Erick Platten

Erick Platten

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 25 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Tyler, TX
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI

115 EAST HOUSTON, Tyler, TX

About Erick

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

Nothing is more important than your freedom. That is why Criminal Law is the most important area of law. When your life and liberty are on the line, you need a lawyer that isn't afraid to do everything that can be done to help you. That's me.

26 years

50%
DUI and DWI 50%

DWI LAW is very scientific. I hold advanced certifications in Field Sobriety, as well as Breath and Blood Alcohol/Drug Testing. You must hire the right attorney. I find technicalities in my client's cases. I fight to win.

26 years

50%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 25 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 2000

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

PLATTEN LAW OFFICE

115 EAST HOUSTON, Tyler, TX, 75702

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Erick Platten's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

131 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 131 reviews

Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Good job

Mr.Platten didna excellent job with my case. The state wasnt even considering probation until Mr.Platten got involved and he got me probation instead of prison , and the charge was theft of firearm ... He gave me the chance to be free from prison and a chance to change my life around which i did...

Posted by Ricardo | August 26, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Felony 2 dismissed, never arrested

First thing I want to say is if you are looking for an honest, compassionate, hardworking, and exceptional lawyer you've clicked the right website. ERICK PLATTEN OF PLATTEN LAW is the lawyer you need in your corner if and when an unjustice falls in your lap. He will be there for you through it al...l. Calls no problem. He answers. Text no problem hes on it. He will keep you informed as it all progresses. My story: I was faced with an Indecency of a child charge. That I was innocent of so Mr. Platten sat with me during the consultation he informed me that he would get the truth out. He was very compassionate during this difficult time never once did he fall short. Excellent lawyer Id say the best in Tyler by far but most importantly a complete gentleman. During this story I will call the person "The child" so she may remain anonymous. So the child on Nov. 15, 2019 decides to walk into school after watching a "Play it safe video" sponsored by the CAC and tell a school counselor she has been abused sexually. The police got involved it was then referred to the CAC where a detective took over the case. A forensic interview took place immediately and charges were filed. Mr Platten advised me to speak with noone. I didn't. Mr. Platten sent me for a polygraph which I passed and proved my innocence. This was the beginning of a long 8 month hell ride dealing with CAC and Smith County. The evidence was sent to the DA and the detective but it just wasn't enough to clear my name. The child went to see a sexual abuse counselor that was recomended shortly after her interview with the CAC. Initially she stuck to the story but the counselor wasn't buying it. Her story was inconsistent and the signs of an abused child just weren't there. After a few visits the child confessed she lied about it all. If you are thinking what I was thinking then you would think we'll thats it case closed. NOPE!! See the CAC believes kids don't lie and with an alleged crime like this they are brutal and will stop at nothing to put your ass in jail. I call BS because kids lie all the time if not then why are correctional facilities set up for them. Anyway enough about that. Mr Platten takes the evidence to the DA and CAC. Brick wall they not budging. The child at this point feels guilty as to what she has done and decides she wants to speak with the detective on the case. The detective avoided her like the plague. She didn't want to hear the truth. Her mind was made up that I committed a crime and she was hunting me like a dog. Next the child decides she wants to be interviewed again to confess her previous lie. She does and its documented. Mr Platten takes this evidence to the DA and CAC. Brick wall once again. It seems no matter what is said they only believe the initial story. Mr Platten didn't give up he knew an injustice was brewing and he wasn't gonna let an innocent man go to jail. Mr Platten didn't give up he knew an injustice was brewing and he wasn't gonna let an innocent man go to jail. Then the idea of a polygraph comes into play for the child and she accepts because she truly wants to stop the mess she made. The guilt is killing her. She takes tge polygraph and passes. It confirmed she initally lied to the Police. Evidence was taken to CAC and DA. Brick wall yet again. Mr. Platten is now upset with all the evidence pointing to his client being innocent they won't drop it. Thats when he gets the idea of involving the media. We going to make this go public. Texas Monthly started snooping around asking questions but no response from anyone. Mr Platten used the power of law to prove my innocence. End result I was never arrested and case was dismissed. Erick I would like to thank you for exposing the truth. Thank you for being there when I needed you. Most importantly thank you for giving me my life back.

Posted by Jeromy | August 14, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Thank you Eric!

I got a probation violation on a DWI case. Since I used him on the case itself, I called him right up. He had done an amazing job with the case. He hit the ground running to get me out. With the violation I was looking at a year in jail. The man got me out in 7 days. Amazing work. Thank you Eric! Hav...e me my life back.

Posted by anonymous | March 23, 2020 | Hired Attorney

Best attorney ever!!!

This attorney is the best. I would recommend him to everyone. He had been more than helpful and will go out of his way to help you. He has been there for me through everything. I can’t say enough on how much I appreciate what he does and did for me. Hire this guy he is well worth it!!!!

Posted by Brandon | February 06, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Erick seen me through!

I was struggling through a difficult marriage, fighting a very complicated case as a result of it and felt like I had no hope. Erick really helped me out, got my case dismissed, and I can say as a military veteran he really cares for his veterans. It's a no brainer hiring Erick! I would not use anyon...e else in the Tyler surrounding area.

See All Client Reviews

Erick Platten's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Erick
Bobby D. Mims headshot
Bobby Mims

Criminal defense lawyer | May 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Eric pushes the envelope in representing his clients. It is not unusual for Eric to anger prosecutors and Judges as he tries his cases. This is to his credit and to the benefit of his clients. The words "you're in contempt of this court Mr. Platten" is a compliment to Eric! I want Eric in my foxhole when the "S...t hits the fan!""

John Joseph Eastland headshot
John Eastland

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Erick since dirt. He's like a British bulldog...as Churchill said, 'Never, never, never give up.' Prosecutors don't like him because he's not afraid of their intimidating tactics and he will try any case. Judges don't like him, for the same reason. His clients and I like him for the exact same reason!! If you want a 'good deal', hire a lawyer. If you want Bulldog resentation and protection, hire Erick Platten."

Mitch Adams headshot
Mitch Adams

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Erick truly doesn't give a damn about anything except his client's best interests. As a result, prosecutors and judges would rather not have to deal with him. He fights tooth-and-nail for his clients, and gets excellent results for them."

Bryan Owens headshot
Bryan Owens

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 18

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I tried a case with Erick. He was fantastic in trial- aggressively questioned witnesses, got one to break under intense cross-examination. He was engaging and won over the jury during his entertaining and effective voir dire. Highly recommend."

Edward Garcia Estrada headshot
Edward Estrada

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 12

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Erick is a straight shooter when it comes to his cases. There are only a handful of lawyers that I would recommend personally if I have a client conflict or looking for another attorney to represent a co-defendant."

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Platten. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who achieves great results in representing clients! I really want all people to contact him for help."

Jonathan Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

Unknown lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One of the absolute best. Exceptional attention to detail, service next to none. I endorse this lawyer."

Jill L Rogers headshot
Jill Rogers

Unknown lawyer | Feb 23

Relationship: Other

"Very determined and dedicated attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Jan 26

Relationship: Other

"This lawyer strives to get the best results for clients. I endorse this lawyer."

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"As a former DA Erick has a huge advantage over most criminal defense attorneys. "They know that he knows what they know". Reviews tell the story. READ THEM! Do yourself a a favor and give him a call for a consultation."

Meryl Elise Chambers headshot
Meryl Chambers

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse attorney Erick Platten. Active participant in the Avvo community posting thoughtful legal answers to individuals who have asked for assistance. This not only demonstrates his excellent knowledge of the law, but also his commitment to serving clients very well. He is a valuable member to the legal industry."

Joseph Anthony Breidenbach headshot
Joseph Breidenbach

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. If you have criminal charges in the Tyler area, you will want Erick Platten by your side when you walk into court."

Giacomo Jacques Behar headshot
Giacomo Behar

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A top-notch attorney, highly respected in the legal community."

William W Housley headshot
William Housley

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."

Troy Perry Burleson headshot
Troy Burleson

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mr. Platten since law school and I endorse his work. He is a passionate and talented defense attorney. Erick is the only attorney I call when I need to refer someone to a criminal attorney in or around Smith County, Texas."

Dmitriy Shakhnevich headshot
Dmitriy Shakhnevich

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 28

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community."

John M O'Brien headshot
John O'Brien

Criminal defense lawyer | May 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community."

Annilee Travers Reed headshot
Annilee Reed

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend and endorse Erick Platten. He has an excellent reputation with both judges and fellow lawyers. Mr. Platten takes a practical approach to criminal defense. He is a strong force in the courtroom."

View All Endorsements
Mitch Adams headshot
Mitch Adams

Criminal defense lawyer

Edward Garcia Estrada headshot
Edward Estrada

Criminal defense lawyer

William W Housley headshot
William Housley

Criminal defense lawyer

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Giacomo Behar

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Troy Burleson

DUI and DWI lawyer

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Annilee Reed

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Sergio Cabanas

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Daniel Tam

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Bennett Wills

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Elizabeth Munro

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Julia Dolman

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John Phillips

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Anthony Solis

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John Eastland

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Macy Michelle Jaggers headshot
Macy Jaggers

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M Gunn

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Robert Laurens Driessen headshot
Robert Driessen

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Seth L Thompson headshot
Seth Thompson

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2014

Mastering Scientific Evidence, National College for DUI Defense

2014

Top Contributor, AVVO

2014

Client's Choice Award, AVVO

2014

American Institute of Criminal Law Attorney's, "Top 10 Best Criminal Attorney's in Texas"

2013

Client Choice Award, AVVO

2013

Top Contributor, AVVO

2013

Outstanding Service Award, Smith County Bar Association

2013

Stuart Kinard's Advanced DWI/DUI, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

2012

People's Choice, AVVO

2012

Top Contributor, AVVO

2012

Outstanding Service Award, Smith County Bar Association

2011

Outstanding delivery of legal services to low – income Texans, State Bar of Texas

2005

Mastering Scientific Evidence , National College of DUI Defense/TCDLA

2003

Intoxilyzer 5000 Maintence Tech/Operator, Stephen Rose M.D. Course on Alcohol/Highway Safety C.E.S. Consulting West Palm Beach, Florida

2002

FST Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, Walden Platt and Associates

2001

Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers College,

Work Experience

2013 - Present

General Counsel, Zoli Firearms USA L.L.C

2000 - Present

, Platten Law Office

1999 - 2000

, Thompson and Associates

1999 - 2000

Gregg County District Attorneys Office, Gregg County

1997 - 1999

, Tarrant County Dispute Resolution Center

1994 - 1995

Probation Officer, Dallas County Community Supervison and Corrections Department

Associations

2009 - Present

PADI--Professional Association of Diving Instructors

DIVEMASTER--PRO LEVEL

2009 - Present

NSCA--National Sporting Clays Association

Member / Competitor

2002 - Present

H.O.G. Harley Owners Group

Member

2001 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2001 - Present

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2001 - Present

Smith County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Founding Member

2001 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2001 - Present

Smith County Bar Association

Member

2001 - Present

Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce

Member

2000 - Present

United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas

Member--CJA Panel Attorneys

2000 - Present

Supreme Court of The State of Texas

Member

1996 - Present

American Civil Liberties Union

Member

1985 - Present

Divers Alert Network

Member

1984 - Present

PADI--Professional Association of Diving Instructors

Rescue Diver--EFR Emergency First Responder

Sample of Legal Cases

STATE V. ROSS

DISMISSED

STATE V. COUNAHAN

REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. MOORE

DISMISSED

STATE V. THOMAS

MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT DISMISSED

STATE V. JOHNSON

NOT GUILTY VERDICT WITH BREATH TEST .163

STATE V. SAWYER

DWI 2ND DISMISSED TO CLASS C RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. GUESS

ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE DISMISSED

STATE V. DENBO

NOT GUILTY

STATE V. WALKER

DISMISSED TO CLASS C RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. VICK

INSTEAD OF 667 YEARS HE GOT 20

STATE V. CARRASCO

REDUCED / CLASS C RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. STANLEY

DISMISSED TO CLASS C RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. ZAVALETA

ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE DISMISSED

STATE V. ARMSTRONG

NOT GUILTY VERDICT WITH 101.5 FEVER

STATE V. ARMSTRON

NOT GUILTY VERDICT WITH 101.5 FEVER

STATE V. WILLIS

INDECENCY W CHILD PROBATION GRANTED BY JURY

STATE v. PORTER

NOT GUILTY VERDICT--15 MIN

STATE V. HUNT

DISMISSED / ACCIDENT INVOLVING DAMAGE FLEE

STATE V. BOWEN

DISMISSED EVADING ARREST

STATE V. MARTIN

DISMISSED ATTEMPTED MURDER

STATE V. ESPINOSA

DISMISSED TO CLASS C RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. CASS

5 FELONY AND 4 MISDEMEANORS DISMISSED

STATE V. SHAFER

DWI 3RD DISMISSED

STATE V. BURNOP

NOT GUILTY VERDICT--30 MIN

STATE V. ORDORICA

DISMISSED AS JURY BEING BROUGHT IN FOR VOIR DIRE

STATE V. SAWYER

DWI REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. HASTEN

DWI W/CHILD FELONY REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

STATE V. SANDERS

ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE DISMISSED

STATE V. MENDOZA-MARTINEZ

AGG ASSAULT DISMISSED

STATE V. CURRY

THEFT DISMISSED

STATE V. GALINDEZ

ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE DISMISSED

STATE V. SULLIVAN

THEFT OF $200,000 OIL FIELD PIPE DISMISSED

STATE V. BYRD

NOT GUILTY AGGRAVATED ASSAULT

STATE V. STITHEM

EVADING ARREST DISMISSED

STATE V. SMITH

ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE DISMISSED

STATE V. BROOKINS

INTERFER W/911 CALL DISMISSED

STATE V. SEGREST

NOT GUILTY VERDICT ALCOHOL/DRUGS

STATE V. CLARK

CREDIT CARD FRAUD DISMISSED

STATE V. SYKES

AGG ASSAULT DISMISSED

STATE V. CARDENAS

PUBLIC LEWDNESS DISMISSED

STATE V. NOWELL

NOT GUILTY FURNISHING ALCOHOL TO MINOR

STATE V. BANKS

ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE DISMISSED

STATE V. CASTANEDA

DISMISSED AGG/SEX ASSAULT CHILD

STATE V. BROOKINS

HUNG JURY AFTER 16 HOUR OF DELIBERATIONS

STATE V. ELLIS

THEFT DISMISSED

STATE V. REFUGIO

WEAPONS CHARGE DISMISSED

STATE V. FEARS

NOT GUILTY BURGLARY OF A VEHICLE

STATE V. BREEDLOVE

FELONY REDUCED TO MISD THEFT

STATE V. FINCKE

NOT GUILTY--Aggravated Assault

STATE V. HERNANDEZ

THREE COUNTS OF INDECENT EXPOSURE DISMISSED

STATE V. DUNCAN

CRIMINAL TRESPASS DISMISSED

State of Texas v. Nelson

Insufficient evidence/witness not competent/Dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

1999

Texas A&M University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1994

University of Texas System, Tyler

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2013

Criminal Law Reform Police Accountability

2012

I'm 18 now. What are my right?

I'm 18 now. What are my rights?

2011

Alcohol and Drug Education

Alcohol and Drug Education

2010

Consequences of your actions

Consequences of your actions

2009

Scared Straight

Smith County Jail Tour

2008

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Rights of Non U.S. Citizens in the United States

2006

Scared Straight

Jail Tour Smith County Jail / Middle and High School Students

2005

Robert E. Lee High School

Alcohol and Drug Education

Publications

2012

I'm eighteen now. What are my rights? I'm eighteen now. What are my rights?

2006

Rights of non US Citizens in the United States Rights of non US Citizens in the United States

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution