Current Role & Responsibilities
Julie Jones Woods serves as Supervisor of the Appellate Division where she leads a team that represents clients in every aspect of the direct appeal process in felony and misdemeanor criminal cases from intake through final disposition. The division’s work includes reviewing and evaluating the trial court record for error, conducting legal research, preparing and filing motions, briefs, petitions for discretionary review, and other legal pleadings, and presenting oral argument in the appellate courts. In addition to handling an active docket of criminal appeal cases, the Appellate Division provides trial support to attorneys across the office to ensure strong, consistent advocacy at every stage of a case and to offer advice and guidance on a wide range of legal issues.
Education & Background
Julie has over twenty years of legal experience in public service. She earned her B.A., cum laude, in English and History from Texas A&M University in 2000 and her J.D. from Texas Tech University School of Law in 2004, where she served as a staff member and comment editor for the Texas Tech Law Review.
Before joining the Dallas County Public Defender’s Office in 2011, Julie began her legal career as an assistant city attorney with the Dallas City Attorney’s Office working in the Municipal Prosecution and Economic Development sections. She has supervised the Appellate Division since May 2019.
Board Certified in Criminal Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Julie is committed to providing high-quality, ethical, and effective representation for individuals navigating the direct appeal process. She values collaboration across divisions and works closely with attorneys throughout the office to provide practical guidance and support on complex issues. As a supervisor, Julie prioritizes mentorship, accessibility, and professional growth, maintaining an open-door policy while empowering attorneys to exercise independent judgment and develop their own advocacy skills.
Values & Motivation
Julie’s experience in the Public Defender’s Office has allowed her to engage in meaningful legal work that combines the intellectual challenges of criminal law with her longstanding interests in legal research, writing, and advocacy. She believes that every client deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and she strives to ensure that each client has been afforded a fair proceeding.
