousands in legal fees. This is the “secret sauce” of Texas estate law.

TX

We help families in Beacon Hill, Midtown, and Near North Central San Antonio avoid the stress of Bexar County probate court through proactive planning. A single consultation now protects everyone you love — for decades to come. We also address digital assets: social media accounts, cryptocurrency, and digital photo libraries your family will want to preserve.

The Basic Will Package

Everything You Need — Nothing You Don’t

Ideal for straightforward estates without complex tax or trust needs. Every document drafted personally by your attorney.

1

Last Will & Testament

Names your executor, designates your beneficiaries, and requests Independent Administration so your estate moves swiftly through Texas probate.

2

Guardianship Designation

Critical for parents with minor children. You choose who raises your children — not a judge who has never met your family.

3

Self-Proving Affidavit

A crucial Texas document that prevents your witnesses from ever having to appear in court after you pass. Saves time, saves money, prevents disputes.

4

Directive to Physicians

Your legally binding instructions for end-of-life medical care, ensuring your wishes are honored and removing that burden from your loved ones.

5

Medical & Statutory Power of Attorney

Appoints a trusted person to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated — giving your family clear authority to act on your behalf.

6

Digital Asset Planning

Guidance on protecting and transferring social media accounts, cryptocurrency holdings, and digital photo libraries — a modern necessity often overlooked.

Our Simple Process

From Consultation to Signed Documents

1

Strategy Session

A focused call or meeting to understand your family, your assets, and your goals. No jargon, no pressure.

2

Draft & Review

Your documents are personally drafted and sent to you for a thorough review before anything is final.

3

Formal Signing

We meet to sign and notarize per Texas law requirements — two witnesses over age 14, everything properly executed.

Service Area

Proudly Serving San Antonio & Bexar County

We meet clients in person or virtually throughout San Antonio. Neighborhoods we regularly serve include:

Beacon Hill Midtown Near North Central Alamo Heights Stone Oak Helotes Leon Valley Bexar County Greater San Antonio Metro
Frequently Asked Questions

Questions Your Neighbors Are Asking

Do I really need a lawyer for a will in San Antonio?
While “DIY” online wills are widely available, they frequently fail Texas’ strict signing and execution requirements. A small mistake now can cost your family thousands in contested probate fees at Bexar County court — far more than the cost of getting it right today.
What is “Independent Administration” and why does it matter?
Independent Administration is a unique Texas feature that allows your executor to settle your estate with very little court supervision when specifically requested in your will. It saves your family months of time and can significantly reduce legal costs — it’s one of the most important reasons to work with a Texas-licensed attorney.
I have young children. Is a will enough to protect them?
Your will is the legal document where you name who will raise your children if something happens to you. Without it, a judge who doesn’t know your family will make that decision. We ensure your guardianship wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.
Is a handwritten (holographic) will legal in Texas?
Yes, but they are strongly discouraged. Handwritten wills are frequently contested, often lead to “Dependent Administration” and commonly fail to address the documents — like a Medical Power of Attorney — that protect you while you’re still living.
What does the Texas Estates Code require for a valid will?
Under the Texas Estates Code, a formal typewritten will must be signed by the testator and witnessed by two credible individuals over age 14 who are present at the same time. We also prepare a Self-Proving Affidavit — which most DIY services omit — eliminating the need for witnesses to testify in court later.
What happens to my social media and cryptocurrency without a plan?
Digital assets are often frozen or permanently lost without proper planning. We provide guidance on documenting and transferring your digital estate — including social media accounts, crypto wallets, and cloud-stored photos — so nothing valuable is left behind.
Get In Touch

Schedule Your Will Consultation

No obligation. No confusing legal jargon. Just a straightforward conversation about protecting your family.

Cortez Defense

Area San Antonio & Bexar County, Texas
Hours Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm
Evening appointments available
Over 20 years of legal experience serving San Antonio families. Texas State Bar licensed. All documents prepared under the Texas Estates Code.

Contact Our Office

Call or email us directly to discuss will preparation, probate concerns, or updating an existing estate plan.

Call Now (210) 733-7575
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Testimonials

R. A.

Was very helpful, would respond to any questions i had and at the end got me a really good deal that worked for me. Will definitely refer anyone i know to him.

R. R.

Genaro R. Cortez did an awesome job. He got me the results I was hoping for and I am very grateful.

J. G.

Genaro worked on my case with professionalism, compassion, and clear intent; I always knew where I stood. My final disposition got the most onerous charge dropped and deferred adjudication for the remaining charge, but without a lot of the restrictions that normally come with a plea deal of this kind. Though I could have successfully gone to trial, Genaro gave me clear alternatives that got rid of my legal issues without any pain and harm to me professionally and reputationally.

A. L.

Genaro, worked on a serious case for me involving assault with bodily injury. He was very professional and easy to work with. He was extremely prepared and the case was dismissed! It was easy to see he handled everything like a true professional both inside and outside the court room and his pricing was very reasonable! I’ll definitely use him again, but hopefully will not have to.

Blog

San Antonio DWI Defense

Arrested? Call Now — Available 24/7: (210) 733-7575 | Se Habla Español San Antonio DWI Defense Charged with DWI inBexar...

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