Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Jessica McDonald

Leonard,TX

Summary

Extensive trial experience with robust background in criminal and family law and track record of securing favorable outcomes in complex litigation. Proven ability to navigate high-stakes cases and deliver compelling arguments. Demonstrated expertise in legal research and courtroom strategies. Track record of achieving positive outcomes through effective client representation and negotiation skills.

Experienced with conducting thorough legal research and analysis to support case strategies. Extensive experience writing and arguing appellate briefs.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Owner and Managing Attorney

Jessica McDonald & Associates
09.2015 - Current
  • Represented clients in family law matters including divorce and child custody matters through all stages from initial filing, through mediation and/or trial.
  • Represented criminal defendants through all stages of representation from pre-indictment motions through trial, including murder and capital murder cases.
  • Represented client's in appellate work in both criminal and family law matters
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
  • Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
  • Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.

Assistant District Attorney

69th District Attorney's Officw
09.2013 - 09.2014
  • Represented the State of Texas in felony criminal matters throughout the entirety of a case, from investigation through appeal.
  • Enhanced community relations by participating in outreach programs that educated citizens about their rights and the criminal justice system.
  • Conducted training to law enforcement officers on various legal issues.
  • Secured successful convictions by meticulously reviewing case files and gathering relevant evidence.
  • Negotiated plea agreements that balanced offender accountability with fair sentencing practices, reducing overall caseload.

Assistant District Attorney

Hunt County District Attorney's Office
11.2001 - 09.2011
  • Successfully represented state on behalf of the State of Texas, including death penalty cases
  • Enhanced community relations by participating in outreach programs that educated citizens about their rights and the criminal justice system.
  • Secured successful convictions by meticulously reviewing case files and gathering relevant evidence.
  • Negotiated plea agreements that balanced offender accountability with fair sentencing practices, reducing overall caseloads.
  • Conducted thorough research on applicable laws and precedents, ensuring accurate arguments during court proceedings.

Education

J.D. - Law

Texas Tech University School of Law
Lubbock, TX
05-1998

Bachelor of Science - Communication

West Texas A&M University
Canyon, TX
05-1995

Skills

  • Case evaluation and trial preparation
  • Jury selection Strategies
  • Evidence presentation
  • Cross-examination techniques
  • Legal writing proficiency
  • Case analysis expertise
  • Trial experience
  • Witness preparation
  • Legal research, writing, and appellate argument

Timeline

Owner and Managing Attorney

Jessica McDonald & Associates
09.2015 - Current

Assistant District Attorney

69th District Attorney's Officw
09.2013 - 09.2014

Assistant District Attorney

Hunt County District Attorney's Office
11.2001 - 09.2011

J.D. - Law

Texas Tech University School of Law

Bachelor of Science - Communication

West Texas A&M University
Jessica McDonald