Blog
INADVERENT TRIAL ERROR COSTLY FOR CLIENT
Offer of Proof; Preserving Error for Appellate Review under Rule 103(a) (2)
By: Houston Criminal Defense Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
In a recent article (“False Forensics: An Attorney’s Worst Nightmare.” 05-01-09), we reported on the increasing problems associated with the specialized field of forensic science. Prestigious organizations and scientists are calling now for a National Institute of Forensic Science with strict standards and enforcement mechanisms set up to insure that only truthful and valid forensic evidence is used to convict criminal defendants. It was faulty forensic science and lack of professional standards that prompted a former Houston Police Department crime lab technician to testify falsely in the rape and robbery trial of Gary Alvin Richard in 1987. Richard was recently released from prison after serving 22 years on a life sentence for violent crimes he did not commit. He case marked the fourth criminal defendant wrongfully convicted in Harris County because HPD crime lab technicians either lied or misrepresented forensic evidence test results to produce criminal convictions for unethical county prosecutors.
In our “False Forensics” blog, we concluded by saying: “Because of all the recent revelations and developments in the forensic science system, criminal defense attorneys now have an increased responsibility to challenge all forensic evidence offered at a criminal trial; to demand the methods used for gathering, processing, and preservation of that evidence; and to request for discovery of all notes by any analysts testing the evidence. Defense attorneys can no longer take this evidence as ‘scientifically’ infallible. Not only must defense lawyers thoroughly cross-examine these pro-prosecution witnesses about testing methodology, they must also identify all the analysts and support personnel involved in the testing process. Finally, defense attorneys must press for disclosure of testing mistakes made by the testifying ‘expert’ as well as all other mistakes made by others in the crime lab for which he works. This information goes to the heart of ‘reliability’ of the expert testimony, an issue open to cross-examination in Texas criminals.”
A decision by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals (“CCA”),Woodall v. State , issued on April 29, 2009 not only revised the manner in which expert testimony and evidence must be challenged but underscored the responsibility of defense counsel to properly object to this kind of testimony in order to preserve the issue for review.1/TheWoodall case involved a DWI conviction obtained in Harrison County. The Sixth District Court of Appeals (“Sixth District”) had reversed his conviction on February 22, 2007.2/The Sixth District had seven other DWI cases pending before it at the time, all raising the same issue decided in theWoodall case. The Sixth District consolidated these seven cases and overturned the convictions in each on March 7, 2007. None of the seven cases were designated for publication. The CCA granted the state’s petition for discretionary review in all eight cases and consolidated them for one decision.
The issue upon which the Sixth District based its reversals involved the science associated with the Intoxilyzer 5000, a machine that tests samples of breath for alcohol content. The attorneys in all the cases, except forWoodall’s attorney, filed motions to cross-examine the State’s expert on the operation of the Intoxilyzer 5000 and each motion listed the following eight areas of concern about the internal workings of this breath testing machine:
- The simulator, which the state presents as proof that the machine is working properly on the date in question, is based on Henry’s Law. It requires that the simulator is maintained at a constant temperature, in a close container, and at a constant pressure. It simulates a person which is offered to give a sample of their breath [sic]. The human body is not a close container which prevents a constant pressure and the temperature of the breath is unknown to the machine.
- The partition ratio between the gas above the fluid and the substance in the fluid is incorrect as it relates to the partition ratio assumed by the machine and the temperature of the breath is unknown to the machine.
- The machine heats certain parts that are used to produce a result including the collection chamber to between 115 deg. To [sic] 145 deg. Which effects [sic] the breath sample by producing a false high.
- The temperature of the human breath is unknown to the machine and has no way [sic] of measuring the same in order to give an accurate result. The temperature of the breath is above 34 deg. The [sic] results will be a false high.
- A rise of three (3) deg. C will increase the results by a false high of .02. A body temperature of 37 deg. C is 98.6 deg. F. which is normal body temperature.
- The Intoxilyzer is not specific to Ethel [sic] alcohol and that others substances [sic] will indicate a false high in the results.
- The Intoxilyzer has a slop or tolerance or error factor of .02.
- That if the temperature of the simulator is unknown to the operator he would not be able to predict the simulator results.
The district court denied each of the motions, stating that it had tried many DWI cases involving the Intoxilyzer 5000 and had never heard “one shred of evidence from an expert that would indicate any problem with the machine.” In effect, the trial court ruled that the machine was patently reliable and, therefore, the court would not permit cross examination of the State’s expert about its reliability.
The CCA began its legal analysis with a discussion of the purpose of Rule 103(a)(2) of the Texas Rules of Evidence. This rule limits the scope of issues that may be appealed when a trial court either excludes certain evidence or limits its use. With respect to exclusion of evidence, Rule 103(a)(2) prohibits an error about the exclusion being presented on appeal “unless a substantial right of the party is affected” and the “substance of the evidence was made known to the court by offer, or was apparent from the context within which questions were asked.”
Rule 103(a)(2) provides two ways for defense counsel to make an offer of proof: either in a question-and-answer form, or in the form of a concise statement by counsel. If defense counsel elects the latter method of proof, the concise statement must include, as the CCA stated, “a reasonably specific summary of the evidence offered and must state the relevance of the evidence unless the relevance is apparent, so that the court can determine whether the evidence [was] relevant and admissible.”
The purpose of the evidentiary procedure involving offer of proof is to create a record from which an appeals court can determine whether the exclusion of any evidence by the trial court was erroneous and harmful. The CCA noted that an underlying purpose for the procedure is to give a trial judge an opportunity to reconsider his/her ruling after the actual evidence has been presented.
More than two decades ago the CCA, inVirts v. State , held that there is a distinction between the general evidentiary purpose of Rule 103(a)(2) and a case in which a criminal defense attorney is not permitted an opportunity to cross examine a State witness about matters that might affect the witness’ credibility.3/TheVirts court held that in the witness credibility context a defense attorney is not required to show what his cross examination might establish, but instead state only the general subject matter of the cross examination, and if this is challenged by the State, demonstrate for the record what the testimony sought to be elicited is admissible. This line of cross examination invariably deals with issues that might affect a witness’ credibility with a showing of malice, ill feeling, ill will, bias, prejudice or animus on the part of the witness.
The CCA noted Virts that some confusion has evolved over the years concerning the distinction between the following two kinds of evidence: “the credibility of a witness’s testimony” and “a witness’s credibility.” The court pointed out that the former refers to the “substance of evidence” and the later refers to “personal characteristics of the witness.” The appeals court assumed responsibility for the confusion by using language in Virts that said “certain subject matters that might [show] malice, ill feeling, ill will, bias, prejudice, or animus” might “affect the witness’s credibility.” The appeals court said it hopeWoodall would “return to the correct statement of the distinction between Rule 103(a)(2)’s requirement for preservation of error and the narrow exception for subject matters which affect the witness’s credibility …”
The very essence of the Virtz decision, which involved a trial court preventing a defense attorney from cross-examining a witness’ mental health, was that “the right of cross-examination by the accused of a testifying State’s witness includes the right to impeach the witness with relevant evidence that might reflect bias, interest, prejudice, inconsistent statements, traits of character affecting credibility, or evidence that might go to the impairment or disability affecting the witness’s credibility.”
Virtz , therefore, dealt specifically with evidence that went to a witness’ credibility and not with evidence that might affect the substance of the witness’s testimony. The Sixth District construed Virtz differently in the DWI cases. “Clearly,” the court said, “questions [to the State’s expert] about the claimed shortfall in the [Intoxilyzer’s] capabilities … could have impaired the [State’s expert] credibility and would have been directed at raising doubts that the results about which he was testifying were accurate.”
The CCA disagreed with this overly broad Virtz interpretation. “While there might be little distinction between a witness’s credibility and the substance of the witness’s testimony in some case,” the CCA said, “we find no showing here. To the contrary, we find a clear distinction, because any shortfall in the machine’s capabilities would raise doubts about the substance of the witness’s testimony, but not about the witness’s credibility. Even if the evidence were presented that cast doubt on the Intoxilyzer 5000, this would not necessarily mean that the State’s expert had bias or prejudice, for example, in testifying against the appellant Woodall. Surely all cross-examination, to some extent, is directed at ‘raising doubts’ for the trier of fact about the witness’s direct testimony. But to equate the two would allow the exception to swallow Rule 103(a)(2) entirely.”
The CCA then set forth a strict clarification to the exception of Rule 103(a)(2): “where the defendant, in cross-examining a State’s witness, desires to elicit subject matters that tend to impeach the witness’s character for truthfulness—for example, to show malice, ill-feeling, ill-will, bias, prejudice, or animus on the part of the witness toward defendant—in order to preserve the issue for appellate review, he is not required to show that his cross-examination would have affirmatively established the facts sought, but merely that he desired to examine the witness with regard to those specific subject matters that tend to impeach the witness during his cross-examination.”
Against that legal backdrop, the CCA upheld the Sixth District’s decisions reversing seven of the DWI convictions because the trial court had impermissibly restricted cross-examination concerning the “reliability” of the Intoxilyzer 5000. The court, however, reinstatedWoodall’s conviction because his attorney failed to properly preserve the issue for review under Rule 103(a)(2).
The State inWoodall’s case made an oral request for the trial court to take judicial notice of the science supporting the Intoxilyzer 5000. Defense counsel objected, telling the court that he would cross examine the State’s expert in a manner that would effectively challenge this science. The attorney argued that to prevent such a cross examination would “create a per se guilt issue on intoxication based upon breath testing.”
The trial court granted the State’s judicial notice motion, andWoodall’s attorney immediately sought a clarification of the court’s ruling. He questioned the court pointedly about the degree to which the trial court’s ruling restricted his right to cross examine the State’s expert. The trial court made it clear it would not permit any cross examination about the principles of breath testing.Woodall’s attorney objected once again, and the court once again overruled his objection. Defense counsel requested a running objection and stated he needed to perfect a bill. The trial court suggested that the attorney make a statement into the record of what he would prove through his cross examination. Defense counsel said he would do so later, but he never did.
That was a fatal procedural error as the CCA illustrated: “Although Woodall showed an intent to call into question the underlying science of the Intoxilyzer 5000, this intent does not amount to an intent to impeach the witness’s truthfulness, as opposed to the substance of the witness’s testimony. Because the appellant Woodall failed to ‘merely establish’ that the ‘general subject matter’ of his proffered evidence would be used to impeach the expert, and not the substance of the expert’s testimony, his case is controlled by the requirements of Rule of Evidence 103(a)(2) rather than the exception for impeachment of a witness’s credibility. Woodall failed to preserve his complaint for review by making a record of the substance of the evidence he wished to present as Rule 103(a)(2) required.”
The CCA underscored the importance of Rule 103(a)(2) by noting that the trial court and all the attorneys involved in these consolidated DWI cases were familiar with the questions posed to and answers given by the State’s expert in previous trials, but CCA pointed out that it was not “privy to such information.” The CCA said the only way it could adequately review and decide the admissibility of excluded evidence and whether the trial court abused its discretion in excluding that evidence was to have a record of the evidence before it as required by Rule 103(a)(2). The CCA then added thatWoodall’s attorney’s failure to either “perfect a bill” or make a concise statement about what he would prove in his cross examination precluded the excluded evidence issue from being reviewed on appeal.
No doubtWoodall will be able to establish ineffective assistance in a habeas corpus proceeding. The CCA ruling that his attorney botched the excluded evidence issue would establish per se ineffectiveness, and the fact that the court agreed that the other seven DWI convictions should be reversed would establish a prejudice flowing from the ineffectiveness. This will probably be greeted with cheer from his defense lawyer, as it could get his client a new trial.
The unfortunate thing about theWoodall case is that the attorney made a concerted effort to challenge the Intoxilyzer 5000 and knew he had to “perfect a bill” to have the trial court’s ruling reviewed on appeal, but simply forgot or neglected to perfect the bill as he told the court he would. It was a critical lapse that cost his client a reversal of his DWI conviction.
The maxim “never put off for tomorrow what you can do today” aptly fits theWoodall case. While the defense lawyer made a strong effort to object, an effort that should have satisfied the Court of Criminal Appeals, the defense attorney should have made a concise statement about what his proffered evidence on cross examination would prove the moment the trial court denied his second objection.
TheWoodall case also exemplifies what we stressed in our “False Forensics” blog: a defense attorney must not only be willing to cross examine a State expert witness about the “substance” of his testimony but about his personal “credibility” as an expert witness as well. Defense counsel must be prepared to satisfy the evidentiary requirements of Rule 103(a) (2); namely, to show what the evidence he seeks to establish on cross examination would prove, and that it is relevant.
SOURCES:
1/Woodall v. State , ___ S.W.3d ____ (Tex. Crim. App. No. PD-0454-07, 04/29/09).
2/Woodall v. State , 216 S.W.3d 530 (Tex.App.-Texarkana 2007)
3/Virtz v. State , 739 S.W.2d 25 (Tex.Crim.App. 1987)
By: Houston Criminal Defense Attorney John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
Take the first step toward protecting your freedom by contacting us now
Testimonials
John T. Floyd Law Firm
3730 Kirby Drive # 750, Houston
-
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.
-
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.
-
I highly recommend John T. Floyd Lawfirm. They are truly knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile to defend your innocence. Psalms 35
-
Outstanding!Professional knowledge. Rich experiences. Good outcome.
-
-
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 !! 👏👏👏👏
-
-
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
-
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 .
-
I am very happy today my case dismissed God bless Mr John T Floyd very good lawyer thanks you so mush sir
-
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
-
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!
-
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!
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
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 -
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.
-
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
-
John has given Excellent service and have been very friendly and extremely helpful to us. I highly recommend this law firm
-
This law firm is diligent, responsive and succeeded in getting my case dismissed. 10/10 would recommend.
-
super knowledgeable, good attitude, would definitely recommend him
-
Very helpful, knowledgeable and honest.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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!
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 -
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.
-
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.
-
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 -
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 -
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.
-
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 ⭐️.
-
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 -
Very helpful highly recommended for any Question / case will definitely keep he's name and number for any other legal advice
-
Excellent service and a lawyer that doesn't lie. He does what he says. JW recommends him.
-
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 -
Im impressed. This guy was polite and professional and most important...he listened.
-
Good experience and very good lawyer
-
-
-
Positive
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, ValueMore -
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!
-
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.
-
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!
-
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.
-
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 😊
-
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 -
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.
-
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 -
Very professional, great quality work, and very friendly and helpful. Overall, their service is phenomenal. I recommend Mr. Floyd to anyone.
-
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 -
He was honest , knowledgeable , and professional about what we talked about. Most lawyers are just about the money , but not john.Positive
Professionalism …More -
He was very truthful and honest with us very great man I would recommend him and we would use him again
-
Very professional honest and works hard currently working my husband’s appeal I pray he does his best workPositive
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More -
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 -
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 -
I would highly recommend Mr Floyd. He was very helpful and knowledge with a legal question I had.Positive
Professionalism …More -
He explained my case better then any other lawyerPositive
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value …More -
Very informative
-
-
-
-
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.
-
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🙏🏼🙏🏼
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 -
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.
-
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 -
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 -
Knows his stuff and well respected with DA and judges. I have referred him a couple times and every client has been satisfied
-
John is beyond knowledgeable! If I decide to pursue my case any further I would only have him represent me.
-
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 -
Absolutely a very professional lawyer. Very well read in the current law and more than willing to help if needed.
-
Mr. John he’s a professional he knows what he’s doing and he’s patient they recommend Him stronglyPositive
Professionalism …More -
Great service, very knowledgable and happy to help with any questions I had
-
Quick to action and helpful and knowledgeable with entertainment industry based issues!
-
Responded on a holiday week. Very knowledgeable and reassuring.
-
Very professional
-
-
-
-
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!!!!!!
-
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.
-
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!!!
-
I really felt like the team cared about my case and am super satisfied with the outcome. Would not recommend anyone else!
-
These guys do amazing work and have phenomenal service! Hands down best in the Houston area!!
-
John and Chris are true professionals! Love those guys like family!
-
Mr. Floyd and his team are very knowledgeable, informative, and helpful.
-
A team you can depend on to stand up and fight for you to prove the truth the whole truth!
-
-
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!
-
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.
-
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
-
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.
-
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
Copyright © 2024 John T. Floyd Law Firm • All rights reserved.
Designed & Developed by
