Blog

TEXAS FORENSIC SCIENCE COMMISSION LACKS CREDIBILITY

Nov 29 2009
Posted By:
Governor’s Sacking of Commission’s Head Stalls Review of Junk Science Convictions
By: Houston Criminal Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair

The Texas Legislature created the Forensic Science Commission (“FSC”) in 2005 to investigate what theTexas Monthlycalled “scientific negligence and misconduct.” The legislature acted following the February 2004 execution of Cameron Todd Willingham and the October 2004 decision by Pecos County District Attorney Ori White to free Ernest Willis from capital murder charges. Willingham and Willis had both been convicted of capital murder and sentenced to death for murders they allegedly committed by setting fires to dwellings in which five people were killed—two women in Willis’ case and Willingham’s three young daughters. The forensic arson evidence used to convict both men was virtually identical. In fact, as Michael Hall wrote recently inTexas Monthly, these two condemned men had a lot in common:

“They were both country boys—Willis from New Mexico, Willingham from Oklahoma—who liked hunting, drinking, and carousing. Both were unemployed and living in small Texas towns when they were accused of setting fires that killed people (in Willingham’ case, his three small daughters in 1991). Both were convicted of capital murder on the basis of testimony of investigators who believed they had found evidence of arson. Both were sent to death row. Eventually both were vindicated by modern science, which determined that there was absolutely no evidence of arson in either case. The fires were almost certainly accidents.”

And both men were targeted as suspects by investigators because of their behavior immediately after the fires. According to neighbors who witnessed the Willingham fire, the father “crouched down” in his front yard and refused to make any effort to recuse his children despite pleas by the neighbors that he do so. Similarly, witnesses said Willis, who was high on pain killers and beer, looked distant as he impassively smoked cigarettes while watching the fire burn that killed the two women. This apparent lack of “proper” emotion and empathy for the people being burned alive was sufficient reason for investigators to manipulate the forensic evidence to change the fires from accidents into intentional acts of murder.

By 2003, time was running out for Willingham. In November of that year the U.S. Supreme Court rejected his final appeal. Desperate, the condemned man’s brother reached out to a highly respected Austin forensic arson expert named Gerald Hurst after reading an article about the Cambridge-educated chemist. The brother begged Hurst to examine the forensic evidence used to convict Willingham. The fire scientist agreed, and was astonished to discover the evidence used to convict Willingham almost certainly proved the fire had been an accident and not intentional arson/murder. Willingham’s court-appointed attorney notified Gov. Rick Perry about the Hurst findings three days before his client’s scheduled February 14 execution. He requested that the governor stay the execution of his client until the Hurst findings of innocence could be adequately developed. Gov. Perry did not respond to the stay request, so just 88 minutes before Willingham was actually executed the attorney faxed a copy of the Hurst report to the governor’s office. To this day it is not certain whether Gov. Perry even reviewed the Hurst report before allowing the execution to proceed as scheduled.

Ernest Willis was more fortunate. He was not represented by a court-appointed attorney with limited resources. He was represented by the international law firm of Latham and Watkins who were representing him pro bono and who, as Michael Hall pointed out, “could afford to spend $5 million on his defense, money that paid for, among other things, the forensic experts who disputed the arson claim.” Ironically, Willis’ conviction was reversed by a federal judge in August 2004 not because flawed forensic arson evidence had been used to convict him but because the Latham/Watkins attorneys discovered a report showing Willis had been placed on heavy dosages of psychotropic drugs without reason during his trial and this information had been deliberately withheld from his defense counsel.

Following the federal court reversal of Willis’ conviction, and in the wake of the ominous cloud of doubt the Hurst report had placed over Willingham’s guilt/execution, Pecos County District Attorney Ori White decided to hire Hurst and another prominent fire expert, Kenneth Ryland, a former fire instructor at the Louisiana State University, to investigate the forensic arson evidence against Willis. After reviewing the evidence, Hurst found “there [was] not a single item of physical evidence in this case which supports a finding of arson,” Ryland concurred with those findings. That was enough for DA White. He dismissed the capital murder charge against Willis in October 2004, effectively exonerating the former condemned inmate. The State of Texas paid Willis $250,000 for the 17 years he spent on death row under the wrongful capital murder conviction.

The Willingham execution and Willis’ exoneration drew the attention of theChicago Tribuneand investigative reporters Steven Mills and Maurice Possley. The newspaper secured the services of Hurst and Ryland, along with two other nationally prominent fire experts, to review the forensic arson evidence upon which the State had relied to convict and execute Cameron Todd Willingham. The four fire scientists drew the same conclusion after each had conducted independent analysis of the evidence: the fire that engulfed Willingham’s Corsicana, Texas home in December 1991 and killed his three small daughters was accidental and not an intentional arson. The newspaper published its findings in December 2004.

TheTribunefindings and the tremendous groundswell of controversy they added to the Willingham execution, plus DA White’s decision to exonerate Willis (which cost the State $250,000), prompted the Texas Legislature to act with the creation of the FSC in the summer of 2005—even though the legislature did not appropriate any money to fund the commission’s work.

Buoyed by these developments, the New York-based Innocence Project hired four independent fire experts to examine the Willingham evidence. These four experts reached the same conclusion drawn by theTribunefire experts: the Willingham fire was an accident. These findings, in conjunction with theTribunefindings, prompted the Innocence Project in May 2006 to formally request that the FSC review the forensic arson evidence used to convict Willingham and determine its scientific reliability.

In 2007 the legislature allocated funds necessary for the FSC to operate. In August 2008 FSC voted to approve the Innocence Project’s request for a review of the Willingham evidence. In January of this year the FSC through its chairman, Austin attorney Sam Bassett, announced the commission had selected Maryland fire scientist Craig Beyler, one of the nation’s most preeminent forensic arson experts, to review the Willingham evidence and submit a written report to the commission as to its scientific reliability.

This past August, Beyler submitted a 51-page report to the FSC which stopped short of saying Willingham was innocent but did reinforce the findings of the previous eight fire experts with the conclusion that there was absolutely no evidence to support the state’s evidence that the Willingham house fire had been intentionally set. A copy of Beyler’s report was released to the media inciting the simmering belief by death penalty critics that the State of Texas had executed an innocent man. FSC Chairman Bassett set October 2 as the date for hearing testimony from Beyler and the state’s fire experts who had testified against Willingham.

Locked in a heated reelection campaign with Republican rival Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchinson, Gov. Perry was not pleased with the state and national media attention the Beyler report generated. The governor’s Deputy General Counsel, Mary Anne Wiley, and former General Counsel David Cabrales had already applied pressure on Chairman Bassett to back off in the Willingham case by the time the report was released, saying in private meeting that chairman had exceeded his authority in ordering the Beyler investigation. Chairman Bassett said the two Perry aides told him the Beyler investigation was not “the kind of investigation the [FSC] statute contemplated. I don’t know what their intent was, but I know after the meetings I did feel pressured about the investigation.” Bassett then contacted Sen. John Whitmire, the chairman of the state’s legislative criminal justice committee, who instructed the FSC chairman to proceed with the investigation because it was within the purview of the law.

Realizing that brass political pressure would not kill the scheduled Willingham hearing, Gov. Perry on September 29 preempted the hearing process with what Innocence Project co-director Barry Scheck called a “Saturday night massacre” reminiscent of former President Richard Nixon’s Saturday night firing of Watergate Special Counsel Archibald Cox: the governor removed Chairman Bassett and two other members from the FSC. Bassett was replaced with a longtime political ally, Williamson County District Attorney John Bradley, and the other two members were replaced with appointees who were supportive of the governor’s efforts to squelch the Willingham case.

The first decision FSC Chairman Bradley made was to indefinitely postpone the scheduled October 2nd hearing in the Willingham case. The new chairman said and he and the other two new members needed time to review all the facts in the case. Not pleased with this political turn of events, Sen. Whitmire immediately announced his committee would conduct hearings to determine the direction of the FSC under Bradley’s leadership. The negative media reaction to Perry’s appointment of Bradley flourished, providing death penalty opponents with a national stage to attack Texas’ relentless death machine.

In an extraordinary demonstration of the level of official concern produced by Perry’s actions, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Judge Barbara Hervey announced the court’s Criminal Justice Integrity Unit, which was established in 2008, should investigate the “fire science” used to convict Willingham and Willis. “Science progresses all the time, and we need to have a better understanding of fire science,” Judge Hervey informed the media.

Although Judge Hervey did not express any specific conclusions about the Willingham case, the judge, during the first week of October, went to the state archives building to read executed man’s file, including Gerald Hurst’s original report on the evidence in the case. The judge’s extrajudicial interest was in itself extraordinary because just four days before Willingham’s execution the Court of Criminal Appeals rejected the condemned man’s request for a stay, saying the Hurst report should have been presented earlier.

The Court’s Integrity Unit was established with the specific objective of improving the quality of legal representation for poor criminal defendants; improving witness identification procedures; overhauling, and creating new, standards for the collection, preservation, and storage of evidence; and create a review process for cases of inmates who may have been wrongfully convicted. The unit is composed of politicians, lawyers, law enforcement personnel, and legal experts.

Saying that the Integrity Unit’s work in “fire science” arena would complement the FSC work in the same area, Judge Hervey added that “arson is not something (courts) deal with on a regular basis. The one thing I think we can accomplish is to at least educate people” about the new investigative techniques in fire science such as those utilized by the nine fire experts who concluded the fires in the Willingham and Willis’ cases were accidents.

Clearly stung by the unabated media criticism, Chairman Bradley, in a November 7 op-ed piece published in the Houston Chronicle, introduced himself to the general public and attempted to explain the purpose of the FSC under his leadership. Assuring the public that the investigation into the Willingham case would be completed, Bradley cautioned that there are “those with agendas separate from the advancement of forensic science [who] have made exaggerated claims about the [Willingham] case.” In order to accomplish the intended legislative objectives of FSC, which is to investigate negligence or misconduct in the collection and presentation of forensic evidence and not to determine the guilt or innocence of criminal defendants, Bradley proposed five substantive changes to govern the commission’s work:

  • Creation of written policies and procedures to guide the application of uniform standards in the review and investigatory process;
  • Uniform standards in the investigative process would be created with the assistance of the Texas Rangers;
  • Results and/or reports will remain confidential until a final decision is rendered by the commission under the guidance of the Texas Attorney General’s Office;
  • Sufficient funds “to create an independent, authoritative presence in the forensic science field,” which will require additional funding from the legislature; and
  • Positive role for improving the application of forensic science in the state’s courtrooms.

Although Bradley attempts to attach the best possible motives for the proposed changes to the FSC, we believe (until proven different) that the Williamson County District Attorney has a vision of the commission as a law enforcement-friendly agency whose real purpose is to protect state prosecutions of criminal defendants, regardless of the negligence or misconduct involved in obtaining those convictions. Bradley himself has lent credence to our belief with his repeated references to the Innocence Project as a “New York non-profit” with no real purpose other than the abolition of the death penalty. This is a typical attitude career prosecutors have for groups dedicated to exposing wrongful convictions of innocent people either with DNA evidence or discovery of suppressed evidence as in the Ernest Willis case.

Sen. Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, repeatedly clashed with Bradley during the hearing about his attitude against the Innocence Project, informing the FSC chairman that he had personally presided over three executions and that, as chairman of the board of the Innocence Project, the group simply wanted to make sure the state executes “the right person.”

Conservative Sen. Dan Patrick, R-Houston, also provided significant fuel to our belief that Bradley wants a “rubber stamp” commission to support the criminal convictions in cases where forensic negligence or misconduct becomes an issue. “Not one shred of evidence ever was presented that the man [Willingham] was innocent,” Patrick told Bradley. “Don’t be bullied, and don’t be swayed.”

In effect, Sen. Patrick was telling Bradley to remain true to his pro-death penalty views and don’t be swayed or bullied by anti-death penalty groups like the Innocence Project. Bradley got the message of support. He informed Patrick and others on the panel that he would not be anyone’s “political pawn” and refused to commit as to how the FSC will handle the Willingham case. He added that the “commission is not charged with debating the death penalty. The commission is not charged with determining whether people are guilty or innocent.”

Sen. Ellis was neither impressed nor intimidated by the “good ole boy” political jockeying between Patrick and Bradley. He pointed out that there are 742 people under arson convictions in the state’s prison system and he wants to make sure they were not convicted with “junk science.” He pointedly instructed Bradley not to “put our state in the position that there is a perception that people are using junk science to get convictions.”

The same week Bradley appeared before the Whitmire committee he suggested the FSC should conduct its meetings behind “closed doors.” He added that “it’s not a good idea to conduct an investigation in a public forum.” He stressed that the FSC should function like a law enforcement agency protected from the Texas Open Meetings Act and the Public Information Act.

Former FSC chairman Bassett blasted Bradley’s closed-door suggestion. “[The FSC] is not a law enforcement agency, it is not a court, it is a policy commission,” the former chairman said. “I think it’s important that for the public the public [to] have confidence in forensic science in Texas, the meetings be in public.”

Houston Chronicle columnist Rick Casey agreed with Bassett. “Bradley is speaking like a prosecutor,” Casey wrote in a November 12 column. “He assumes that the commission’s job is to decide whether the fire marshals, laboratory technicians, fingerprint experts and others engaged in solving crimes were negligent or incompetent. That’s not a surprising way for a prosecutor to read the law, which includes those terms. The concepts are right out of the prosecutorial culture. But the commission is not a prosecutorial body … Here’s the most important thing. The prosecutorial culture wants to know, beyond a reasonable doubt, whether the people involved did something wrong.”

And that’s precisely why we now believe the FSC has a serious, if not fatal, credibility problem. The “prosecutorial culture,” which is now in charge of the commission’s goals and objectives, will inevitably produce a decision-making body dedicated to protecting the prosecutorial interests of the criminal justice system even when innocent people like Willingham and Willis are wrongfully convicted. There are only a handful of prosecutors in this country, and even far less in Texas, who have exhibited the courage to support DNA testing for those inmates making claims of innocence. Prosecutors not only tend to oppose DNA testing requests but some have been known to even conceal such test results that clearly established the innocence of a wrongfully convicted person.

District Attorney Bradley’s appointment to the FSC is like placing the proverbial fox in charge of the hen house. Only when the chickens begin to disappear and the fox is caught with a mouthful of feathers will the public understand that prosecutors cannot be trusted to fairly and independently determine when negligence or misconduct is involved with evidence presented in our courtrooms. The fact that Judge Hervey wants the Court of Criminal Appeals’ own Integrity Unit to investigate fire science indicates, whether intentional or not, a lack of confidence in the FSC’s ability to conduct fair investigations in the field of forensic evidence which has found itself under ever-increasing credibility attacks.

Why? Because too many prosecutors have either manipulated or fabricated forensic evidence through crime lab analysts committed to the “convict-at-any-costs” prosecutorial culture. Now, the Texas Forensic Science Commission has a career prosecutor in charge of its fact-finding process—and if anyone truly believes this process will be fair, independent, and professional, we still have that “sea front property in Arizona” for sale.

SOURCES:

Bradley, John “Panel on Forensic Science To Establish Ground Rules,HoustonChronicle, p. B7 (Nov. 7, 2009).
Hall, Michael, “Separated at Death,”TexasMonthly, p. 90 (Dec. 2009).
www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan.6714216.html
www.statesmen.com/news/content/news/stories/local/2009/10/14/1014willingham.html
www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/casey/6717956,html
www.texastribune.org/stories.2009.nov/13/deliberating-willingham-case-behind-closed-doors/

Categories

Archives

Take the first step toward protecting your freedom by contacting us now

Testimonials

John T. Floyd Law Firm IconJohn T. Floyd Law Firm

3730 Kirby Drive # 750, Houston

4.9 108 reviews

  • Avatar Jeannette Young ★★★★★ a month ago
    If you have hired attorneys that meet the Webster dictionary definition, ie: "Attorney " is a person that has a law degree, will not be totally honest, can take your money … More and not earn it, will put you off until he is ready to talk to you, and/or never study your case to be able to defend you. Mr. Floyd is the only attorney that doesn't fit that definition!! You will be delighted to have Mr. John Floyd in your corner! Not one attorney that I have ever met that would ever return a check that I sent to him, because he said I paid him too much! Wow! That right there should tell you something about his integrity!!!!! He has a very calm demeanor and doesn't stretch the truth even if you don't want to hear it, he will tell you the truth. Call and set up an appointment with him and judge for yourself. You are wasting time and money on any other attorney, just hire the best, Mr. Floyd.
  • Avatar Curtis Shane Kessler ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    John T. Floyd and his team are some of the best people! I was able to get a second opinion from them on legal advice. His team has been honest, kind, and very informative which has … More been a huge blesssing.
  • Avatar Jose Penaloza ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    I highly recommend John T. Floyd Lawfirm. They are truly knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile to defend your innocence. Psalms 35
  • Avatar Yizheng Tu ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Outstanding!Professional knowledge. Rich experiences. Good outcome.
  • Avatar Arslan Tajammul ★★★★★ 4 months ago
  • Avatar DjKaycee Moflava ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    The best lawyer I ever encounter with a very good personality. He’s very professional and he will go far and beyond for his clients best interest. He’s definitely a 5 star attorney … More when it comes to delivering. I couldn’t be more happier that I hired him !! 👏👏👏👏
  • Avatar Gloria Smith ★★★★★ 5 months ago
  • Avatar Yoli ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    I can honestly say from what I have seen so far, Floyd is a compassionate soul who cares for his client's. Floyd is by far very knowledgeable in this area. He's currently … More assisting my [Father] on a sex assault. We are all suffering so much as my father is an elder man, but we have faith in God, and Mr. Floyd he can dismissed this outrageous allegation soon. Thank you, yoli
  • Avatar Abdulkadir Issa ★★★★★ 9 months ago
    I had wonderful experience with this law firm. They were so helpful and knowledgeable of the process.my case was dismissed because of Mr John T Floyd,thank you for everything .
  • Avatar Rashid Ibrar ★★★★★ 9 months ago
    I am very happy today my case dismissed God bless Mr John T Floyd very good lawyer thanks you so mush sir
  • Avatar Susan McDaniel ★★★★★ 9 months ago
    I had a great experience with this Law Firm, the kind staff helped me locate a Lawyer even though they were unable to take my case.
    They were very helpful, kind and returned my call
    … More in a timely manner. I would definitely recommend them and use them in the future.
  • Avatar Mahmoud Abdelwahed ★★★★★ a year ago
    I can tell that Jone is an excellent attorney in Houston. Personally, he is a great man. In addition to great service and amazing results. Recommended
  • Avatar Mr. K ★★★★★ a year ago
    Mr. Floyd is an incredible attorney and human being. He cares about your case, the facts, the law, and your life! I am sorry for whatever situation you are going through, but choosing … More Mr. Floyd, his firm, and their professional experience to help you, will be the best decision you ever make!
  • Avatar Domenique Cary ★★★★★ a year ago
    John T Floyd is a straight shooter! He was very direct and responsive to my phone calls and questions. I was in awe of his knowledge, and professional decorum! The best decision that … More you could make is to schedule a consultation with him before considering anyone else!
  • Avatar Eugene Guy ★★★★★ a year ago
    I asked the Law Office of John T. Floyd a very important question regarding the legal aspects of purchasing a firearm with a deferred adjudication charge. They answered the question … More very professionally and accurately and I was quite pleased with the information that was shared. I recommend this law firm because they are very honest and will work for you and with you.
  • Avatar Mark J ★★★★★ a year ago
    I’ve never been one to write reviews but this time I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to say something. I had some serious legal questions I needed answers to concerning Texas laws. … More Being I’m from another state, I found and reached out to Attorney John Floyd for the answers. Mr Floyd listened to to my requests and told me what he need from me and went out of his way to get me the answers. Very polite, straightforward and professional, I can’t thank him enough for all he’s done. Whatever your legal case may be, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Mr Floyd.
  • Avatar Pat Garner ★★★★★ a year ago
    John & Chris helped my family member get a reduced charge and acceptable plea agreement in place. Their compassion, attention to every detail was what helped carry the day.Truly … More the best of the best.P
  • Avatar Summer A ★★★★★ a year ago
    Mr. Floyd is both ethical and loyal to his clients; two qualities that are hard to find specially in lawyers. I'd definitely recommend him to anyone.Positive
    Professionalism …More
    … More
  • Avatar Abdulraouf Haj ★★★★★ a year ago
    Mr. John was very helpful and truly was the reason why my case was dismissed. Thank you so much Mr. John I truly recommend everyone in need to work with him.
  • Avatar Hope Fischer ★★★★★ a year ago
    His service to the community and diligence to helping his clients speaks for its self! Not to mention the many articles, papers and TV appearances that speak to his intellect
  • Avatar Faisal Mahmood ★★★★★ a year ago
    John has given Excellent service and have been very friendly and extremely helpful to us. I highly recommend this law firm
  • Avatar Mohammed Nabulsi ★★★★★ a year ago
    This law firm is diligent, responsive and succeeded in getting my case dismissed. 10/10 would recommend.
  • Avatar Anthony Stark ★★★★★ a year ago
    super knowledgeable, good attitude, would definitely recommend him
  • Avatar Lloyd Kirby ★★★★★ a year ago
    Very helpful, knowledgeable and honest.
  • Avatar Tarek Zaghloul ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    John is an amazing person and lawyer who is actually very understanding of how anxious I got and although it was hard to reach him sometimes because of his schedule, but never worry … More he is on top of things. He is very organized, very smart. I had the experience to go through a trial with him, and he always plans ahead well and is actually open and receptive to any ideas and comments I had and he was quick to decide which is right to use at the moment. I really appreciated working with him and Chris. Great lawyers and great people. As I was reminded by John, I am adding that the Jury reached a not guilty decision on the original charge and on a lesser charge in just 25 minutes. It took more time to write the charge and instructions for the jury than it took them to reach a decision.
  • Avatar Anya Palapa ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Highly recommend John T Floyd law firm, great response time and demeanor.I was researching an on-going criminal case, when I found an informative article written by John Floyd (about … More the perils of expert testimony). I called his office, and was very pleased to receive a timely call back. Not only was Mr. Floyd candid and helpful, but he had the kindest demeanor of any attorney that I've dealt with. I am so glad to have found this firm.
  • Avatar Joffre Cross II (Jeff) ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Although I am not a client, John Floyd contacted me the same day I sent an email requesting advice, answered my questions and even when further to assist with my issue and communicated … More with me the next day. A true credit to his profession and I can only imagine how well he provides services to his actual clients!
  • Avatar jeannette young ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I give Mr. Floyd 10 Stars if they were available so I'm giving him five that's all that's available. The first time I left a message for him it was on a Friday after … More 5 p.m. and within 15 minutes he called me back I told him I needed to buy a lotto ticket because that has never happened. I knew from our chat and him calling me back that he was different from any attorney I've tried to talk to left messages never got called back they didn't even know what I needed and neither did Mr. Floyd but he did call me back. I was very interested in meeting with mr. Floyd about my case because I felt he was very transparent honest and genuine. If you've ever dealt with attorneys they don't have those traits but Mr. Floyd does. He was very honest with me told me what I could and could not do with my case. He is not egotistical he's very compassionate and he actually reads the documents you sent him unbelievable that's never happened. He will be the only lawyer I refer to anyone that needs his expertise. If you're in need of a criminal defense attorney please give John T Floyd a call you will not be disappointed.
  • Avatar 9salmon ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Mr John is a great human being and a very knowledgeable attorney. He has always called me back promptly,advised me very clearly and never rushed our conversation. i was wrongfully accused … More and Mr John had my case DISMISSED!! on the day of trial after fighting for me for two years. I am very thankful to the John T. Floyd Law Firm. You will not go wrong with John. Mr John you deserve way more then 5 stars.Thank youShaikh.
  • Avatar Ken R ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    John Floyd Law Firm is highly recommended for your legal needs. He and his staff are highly professional in every aspect. Easy and comfortable feeling talking with him, and he understands … More your needs and explains your legal advice in a way you can understand. Enough just cant be said. Thank You Sir.Positive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Jeff Vaughn ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    John was kind enough to assist me with legal advise on my firearm gun rights restoration. I highly recommend him and his firm. Very professional and knowledgeable. If I need assistance … More in the future I will definitely go back to him.
  • Avatar Reginald Bell ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    What I liked the most was that he actually returned my phone after leaving a message unlike pretty much everyone else I called prior. He listened and answered my question with the best … More advice that would benefit me the most. I was actually lost from moving to Texas from a different state we’re laws vary and he pointed me toward the right direction to get a understanding of if I need to do business with him now or after I contact a lawyer in my home state.
  • Avatar Debby Griffin ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    John T Floyd handled my sons case & got a dismissal for us! He is great to work with, gets back to you promptly & knows what he’s doing. Definitely one of the best we have had … More to deal with!Positive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Gabriela ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    John is honestly the best! The whole team is. He answered me in a timely manner and helped me when my friend was going through a situation in Houston, Texas as an inmate. He was so … More thorough, honest, and without charging me sent me so much information because I was out of the loop. He never once tried to take you for your money, he did all that he could to. help me and I can't thank him enough.
  • Avatar Randy Rich ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I have used John on two occasions and found him to have full knowledge of Texas law, diligent, creative in plan, and aggressive in defense. He is the best criminal defense attorney … More in the State of Texas. No reason to look elsewhere.
  • Avatar Robert Robinson ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I have been calling to get some legal advice pertaining to gun rights. A few legal offices would not even take my call because quote " your not a client and Im losing money. … More I I called John T. Floyd Law Firm and they were not only able to answer my question, but gave great detail information, and further elaborated on their answer. I hope I do not have to use them in the future, but if I do need to, they will be my first call.
  • Avatar Tyler Barr ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Great lawyer! Needed some advice and gave me a Consultation, and advice for steps to take, without any hassle l, Was a honest guy and actually wanted to help me and not just take my … More money! Highly recommend!!Positive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Clint B ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Attorney Floyd replied very timely to my inquiry and he provided practical advice. I will not hesitate to contact him in the future if I need additional legal counsel.
  • Avatar Huey B ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Highly recommend, down to earth lawyer. Talked to me about my legal issues without being super money hungry and genuinely wanted to help me with my legal problems. 5 stars ⭐️.
  • Avatar Ben Blackman ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Very knowledgeable and professional. I called and left a message Friday morning and before end of business that day I received a call back.Positive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism
    … More …More
  • Avatar Manny Figueroa:: ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Very helpful highly recommended for any Question / case will definitely keep he's name and number for any other legal advice
  • Avatar Rosalinda Garcia ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Excellent service and a lawyer that doesn't lie. He does what he says. JW recommends him.
  • Avatar Cord Ary ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    One of the best services Ive used in awhile. Thank you for all the help and answers. You got my life back. Thank youPositive
    Quality …More
  • Avatar William Shaw (Bill) ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Im impressed. This guy was polite and professional and most important...he listened.
  • Avatar Mohammed Masood ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Good experience and very good lawyer
  • Avatar Joseph Floyd ★★★★★ 2 years ago
  • Avatar Arsalan Safiullah ★★★★★ 2 years ago
  • Avatar Elvis Maldonado ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Positive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, ValueMore
  • Avatar Tylor St. Clair ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    It was a pleasure speaking with John. He is knowledgeable and has a true desire to help the people of society. I turned to him for some guidance of a long-standing issue. He never … More rushed our conversation and went out of his way to look into the details to provide the right answer as well as assist me anyway he could. Thank you for our conversations and I wish your and your firm the best. If you need a lawyer, John Floyd is your guy!
  • Avatar Andrew Vo ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    John represented me in court for roughly 2 years. I won't (and shouldn't) get into any serious details, but let me tell you that I couldn't have chosen anyone better. … More Seriously.Every appearance in court I felt very comfortable. The judge and DA's had a high regard for his reputation. There is a time I recall where simply his presence greatly impacted the court's interpretation of my case and persons. We were in front of the stand and the judge could not stop talking about John's prestige and past accomplishments and how that took in relation to my case. I kept silent in front of the judge, but I observed then that John's popularity and reputation within the court had already given me a better looking rapport with the judge. Let me tell you, I never had more confidence then, knowing that the judge held him in such high regard.This is not to mention how personable John is. I'll be honest that during the stress of court, sharing a laugh with your lawyer helps a lot. This may sound a lot, but I really appreciated the relationship we had then. This is also not to mention that he was able to deal very well with any DA that rotated over the years. Seriously, John was great, prompt with information and very hands on with my case. I had great peace those 2 years until everything wrapped up.If you're looking for a lawyer, I highly, HIGHLY recommend the John T. Floyd Law Firm. He IS nationally renowned, you know. He'll get the job done to the utmost confidence. He's very experienced and has a great record to boot. I am glad to have had him represent me in court and trust me that I never thought I'd ever say that (and whoever does?). We explored every avenue of victory together and I personally enjoyed the experience, despite the seriousness of the accusation.If you have a case that needs to be represented at the highest levels, choose John T. Floyd. He's a good man and very good at what he does. Him and his team has the experience you need to make the best decisions and options to get the best outcome for your case. We got the best result I could possibly ask for, thank God.Seriously. Hire John. He knows what he's doing.Seriously.
  • Avatar Banning Lary ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    One of the few honest lawyers I have ever talked to. His complimentary consultation was knowledgeable and thorough. He knew exactly what the issue was and how to handle it. His candid … More appraisal of the situation and how to proceed saved me thousands of dollars in legal fees. If you have a case requiring expertise in John's area of practice, look no further. Hire this man!
  • Avatar Larry Green ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I had the opportunity to read an article that Mr. Floyd wrote and it was very interesting. I called him about the article and advice concerning a similar situation. He not only gave … More me excellent advice, he pointed out not just what I wanted to hear but what I needed to hear concerning my situation. The Good, The Bad and The ugly in a manner or speaking. He spoke with an open and honest heart with information to help me and not just to get a client.
  • Avatar Jackie Cohen ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    If you are in trouble and need a lawyer, contact the John T. Floyd law firm. Some of the best lawyers in Texas work there! Understanding and helpful lawyers and staff that will do all … More they can to help you 😊
  • Avatar It’s Me ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    He gave me one of the most honest answers I have received in a very long time about any issue I was having with anything. Legal or not legal. I highly recommend giving him a call and … More will be referring him to friends and family if they have any issues in the future.Positive
    Responsiveness, Professionalism …More
  • Avatar I’m Home ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    He took time out of his day to answer my legal questions and didn’t even charge me. I would definitely recommend him to you.
  • Avatar Tad Nieschwietz ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Gave free consultation on getting gun rights back. He truly cares about gun rights and getting you the help you deserve. 100% worth a callPositive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism,
    … More Value …More
  • Avatar Maher Abbara ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Very professional, great quality work, and very friendly and helpful. Overall, their service is phenomenal. I recommend Mr. Floyd to anyone.
  • Avatar Thomas McLaughlin ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Mr. Floyd took the time to explain his experience with the law to me in layman's terms. Definitely give him a call.Positive
    Responsiveness, Professionalism …More
  • Avatar Zarrie Adkins ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    He was honest , knowledgeable , and professional about what we talked about. Most lawyers are just about the money , but not john.Positive
    Professionalism …More
  • Avatar Keisha Gaches ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    He was very truthful and honest with us very great man I would recommend him and we would use him again
  • Avatar Samyra Carrasquillo ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Very professional honest and works hard currently working my husband’s appeal I pray he does his best workPositive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Raul Perez ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I contacted John T. Floyd Law firm and I was very satisfied with service extremely helpful and friendly thank you Mr. FloydPositive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
    … More
  • Avatar Johnny Johnson Jr ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    This law frim was informative,great response time ,and the attorney called back not some secretary or legal assistant thank u guys for all your help wish it was more like youPositive … More
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Dana Adkison ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I would highly recommend Mr Floyd. He was very helpful and knowledge with a legal question I had.Positive
    Professionalism …More
  • Avatar Crecencio Fabian ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    He explained my case better then any other lawyerPositive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Barry Lewis ★★★★ 3 years ago
    Very informative
  • Avatar Ismael Flores ★★★★★ 3 years ago
  • Avatar Haley Danielle Lummus ★★★★★ 3 years ago
  • Avatar Eddie Villarreal ★★★★★ 3 years ago
  • Avatar Neil Productions ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Had the pleasure speaking with John Floyd on a personal matter, he was very responsive, nothing but exceptional, and he really cares about you with sincerity and most importantly knows … More what is he talking about! No games or bs, his approach to my situation even though I knew it was probably way smaller then what he normally takes on, he was extremely helpful and didn't care about the size of the matter like other attorneys do. He really looked out for my best interests. You can tell he has decades of experience doing what he does just by chatting with him. I would highly recommend him.
  • Avatar S A ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Words can’t describe how grateful I am for working with John, he went above and beyond my expectation. I was wrongly accused and hired many lawyers before hiring John Floyd but they … More all disappointed me, I had lost hope until a friend of mine referred me to John. From the start he had my best interest in mind and gave helpful advice, he explained the process and guided me. He put more work and time than all my previous lawyers that cost me thousands of dollars. He was constantly communicating with court and defended me more than all lawyer i had hired before him. Don’t waste your time and money like I did, believe me when I say I hired countless lawyers before him and no one came close to John. I’m forever thankful for him for fighting for my innocence and getting my case dismissed. Thank you so much🙏🏼🙏🏼
  • Avatar Gary Watch ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I called Mr Floyd and left a message, with in the hour I received a call back with much more information then I could have ever expected. Mr Floyd was very informative on every question … More I had for him. He seemed like he cared, instead of like most attorneys that you talk to that are just out for a quick buck. If you want someone that is going to shoot strait with you, and has your best interest in hand, this is you guy. This was the best experience that I have ever had with an lawyer.
  • Avatar Saman Daftarian ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I can state with confidence that Mr. Floyd and his team are the most competent and professional lawyers one can hope for. My case was quite complex and I admit that as a law student … More I was not the most patient client. Mr. Floyd did a phenomenal job of managing the bench, prosecution and myself! The result was above expectation, and I will never hesitate to recommend this firm regardless of the caliber of the case at issue.
  • Avatar calvin robinson ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    It was a pleasure working with Mr. Floyd. I contacted him regarding a legal matter and he was extremely knowledgeable about the law, and responded in a timely manner. I appreciated … More the fact I did not feel rushed, and he made sure he thoroughly answered all questions I had. I would highly recommend him!Positive
    Responsiveness, Professionalism …More
  • Avatar Alan Howk ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Spoke with John Floyd about a 45 year old criminal case I was involved in. I had very little information about the case and John helped me search what records were available and gave … More me guidance to find more information. He was very professional and took his time helping me. I may need to hire a lawyer on this case and Mr. Floyd will be the man.Thanks John.
  • Avatar CMCustom Cycles ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Very professional and straight forward. He's not going to waste your time or money. Very knowledgeable in a large range of possible matters one could face living in these days … More and times. If ever you need legal assistance, this is who I would suggest. Awesome!Positive
    Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Greg Page ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I called about some legal questions I needed to get clarified and John was able to give me clarification and sound advice. I will definitely contact John for all future legal questions … More and issues.Thank you John!Positive
    Responsiveness, Professionalism, Value …More
  • Avatar Kristen Rankin ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Knows his stuff and well respected with DA and judges. I have referred him a couple times and every client has been satisfied
  • Avatar Kedar Puranik ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    John is beyond knowledgeable! If I decide to pursue my case any further I would only have him represent me.
  • Avatar Joseph Sivadon ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    What a great attorney, this guy really took time out of his day to answer my questions and explain my case to me. Very grateful, thank you so muchPositive
    Professionalism …More
  • Avatar Lex Strider ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Absolutely a very professional lawyer. Very well read in the current law and more than willing to help if needed.
  • Avatar karim khalifa ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Mr. John he’s a professional he knows what he’s doing and he’s patient they recommend Him stronglyPositive
    Professionalism …More
  • Avatar James Haggard ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Great service, very knowledgable and happy to help with any questions I had
  • Avatar David Sustaita ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Quick to action and helpful and knowledgeable with entertainment industry based issues!
  • Avatar Chad Groves ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Responded on a holiday week. Very knowledgeable and reassuring.
  • Avatar Mark Fein ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Very professional
  • Avatar Bthomason903 Bthomason903 ★★★★★ 4 years ago
  • Avatar Anton Jasser ★★★★★ 4 years ago
  • Avatar Alma Garza ★★★★★ 4 years ago
  • Avatar Victory 2020 ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    I want to thank John T. Floyd and all of his team. He is the best lawyer who cares aboutHis clients and fights really hard to get the best outcome. He is a fighter and he is awesome!!!I … More recommend if any one needs criminal defense , he is the BEST. We had a really serious caseAnd we are very thankful for the outcome. Thank you John!!!!! God bless you!!!!!!
  • Avatar Alma Garcia Cunningham ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    The attorneys at John T. Floyd Law Firm work diligently to achieve the best possible results for their clients. They are caring and knowledgeable professionals. Their expertise in the … More law and their experience as trial attorneys makes them the right choice as a defense attorney. I recommend this law firm highly.
  • Avatar Rajiv Patel ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    From beginning to end this firm handled my case like the top tier professionals they are. I would not trust ANYONE else with my legal needs after having less than stellar experiences … More with other teams. Thank you Floyd!!!
  • Avatar Jose Tapia ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    I really felt like the team cared about my case and am super satisfied with the outcome. Would not recommend anyone else!
  • Avatar Sagar Patel ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    These guys do amazing work and have phenomenal service! Hands down best in the Houston area!!
  • Avatar RAYNINN ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    John and Chris are true professionals! Love those guys like family!
  • Avatar Virginia Martin ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    Mr. Floyd and his team are very knowledgeable, informative, and helpful.
  • Avatar Darla Latham ★★★★★ 6 years ago
    A team you can depend on to stand up and fight for you to prove the truth the whole truth!
  • Avatar Veronica Elorza ★★★★★ 6 years ago
  • Avatar Karetta Lux ★★★★★ 7 years ago
    Mr. John T. Floyd represented me.I couldn't be happier with the outcome he managed to achieve on an VERY Important case that was dismissed the day of Trial. He is patient & … More very knowledgeable of the legal system. I HIGHLY recommend him to anyone in need of a lawyer!John, I am forever grateful & satisfied with the effort you put forth & all you did for me. Thank you isn't enough!God bless you & your family!
  • Avatar GM ★★★★★ 8 years ago
    The John T. Floyd Law Firm assisted me, and I can tell you that the attorney took the time to answer my questions, and I didn't feel rushed or dismissed as I have experienced in … More the past with attorneys. The attorney was very nice and extremely knowledgeable. Initial impressions and continued excellent customer service are big factors for me and as such I would highly recommend this firm.
  • Avatar Sandra Bivens ★★★★★ 8 years ago
    I thank you for your efforts to help Felons regain their Civil rights, and for the information on possession , I am A convicted Felon, no violent history. I am an expert shot, I am … More 76 yoa, and very concerned about the present lake of Security in our State and Country. God Bless and Prosper you in your efforts, Your friend, Sonny Bivens
  • Avatar Mike Kittelson ★★★★★ 8 years ago
    I really appreciated both Chris and John helping with my legal questions and concerns. Both are good guys and I would not hesitate to recommend them.
  • Avatar Robert Hair ★★★★★ 8 years ago
    Extremely helpful!!! Helping me understand the law.

John T. Floyd is Board Certified in Criminal Law By the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

Request A Confidential Consultation

Fields marked with an * are required

"*" indicates required fields

I Have Read The Disclaimer*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Our Location

Copyright © 2024 John T. Floyd Law Firm • All rights reserved.