Josh Reyna
Conveyancer Lawyer
1. Experience convenient, secure, and stress-free estate planning from the comfort of your home.
2. Receive tailored estate planning solutions to reflect your unique financial goals and wishes that you won’t get with Legal Zoom, Rocket Lawyer, or AI.
3. Obtain a comprehensive estate plan that plans for life’s emergencies, end-of-life, and future generations.
4. Feel confident and comfortable in your estate planning journey every step of the way.
5. Ensure your property is preserved and passed on according to your wishes.
6. Avoid costly probate and disputes among family members, business owners, or with third parties.
7. Obtain financial security for you and your family.
8. Gain a lawyer and trusted advisor you can rely on.
“At Reyna Law, your peace of mind is our priority. We are dedicated to helping you secure your family’s future and create a lasting legacy for generations to come. Trust us to protect what matters most.”
Charlotte Secord
Conveyancer Lawyer
Charlotte is a native Austinite, graduating high school in 2005 and going on to receive her B.S. from Texas State University, San Marcos in 2012. She works primarily in real estate, general litigation and appellate law and has experience in courts ranging from the justice of the peace up to state and federal appeals courts.
When not at work, Charlotte fosters beagles and spends time with her own two dogs and cat. She enjoys gardening, reading and day trips to the hill country.
Practice Areas
- Real Estate & Foreclosure
- Personal Injury
- Commercial Litigation
- Business
Sharrissa Baeza
Conveyancer Lawyer
Sharrissa was raised in Central Texas and graduated from Texas A&M University where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration. Sharrissa earned her Law Degree from South Texas College of Law Houston where she gained experience in the Estate Planning and Probate Clinics offering pro bono services to individuals and families within the community.
While in law school, Sharrissa served as the Managing Editor of the Texas Journal of Business Law and Vice President of Public Relations for the Aggie Law Students Association. Sharrissa also has experience practicing Business Law and Intellectual Property Law. Sharrissa is passionate about guiding clients through the important decisions and challenging aspects of the probate and estate planning process. Sharrissa strives to provide thorough and compassionate services by crafting individualized strategies to ensure the client’s goals are fulfilled.
In her free time, Sharrissa enjoys spending time with her husband, Jonathan and their dog, Jade. They enjoy exploring the hill county and traveling as often as possible.
Austin Kaplan
Conveyancer Lawyer
Austin is an employment law and civil rights attorney and litigator serving clients in Austin, Texas and surrounding communities. Austin represents individuals in a wide range of employment and civil rights matters, including claims for breach of employment contract, breach of noncompete agreements, discrimination, overtime violations, wage and hour violations, whistleblower retaliation, FMLA violations, and marriage equality matters. Austin spends most of his days litigating cases for the Firm’s clients in state and federal court.
Protecting employees who have been sued by their former employers
Austin defends people who are sued for misappropriation of trade secrets, violations of non-competes (non-competition, non-solicitation, or no-hire agreements), and other contract matters by their former employers, or by other entities.
Advice and Counsel
Austin regularly provides advice to employees about their employment rights, what their options are at work, and how to negotiate a fair severance.
Brad Wiewel
Conveyancer Lawyer
Brad Wiewel is a Board Certified Texas estate planning attorney with a state-wide practice. He is an AV Rated attorney, which is the highest distinction for practicing attorneys in the legal world. Brad is licensed by both the Supreme Court of the United States and the Supreme Court of Texas. He received a B.A. from the University of Illinois, and graduated from St. Mary’s School of Law in San Antonio with distinction (Top 10%). He then served as a briefing attorney for a Texas appellate court. Brad enjoys sharing his legal knowledge with the public. He currently teaches in the University of Texas CFP training program, and has taught continuing education classes to CPAs at St. Edward’s University. Brad has been quoted by the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Bloomberg Business and ABC News. He and his very patient wife, Cindy, have three sons, all of whom, like Brad, are Eagle Scouts.
Professional Affiliations
- Board Certified, Estate Planning & Probate Law
- AV Rated Lawyer from Martindale Hubbell
- Top Rated Lawyers in Texas
- National Business Institute – Distinguished Faculty
- Wealth Counsel
- Zach Scott Theatre, Board of Trustees
- Any Baby Can (Past Board Member)
- Austin Humane Society (Past Board Member)
- Austin Young Lawyers Association (Past President)
- Austin Bar Association (Past Board Member)
- Austin Bar Foundation, Life Fellow
- Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow
- Texas Young Lawyers Association (Past Board Member)
- Austin Financial Planners Association (Past Board Member)
- Austin Society of Financial Service Professionals (Past Board Member)
- Estate Planning Council of Central Texas (Past Board Member)
- National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors
- Estate Planning and Probate Section – Austin Bar Assn & State Bar of Texas
- Austin Ridge Bible Church (Former Elder)
- Christian Legal Society (Former Texas State Membership Director)
- Award: Judge Suzanne Covington Pro Bono Service
- Award: Virtus In Lege Award Recipient, Austin Catholic Diocese
- Co-Founder: Austin Dispute Resolution Center
- Eagle Scout
Chad Harlow
Conveyancer Lawyer
Chad holds a Juris Doctor degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law, and his undergraduate studies led to a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Tarleton State University. His diverse expertise, commitment to excellence, and personal interests make him a valuable asset to his clients.
As an attorney, Chad specializes in Asset Protection, Business Law, and Trusts and Estates. With years of experience in these areas, he has successfully assisted numerous clients in securing their assets, navigating complex business matters, and crafting comprehensive estate plans. His approach is marked by a deep understanding of the law and a genuine passion for serving his clients’ needs.
Beyond his legal career, Chad Harlow is a combat veteran, having dedicated part of his life to serving his country. His military experience instilled in him discipline, resilience, and a profound sense of duty, all of which he brings to his practice as an attorney.
Chad holds a Juris Doctor degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law, and his undergraduate studies led to a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Tarleton State University. His diverse expertise, commitment to excellence, and personal interests make him a valuable asset to his clients.
As an attorney, Chad specializes in Asset Protection, Business Law, and Trusts and Estates. With years of experience in these areas, he has successfully assisted numerous clients in securing their assets, navigating complex business matters, and crafting comprehensive estate plans. His approach is marked by a deep understanding of the law and a genuine passion for serving his clients’ needs.
Beyond his legal career, Chad Harlow is a combat veteran, having dedicated part of his life to serving his country. His military experience instilled in him discipline, resilience, and a profound sense of duty, all of which he brings to his practice as an attorney.
Stephanie Long
Conveyancer Lawyer
Stephanie is from the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia and went to college just over the mountains at the University of Virginia. Staying in the ACC, she attended law school at the University of North Carolina (while remaining a Virginia fan). Here at Mike Massey Law, Stephanie focuses her practice on providing comprehensive and compassionate estate planning services to her clients. She is committed to helping families meet their estate planning goals and giving them peace of mind that their loved ones will be taken care of. She is also passionate about her pro bono work here in Texas as a volunteer attorney for the Veterans Assistance Clinic and the CANlaw Wills Clinic for clients battling cancer.
For Stephanie, a day does not start until she has had her coffee. She is a firm believer that iced coffee is a year-round drink (particularly in the Austin climate). On the weekends, you can find her hiking around Texas state parks or paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake.
Jarrod L. Smith
Conveyancer Lawyer
Jarrod Smith is one of Texas’s preeminent criminal defense and DWI lawyers, renowned for his relentless dedication to his clients. With a robust background as a former associate judge and prosecutor, Jarrod leverages his comprehensive legal experience to deliver unparalleled defense strategies. His excellence in the field has been recognized by Texas Super Lawyers, naming him a Rising Star—an honor bestowed upon a mere 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
Jarrod’s legal foundation was laid at the University of Houston, where he graduated with high honors in criminal justice. He further distinguished himself at South Texas College of Law Houston (STCL), graduating in the top 20% of his class. During his tenure at STCL, he founded the Criminal Law Society and was a member of the esteemed South Texas Law Review.
His career trajectory in criminal law includes significant roles in both state and federal offices. Jarrod was an assistant district attorney at the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office. He gained valuable experience clerking with the Harris County District Attorney’s and the Harris County Public Defender’s offices. On the federal level, he clerked for the United States Attorney’s Office.
Jarrod’s expertise spans thousands of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to severe charges such as murder. His prior experience as a prosecutor equips him with unique insights into the strategies used by law enforcement and the government, enabling him to counter these tactics for his clients effectively. As a proven trial lawyer, Jarrod boasts a track record of securing not-guilty verdicts in serious charges, including DWI and Sexual Assault.
Jarrod’s approach to defense is deeply rooted in his belief that clients are more than mere case numbers. He is passionate about protecting their lives and careers from being derailed by criminal charges, and he fights tenaciously to achieve case dismissals. His commitment to justice and client advocacy sets him apart in the legal community.
Beyond his practice, Jarrod is a sought-after lecturer, frequently invited to speak at legal conferences across Texas. He educates fellow lawyers on effective criminal defense tactics, sharing his knowledge and experience to elevate the profession.
A native Texan, Jarrod resides in Central Texas with his wife, Elise, and their children. His dedication to his clients and his legal acumen make him a formidable advocate in the courtroom and a respected leader in criminal defense.
Should You Refuse a Breathalyzer Test?
When faced with a request for a breathalyzer test during a traffic stop, many drivers grapple with the decision of whether to comply or refuse. This choice can have significant legal implications, and understanding the potential consequences is crucial for anyone who finds themselves in this situation.
Understanding Implied Consent Laws
In most states, driving is considered a privilege rather than a right, which means that drivers give “implied consent” to submit to chemical testing for blood alcohol content (BAC) when they operate a vehicle. This legal framework means that by obtaining a driver’s license and driving on public roads, you agree to comply with requests for breath, blood, or urine tests if suspected of driving under the influence (DUI). Refusing to take a breathalyzer can lead to immediate penalties, including license suspension.
Consequences of Refusing a Breathalyzer Test
- License Suspension: One of the most immediate consequences of refusing a breathalyzer test is the suspension of your driver’s license. In many states, this suspension can last for several months to a year, depending on whether it’s your first offense or if you have prior DUI convictions.
- Increased Penalties: If you refuse the test and are later convicted of DUI based on other evidence (such as field sobriety tests or officer observations), you may face harsher penalties than if you had taken the breathalyzer. Courts often view refusal as an indication of guilt, which can negatively impact your case.
- Warrants for Blood Tests: In some instances, law enforcement may obtain a warrant to conduct blood tests if you refuse a breathalyzer. This means that even if you decline the initial request, you could still be compelled to provide a sample, and the results can be used against you in court.
- Prosecutorial Arguments: Prosecutors may use your refusal as evidence in court, arguing that your decision not to take the test indicates that you were aware of your intoxication level. This can complicate your defense strategy and make it more challenging to contest DUI charges.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Deciding whether to refuse a breathalyzer involves weighing potential benefits against significant risks:
Pros of Refusing:
- Avoid Immediate Evidence: By refusing the test, you avoid providing immediate evidence of intoxication that could be used against you.
- Potential for Plea Bargaining: If your case proceeds without breath test results, there may be more room for negotiation with prosecutors regarding plea deals.
Cons of Refusing:
- License Suspension: As mentioned earlier, refusal typically results in an automatic license suspension.
- Increased Legal Scrutiny: Your refusal can lead to heightened scrutiny from law enforcement and prosecutors.
- Limited Defense Options: Without breath test results, your defense may rely heavily on challenging other evidence collected during the stop.
Situations Where Refusal May Be Justified
While refusing a breathalyzer test often carries severe consequences, there are scenarios where it might be considered:
- Medical Conditions: Some individuals may have medical conditions that could affect breathalyzer results. If you believe this applies to you, it’s essential to communicate this clearly to law enforcement.
- Lack of Legal Representation: If you are unsure about your rights or how to proceed, it may be wise to refuse until you can consult with an attorney.
- Uncertainty About Impairment: If you genuinely believe that you are under the legal limit but are still apprehensive about taking the test due to prior experiences or knowledge of local laws, this could influence your decision.
The Importance of Legal Counsel
Regardless of whether you choose to take or refuse a breathalyzer test, seeking legal representation is crucial. An experienced DUI attorney can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help navigate the complexities of DUI laws in your state. They can also assist in building a defense strategy based on available evidence and potential mitigating factors.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to refuse a breathalyzer test is not straightforward and requires careful consideration of the legal implications involved. While refusing may seem like an immediate way to avoid self-incrimination, it often leads to more severe consequences than simply complying with the request. Understanding local laws regarding implied consent and the potential fallout from refusal is essential for making an informed choice. Ultimately, consulting with legal counsel can provide clarity and support in navigating this challenging situation effectively.