Blog
The Paradox that is The War on Drugs
While Some Politicians Question Cost Of Incarcerating Drug Offenders, Big Money and Bigger Forfeitures Keeps Texas Tough On Drug Crime
By: Houston Criminal Lawyer John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
An increasing number of states have abandoned the traditional notion that the best way to combat drug use and trafficking is through the costly practice of extended incarceration. The Wall Street Journal last month reported that Kentucky joined the ranks of South Carolina, Colorado and New York to enact laws that shift spending into less expensive and more effective rehabilitation and intensive drug testing programs. Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania are currently considering bills that would reduce drug penalties and direct some drug defendants into treatment programs.
The newspaper reported that while these drug law changes “are part of broader belt-tightening efforts, they also reflect a growing belief among state lawmakers that prosecuting drug offenders aggressively often fails to treat their underlying addiction problems and can result in offenders cycling in and out of prisons for years …” Many of these lawmakers are conservative Republicans, like State Senator Tom Jensen in Kentucky, who said he had long “bought into the tough-on-crime concept” and embracing the “rehabilitative model” has been “an education process.”
But not all conservative-leaning people are convinced. For example, Scott Burns, executive director of the National District Attorneys Association, told the WSJ that “you need to have serious consequences or repercussions in place if people use heroin, Oxycontin and other drugs.” Aaron Negangard, chairman of the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council, agreed: “Crime will go up in five to 10 years and people will wonder why. It’s because we are letting too many people out of prison.”
FBI crime-gathering data shows that between 1980 and 2009 drug arrests in this country climbed from approximately 580,000 to 1.6 million. Texas was one of the states that watched its prison population rise exponentially until 2007 when, as WSJ reported, the state “began shifting more drug offenders away from prison, which helped hold down the inmate population. The changes cost $241 million, less than half what the state anticipated it would have spent to build three new prisons. The impact on the crime rate isn’t clear.”
Grits For Breakfast reported recently that in 2009 the Texas Department of Public Safety Uniform Crime Report revealed the state law enforcement made 133,191 arrests for drug possession which represented 88.9 percent of all arrests made for drug-related crime. And, more significantly, nearly 60 percent of all the 2009 drug arrests involved marijuana, “mostly for user-level possession.” Criminal justice observers like Grits point out that simply “reducing small pot possession charges to Class C misdemeanors” would free of valuable county jail space, conserve indigent defenders resources, and allow a greater police presence in high crime areas.
While some politicians in Texas may have softened their “tough-on-crime” approach to some drug offenders, most will continue to impose relatively stiff penalties for both drug possession and drug trafficking because of the profit motive for law enforcement and the related support industries that suckle off the war on drugs. The drug war has created a penal system that has evolved into a “prison industrial complex,” a group symbiotic businesses that feed off the current system of detecting, detaining, treating and punishing drug offenders. Exacerbating this reality is the fact that law enforcement now fully appreciates that, in these tough economic times, they can increase their funding through asset and property forfeitures related to drug crimes.
The harsh reality is that drug possession, no matter how slight, fuels drug trafficking. “Low-level” users make up the social demand that drug traffickers fulfill. And as long as possession is illegal, it will increase the level of trafficking which will allow law enforcement to make more “contraband” seizures which fill their coffers with drug money. For example, in one west Texas county, Miller County, in 2009, DPS officers made two drug busts that resulted in the seizure of $11.7 million—$9 million in one bust and $2.7 in another. During the same week the $2.7 million was seized, yet another DPS trooper in Hudspeth County made a drug stop that netted $850,000. The individuals arrested in the Miller County busts spent a few days in jail before being released allowing the local district attorney to seek forfeiture of the seized money, without opposition, pursuant to Art. 59.02 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
In order to secure a forfeiture of “drug cash,” the State must prove “by a preponderance of the evidence” that the cash is contraband; in other words, that it is “proceeds from illegal drug trafficking.” Although Chapter 59 does not provide any “additional evidentiary requirements” beyond proof that the money is “contraband,” the Texas Supreme Court has ruled that the State must also “show probable cause for seizing a person’s property.” In the context of forfeiture statutes, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has held that probable cause is a reasonable belief that “a substantial connection exists between the property to be forfeited and the criminal activity defined by the statute.” Texas courts, interpreting Chapter 59, have ruled that “contraband is money derived from or intended for use in manufacturing, delivering, selling, or possessing a controlled substance.”
Art. 59.02(c) provides an “innocent owner” affirmative defense. Under this defense, once the State satisfies its “preponderance of the evidence” burden, the burden shifts to the party claiming the “innocent owner” defense to prove that he/she acquired “ownership interest in the property prior to, or during, the act giving rise to forfeiture.”
The “innocent owner” defense is not a real defense in many drug money seizure cases, especially when law enforcement decides to release the suspects without charges. The individuals caught with the money are often released, never to be seen again, paving the way for a forfeiture free from any contest under Chapter 59. The Houston Chronicle reported this past January that drug cartels smuggle “billions of dollars” each year back into Mexico and Columbia. The money comes from those “possession” cases involving millions of “low level users.” The Chronicle report came on the heels of $523,000 being found in the cab of a “flatbed trailer truck” in Fort Bend County. “[The drug cartels] have probably done this a 1,000 times and got sloppy and relaxed [on this one],” Capt. R. Glendening of the Fort Bend County Narcotics Task Force told the newspaper.
Houston is a focal point of this drug money smuggling activity. That was evidenced in the Fort Bend seizure case. Narcotics investigators, who would not disclose what made them “flag” the truck for surveillance, said the truck, which was loaded with sandbags, was picked up in Houston, followed everywhere the driver went, and ultimately pulled over in Fort Bend County. A broken tail light gave them the “probable cause” needed to stop the truck. It will never be known if the broken tail light was due to the carelessness of the smugglers or an enterprising undercover drug operative. But it was probably carelessness in this particular case because the smugglers barely concealed the cash which was “shrink-wrapped in plastic and sitting under a cot,” making it easy suspiciously to find.
The truck driver, a U.S. citizen from Mission, was released from custody. To reclaim the money, he would have to present the “innocent owner” defense under Chapter 59 in a forfeiture proceeding. Clendening would only tell the Chronicle that the driver was a “blue collar guy” who owned a “small trucking company” and had fell under the sway of the drug cartels.
One thing is absolutely certain: the smuggling of drug money back to the cartels in Mexico and Columbia is “big business.” The Austin Statesman reported in February that since 2006, some$140 million dollars in drug money has been seized along the Texas border. Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steve McCraw testified recently before state’s Senate Finance Committee during budget hearings, informing lawmakers that federal law enforcement officials estimate that as much as $28 billion in “drug money” leaves the United States via the Mexican border each year. McCraw told lawmakers that “two-thirds” of the cash flows though Texas.
Finance Committee Chairman Steve Ogden, R-Bryan, was impressed, commenting out loud: “That’s the Medicaid budget.” The flow of money is so staggering that some lawmakers like Ogden have raised the possibility that seized drug money could be utilized to finance “additional border security checkpoints” to seize even more drug money. McCraw definitely knew how to sing a tune in concert with the expectations of the lawmakers, telling them that with “additional officers and checkpoints” to examine “trucks and other vehicles headed into Mexico,” Texas could increase drug money seizures by 12 percent.
The Statesman reported that currently a “percentage of the seized money goes to prosecutors,” and, according to McGraw, the rest goes “into state coffers, depending on whether federal police agencies are involved in the bust.”
The amount of money certainly had lawmakers seeing “proverbial green” as they realized more of the seized drug money could be legislatively earmarked to offset budget shortfalls. “If we’re going to spend $50 million [to seize more drug money] we ought to get some credit for this in the budget,” Odgen told him fellow lawmakers. The Committee Chairman then instructed the state’s comptroller’s office “to investigate how much the state might legally lay claim to in a two-year period so it could be used in creating a budget.”
But State Sen. Dan Patrick, R-Houston, cautioned the committee that lawmakers did not want to put the DPS “on a sales commission” by funding it based on the level of drug money it seizes. While Director McGraw may have appreciated the warning, he nonetheless encouraged lawmakers to get more involved in the “drug money” business, telling them “the money, the cash is out there.”
Of course, McGraw had self-serving interests in dangling the “drug money” seizures before lawmakers who, because of a $27 billion dollar shortfall, were contemplating a reduction of as many as 650 DPS employees, a $110 million cut in “operating funds,” and even administrative changes that would require “troopers [to] pay to have their uniforms cleaned and pay more for insurance and benefits.”
While many other states, as reported in the WSJ, are reducing incarceration and investing more in “drug rehabilitation” programs, Texas lawmakers are seriously considering cutting 1800 prison jobs, shutting down 3,000 prison beds, and, as the Statesman reported, “downsizing rehabilitation and treatment programs that keep prisoner numbers from growing …” State Senator John Whitmire, D-Houston, warned that “in the next two years, when there is a moderate growth projected in our offender populations, we’re thinking about closing beds and laying off 1,800 people—including 636 front-line correctional officers. That’s nuts.”
What’s worse is this prospect: the need for seizing more drug money heading out of the country could possibly translate into lesser investigations detecting “drug smuggling” into the country. The amount of drug money leaving the country is tied directly into the amount of drugs entering the country. The math is easy: more drugs, more sales, more money that must be smuggled out, and the greater likelihood of drug money seizures. And with lawmakers shutting down drug treatment and other rehabilitation programs, the “revolving door” of repeat drug possession/user offenders will steadily increase—and with the reduction of available prison bed space, these offenders will be re-cycled back into the community after each arrest which will ensure the “steady flow” of drug money out of the country.
And, my friends, that’s called the “drug business.” Although law enforcement officials will never admit it, they now have mutual interests in increased “drug sales” because, like the cartels, they want, and need, the “drug money.” We expect Chapter 59 forfeiture cases will skyrocket over the next few years.
The bad news for law abiding citizens who believe in saving cash is that if you are stopped with a bundle of hard earned green backs, it is likely to be seized as “possible “drug money.” So, you better be prepared to prove it is legitimate and fight to get it back, otherwise it will designated for a down payment on a new cruiser for the sheriff’s department.
By: Houston Criminal Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
John Floyd is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Take the first step toward protecting your freedom by contacting us now
Testimonials
John T. Floyd Law Firm
3730 Kirby Drive # 750, Houston
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Outstanding!Professional knowledge. Rich experiences. Good outcome.
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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 !! 👏👏👏👏
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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
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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 .
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I am very happy today my case dismissed God bless Mr John T Floyd very good lawyer thanks you so mush sir
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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. -
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
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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John has given Excellent service and have been very friendly and extremely helpful to us. I highly recommend this law firm
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This law firm is diligent, responsive and succeeded in getting my case dismissed. 10/10 would recommend.
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super knowledgeable, good attitude, would definitely recommend him
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Very helpful, knowledgeable and honest.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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 ⭐️.
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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
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Very helpful highly recommended for any Question / case will definitely keep he's name and number for any other legal advice
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Excellent service and a lawyer that doesn't lie. He does what he says. JW recommends him.
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One of the best services Ive used in awhile. Thank you for all the help and answers. You got my life back. Thank youPositive
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Im impressed. This guy was polite and professional and most important...he listened.
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Good experience and very good lawyer
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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 😊
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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
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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.
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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
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Very professional, great quality work, and very friendly and helpful. Overall, their service is phenomenal. I recommend Mr. Floyd to anyone.
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Mr. Floyd took the time to explain his experience with the law to me in layman's terms. Definitely give him a call.Positive
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He was honest , knowledgeable , and professional about what we talked about. Most lawyers are just about the money , but not john.Positive
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He was very truthful and honest with us very great man I would recommend him and we would use him again
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Very professional honest and works hard currently working my husband’s appeal I pray he does his best workPositive
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I contacted John T. Floyd Law firm and I was very satisfied with service extremely helpful and friendly thank you Mr. FloydPositive
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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
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I would highly recommend Mr Floyd. He was very helpful and knowledge with a legal question I had.Positive
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He explained my case better then any other lawyerPositive
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Very informative
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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.
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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🙏🏼🙏🏼
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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Knows his stuff and well respected with DA and judges. I have referred him a couple times and every client has been satisfied
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John is beyond knowledgeable! If I decide to pursue my case any further I would only have him represent me.
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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
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Absolutely a very professional lawyer. Very well read in the current law and more than willing to help if needed.
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Mr. John he’s a professional he knows what he’s doing and he’s patient they recommend Him stronglyPositive
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Great service, very knowledgable and happy to help with any questions I had
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Quick to action and helpful and knowledgeable with entertainment industry based issues!
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Responded on a holiday week. Very knowledgeable and reassuring.
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Very professional
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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!!!!!!
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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.
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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!!!
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I really felt like the team cared about my case and am super satisfied with the outcome. Would not recommend anyone else!
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These guys do amazing work and have phenomenal service! Hands down best in the Houston area!!
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John and Chris are true professionals! Love those guys like family!
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Mr. Floyd and his team are very knowledgeable, informative, and helpful.
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A team you can depend on to stand up and fight for you to prove the truth the whole truth!
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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!
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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.
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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
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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.
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Extremely helpful!!! Helping me understand the law.
John T. Floyd is Board Certified in Criminal Law By the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
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