Since 2010, Texas criminal defense lawyers have gathered on courthouse steps across the state early each July to publicly read the Declaration of Independence. The tradition—unlike any other in the nation—is supported by members of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
When: July 1, 2022
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2027 marks the 46th Annual Prairie Dog Seminar. First held in 1981, it has evolved into on of the premier CLE courses in Texas and has consistently drawn top speaker from across the State as well as prominent local attorneys. Proceeds are donated to the Brendan Murray Scholarship at Texas Tech School of Law. Brendan is the late son of the late Brien E Murray, a longtime TCDLA member. Brendan died unexpectedly while in law school and has been honored ever since his death with a... Details When: January 7–8, 2027 Where: (In-Person, Livestream, or On Demand)
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TCDLA invites you to join us for an exclusive web series designed specifically for new and aspiring criminal defense attorneys like yourself. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, sharpen your skills, and connect with insightful professionals in the field. When: Once a month! Time:12 pm Location: Online - Join from the comfort of your home, office, or... Details When: January 13, 2027 Where: Livestream 12-1 PM
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When: January 13–17, 2027
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TCDLA invites you to join us for an exclusive web series designed specifically for new and aspiring criminal defense attorneys like yourself. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, sharpen your skills, and connect with insightful professionals in the field.
When: Once a month!
Time:12 pm
Location: Online - Join from the comfort of your home, office, or school!
... Details When: February 17, 2027 Where: Livestream 12 PM
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When: March 4–5, 2027 Where: (In-Person, Livestream, Or On Demand)
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We are moving to a paperless court system. Is your law practice keeping up with the digital age? Do you know what case management options are out there? We will discuss case management software and how it can improve your efficiency. Did you know you can use case managementÊsoftware to handle payments, draft motions, and even share information through an online portal with your client? We will also cover limitations on the software and items to consider when comparing different... Details When: March 31, 2026 Where: Webinar 12:30 - 1:30 PM
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When: April 1, 2026 Where: Livestream
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Stay ahead of the curve in Federal Criminal White Collar defense with this timely webinar series covering Close Encounters, Select Basics, and the DOJ's Current Prosecution Landscape. Gain practical insight into how federal cases are initiated, investigated, and charged straight from the trenches. Walk away with strategies you can use immediately to protect your clients and sharpen your federal... Details When: April 9, 2026 Where: Livestream
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Come and learn with us! We’ll have multiple breakout rooms available so you can join the sessions that interest you most, along with opportunities to ask questions and engage in discussion.
When: April 9, 2026 Where: Roundtable 12-1 PM
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Join us for a brief presentation followed by an open Q&A session where you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussion.
When: April 14, 2026 Where: Roundtable 2 PM
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Join us with Mario Merendon as he explains why screenshots are unreliable and where you can find evidence to determine whether they are authentic or not. We will have a short presentation and then allow time for Q & A.
When: April 14, 2026 Where: Webinar 12:30 - 1:30 PM
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TCDLA invites you to join us for an exclusive web series designed specifically for new and aspiring criminal defense attorneys like yourself. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, sharpen your skills, and connect with insightful professionals in the field. When: Once a month! Time:12 pm Location: Online - Join from the comfort of your home, office, or... Details When: April 15, 2026 Where: Livestream
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Mental health and specialty courts are transforming how communities respond to individuals whose legal challenges stem from behavioral health needs. This session provides an overview of how these courts operate, the criteria for participation, and the benefits they offer in reducing recidivism and connecting participants with treatment. Attendees will gain insight into local program models, collaborative approaches with service providers, and practical strategies for advocating for... Details When: April 15, 2026 Where: Roundtable 3-4 PM
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Explore how cell tower dump evidence is obtained, used, and challenged in criminal cases. Learn key issues surrounding privacy, data collection, and strategies for analyzing this type of digital evidence.
When: April 22, 2026 Where: Roundtable 4-5 PM
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Take a closer look at deregistration and what it means in the legal landscape—including who qualifies, the process involved, and important legal considerations attorneys should understand when navigating these cases.
When: April 23, 2026 Where: Roundtable 12-1 PM
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When: April 23–25, 2026 Where: (In-Person)
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The Texas Future Indigent Defense Leaders program (FIDL) provides promising young lawyers with nationally renowned training and mentorship that will help guide them through their crucial early years and beyond. FIDL is an innovative partnership between the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (TCDLA), Gideon’s Promise, the Harris County Public Defender’s Office (HCPDO), and the Texas Indigent Defense Commission (TIDC). Previously, young Texas lawyers in the FIDL program... Details When: April 25 – May 9, 2026 Where: (In-Person)
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Join us for a premier event designed for criminal defense lawyers committed to excellence in representing clients facing drug and DWI charges. This program will explore the intricacies of defending cases involving prescription drugs, illegal drugs, and marijuana, with a focus on the evolving legal landscape. Expert speakers will provide insights on cutting-edge defense strategies, critical case law updates, and the science behind drug testing. Whether youâ€ÿre new to DWI defense or a ... Details When: May 1, 2026 Where: (In-Person, Livestream, Or On Demand)
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Gain practical strategies for handling tough negotiations with challenging prosecutors. Learn techniques to stay effective, protect your client’s interests, and keep discussions productive, even when the conversation gets difficult.
When: May 7, 2026 Where: Roundtable 12-1 PM
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Join us for a premier event designed for criminal defense lawyers committed to excellence in representing clients facing drug and DWI charges. This program will explore the intricacies of defending cases involving prescription drugs, illegal drugs, and marijuana, with a focus on the evolving legal landscape. Expert speakers will provide insights on cutting-edge defense strategies, critical case law updates, and the science behind drug testing. Whether youâ€ÿre new to DWI defense or a ... Details When: May 7, 2027 Where: (In-Person, Livestream, Or On Demand)
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TCDLA invites you to join us for an exclusive web series designed specifically for new and aspiring criminal defense attorneys like yourself. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, sharpen your skills, and connect with insightful professionals in the field.
When: Once a month!
Time:12 pm
Location: Online - Join from the comfort of your home, office, or school!
... Details When: May 13, 2026 Where: Livestream 12 PM
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Explore creative voir dire strategies when a case has been continued. Learn how to address juror concerns, frame delays effectively, and keep your client’s case on strong footing with the jury.
When: May 15, 2026 Where: Roundtable 12-1 PM
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Learn what makes a strong sentencing memorandum and pick up practical tips to better advocate for your client. From persuasive storytelling to key supporting materials, discover strategies that can make a real impact at sentencing.
When: May 27, 2026 Where: Roundtable 4-5 PM
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The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association is proud to announce its 39th Annual Rusty Duncan Criminal Law Course. Named for the late Honorable M.P. “Rusty” Duncan III of the Court of Criminal Appeals, this course is designed to cover state law and scholarly topics as well as cases from the past year that impact your practice... Details When: June 15–17, 2028 Where: (In-Person, Livestream, or On Demand)
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