Andrew & Andrew on Texas Criminal Defense

42A.054 is confusing, especially when you throw the Government Code in the mix.

The Andrews discuss what constitutes testimonial evidence. In doing so, we look at the Crawford Analysis and the Davis Rule.

The Andrews discuss objections in today’s episode. Listen in on our tips for preparing to make objections and maybe re-thinking how often you should make objections.

The Andrews discuss some new laws going into effect September 1. Emphasis on some…there’s lots to cover. Defenders, get your butt over to a CLE to learn more.

Defenders, we’ve known we’re pretty big deals for quite some time but this is getting ridiculous. Two bills we’ve discussed on our show recently failed to become laws in Texas. Changes to 39.14 failed to leave committee and the THC prohibition bill was vetoed by the Governor. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely, and we cannot wait to abuse this power.

As Defenders, its important to remember who we’re fighting for and what our clients’ rights are.The Andrews discuss just that in this episode.

Happy Law Day, Defenders! The Andrews sit down with Professor Emerita Lynne Rambo of Texas A&M University School of Law to discuss the dangerous precedent being set out of the executive branch with the attacks on the judiciary. This concerned Professor Rambo so much she decided to do something about it with a group of colleagues from around the country. They developed a simple yet powerful statement and posted it on lawyers4theruleoflaw.comWe are encouraging everyone to visit the site, read the statement and attach your name to it. Its important to note that this is not a political statement and you will be joining attorneys from all points on the political spectrum. This small act of solidarity sends a message the rule of law in this country must be respected. Support the Constitution, honor your oaths, sign the statement.

The Andrews have the pleasure of discussing indigent defense with none other than James McDermott, Chief Public Defender for the Far West Texas Regional Public Defender’s Office. Listen in on what it takes to establish, grow, and run an office which has become vital to their area.

The Andrews sit down with the great and formidable Ian Stephens. Ian is a third year law student and member of the law review at Texas A&M University School of Law. His paper for law review focuses on the detrimental effect state licenses have on recidivism. This is a fascinating discussion that highlights the absurdity of the current licensing framework we have in Texas. Read the article for yourself here. Would you like to contact Ian for more information? Do so here

A new bill has been introduced in Texas which waters down 39.14. Contact your local rep to voice your displeasure.

The Andrews discuss getting a DA’s office disqualified and everything that comes with it.

The Andrews are enlightened by the great and powerful Maggie Stewart of Mundial Law on the ins and outs (literally) of Canadian travel. The days of thinking anyone can enter the northern border are over, folks. They got real life law enforcement up there. As you’ll hear, Maggie informs us what convictions can keep you out of our great northern cousinland. All is not lost, though, those Canadians are a forgiving bunch. If you do have a conviction, there are a few different avenues available to you. Best advice is to just give Maggie a call when you want to travel and her team will get you squared away. Mundial Law

Courtney Miller joins us once again to walk us through a crazy story that happened recently in one of her trials. Listen in as she fights for her client like no one we’ve spoken to. Contact Courtney here.

Register for Mindful Monday here

The Andrews sit down with Lance Evans, Dean of the Tim Evans Trial College. Named after his father, legendary trial lawyer Tim Evans, the Trial College is a week long trial skills workshop that is a must attend event for lawyers of all skill level. Lance, a fantastic trial lawyer in his own right, talks to us about the week long CLE and how he finds it helps lawyers. Sign up here

The Andrews discuss the different, important age related issues in criminal law in Texas.

The Innocence Project of Texas (which is a separate entity from the Innocence Project based in New York), was founded in 2006 by defenders Mike Ware and Jeff Blackburn. Since that time, IPTX has grown to be one of the leading innocence organizations in the country having exonerated or freed 35 people. The Andrews talk with IPTX staff attorney Caitlin Gilbert; someone who has long been devoted to fighting for the wrongfully convicted. This highly successful office runs like a well oiled machine with staff attorneys evaluating over 1,000 cases per year. Click here to contact the IPTX offices.