Blog

TRANSGENDER RIGHTS-A DEVELOPING LEGAL FRONT

May 28 2011
Posted By:
Transgendered Issues Confound Courts and Prison Officials
By: Houston Criminal Lawyer John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair

The case of Justin Purdue has captured the interest and emotions of residents of Wharton County, as well as Harris County, for much of the past year. Purdue was born anatomically a man on June 4, 1975 in Camel, California but at some point in his life he believed he was more suited as a woman. He went through several medical procedures to change his appearance so as to be better able to live socially as a woman, although he continued to maintain male genitalia. In 1996 Pardue filed a pro se petition for a name change in Harris County changing his male name from “Justin” to “Nikki Paige Purdue.” Between 1999 and 2007 she used the name of Nikki Purdue-Mata because of a marriage to a man named Emilo Mata. The couple divorced in 2007.

Sometime after her divorce from Mata, she met and married firefighter Thomas Trevino Araguz III. In August 2008 they were married. The firefighter was killed in a blaze last July at an egg farm in Wharton County. Araguz had previously been married to Heather Delgado with whom he had two children. And that’s where this case becomes a thorny legal issue. The heirs of Thomas Araguz stood to gain $600,000 in death benefits. Nikki Araguz claimed, as the “widow,” she was entitled to the benefits. Heather Delgado and other Araguz family members did not agree. They believed the death benefits should go to Araguz’s two children, ages 7 and 10.

The Araguz family filed a lawsuit to block Nikki Araguz from receiving the death benefits. The family claimed that Nikki was a male at the time of the marriage to Thomas and, thus, under Texas Law, the marriage was void—a law which has been upheld in the Texas appellate process. Nikki countered that her deceased husband knew about her gender before the marriage and that they lived as a same-sex married couple throughout their marriage. While the Araguz family did not believe Thomas’ knew Nikki was anatomically a man, it defies reason to accept that the firefighter lived with Nikki for nearly a year before his death without knowing her birth gender. Although Nikki had previously requested the State of California to issue her a birth certificate designating him as a “female,” she later asked that state to reissue that birth certificate in July 2010, apparently in either anticipation or in defense of the Araguz family lawsuit.

The sole issue faced by Wharton County District Judge Randy Clapp was not whether the Araguz(s) lived as a married same-sex couple but whether the 2008 marriage itself was legal. The Houston Chronicle reported on May 26, 2010 that Judge Clapp had ruled in favor of the Araguz family by declaring the marriage between Thomas and Nikki Araguz was illegal under Texas law and, thus, null and void. Frank Mann III, the attorney representing the Araguz family, released a prepared statement carried in the Chronicle which read: “It is our understanding, having read a draft order circulated by Judge Clapp, that he has ruled that any marriage between Thomas Araguz and Nikki Araguz is void as a matter of law.”

Transgender rights advocates were not pleased with Judge Clapp’s ruling. Noel Freeman, president of the Houston Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Political Caucus, told the Chronicle that he was disappointed because Nikki Araguz had presented legal documents, including the 2010 California birth certificate, designating her as a female. “Here you have a birth certificate, a legally binding document, which the court has chosen to completely ignore,” Freeman told the Chronicle. “The transgender community jumps through a lot of legal hoops—records of sex changes, amended birth certificates—to try to live the same life that everybody else gets to live. This is a very frustrating setback.”

Apparently Judge Clapp’s ruling, according to Lou Weaver, president of the Transgender Foundation of America, was greatly influenced by a medical doctor’s testimony that Nikki was born a male.

Nikki Araguz vows to appeal Judge Clapp’s decision all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Recently, in sexual civil commitment case, the First Circuit Court of Appeals, in Battista v. Clarke, had to take on a case dealing with transgender rights. Sandy Battista was born “David Megarry.” In 1983 a state court in Massachusetts convicted him for the offenses of rape of a child, robbery and kidnapping. In 1996, while still an inmate in the Massachusetts prison system, Megarry filed a petition that changed his birth name David Megarry to his transgender name Sandy Battista. To this day he remains anatomically a man.

The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th Ed. 1994) recognized “gender identity disorder” (“GID”) as a psychological condition which involves what the First Circuit called “a strong identification with the other gender.” The psychiatric association states its “diagnostic criteria” not only includes “cross-gender identification” but also “clinically significant distress in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.”

Following his 1996 name change, Battista began a legal campaign to have the Massachusetts Corrections Department (“Department”) recognize him as a female, including demands for female hormone therapy and the right to wear female clothing. He filed two lawsuits seeking to force the Department to recognize these “rights.” And although a “consultant” for the Department diagnosed Battistia with GID in 1997, the Department refused to provide the inmate with any additional evaluation and treatment until 2004. That decision came only after Battista had been released from prison and civilly committed to the Massachusetts Center for Sexually Dangerous Persons—a facility in which “sexually dangerous persons” can be held indefinitely until a determination is made that they no longer pose threat to the free community. The center is an all-male facility that detains three classes of sex offenders: criminals participating in treatment programs; civilly committed residents; and those awaiting adjudication as “sexually dangerous persons.” Massachusetts law requires that the latter two classes be confined separately from the “criminal” class.

In response to one of Battistia’s lawsuits, the Department received continued medical assessments from its staff recommending hormone therapy but the
Department said it would not implement these recommendations until all “security concerns” were evaluated. In 2008 the Department “first security review” found, as reported by the First Circuit, “that a feminine appearance would endanger Battista” because “sexual contacts or assaults by other detainees would be made more likely by female clothing and accessories and the enhancement of breasts due to hormone therapy.” In December of 2008 a United States District Court was not impressed by what it called a “fairly cursory” security review and ordered the Department to provide Battista with psychotherapy, access to women’s attire and accessories, monthly reports on his condition, and a “recommendation” on hormone therapy after a six-month review.

Six months later doctors again prescribed hormones for Battista, and while the Department permitted a “first dose” of the treatment, it put all future treatments off until a “second security review” could be conducted. This second security review was released in September 2009 and it once again concluded that “the safety risk was too high.” This review relied heavily on the federal “Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003” which found that the risk of sexual assaults was higher in “treatment centers” than in prisons. The review concluded that since Battista had been civilly committed to a sex treatment center, the Department lacked the ability to transfer him to “another facility” where the risk of sexual assault would be less.

Battista filed yet a third lawsuit after which prompted the federal district court to conduct a bench trial in June and August 2010. Psychiatrist George Brown testified at this trial that Battista was both “eligible and ready for hormone treatment” and that the Department’s past treatment of her GID fell “below any reasonable standard of care.” He attributed Battista’s 2005 attempt at self-castration a direct result of this lack of treatment which could lead, as the First Circuit noted, “to an inadvertent death due to exsanguination.”

The federal court issued a preliminary injunction requiring the Department to provide Battista with “hormone therapy.” The court’s extensive factual and legal conclusions were based upon the U.S. Supreme Court’s “deliberate indifference” standard in prison medical cases which was announced in Estelle v. Gamble and defined in Farmer v. Brennan. Under the constitutional guidance of these two precedents, the court concluded that 1) Battista had established a “medical need” for hormone therapy which could cause “severe harm” if not provided; and 2) the Department’s refusal to provide this treatment had been “undercut by a collection of pretexts, delays, and misrepresentations.” The court’s ruling, however, was stayed pending the Department’s appeal to the First Circuit.

The First Circuit upheld the district court’s ruling, finding that “the focus of this appeal is narrow. The Department concedes that Battista suffers from GID and needs treatment and that hormone therapy has been recommended as medically necessary; but it says that security concerns reasonably underpin its refusal and contests the finding of deliberate indifference.”

The central issue before the First Circuit was the Department’s position that it had not acted in bad faith with its decision to deny Battista the undisputed need for medical treatment. The First Circuit firmly brushed aside this argument.

“ …. even without an evil motive, the district court could reasonably find that there had been ‘denial,’ ‘delay’ and ‘interference’ under Eighth Amendment precedent and that a reasonable professional judgment had not been exercised under [Youngberg v Romeo]. It has been fifteen years since Battista first asked for treatment, and for ten years, health professionals have been recommending hormone therapy as a necessary part of the treatment. When during the delay Battista sought to mutilate herself, the Department could be said to have known that Battista was in ‘substantial risk of serious harm.’

“But the question remains whether the withholding of hormone therapy was ‘wanton’ or outside the bounds of ‘reasonable professional judgment.’ Medical ‘need’ in real life is an elastic term: security considerations also matter at prisons or civil counterparts, and administrators have to balance conflicting demands. The known risk of harm is not conclusive: so long as the balancing judgments are within the realm of reason and made in good faith, the officials’ actions are not ‘deliberate indifference,’ or beyond ‘reasonable professional’ limits.

“Here, despite much early resistance, hormone therapy for GID is now provided in some cases in Massachusetts prisons. The defendants point to this to establish their good faith; Battista, to show that providing her the therapy would be consistent with security needs. Both positions are overstated. Hormone therapy has not been welcomed by the Department, but both the Treatment Center’s internal environment and Battista herself arguably presented added risks.

“The Treatment Center is the one facility where Battista can be housed as a civil inmate and, while the Department could establish a branch elsewhere, this would pose administrative difficulties and be isolating for Battista. The civil-side residents of the Treatment Center contain a disproportionate number of male sex offenders who might threaten one who presents herself as female. And Battista has a record of infractions and sexual contacts and risk-taking that colorably place her at greater risk from invited or uninvited sexual contact.

“Nor is Battista’s willingness to take risks for herself decisive. The defendants have an obligation to take reasonable measures to protect inmates, and Battista is quite likely to sue if preventable harm occurs. Battista will bear some of the risk of the hormone therapy, but not all of it. And, while she could be kept in protective custody available at the Treatment Center, this custody—as currently structured—involves confinement for most of the day and other disadvantages that Battista is unwilling to tolerate.

“The legal labels applied to facts are reviewed on appeal more closely than a district court fact-finding, but often with some deference to the district judge. Yet this would be a much harder case if defendants had proffered a persuasive and untainted professional judgment that—while hormone therapy would help Battista—the dangers, security costs and other impediments made it infeasible. For the problem is not one of callous guards or inept medical care but of conflicting considerations. As we said in an earlier case involving the Treatment Center:

“’Any professional judgment that decides an issue involving conditions of confinement must embrace security and administration, and not merely medical judgments․ The administrators are responsible to the state and to the public for making professional judgments of their own, encompassing institutional concerns as well as individual welfare. Nothing in the Constitution mechanically gives controlling weight to one set of professional judgments.’

“Yet in this instance, as the record now stands, the defendants have forfeited the advantage of deference. Initially, the district judge was far from anxious to grant the relief sought. It was only after what the judge perceived to be a pattern of delays, new objections substituted for old ones, misinformation and other negatives that he finally concluded that he could not trust the defendants in this instance. The details are laid out in his oral opinion and the record contains support for his conclusion.”

Transgender rights cases, both in the prison setting and in the free world, will unquestionably be addressed in many other courts. While some may see a man living as a woman as having a “mental disorder,” others see sexuality in less black and white terms; as a natural human right with many shades of grey, where sexual identity can only be determined from the individual perspective. While it is becoming settled that transgendered people are a recognizable class who enjoy a litany of medical rights, it is doubtful that this classification will be lead to a constitutional protection to marry over a state’s inherent right to define marriage. This will remain a hotly contested issue as the Araguz case exemplifies. While some states have recognized marriage to include legal unions between members of the same sex, Texas courts and the U.S. Congress with the Defense of Marriage Act have resisted social and political efforts to move into those hot waters. One thing is certain: the issue is far from resolved.

By: Houston Criminal Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
Houston Criminal Defense Attorney John Floyd is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

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 ★★★★★ 2 months 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 ★★★★★ 4 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 ★★★★★ 4 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 ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Outstanding!Professional knowledge. Rich experiences. Good outcome.
  • Avatar Arslan Tajammul ★★★★★ 5 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 ★★★★★ 6 months ago
  • Avatar Yoli ★★★★★ 6 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 ★★★★★ 10 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 ★★★★★ 10 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 ★★★★★ 10 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.