Finding yourself or a loved one facing criminal charges in Dallas can feel overwhelming. The legal system is complex, and the consequences of a case can affect your future, your freedom, and even your career.
Selecting the best criminal attorney is crucial for this reason. Dallas, Texas, is home to some of the best attorneys in the country—lawyers with years of experience, proven track records, and the skills to fight for their clients in and out of court.
In this article, we’ve put together a list of the Top 15 Best Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas. These lawyers are well-known for handling everything from DWI and drug cases to serious felonies and federal crimes. Each of them brings unique strengths, courtroom strategies, and dedication to protecting the rights of their clients.
Whether you’re looking for aggressive trial representation or careful negotiation, this list will help you find the right lawyer to stand by your side.
Why Hiring the Right Criminal Lawyer Matters
- A skilled lawyer can carefully examine the evidence and find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that you may not notice on your own.
- The right attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or even get your case dismissed.
- Criminal lawyers understand courtroom procedures, rules of evidence, and how to handle aggressive questioning during trial.
- Having an experienced advocate means you don’t have to face the police, investigators, or judges alone.
- With proper legal guidance, you can protect your record, your career, and your future opportunities.
Key Qualities to Look for in a Criminal Lawyer
- Look for a lawyer who has handled cases similar to yours, such as DWI, drug charges, or federal crimes, and has a strong record of results.
- Knowledge of both Texas state law and federal law is crucial, especially if your case may cross jurisdictions.
- Clear communication and transparency ensure you understand every step of the legal process and avoid surprises.
- A good lawyer is accessible, responds quickly to questions, and makes you feel supported throughout your case.
- The best attorneys balance compassion for clients with a tough, no-nonsense approach when dealing with prosecutors and judges.
Also read: Personal Injury Lawyers in Brooklyn
List of Top 11 Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas
1. Patrick J. McLain
Patrick J. McLain is a well respected criminal and military lawyer with an office in Dallas. He is an ex-U.S. Marine Corps military judge as well as a federal prosecutor in Dallas. He has worked in civilian and military jurisdiction, and has dealt with thousands of cases, such as state felony/misdemeanor and cases in federal courts (e.g. cyber crimes, child exploitation, white collar). He focuses on defensive and assertive advocacy, making certain that the clients are aware of their rights, strategies and the risks they have in their cases.
The strategy of McLain is extensively informed because of his background: military judge, prosecutor, and U.S. Marine Corps service. He carries with him not only an understanding of the law, but also an understanding of the approach of prosecution and the differences between military law and civilian law. Clients commend his dedication, his interactions and how he would approach each consideration as an individual case and not as another file.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- Military law & court-martial defense
- Federal criminal defense
- White collar crimes & fraud cases
- Drug crimes, sex crimes & violent offenses
- DWI/DUI defense
Contact Details:
- Address: 900 Jackson Street, Suite 640, Dallas, TX 75202
- Phone: (214) 238-9392
- Website: patrickjmclain.com
2. Tim Clancy
Tim Clancy has been a well-known, high-profile, aggressive criminal defense counsel in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Recognized among top criminal lawyers in Dallas Texas, he has over 20 years of trial experience and has handled more than 2,000 cases, ranging from misdemeanors to the most complex federal cases. Early in his career, he personally prosecuted felony cases, giving him unique insight into how prosecutors construct cases—insight he now uses to develop strong defense strategies.
One of the key points in Clancy’s firm is the personal approach: they thoroughly investigate facts, prepare cases meticulously, and provide clients with a clear picture of what to expect. He handles criminal cases at the state, federal, and juvenile levels. His record of success includes dismissals, reductions of charges, and numerous trial victories. Clients value his responsiveness, courtroom poise, and the strong support team behind him.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- State & federal criminal defense
- Juvenile defense cases
- DWI/DUI defense
- Drug & weapons charges
- Violent crimes & theft
Contact Details:
- Address: 6115 Owens Street, Suite 129, Dallas, TX 75235
- Phone: (214) 550-5771
- Website: dfwcriminallawyer.com
3. Brian Charles Corrigan
Brian Corrigan is a well known criminal lawyer based in Dallas who has a career experience of more than 25 years. He had been First Assistant District Attorney in Kaufman County and Felony Chief Prosecutor in Dallas County. He has prosecuted over 150 jury trials, and he has done over 2,000 cases, which include felonies, misdemeanors, and federal cases.
Corrigan stresses that lots of clients are good people who made a wrong step, or are wrongfully accused, and treats them in a respectful manner. He is a Board Certified Criminal Lawyer and his ratings are high among the peers and clients. He personally accepts cases and works hard towards dismissals, acquittals or good plea bargains.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- State & federal criminal defense
- Serious felonies & violent crimes
- Sexual assault & white collar crimes
- Drug & DWI/DUI defense
- Jury trial litigation
Contact Details:
- Address: 1008 Ridge Road, Suite 101, Rockwall, TX 75087
- Phone: (972) 722-5300
- Website: texascrimelaw.com
4. Roger E. Haynes
Roger E. Haynes is one of the top criminal aawyers in dallas texas, with more than 22 years of criminal justice experience. He has served as a former felony trial prosecutor and now defends clients in both state and federal courts in North Texas. He’s known for thoroughly examining each case from multiple angles, listening carefully to clients, and being both strategic and aggressive to avoid convictions.
Haynes handles a wide variety of cases: misdemeanors, felony charges, parole and probation violations, federal offenses, and DWI/DUI among others. He also focuses on record expunction and non-disclosure. His courtroom experience and former prosecutor background give him insight into what the prosecution will try, allowing him to anticipate and counter their strategies.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- Felony & misdemeanor defense (state & federal)
- DWI/DUI cases
- Probation/parole violations
- Juvenile law
- Expunction & record non-disclosure
Contact Details:
- Address: 3300 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 700, Dallas, TX 75219
- Phone: (214) 526-3300
- Website: https://dallascriminalattorney.pr
5. John Helms
John Helms is a former Northern District of Texas federal prosecutor who moved on to criminal defense. He is also credible and tough in court since he never lost a case in trial and appeal throughout his prosecutor life. He practices a broad and deep practice, namely federal and state crime, appeals, DWI, drug trafficking, white-collar and sex crimes.
His approach is characterized as a fighter mind, giving everything to a case and remaining on call to his clients and handling complicated cases such as tax evasion, racketeering or child sex offenses. He presents himself as a person that clients can rely on in cases of serious offences charged particularly when reputation, liberty or high stakes are in question.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- Federal criminal defense & appeals
- White-collar & fraud cases
- DWI/DUI & drug trafficking
- Sex crimes & child sexual assault
- Tax evasion & racketeering
Contact Details:
- Address: 8100 John W. Carpenter Freeway, Suite 101, Dallas, TX 75247
- Phone: (214) 666-8010
- Website: johnhelms.attorney
6. Deandra M. Grant
Deandra Grant is an experienced DWI/DUI and criminal attorney in Dallas with over 30 years of experience. Recognized among leading Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas, she has an impressive educational background, including SMU Dedman School of Law, and has become a specialist in forensic science and DWI law. She is also a speaker and author in these fields.
While Grant’s practice includes DWI/DUI and domestic violence cases, it also focuses on general criminal defense, protecting clients’ liberties, challenging evidence, and working to avoid severe outcomes. Her colleagues respect her work, and she is often appointed to challenging or technical cases due to her expertise in forensic science and DWI law.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- DWI/DUI & forensic evidence
- Domestic violence defense
- Criminal defense generally
- Challenging evidence & prosecutions
- Client advocacy & trial readiness
Contact Details:
- Address: 3300 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 700, Dallas, TX 75219
- Phone: (972) 943-8500
- Website: texasdwisite.com
7. Robert S. Gregg
Robert S. Gregg has a 30-year experience in criminal case defense in Dallas, but also the personal injury law. His criminal defense practice spans several charges such as assault and battery, drug crimes, domestic violence and DUI, theft and weapons offenses. His priorities are offensive defense, high responsiveness, and dismissal seeking.
Gregg also gives attention on the cost maintainability and making clients aware of the process. He advertises his history of effective dismissals and effective advocacy of the rights of clients. Numerous clients who consider themselves to be in hopeless cases comment on his ability to uncover unexploited defenses, and to reverse prosecutorial excesses.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- Assault, domestic & battery crimes
- Drug & theft offenses
- DUI/DWI & weapons crimes
- Sex crimes defense
- Personal injury (secondary area)
Contact Details:
- Address: Dallas, TX (specific address not provided)
- Phone: Not listed
- Website: gregglawdallas.com
8. Trey Porter
Trey Porter is a criminal attorney in Dallas. He has about 13 years of experience and handles criminal and DWI/DUI matters. He aims for aggressive defense and works on dismissals and reductions when possible.
He has built a reputation among clients for being accessible, pushing hard in pre-trial motions (e.g. challenging breath/blood test protocols, probable cause issues), and being very hands-on during each stage of the case. He handles a variety of criminal charges but has a special focus on DWI.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- DWI/DUI defense
- Criminal defense (various misdemeanors/felonies)
- Pre-trial motions & evidence challenges
- Client communication & case strategy
- Negotiations for dismissals or plea reductions
Contact Details:
- Address: 325 North St. Paul Street, Suite 3100 #2853, Dallas, TX 75201
- Phone: (855) 336-5366
- Website: dwilawyerstexas.com
9. Aulbaugh Law
James “Jim” Aulbaugh is a board-certified criminal attorney in Dallas Fort Worth area, with a background as a former Chief Felony Prosecutor. He has handled well over 10,000 cases, including many jury trials (120+), giving him both trial experience and deep understanding of prosecutorial tactics.
His firm handles both state and federal charges and focuses on being very involved in every case. Clients often remark on his hands-on service, the clarity he offers, and his readiness to go to trial if needed. He also emphasizes DWI/DUI and sex crimes defense, given their technical and scientific aspects.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- Board‐certified criminal law, felony & misdemeanor defense
- State & federal criminal cases
- DWI / DUI & forensic issues
- Sex crime defense
- Trial work & case strategy
Contact Details & Website:
- Phone: (214) 380-3383
- Website: aulbaughlaw.com
- Location: Dallas, Texas (serves DFW region)
10. Mike Howard
Mike Howard is a criminal defense attorney in Dallas with over 20 years’ experience. His firm emphasizes guiding clients through the criminal justice system with compassion, integrity, and providing clear explanations of what to expect. The firm also makes efforts to ensure fairness in pricing, open communication, and a strong track record of dismissals, reductions and trial wins.
He offers an initial one-hour consultation, which is helpful for clients to understand their legal situation. They also prioritize getting clients released from jail where possible, timely responses, and being reachable throughout the process.
Skills & Areas of Practice:
- State & federal criminal defense
- Trials, dismissals & plea reductions
- DWI / DUI & vehicle offenses
- Violent & non-violent crimes
- Jail release & bail matters
Contact Details & Website:
- Address: Not listed
- Phone: Not listed
- Website: mikehowardlaw.com
Conclusion
In conclusion, facing criminal charges can be one of the most stressful moments in life, but having the right legal representation can make all the difference. Skilled Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas are committed to defending your rights and achieving the best possible outcome. These attorneys bring expertise, understanding, and empathy to every case, whether handling serious offenses or negotiating reduced charges. Making informed decisions not only gives you confidence in your defense but also helps secure a better future.
FAQs
What does a criminal lawyer do?
A criminal lawyer investigates the case, challenges the evidence, negotiates with prosecutors, and represents you in court. Their goal is to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
How much does it cost to hire a criminal lawyers in dallas texas?
The cost can vary depending on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and whether the matter goes to trial. Some attorneys charge flat fees, while others bill hourly. Always ask about fees upfront during the consultation.
Can a criminal lawyer help me avoid jail time?
Yes, in many cases a skilled lawyer can negotiate alternatives such as probation, diversion programs, or reduced sentences. The possibility depends on the severity of the charges and the specific facts of your case.
What types of cases do criminal attorney in Dallas usually handle?
Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas represent clients in a wide range of cases, including DWI/DUI, drug crimes, theft, assault, white-collar crimes, probation violations, and even serious federal offenses. Their expertise ensures you receive strong defense strategies tailored to your specific situation.
How do I choose the best Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas for my case?
To choose the best Criminal Lawyers in Dallas Texas, look for attorneys with experience handling cases similar to yours, a proven track record, clear communication, and positive client reviews. Scheduling an initial consultation can also help you evaluate if the lawyer is the right fit for your needs.
