Accomplished legal professional with over 10 years of experience in criminal and juvenile criminal law. Known for effective communication and collaboration, successfully managing complex cases from initial hearings to resolution while ensuring optimal outcomes for clients.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Juvenile Law Master
Harris County District Court Administration
Houston, TX
11.2020 - Current
Preside over juvenile law court proceedings at the discretion of the elected District Court Judges.
Evaluate legal matters presented to the court, including detention hearings and plea agreements, to determine decisions aligned with the best interests of the child.
Administer legal proceedings for detention hearings, plea bargains, and deferred prosecution agreements, ensuring application of law to facts for optimal child welfare outcomes.
Engage with court staff, probation department, and attorneys to enhance workflow and ensure timely case resolution.
Assistant Public Defender
Harris County Public Defender's Office
Houston, TX
11.2011 - 08.2018
Assisted juvenile law clients facing charges from misdemeanors to capital offenses in out-of-court matters. Supported clients in court hearings, school disciplinary actions, and negotiations with state's attorneys. Facilitated participation in parole hearings for juvenile law cases.
Managed case representation from initial court settings to resolution, maintaining client awareness and offering informed legal advice based on evidence analysis, applicable criminal and juvenile laws.
Fostered open communication with clients and their families about case status, ensuring adherence to attorney-client confidentiality standards.
Engaged with juvenile clients to clarify legal concepts and the ramifications of their cases, fostering informed decision-making.
Conducted legal research to support case preparation and strategy development. Drafted motions, pleadings, and legal documents for court submissions.
Assistant District Attorney
Harris County District Attorney's Office
Houston, TX
10.2008 - 05.2010
Oversaw comprehensive case handling, including intake calls from law enforcement, filing of criminal complaints, and representation during initial probable cause hearings leading to case resolution.
Evaluated all pertinent evidence, including witness testimonies and scientific findings, to determine appropriate case resolution.
Facilitated grand jury proceedings by presenting evidence to secure indictments against criminal defendants.
Collaborated with victim advocates to ensure victims were informed of their rights and supported throughout the legal process.
Negotiated plea agreements that balanced offender accountability with fair sentencing practices, reducing overall caseloads.
Conducted jury trials, court trials, violation of probation hearings and participated in motions to recuse the judge proceedings.
Law Clerk
The Schaffer Firm
Houston, TX
09.2005 - 10.2007
Assisted in case management by organizing files and maintaining documentation for active cases.
Collaborated with attorneys to prepare for hearings and trials, enhancing overall case effectiveness.
Gained insights from an expert on strategic communication with clients and defending accused parties.
Conducted legal research to support case preparation and strategy development.
Education
J.D. - Law
South Texas College of Law
Houston, TX
05-2007
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice And Psychology
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
05-2004
Affiliations
State Bar No: 24060662
Board Certified in Juvenile Law
Timeline
Substitute Juvenile Law Master
Harris County District Court Administration
11.2020 - Current
Assistant Public Defender
Harris County Public Defender's Office
11.2011 - 08.2018
Assistant District Attorney
Harris County District Attorney's Office
10.2008 - 05.2010
Law Clerk
The Schaffer Firm
09.2005 - 10.2007
J.D. - Law
South Texas College of Law
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice And Psychology
Law Clerk - Juvenile Court Department at Trial Court of the Commonwealth of MassachusettsLaw Clerk - Juvenile Court Department at Trial Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts