Capital
Established in 2013, the Capital Murder Division of the Dallas County Public Defender’s Office is tasked with handling capital murder and high-profile cases across all phases of trial and direct appeal. Our division provides comprehensive representation, from grand jury proceedings and trials to appeals and post-trial motions. We represent clients in 17 felony district courts, the intermediate courts of appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeals in Austin, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Our team of three trial attorneys, an appellate attorney, two investigators, and a legal assistant works collaboratively on every case.
Capital murder, as defined by the Texas Penal Code, involves murder with specific aggravating factors, punishable by life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. Our approach includes rigorous legal defense and extensive mitigation efforts, often collaborating with experts to understand the factors leading to the accusation.
The division has achieved numerous successes, including case dismissals, favorable settlements, and reversals on appeal. We have addressed complex legal issues like intellectual disability in death penalty cases, motions to suppress, and Fourth Amendment challenges related to geofence warrants. Additionally, we stay updated on relevant legislation, technological advancements, and forensic developments, often contributing to legislative discussions and engaging in statewide speaking engagements.
