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TRAYVON MARTIN: ANOTHER VICTIM OF WILLIE HORTON POLITICS
Tragedy Stirs debate on Stand Your Ground Laws and Racial Stereotypes
By: Houston Criminal Lawyer John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
In February, 2012, we posted a piece about Texas’ version of the “stand your ground” law which was passed by the Legislature in 2007. Our piece examined a November 2011 decision by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Morales v. State —the court’s first real opportunity to interpret the “stand your ground” self-defense which was inspired by the Florida “stand your ground” law and which has been the focus of bitter controversy surrounding the February 26, 2012 shooting death of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman.
For purposes of this discussion, we will only utilize some of the different accounts placed in the public record about what transpired that night. A grand jury will soon hear the case and determine if there is sufficient “probable cause” to indict Zimmerman for killing the 17-year-old Martin.ABC Newsand Reuters have assembled excellent timelines about the emotionally and politically charged case. We would only comment that pundits for Fox News and MSNBC have shamefully fueled the racial tension this case has unleashed across the country.
While no one really knows exactly what happened that February 26 night when Martin and Zimmerman confronted each other on a street in the gated community in which they both resided in Sanford, Florida, a number of indisputable core facts have emerged. Trayvon was living with his father, Tracy, at the time he was killed. The 17-year-old went to a convenience store where he purchased some Skittles and a bottle of tea. He was wearing a hooded sweatshirt, much like many other teenagers do in America. He was talking to his girlfriend on a cell phone as he walked home.
George Zimmerman was a member of a neighborhood “crime watch” group. These groups consist of volunteers who patrol the streets of their community looking for suspicious behavior, or real criminal activity. Some of the volunteers are individuals who want to be policemen. George Zimmerman was one of those individuals who wanted to be a cop. That February 26 night Zimmerman saw Trayvon walking down the street. He thought the teenager was acting suspiciously. He called and reported his concerns to a 911 operator—something he had done on other occasions. Zimmerman told the 911 operator he was going to follow Trayvon. He was instructed not to do that by the 911 operator.
Zimmerman did anyway, and a few minutes later, just 70 feet from Tracy Martin’s home, Trayvon and Zimmerman had their confrontation. It is not really known which one escalated that initial verbal confrontation into a physical one. Witnesses described hearing loud verbal exchanges, shouts, screams and a gunshot captured during a 911 call.
TexasLaw
Under Texas’ “stand your ground” law, the prevailing party in such a confrontation has a legally recognized “self defense” claim if he can show the use of deadly force was a reasonable response to the confrontation. Texas’ “stand your ground” law provides that “deadly force” is justified if a person “reasonably believes the deadly force is immediately necessary … to protect himself against the other’s use or attempted use of unlawful deadly force.”
Before the 2007 “stand your ground” creation, an individual could not claim self defense in a confrontation if he/she had an opportunity to retreat, to disengage from the confrontation. The “duty to retreat” no longer exists in Texas—if a person has a right to be present at the location where the deadly force is used, and did not provoke the confrontation, he can plead that he “reasonably acted” in self defense and is accorded a legal “presumption” that he did so.
Both Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman had a right to be at the location where the deadly force was used against Martin. The question, then, under the Texas statute, is who provoked the confrontation. Zimmerman was instructed not to follow Martin. He did so anyway. Did Trayvon reasonably believe he had to use deadly force to protect himself from Zimmerman by punching him in the nose (as alleged by Zimmerman)? Or did Zimmerman believe he had to use deadly force to protect himself from Martin’s alleged physical attack? In either case, Texas law bestows a presumption that the prevailing party acted in a reasonable manner.
Based on the information available in the public record, this violent confrontation could have easily been avoided. That Martin was walking down the street in a hooded sweatshirt did not create a reasonable inference he had committed or was about the commit a criminal act. Zimmerman should not have pursued Martin once he was told not to do so. Both men were just 70 feet from where Martin lived when the confrontation occurred. Martin could, or should, have told Zimmerman “I live right there, man – just going home.” But if Zimmerman confronted Martin in a more aggressive manner, much like unprofessional police officers do a criminal suspect, the teenager would automatically take offense.
That’s why Zimmerman’s self defense claim could face difficulty in Texas. Granted, Zimmerman had a right to be at the location where he killed Martin—a city sidewalk—but he did not have either a civilian right or the law enforcement authority to confront the teenager in an unreasonably hostile manner. Even if Zimmerman believed that Martin had committed or was about to commit a criminal act, he was instructed by the 911 operator not to pursue the teenager and while this order is not mandatory, a jury will certainly consider it.
Zimmerman could have been perceived as a hostile threat, regardless of the motive—and at the time he initiated the confrontation, Martin had every right to be offended, cautious, or even intimidated by Zimmerman’s confrontation and respond. Even accepting Zimmerman’s version of the events as they were conveyed to the Sanford police (that Martin attacked him), Zimmerman could have became the aggressor when he chose to follow and aggressively confront Martin for no other reason than he thought the teenager looked suspicious. The real question, to which we have no independent witness, becomes how did Zimmerman approach Martin and how did Martin respond.
Assuming Zimmerman initiated the confrontation, it would be difficult for a jury to infer that he reasonably believed the use of deadly force was necessary to protect himself from Martin. In fact, it is likely Martin, not Zimmerman, had the greatest right to use deadly force to protect himself from Zimmerman who confronted the teenager in an aggressive manner. Accepting Zimmerman’s account that Martin attacked him, Martin had the legal right to resort to force—even deadly force—to ward off Zimmerman’s confrontation. The teenager would certainly have had a reasonable belief that Zimmerman posed a physical threat to him.
Beyond the “stand your ground” legal controversy, the Trayvon Martin case kindles an underlying debate about our perception of crime in America. Why should a young black man walking down the street wearing a “hoodie” arouse suspicion in anyone? He shouldn’t, but in reality he does. The very media and entertainment industries now capitalizing off Trayvon’s death created the “hoodie” thug image. Granted, a lot of “gang bangers” and “street thugs” do wear hoodies, but so does New England Patriots’ coach Bill Belichick who is frequently referred to by some sports commentators as “the Hoodie.” Would Geoge Zimmerman have called 911 about “suspicious” concerns had he saw Coach Belichick walking down the street at night wearing his hoodie?” We think not.
The tragic, inescapable reality is that crime in America is perceived to wear a black face. This has been the case since President Richard M. Nixon declared “war on crime” shortly after he took office. Armed with staggering LEAA funds funneled to local police department, Nixon encouraged law enforcement agencies, especially in the South, carry out the front line battles in this war by arresting hundreds of thousands of young black men. The nation’s prison system was not prepared to accommodate so many new and “angry” young inmates—many of whom had to get lean and mean in a hurry just to survive the prison experience. Riots steadily brewed in prisons across the country through the 1970s. Attica, the most infamous example.
And it produced an inevitable problem for society: these young black inmates became hardened criminals while in prison and they returned to the free community with a mentality ensuring that the Nixon “war on crime” had become a permanent fixture in American society. This war spawned the “white flight” from urban to suburban America to escape the black face crime. By the 1980s, our society had assumed the ugly trapping of racial polarization which manifested itself in President Ronald Reagan’s concerted effort to enact the Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 which ensured a continued stream of inmates (predominantly black) into the nation’s prison system which, in turn, launched this country’s massive “prison industry.” Former President George W. Bush put a name to the black face of crime when he launched the “Willie Horton” ad against Massachusetts Gov. Michael Dukakis when he campaigned to succeed Reagan.
In response to Reagan’s escalation of the “war on crime”, neighborhoods across the country increasingly established what had become known as “Neighborhood Watch” programs. The purpose of these programs was educating volunteer citizens about how to identify and report suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. In 1981 when Reagan took office about 12 percent of the population was involved in “neighborhood” watch programs and that percentage increased to 20 percent during his first six years in office. Such programs had become so popular that approximately 40 percent of the people in neighborhoods with such “crime watch” programs participated in them.
Law enforcement agencies not only encourage but actively assist in creation of Neighborhood Watch programs. This law enforcement affinity for such programs probably explains why the Sanford police did not arrest Zimmerman following the shooting death of Martin. All the police need to arrest someone is probable cause. The killing of a human being under any circumstances normally constitutes probable cause to arrest. It is then left up to the prosecutors, courts and juries to determine what, if any, crime was committed.
Influenced by the “stand your ground” law, law enforcement would automatically feel that a Neighborhood Watch cop known to them acted reasonably when he gunned down a “suspicious” looking black teenager wearing a “hoodie.” This would be especially true in neighborhoods with single-family homes, few commercial establishments, and residents who have lived in that neighborhood for extended periods of time.
Ironically, in a 1988 book, Daniel P. Rosenbaum said the purpose of Neighborhood Watch is to bring the community together to “reestablish” control of their neighborhoods which has been lost by law enforcement. “… if social disorganization is the problem and if traditional agents of social control no longer are performing adequately, we need to find alternative ways to strengthen informal social control and restore a ‘sense of neighborhood.’” In other words, when the “cops ain’t or can’t do their jobs,” neighborhoods should enlist the support of the likes of George Zimmerman to do it for them. That’s exactly why and how the Ku Klux Klan was formed during Reconstruction and carried horrific crimes they called “vigilante justice.”
The National Sheriffs Association has endorsed the following five fundamental steps in creating an effective Neighborhood Watch program:
- First, strategies that address the problems in a given area must be mapped out. From the beginning stages of a Neighborhood Watch effort, it is essential to incorporate neighborhood involvement and identify ways to deal with the crime patterns in that area.
- The second step involves building a partnership between law enforcement officers and residents. This is not always an easy hurdle to overcome since citizens are often angry with law enforcement for not doing anything about the crime problem in their community. For a Neighborhood Watch program to be successful, it is essential that the officers understand the needs of a neighborhood and work as role models for neighborhood crime prevention efforts.
- The third step is to assess the needs of a given neighborhood. In many cases, law enforcement and community members do not have the same focus. For instance, law enforcement may be focusing their attention on a problem that the neighborhood is not concerned about, such as attempting to address major crimes throughout the city. On the other hand, community members may be more concerned about crimes such as bicycle thefts or graffiti, which are considered minor from a police standpoint. Effective Neighborhood Watch programs unite law enforcement and residents and encourage them to collectively determine what problems should b addressed and how.
- Next, selecting and training an active body of volunteers that are led by organized and motivated leaders is critical. Without motivation and organization, volunteers may be uninspired to participate and quit out of frustration.
- The fifth and final step is to develop meaningful projects. Often, after a Neighborhood Watch has addressed its original issue, members lose interest. It is important for leaders to remain enthusiastic. One way to accomplish this is to create and embark upon new projects so that there is always a goal towards which the team is aspiring. Projects may include building a neighborhood playground or painting over graffiti, for instance.
This intimate relationship between law enforcement and Neighborhood Watch is, as we said, probably why the Sanford police did not arrest Zimmerman. An arrest by the police would have betrayed the trust and alliance they had with the crime watch group to which Zimmerman belonged. It would have felt akin to arresting one of their own in a similar situation. After all there have been many police shootings of unarmed people, done in equally mistaken belief of danger couple with prejudice inspired fear.
Let us be clear: we do not oppose the existence of Neighborhood Watch programs, but we do find the intimate relationship between law enforcement and civilian crime fighters to be troubling in many respects, primarily that law enforcement bestows upon these groups a sense of legal authority they do not have, like killing people. But unquestionably the most troubling reality to us about the tragic shooting death of young Trayvon Martin is this: Zimmerman was really shooting Willie Horton wearing a “hoodie.”
By: Houston Criminal Lawyer John Floyd and Paralegal Billy Sinclair
Houston Criminal Attorney 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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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 a great experience with this Law Firm, the kind staff helped me locate a Lawyer even though they were unable to take my case.
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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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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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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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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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