Blog

THE WAR ON TERROR ENJOYS RECENT VICTORIES

Nov 30 2008
Posted By:
Government Finally Reaches the Holy Land in Complex Case of Providing Financial Support to Terrorist

By: Houston Criminal Defense Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair

America has a disposition toward war. The nation was created through war, and except for brief periods of respite, America has been at war with itself and other countries throughout its history. When not at war with other nations, America has found a need to declare “war” on one social ill after another, particularly over the last five decades. Beginning with President Lyndon Johnson’s “war on poverty” through President George W. Bush’s “war on terror” following 9/11, government officials have consistently used a war slogan to justify one social crusade after another.

In 2007 we wrote in this column (under the title “The Holy Land Foundation Verdict”) about the efforts of the Bush administration, as part of its “war on terror,” to convict the Holy Land Foundation of Texas for terrorism-related activities. We will revisit some of the historical background of that column as a lead into this one.

Under its original name Occupied Land Fund, the Holy Land Foundation was established in California in 1989 by Ghassan Elashi and other Palestinian Activists. The purpose of the Foundation was to provide assistance to Palestinians displaced by a Palestinian uprising against Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. The uprising became known as the “intifada.” The most aggressive resistance in the intifada came from the Iranian-backed organization called Hamas which had been established in 1987. The political leader of Hamas, Mousa Abu Marzook, was married to Elashi’s cousin.

Three years later, in 1992, Holy Land moved its headquarters to Richardson, Texas. The Foundation came under the scrutiny of the governments of the United States and Israel the following year. An Illinois businessman named Muhammad Salah detained in Israel informed authorities that Holy Land, which had become America’s largest Muslim charity, was actually a front for Hamas. While he later claimed that he had provided information to the Israelis under torture, he told the authorities that Marzook, who was living in the U.S. at the time, had actually funded the creation of Holy Land with hundreds of thousands of dollars of start-up money.

Armed with the information provided by Salah, the FBI in October 1993 bugged a meeting at a Philadelphia hotel between Holy Land organizers and what the agency called “Hamas sympathizers.” The FBI captured conversations among the participants about how to raise money for Hamas without attracting the attention of U.S. authorities. Both groups knew U.S. law enforcement and intelligence agencies were on “high alert” following the February 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center.

By accident or design, the Salah information was leaked to the news media in late 1994 linking the Holy Land Foundation to Hamas. The Dallas Morning News took the lead in the media-based investigations uncovering ties between the Foundation and Hamas activists. Holy Land and other American-based Muslim groups expressed outraged, publicly denying any link between the Foundation and Hamas.

Nonetheless, United States law enforcement agencies stepped up their surveillance and investigations of the Foundation. In 1995 Marzook was detained by federal agents at the JFK International Airport in New York. The United States declared him a “specially designated terrorist.” These federal investigations reportedly developed troubling information that Holy Land was flying “militant clerics” with Hamas ties into the country to headline charity fundraisers in the United States. The clerics often called for a violent “jihad,” or holy war, against Israel. Hamas was promptly declared a “terrorist organization” by the United States.

Israel responded to these revelations by ordering the closure of a Holy Land office in 1996 in a Jerusalem suburb. The Israelis said the closure was due to the Foundation’s fundraising activities for a “foreign terrorist organization.” Israel pressured the United States to close the Foundation’s Richardson-based headquarters, but the U.S. refused to directly confront Holy Land. However, New York Senator Charles Schumer, an openly gay lawmaker with strong ties to the Israeli lobby, stepped up Congressional pressure on Holy Land by sponsoring legislation that made it a federal crime to raise money for foreign terrorist organizations. He called for a “federal investigation” into the “financial ties” between Hamas and Holy Land.

In 1997 the Commerce Department developed information that an Internet service provider and computer services firm called InfoCom had been set up in Richardson by Elashi’s family and funded by Marzook. The firm was located next door to Holy Land. The department had learned that InfoCom had contacted Saddam Hussein’s government about setting up a domain extension “.ig”. The United States responded to these developments by deporting Marzook, although he had not been indicted for any criminal wrongdoing.

By 1999 federal investigators had learned that InfoCom had violated export laws, as the Dallas Morning News reported, “by doing business with customers in Syria and Libya, both of which the U.S. considered state sponsors of terrorism.” Pointing out that allegations involving Holy Land and Hamas had been swirling since 1996, President Bill Clinton’s State Department considered but stopped short of adding the Foundation to a list of foreign terrorist organizations which already included Hamas.

Federal investigators continued to work the export law case against InfoCom for the new two years before shutting the company down just six days before the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers. The firm and its Muslim supporters vehemently protested the law enforcement action, denying any links to either terrorism or Holy Land. The FBI responded to the public criticism by pointing out that it had seized from InfoCom 20 boxes of Holy Land records that included the charity group’s bank records, correspondence and videos.

The FBI examination of these boxes of documents had barely begun when the 9/11 attacks occurred. The agency’s investigation surged into warp speed, pulling together what the Dallas Morning News called “eight years of intelligence and evidence on Holy Land.” Armed with this evidence and a political climate bordering on hysteria, the FBI stormed Holy Land’s offices with search warrants and authority to seize its assets.

Standing in the Rose Garden on December 4, 2001, President Bush announced that he had ordered the Richardson-based office of the Holy Land Foundation and its offices in three other cities to be closed. Calling the group a “front for Hamas,” Bush ordered all its assets frozen. Federal investigators estimated that the group had raised $57 million between 1992 and 2001 – $12 million of which had been sent charities connected to Hamas since 1995 when that group was designated as a foreign terrorist organization.

On July 7, 2004 Elashi, his four brothers and InfoCom were convicted in federal court of shipping computers to Libya and Syria and falsifying the value of other shipments. Marzook, a Louisiana Tech graduate, had been indicted but deported before the indictment was handed down.

Two and one-half weeks after this conviction, Elashi, five other men, and Holy Land are named in a 42-count indictment in Dallas. The indictment charged that the charity group and its officers had engaged in a conspiracy to deal with terrorists and launder $12 million to them.

On April 16, 2007 Elashi began serving a 6 ½-year federal prison system imposed following his conviction in the InfoCom case.

On July 16, 2007 jury selection began in the Holy Land case. It took eight days to select a jury, and another two months before the case actually went to the jury on September 20, 2007. The jury was in turmoil from the very beginning. Four days into the deliberations the jury foreman sent a note to trial judge Joe Fish saying “the jury is having trouble staying on task with the charge.” That was clearly understandable. After sitting through nearly two months of “arcane testimony,” the jury had to listen to what the Morning News called “magazine-length legal instructions.” The jury instructions were in fact 54 pages in length – a daunting task to comprehend.

In the September 26 note to trial judge Joe Fish, the jury foreman said that jurors frequently attacked each other and that “opinions, not facts, are discussed. Some are closed to deliberations, which shuts off conversations that are meaningful.”

On October 18, 2007 the jury reached a verdict, but Judge Fish was out of town attending a conference. He ordered the jury verdict sealed until he retuned. Four days later the verdict was un-sealed before the judge, but Fish and courtroom observers were stunned when several jurors told the judge that they no longer agreed with the jury decision. The jury foreman was even more stunned.

“When we voted, there was no issue in the vote,” she told the judge. “No one spoke up any different. I really don’t understand where it is coming from. All 12 made that decision.”

Judge Fish promptly ordered the jury back into deliberations only to have the jurors return a hour later with one of them still “uneasy” about the panel’s decisions. Judge Fish was forced to declare a mistrial.

William Neal is the only juror to speak publicly about the deliberations. He said he wasn’t surprised by the hold-out juror who, as the Morning News reported, “sometimes dozed off during the trial.

“She was sleeping during deliberations,” Neal said. “we’d hear her snore, and we’d say, ‘Wake up!’ she said she was bullied. She felt so threatened, she would break down. What do you do when someone cries? I stopped being nice. ‘This isn’t fun and games,’ I told them. ‘This is not about personal feelings’.”

Neal described for the media an eerie scene in the judge’s chambers after Fish had declared the mistrial involving the holdout juror.

“She looked at the judge and said she was confused,” Neal reported. “He [Fish] just looked at her. There’s not much you can say to that. Ignorance is a formidable weapon. You can’t attack it.”

“I’ve never seen anything like what happened yesterday,” said former Dallas federal prosecutor John Helms the day after the mistrial. “It looks like they had four days to sit at home and think about it.”

Some 200 Holy Land supporters, and the Elashi family in particular, were elated with the trial’s outcome.

“Like Rosa Parks once was persecuted for simply sitting in a front seat of a bus, my dad was singled out for feeding, clothing and educating the children of Palestine,” said Noor Elashi, daughter of Ghassan Elashi.

“We’ll be all right,” said Shukri Abu Baker, a former Holy Land CEO, told a United Church of Christ minister there to support the group.

“We’re in goods hands,” he added, looking up to the ceiling.

Nihad Awad, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, compared the government’s action in the Holy Land case to McCarthyism in the 1950s.

“Today’s campaign has a different name and a different target,” he said. “The campaign is anti-terrorism and the target is the American Muslim community.”

After fourteen years of investigation, nearly two months of trial, 19 days of jury deliberations, four days of waiting in limbo, and a lone juror holdout that prompted a mistrial, the government announced it would retry the case. The government presented its case.

The government kept its promise this year. A jury announced on November 24, 2008, after only eight days to deliberations, that it had found all the Holy Land defendants guilty of all 108 counts charged in the original indictment. It proved to be one of the hardest fought and costliest victories in the Bush administration’s “war on terror.”

“[It is] a great day for the U.S.,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Roper said after the convictions. “Money is the lifeblood of terrorists, plain and simple. The jury’s decision attacks terrorism at its core. The jury’s decision [also] demonstrates that U.S. citizens will not tolerate those who provide financial support to terrorist organizations.”

All told, it took the United States government fifteen years and cost untold millions to secure the “jury’s decision.”

This time relatives of the defendants left the courtroom somber, although one female relative said loudly: “My dad’s not a criminal. They treated him like an animal.”

Those comments didn’t set well with court personnel who instructed other family members to calm her down.

Elashi and Abu-Baker were convicted of a combined 69 counts, including money laundering, tax fraud, and supporting a designated terrorist. Three other defendants were convicted on a lesser number of counts: three counts of conspiracy against Mufid Adbulgader and Abdulrahman Odeh, and one count of conspiracy to support a terrorist organization. Holy Land itself was convicted of all 32 counts leveled against the organization.

Citing the defendants’ ties to the Middle East and the lengthy sentences that probably awaited them, U.S. District Judge Jorge Solis ordered all of them taken into immediate custody. Indeed, the sentences could be lengthy: supporting a terrorist organization carries a maximum 15 years on each count and money laundering carries a maximum of 20 years on each count.

“This is definitely the most notable victory that the government has had in this type of case,” former federal prosecutor Matthew Orwig told the media after the convictions. “[But] even this one was very difficult to come by.”

Not everyone believed the convictions were a “victory.”

“We respect the jury’s decision, but we disagree and we think the defendants are completely innocent,” Khalil Meek, longtime spokesman for the Muslim community in North Texas including a group of Holy Land Foundation supporters called Hungry for Justice, told the New York Times. “For the last two years, we’ve watched this trial unfold, and we have yet to see any evidence of a criminal act introduced to a jury. The jury found that humanitarian aid is a crime.”

Therein lies the problem. A primary objective of the American government is to isolate individual terrorists and terrorist groups. Once these individuals are designated by the State Department as terrorists, no other individual or group, no matter how well-intentioned, can provide financial assistance or aid to these individuals and groups without running afoul of tough federal laws.

“We intend to appeal the verdict, and we remain convinced that we will win,” Meek said.

Former Fort Worth Star-Telegram reporter and daughter of Ghassan Elashi, Noor Elashi, was devastated after the verdict: “I feel heartbroken that a group of my fellow Americans fell for the prosecution’s fear-mongering theory. This is truly a low point for the United States of America, but this is not over.”

The Holy Land verdict came on the heels of another terrorist-related verdict announced by a Manhattan federal jury on November 20, 2008 convicting two arms dealers in an alleged plot to aid terrorists. The jury reached its verdict after being told by prosecutors that the arms merchants, a Syrian native named Monzer al-Kassar and a Chilean named Luis Felipe Moreno Godoy, planned to sell millions of dollars in weapons that would be used to kill Americans.

The jury reached its verdict after only six hours of deliberations following a two-week trial that, according to the New York Times, “was full of intrigue, and evidence about the shadowy world of international arms deadling.” The Times reported that prosecutors told the jury that Kassar and Godoy had agreed to sell 15 surface-to-air missiles, 4,000 grenades, nearly 9,000 assault rifles, and thousands of pounds of C-4 explosives to FARC guerillas in Columbia for a profit of more than one million dollars.

Al-Kassar and Godoy were both convicted on five counts of money laundering, and conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and to kill Americans. They now face terms up to life imprisonment on February 18, 2009 when U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff will impose sentencing on them.
A factor that will certainly be considered in al-Kassar’s sentencing was his involvement in the 1985 hijacking of the cruise ship Achille Lauro during which a 69-year-old old, and wheel-chair bound, American passenger named Leon Klinghoffer was shot and thrown into the sea. Al-Kassar was later acquitted in Spain on charges flowing from that hijacking.

The New York Times reported that members of the Klinghoffer family, including his daughter Lisa, attended most of the Manhattan trial.

“We’re happy to see justice done,” Lisa Klinghoffer told the New York Times after the verdict.

These two cases offer a look at the diverse nature of the “war on terror.” The Holy Land case involved individuals who believed they were providing humanitarian aid to people in need. Al-Kassar and Godoy are hard-core arms merchants with longstanding ties to terrorists and terrorist groups. They clearly had an intent not only to harm American interests but kill Americans as well. There has never been any real credible evidence that the Holy Land Foundation or any of its members intended to harm American interests or kill Americans. They simply provided financial assistance for humanitarian reasons to a group and individuals designated by our State Department as terrorists.

The contradiction in the two cases is staggering. Al-Kassar and Godoy are terrorists, by any definition. The American government has a legitimate national security interests to bring them to justice and remove them from the international terrorism marketplace. But the government crusade – some would call a vendetta – against Holy Land does not remove “terrorists” from the world terrorism marketplace. The government will simply send people to a federal prison for a long time for providing humanitarian aid to needy people through the wrong group of people.

By: Houston Criminal Defense Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair

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 ★★★★★ 4 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 ★★★★★ 8 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.