Best Houston Criminal Defense Lawyers

Find top Houston criminal defense lawyers to protect your rights against criminal allegations.

List of the Top 18 Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys

Screenshot of the John T. Floyd Law Firm Website
3730 Kirby Dr # 750, Houston, TX 77098, USA

John T. Floyd Law Firm handles serious federal and state criminal charges in Houston, Texas. Board-certified criminal law expert John T. Floyd brings over 30 years of experience to complex cases. The firm focuses on federal crimes, sex offenses, drug charges, fraud, and firearms violations. You receive dedicated representation with strategic defense tailored to your situation. Recognition from Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers reflects the firm's commitment to client protection.

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Screenshot of the The Law Office of David A. Breston, DWI & Criminal Defense Attorney Website

The Law Office of David A. Breston is a Houston criminal defense firm serving Harris County since 1997. They specialize in DWI defense, drug offenses, assault, domestic violence, and sex crimes. With over 4,000 successful cases and 20+ years of trial experience, their team provides 24-hour response and personalized legal strategies. The firm offers free consultations and has earned high ratings on Google and Yelp.

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Screenshot of the Fred Dahr PLLC Website
405 Main St #900, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Fred Dahr is a Houston criminal defense attorney. He represents clients charged with assault, robbery, DUI, drug possession, and theft. Dahr has won dismissals and acquittals for many clients. The lawyer handles Harris County criminal cases and serves surrounding areas.

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Screenshot of the Sullo & Sullo, LLP Website
2020 Southwest Fwy #300, Houston, TX 77098, USA

Sullo & Sullo is a Houston law firm that has represented over 300,000 clients. Their attorneys excel in criminal defense, traffic tickets, immigration, and personal injury law. The firm has secured a $95.5 million verdict. Andrew Sullo, recognized as a Top 100 National Trial Lawyer, leads their civil litigation team. Call for a free consultation.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak Website

Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak is a Houston criminal defense firm handling assault, DWI, drug crimes, and white-collar offenses. Former Harris County felony prosecutor Nathaniel Pitoniak brings 2 decades of experience and insider knowledge of prosecutorial tactics. The Super Lawyers Rising Stars recipient (2020-2022) offers honest case evaluations and aggressive defense strategies. Serves clients in Harris County, including Bellaire, Cypress, and Katy. Free consultations available.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Brett A Podolsky Website
917 Franklin St UNIT 510, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Law Office of Brett A. Podolsky is a Houston criminal defense firm led by a Board Certified criminal attorney. Brett Podolsky brings over 25 years of experience as a former Assistant Criminal District Attorney. The firm handles capital murder, drug crimes, DWI, assault, and federal cases. Clients receive free consultations and aggressive representation. Podolsky earned Super Lawyers recognition and maintains strong courtroom trial experience throughout Texas courts.

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Screenshot of the James Alston Law - Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Website

James Alston is a top-rated Houston lawyer. He defends people facing criminal charges. The attorney has over 30 years of experience. He helps clients with charges like sexual assault, drugs, weapons, and fraud. The board-certified former prosecutors provide the highest quality defense for clients. They fight to dismiss cases and reduce charges and penalties.

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Screenshot of the Criminal Defense Attorney Neal Davis Website
1545 Heights Blvd #700, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Neal Davis Law Firm is a Houston criminal defense practice specializing in sex crimes, drug offenses, and felony charges. Neal Davis is Board-certified in Criminal Law with 25+ years of experience. The firm has won cases at all levels, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Their attorneys provide relentless defense and are available 24/7 for immediate assistance.

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Screenshot of the Scheiner Law Group P.C. Website
2211 Norfolk St #735, Houston, TX 77098, USA

Scheiner Law Group, P.C. is a Houston criminal defense firm led by Board Certified attorney Grant Scheiner. They defend clients against DWI, drug crimes, and sex offenses in state and federal courts. The team uses advanced trial skills and technology to protect clients' rights. They maintain an A+ BBB rating and have a strong record of dismissed charges.

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Screenshot of the Chernoff Law Website
917 Franklin St suite 300, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Chernoff Law is a Houston criminal defense firm led by Ed Chernoff. Board Certified in Criminal Law for over 25 years, only 10% of Texas lawyers hold this distinction. As a former Harris County prosecutor, Ed tried 70 cases and lost only one felony. He has completed over 150 jury trials in more than 30 years. Ed defended Conrad Murray in the Michael Jackson case. The firm handles assault, drug crimes, DUI/DWI, federal charges, theft, and violent crimes.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Sam Adamo Website
3200 Travis St 4th floor, Houston, TX 77006, USA

Adamo & Adamo Law Firm is a Houston criminal defense powerhouse achieving nearly 50% dismissal or not guilty rates. Board-certified specialists Sam Sr. and Jr. handle DWI, drug charges, assault, and federal cases. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report with a Tier 1 ranking, both maintain perfect 10.0 Avvo ratings. They offer 24/7 availability and have 60+ years combined experience defending clients across Texas.

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Screenshot of the Blass Law PLLC Website
917 Franklin St 400, Floor 4, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Blass Law PLLC is a Houston criminal defense firm founded by Jay Blass Cohen in 2009. Attorney Cohen is ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist certified and has never worked as a prosecutor. The firm serves Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, and Galveston Counties. They handle DWI, felony charges, and personal injury cases. Operating under the principle of "Keeping Innocent People Innocent®," they offer aggressive defense strategies to reduce charges or secure dismissals.

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Screenshot of the Lisa Shapiro Strauss Attorney at Law Website
4545 Bissonnet St #293, Bellaire, TX 77401, USA

Lisa Shapiro Strauss is a Bellaire, TX criminal defense attorney with 25+ years of experience. As a former chief prosecutor, she defends clients against assault, theft, and drug charges. Her firm handles both felony and misdemeanor cases. Lisa offers free initial consultations and fights to protect clients' rights.

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Screenshot of the Topek and Topek Website
1304 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Topek & Topek, Attorneys at Law, serves Houston as a three-generational criminal defense and parole firm. With decades of experience, they help clients who are accused of crimes or are seeking parole. The father-son duo offers personal attention and never encourages clients to take unfavorable deals. Thoroughly investigates each case and offers honest, 24/7 advice.

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Screenshot of the The Haggard Law Firm Website
1217 Prairie St UNIT 201, Houston, TX 77002, USA

The Haggard Law Firm offers criminal defense services in Houston, Texas. Founder Carl D. Haggard brings 30+ years of experience as a former chief prosecutor. The firm handles cases from DWI to federal crimes with free initial consultations. Their defense strategies earn respect from Harris County judges and prosecutors.

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Screenshot of the The Law Office of Brian S. Laviage Website

Brian S. Laviage handles criminal defense and juvenile law throughout Houston. A University of Houston Law Center graduate with 10+ years of experience, he specializes in record expungement, DWI defense, and juvenile offenses. Licensed mediator with 100+ mediations completed. His practice covers Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, and Galveston Counties. Call 832-259-9095 for a free consultation.

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Screenshot of the Looney, Smith & Conrad, P.C. Website
11767 Katy Fwy Suite #740, Houston, TX 77079, USA

Looney Smith & Conrad PC provides criminal defense, personal injury, and business law services in Houston and Hempstead. Paul Looney maintains a perfect trial record with zero convictions in 60 jury trials since 1995. The firm offers free consultations and 24/7 support, backed by over 150 years of combined experience.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Henry K. Nguyen, P.C Website
1221 Studewood St Ste 105, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Henry K. Nguyen is a criminal defense attorney in Houston who helps people accused of crimes avoid conviction. His law firm fights charges like DWI, drug crimes, and theft. Their experienced lawyers create the best case strategy for each client. They are available 24/7 and offer free consultations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm arrested in Houston?

If you're arrested in Houston, remain calm and remember these crucial steps:

  • Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney
  • Request to speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately
  • Do not consent to searches without a warrant
  • Remember all details about your arrest, including officer names and badge numbers

How do I choose the right criminal defense attorney in Houston?

When selecting a criminal defense lawyer, consider these important factors:

  • Experience handling cases similar to yours in Houston courts
  • Track record of successful case outcomes and negotiations
  • Knowledge of local court procedures and relationships with prosecutors
  • Clear communication style and willingness to explain legal strategies

What types of cases do Houston criminal defense attorneys handle?

Misdemeanors Felonies
DWI/DUI Drug Trafficking
Petty Theft Aggravated Assault
Simple Assault Weapons Charges
Minor Drug Possession White Collar Crimes

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Houston?

Legal fees vary based on case complexity and attorney experience. Most Houston criminal defense attorneys offer:

  • Free initial consultations to evaluate your case
  • Flat-fee arrangements for straightforward cases
  • Hourly billing for complex cases
  • Payment plans to make legal representation more accessible

What are the potential outcomes of a criminal case?

Cases can be resolved in several ways, including:

  • Case dismissal if evidence is insufficient or rights were violated
  • Plea agreements with reduced charges or penalties
  • Deferred adjudication or probation instead of jail time
  • Trial verdict if a favorable settlement cannot be reached

How long do criminal cases typically take in Houston?

Case duration varies significantly based on several factors:

  • Misdemeanors may resolve in 3-6 months
  • Felony cases often take 6-12 months or longer
  • Complex cases involving multiple charges or defendants may extend beyond a year
  • Cases that go to trial typically take longer than those resolved through plea agreements

Can a criminal record be cleared in Texas?

Texas law provides two main options for clearing criminal records:

  • Expungement (expunction) completely removes eligible arrests and charges
  • Orders of nondisclosure seal records from public view while maintaining law enforcement access
  • Eligibility depends on the type of offense, case outcome, and time elapsed