Blog
THE DIFFICULTY WITH CRIMINAL EVIDENCE
Rule 403: Courts Should View Child Porn if Defense Moves to Exclude as Unfairly Prejudicial…
By: Houston Criminal Lawyer John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
Jurors in criminal trial are sometimes called upon to view difficult, disturbing pieces of evidence. This is particularly so in cases of violence and sex offenses, especially child pornography cases. In fact, it is probably easier for jurors to view photographs and/or videos depicting images of the aftermath of a violent offense than it is to view photographs and/or videos of child pornography. Many times, when the question of whether the images are in fact child pornography is not in issue, the Government and criminal defense attorney will stipulate to the jury that evidence is in fact child pornography. In those cases where neither party wants to proceed on the basis of a stipulation, the Government must allow the defense to inspect the evidence it plans to offer into evidence so the defense lawyer can prepare a proper defense. This process provides defense counsel with graphic details of the child pornography the Government will rely upon to make its case. These details often inform defense counsel of the level of prejudice the images/videos of children being sexually exposed and/or assaulted will have on the jury.
What is the criminal defense lawyer to do? The U.S. Third Court of Appeals on September 18, 2012 offered strong suggestions on this question in United States v. Cunningham. The Third Circuit joined the Ninth and Seventh Circuits in adopting the evidentiary procedure that should be utilized by the Federal district courts in dealing with the admission of such highly prejudicial evidence.
In September 2010, David L. Cunningham was sentenced to 210 months in prison and an additional 20 years of supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab following Cunningham’s conviction for the receipt, possession and distribution of child pornography. At Cunningham’s trial, conducted in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Judge Schwab allowed the Government, over the objection of Cunningham’s defense counsel (Office of the Federal Public Defender), to show the jury two videos containing seven clips depicting samples of the child pornography possessed by Cunningham. The seven clips totaled two minutes. The images depicted were extremely graphic and surely caused the jurors to have tremendous prejudice against Cunningham.
Cunningham was arrested in June 2007 in connection with an undercover online investigation conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police into “peer-to-peer file sharing networks.” These file sharing networks allow individuals to share data contained in each other’s computer files, including child pornography. As part of its investigation, State Police investigators downloaded six movies depicting “prepubescent children engaging in sexual activity.” Investigators promptly obtained a court order to identity the IP address that had shared the files containing the movies. That IP address led investigators to a computer at a residence shared by Cunningham and his two siblings. They obtained a search warrant for the residence where they seized a computer from Cunningham’s bedroom. A preliminary review of the computer’s hard drive revealed that 36 of its 212 shared files contained child pornography. Cunningham admitted that 20 to 30 percent of the material on his computer was child pornography. A subsequent “forensic analysis” revealed that 46 of the computer’s 212 shared files contained child pornography.
Prior to trial, Cunningham’s attorney filed a Motion in Limine Concerning Pornographic Images and File Names under Federal Rule of Evidence 403 requesting that the trial court prohibit the Government from showing any of the child pornography videos obtained from Cunningham’s computer. Rule 403 requires the trial court to conduct a balancing test to determine if evidence has “probative value” or “is substantially outweighed by the danger of one or the more of the following: unfair prejudice, confusing the issues, misleading the jury, undue delay, wasting time, or needlessly presenting cumulative evidence.”
The Rule 403 motion triggered a contentious debate between defense counsel and Judge Schwab who apparently had an ongoing strained relationship with the Federal public defender’s office. Cunningham’s attorney informed Judge Schwab that she was “stipulating that the government exhibits constituted child pornography.” The judge nonetheless denied the motion, allowing the Government to publish “representative samples of the Child Pornography instead of the entire ‘collections,’ as well as the names of the various files in the ‘collection.’” As for the defense counsel’s stipulation, Judge Schwab said “the parties may (but are not required to) stipulate that the child pornography evidence constitutes child pornography for the purposes of the Indictment.” Pursuant to the court’s directive, the Government and defense counsel agreed to the following stipulation:
“[T]hat the video files obtained from IP address 71.206.239.202 on June 19, 2007, constitute visual depictions of real children under the age of 18 engaging in sexually explicit content. The parties further stipulate and agree that the video files recovered from [Cunningham’s] computer on July 17, 2007, constitute visual depictions of real children under the age of 18 years of age engaging in sexually explicit conduct.”
Subsequent to this stipulation, the Government provided defense counsel with access to the “video clips” it planned to introduce at trial. In response, defense counsel filed a Motion to Limit Evidence of Child Pornography. The motion contained graphic descriptions of the video excerpts the Government planned to show the jury. (While most appellate court decisions dealing child prosecutions try to avoid subjecting “the reader to the graphic and disturbing details of the pornography,” the Third Circuit felt it had to recite the descriptions used in defense counsel’s motion to understand “the character of the issues” confronting the court.)
We reluctantly agree, and will recite the motion’s descriptions of the child pornography in question, but we cannot, in good conscience, recite the “more graphic detail[s]” of the child pornography evidence described by the Third Circuit in the body of its opinion.
Defense counsel’s motion described the Government proposed excerpts as follows:
“These clips include graphic and haunting images of child pornography. Specifically, they include a close up of an adult woman licking a very young female child’s genitalia – so young, in fact, the child appears to be a toddler; videos of penetration; several videos depicting children tied up and/or blindfolded, including images where a young, prepubescent girl was penetrated by an adult male while her ankles and wrists appeared to be bound to a table. Several videos showed the faces of the children. In every image where a face is shown, the body (specifically, breasts, genitalia, and lack of pubic hair) clearly, and unequivocally, proves that the image portrays a child. In one, a young girl is seen performing oral sex on an adult male, who ejaculates on her face, which is openly displayed for the camera.”
When arguing before the court about the admissibility of this evidence, the Government conveniently failed to provide Judge Schwab with a description of the video excerpts it proposed to use. Defense counsel was forced to provide Judge Schwab with the aforementioned descriptions, calling the depictions “obscene, violent, and humiliating, necessarily conjuring feelings of disgust and blind rage.” Defense counsel suggested that if the court was inclined to allow this horrific evidence, it should limit the evidence in four ways: 1) only still images of any video should be shown; 2) no images, whether still or part of a video, should display bondage or actual violence, including the penetration of prepubescent children by adults; 3) no audio should accompany any of the videos; and 4) the faces of any minors should be obscured from all images.
In response to the motion, the Government agreed not to use audio in the excerpts, but strenuously objected to the other three limitations proposed by defense counsel as an effort “to sanitize, distort and mitigate the force of evidence that constitutes the very evidence of the offenses charged.” The Government argued that even with a stipulation, it still bore the “extremely high burden” to prove that Cunningham “knowinglydistributed, received and possessed these images; thathewasawareof their character as child pornography; [and] that he was aware that images depictedrealminors engaging insexuallyexplicit conduct.”
We find the Government’s argument disingenuous. First, State Police investigators could have established the knowing intent to receive, possess, and distribute child pornography by testifying about the details of their investigations and Cunningham’s damming confession, in which he admitted searching for and viewing child pornography. In addition, Cunningham offered to stipulate that the evidence was child pornography thereby agreeing that the jury would be instructed that the images were in fact child pornography; the stipulation also expressly conceded that the images depicted minors (anyone under 18 years of age) engaged in “sexually explicit conduct.” With the investigator’s testimony regarding the background investigation, along with Cunningham’s admissions, the Government essentially had the proverbial “open and shut” case. But for whatever reason, it wanted jurors to view the horrible images of child pornography detailed in defense counsel’s motion to exclude.
The Government tried to justify its position by saying the jury should be allowed to see the horrific images so it could “fully appreciate the nature of child pornography crimes, which necessitates consideration of the images themselves.” That’s utter nonsense. The crime of child pornography was not on trial; Cunningham was on trial for receiving, possessing, and distributing child pornography. The Government did not bear any burden to educate the jury about the “nature of child pornography.” The term itself speaks to the “nature” of the offense. Thus, the Government’s only burden was to convince the jury beyond a reasonable doubt that Cunningham received, possessed and distributed child pornography. Federal juries do not impose, or even influence, sentencing; thus, the Government had no legitimate interest in provoking “blind rage” in the jury to secure a stiff prison sentence.
The Government’s absurd argument was sufficient for Judge Schwab. He denied defense counsel’s motion to exclude with the condition that the Government not use audio with the videos. Significantly, Judge Schwab allowed the highly prejudicial evidence without conducting a Rule 403 balancing analysis. This omission did not sit well with defense counsel who informed the judge during the last pre-trial conference held in April 2008 that it planned to motion for reconsideration of the video excerpts’ admissibility with a specific request that Judge Schwab personally review the excerpts prior to ruling. The judge was not impressed, immediately denying the motion, informing counsel that she had “had plenty of time to file motion after motion, which [counsel had] done.” Revealing his frustration with defense counsel’s tactics, Judge Schwab chastised counsel by telling her that the court had “ruled again and again and again”; and was “sorry” counsel did not “like it; but the court would not allow counsel to “come in every day and give us another snapshot and more motions, and next day another snapshot and more motions.” Although frustrated, Judge Schwab gave counsel until 4:00 p.m. that day to file its stated motion.
Defense counsel complied with Judge Schwab’s directive. In this motion, defense counsel asserted that “someone else” had downloaded the videos in question, and in addition to his stipulation, Cunningham agreed that “whoever possessed, received and distributed those images would know that they depicted real children engaging in sexually explicit activity.” Defense counsel, therefore, posited there was “little value in presenting the video excerpts,” especially considering “the uniqueness and significance of this type of contraband.” Defense counsel concluded her motion with a request that the video excerpts either be declared inadmissible or subject to further limitations. The motion also closed with a request that Judge Schwab “view the video excerpts prior to making a ruling on their admissibility.”
Four days later Judge Schwab denied defense counsel’s motion, saying that she had cited “no case precedent for its proposition that the child pornography must be viewed by the Court or that it is a necessary exercise of the Court’s discretion to do so.” Judge Schwab added that the “descriptions [of the video excerpts] [were] sufficient for [him] to rule [on the past and pending motions], since the descriptions [were] quite telling of the images and their graphic nature.”
The case then proceeded to trial, and as anticipated by defense counsel, “several jurors” on voir dire responded they would “have difficulty being impartial” and had to be excused. When informed that the video excerpts would show children under eight, one juror in a sidebar with the judge stated it would be difficult to be impartial and another said she would be distressed by “portrayals of children as young as toddlers being molested.” Both were also excused.
The Third Circuit then described the video excerpts in complete detail—something we elect not to do here. Suffice it to say that the excerpts would put almost any juror in a state of “blind rage” against the defendant. On appeal, the Third Circuit addressed the primary issue associated with the admission of the excerpts—that Judge Schwab should have viewed the excerpts prior to allowing them into evidence. The Government justified this judicial omission, telling the appeals court that Judge Schwab had “no duty to view the video excerpts because [he] understood the content and character of the excerpts … from the summary that Cunningham had provided to the [judge].”
While announcing that “the question presented for resolution has seldom been addressed,” the Third Circuit found that Judge Schwab should have indeed viewed the video excerpts under Rule 403 prior to allowing them in evidence. The appeals court secured guidance from a 2007en bancdecision by the Ninth Circuit in United States v. Curtin and a 2011 decision by the Seventh Circuit in United States v. Loughry to reach its conclusion that Cunningham’s conviction should be reversed.
“In sum, we find bothCurtinandLoughrypersuasive. We agree that a district court should know what the challenged evidence actually is – as opposed to what one side or the other says it is – ‘in order for [the court’s] weighing discretion to be properly exercised and entitled to deference on appeal.’ We also agree that there may be instances where a district court can properly decline to view challenged evidence when it is obvious to the court that the danger of unfair prejudice from such evidence substantially outweighs any probative value that it might have.
“Thus, we conclude that, speaking generally, a district court should personally examine challenged evidence before deciding to admit under Rule 403. However, asLoughryreflects, while that is the best course (‘The safest course, however, is for the court to review contested evidence for itself’), it may be that, when a court has been provided with a sufficiently detailed description of the challenged evidence, it need not undertake that further review. In other words, if, after reviewing a detailed description of the evidence, it is obvious to the court that the probative value of the evidence is so minimal that it is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice, a court need not personally examine it. This ought not be seen as an invitation to freely deny the admission of evidence that no one of ordinary sensibilities would want to review. Any such approach would, of course, be out of keeping with the district court’s obligation, however uncomfortable, to weigh the potential probative and prejudicial impact of evidence, while considering the legitimate interests of both the prosecution and the defense.
“The video excerpts here included ‘the kind of highly reprehensible and offensive content that might lead a jury to convict because it thinks the defendant is a bad person and deserves punishment, regardless of whether the defendant committed the crime charged.’ Although we accord district courts broad discretion in making a Rule 403 determination, that discretion is not unfettered. ‘The hackneyed expression, ‘one picture is worth a thousand words’ fails to convey adequately the comparison between the impact of the … portrayal of actual event upon the viewer of the videotape and that of the spoken or written word upon the listener or reader.’ The District Court’s refusal to here to view the video excerpts to assess their prejudicial impact and instead, over objection, rely on written descriptions prior to admitting them, was ‘arbitrary … [and] unreasonable.’”
While we wholeheartedly agree with the Third Circuit, we would take it step further. A district judge shouldalwaysbe required to personally view challenged evidence. That is why the judge is the judge. He or she is the arbiter of what evidence to admit in a criminal trial. Evidence is sometimes difficult to view as crimes are sometimes difficult to comprehend, but anytime a judge is prepared to let a jury view a piece of evidence, she should be prepared to view that evidence before the jury does. In this case Judge Schwab had an obvious problem with the way the Federal public defender was representing her client. This was evidenced by the judge’s sarcastic comments prior to the trial and afterwards when Judge Schwab voluntarily recused himself while the case, thus preventing the Third Circuit from having to address the issue on appeal. Thus, enormous resources were expended – actually wasted – apparently because the Government was overzealous and the Judge intransient.
By: Houston Criminal Lawyer John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
John Floyd is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Specialization
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
