Richard Nelson Knight

Nelson Knight is a Dallas criminal defense lawyer and Senior Trial Attorney at Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys with more than 25 years of experience in the Texas criminal justice system. A former prosecutor, public defender, and longtime criminal defense attorney, Mr. Knight has dedicated his career to representing individuals facing criminal charges ranging from DWI offenses to capital murder allegations.

A Dallas native, Mr. Knight began his legal career with the Dallas County District Attorney's Office, where he prosecuted a wide range of criminal cases. During his time as a prosecutor, he handled matters ranging from driving while intoxicated offenses to capital murder prosecutions, with much of his experience focused on serious felony cases in Texas district courts. This background provided him with firsthand insight into criminal investigations, charging decisions, trial preparation, and courtroom litigation.

Since 2001, Mr. Knight has focused primarily on criminal defense, representing individuals accused of misdemeanor and felony offenses throughout North Texas and across the state.
His experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney allows him to evaluate cases from multiple perspectives and develop defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each client.

In addition to maintaining a private criminal defense practice for nearly two decades, Mr. Knight served as a Dallas County Public Defender from 2007 through 2010. Throughout his career, he has represented clients facing a broad spectrum of criminal allegations, including DWI offenses, drug crimes, assault charges, theft offenses, probation matters, and serious felony prosecutions. His practice has included cases at every stage of the criminal justice process, from pretrial hearings and negotiations to bench trials and jury trials.

Mr. Knight has spent more than two decades advocating for the rights of individuals accused of crimes and helping clients navigate complex criminal proceedings. His extensive courtroom experience includes numerous jury trials, bench trials, evidentiary hearings, and contested criminal proceedings in courts throughout Texas.

Known for his client-centered approach, Mr. Knight believes that communication and active listening are essential components of effective criminal defense representation. He understands that criminal charges can create significant stress for clients and their families, and he is committed to ensuring that every client remains informed and involved throughout the legal process.

Today, Mr. Knight continues to represent individuals facing misdemeanor and felony criminal charges as a Senior Trial Attorney at Michael & Associates. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience as a prosecutor, public defender, and criminal defense attorney, he provides strategic, knowledgeable, and dedicated representation for clients throughout Texas.