Licensed for 22 years

State TX

Acquired 2000

Status
Eligible to Practice in Texas No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Erick Platten

DUI and DWI Attorney at Tyler, TX

About
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Cost
Resume

A rare gem among the lawyers

Excellent outcome

About Erick

Learn Erick’s areas of practice.

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.
... Read more
23 years
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.
... Read more
23 years

AWARDED "10 BEST CRIMINAL ATTORNEY'S IN TEXAS" FOR 2014 -2020. DESIGNATED A TCDLA, TRIAL WARRIOR.

Erick Platten is a competitive aggressive attorney that represents individuals in Tyler and throughout the State. He established the Platten Law Office in 2000 right out of law school and has been representing citizens accused of everything from the most violent offenses to helping someone with a will.

Erick's zeal to win gained him a reputation of pushing the envlope while representing his clients. His trial tactics often anger prosecutors and judges, however his stategies have been to the advantage of his clients once they hear a two word verdit of "Not Guilty."

Erick says talk is cheap but not guilty verdicts speak for themselves.

Erick is one of the most reviewed lawyers in Texas on AVVO. Most clients go on with their lives and try not to look back on their cases. However, some have taken the time to leave a reviews of his services. Please read his reviews. Erick's clients have been very appricative of the work he's done.

If you or a loved one is in need of an attorney that has a track record of sucess call Erick Platten now.

Office

Cell

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Contact Erick

PLATTEN LAW OFFICE

(903) 705-7810 Office

115 EAST HOUSTON

Tyler, TX, 75702

tylerjustice.com/

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Reviews

Write A Review

4.9 / 5.0

129 customer reviews

5 Star

95%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | July 12, 2023

A rare gem among the lawyers

Wants the best for people even when he does not get any benefit from the. Mr.Platten, consulted me for free and gave the best advice. God bless him.

Posted by Gaye | September 3, 2021

Excellent outcome

Mr. Platten represented my daughter on a DWI charge. I found him to be exceptionally knowledgeable in the area of field sobriety testing. We ended up with dismissal of charges due to the stop being classified as a bad stop. I'm truly thankful we found a lawyer that persevered until he achieved the justice we needed. He communicated with us each step of the way. If you need professional law advice or help, Mr. Platten is excellent.

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Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2020

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 25, 2020

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 all. 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.

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Posted by Jeromy | August 13, 2020

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! Have me my life back.

Posted by anonymous | March 21, 2020

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 5, 2020

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 anyone else in the Tyler surrounding area.

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Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2019

I got my life back

If you are looking for a highly experienced, very aggressive attorney who does not take bulls*** from anybody, then Mr.Platten is the best attorney you can hire. Mr. Platten fought to get me my life back on a 10-year deferred probation. Because of medical reasons I was not able to take a polygraph and while Mr Platten was working on my behalf, Probation decided to go ahead and revoke me and put me in jail. I was in jail less than 8 hours and being on a weekend Mr. Platten had to call Judge and the Da on a Friday night and got me released. Mr.Platten then aggressively subpoena medical records, probation office and hospitals to come up with a book of medical evidence that the prosecution accepted and I was fully released from probation and all terms. Because of the extensive work Mr. Platten and Samantha did on my behalf I have my life back. Mr. Platten was quick to reply anytime I needed help or had questions at all hours of the day. Even though my case was dealing with a sensitive issue of the polygraph, Mr.Platten stopped at nothing when probation was trying to put me in prison for 10 yrs , he got won myfreedom and life back and even after case was done is helping to get my job back from my job's legal team. Mr.Platten is hands down the best lawyer in East Texas and highly recommend you talk to him first.

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Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2019

This man won't disappoint

I could not have asked for a better lawyer or a better outcome. He fought for me better than I could have ever asked and I'm so thankful for his professionalism.

Posted by Josh | December 7, 2019

First degree organized crime reduced to state jail money laundering anddeferred probation

Hired, Mr. Platten for an Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity charge in 2017 a 1st degree 3G accusation from the Criminal Investigation Division Texas Department of Public Safety. We refused to self incriminate or falsely corroborate with Mr. Burkett. 2 years on a GPS anklet and pretrial probation the prosecution offered 3 years deffered probation and reduced the accusation to a State Jail money laundering charge. With out Eric I wouldn't have negotiated for a 2 year deffered probation agreement. I was jailed for missing a probation meeting and he came visit me during booking and got me out in 3 weeks. He comes recommended.

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Posted by Fred | July 16, 2019

Facing a felony up to 10 years in prison to no prison time served

He represented me through a case where I was facing a felony. I was looking at up to 10 years in prison. He successfully argued that I was illegally arrested and I served no prison time. Because he did a great job on my other case, I contacted him about an incident where a negligent driver hit me as I was pulling into my driveway. I just happened to text his personal number since he gave it to me through my last case. He was able to consult me on what to do next and will be representing me through this as well. He has a great talent for building relationships with clients and will treat you so well where you’ll always use him in any legal representation you need in the future. He is always just a call or text away and is very open to you contacting him directly through his personal number. You feel very taken care of working with him.

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Posted by Jon | June 17, 2019

The smartest decision I’ve made.

Great experience!! Left In the dark by court appointed attorney. I didn’t know what was going on and I was honestly scared by the possibility of what could happen and not knowing anything. I hired Mr Platten (which was the best decision I could have made) about 10 days before I was set to go to jury trial. He explained everything to me. He also found out about a couple of cases that were gonna be sprung on me that would have put me away for quite a while. I was looking at a total of 3 State Jail Felonies and a 3rd Degree Felony. I was more than pleased to sign for 4 years probation with no jail time. The judge also wanted to send me to SAFP, but thanks to Mr Platten’s decision to put me on the stand and question me I am able to sit at home and write this instead of sitting in county waiting to catch chain to SAFP. Thank you so much for caring and fighting so hard. I highly recommend Mr Platten to anyone requiring expert legal services.

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Posted by Lou | May 23, 2019

A Brilliant Attorney

Erick Platten is a superb attorney. He isn't afraid to look outside the box and walk outside the line in order to get results. He does all of this because he cares about helping his clients. Erick will help shoulder your legal burden, simplify things, and find the best possible outcomes. If you do not hear from him on your case, be patient, timing is important. Know that he works a lot and once your case does reach him in time, he will give it absolute focus. I was blindsided by two felony counts and was in scared. I was in fear of going to jail for a long time, losing everything I worked for, and for losing my liberties. Erick worked through my case with care and found holes in the investigation and holes in the official story. He did not let those holes slide and continue to punish me. He ended up getting me the results we were looking for. I couldn't be happier. Please give him a call if you are in trouble, he's there to help.

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Posted by anonymous | May 7, 2019

Family Nurse Practitioner

I had originally hired Mr. Platten for a DWI, however I ended up with a second DWI, in less than 6 months from the first. Mr. Platten agreed to represent me for both cases and was absolutely excellent through the process. He was very through and also cared for my well being. He was able to negotiate a pre-trial diversion. This would allow me to have a clean record once I completed my probation period of 2 years and their recommendations as ordered. He is an AMAZING ATTORNEY.

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Posted by Tanner | March 4, 2019

Blessed

Erick is a great lawyer and got my whole case dismissed. My family and I are so thankful for Mr.Platton. I no longer have to worry again.

Posted by anonymous | February 19, 2019

Exceptional

Like many others, I never expected to need an attorney for a DUI. I only remembered ordering the first beer. I totaled my car and ended up in the ER. There were drugs in my system that I did not take. Long story short, he believed me and handled everything. He spent time with me going over the case and was always available by phone. He and Samantha basically held my hand through this horrible ordeal and I could not be more grateful. I received pre-trial diversion which was terminated early. If you need an attorney... you probably need this attorney.

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Posted by Marisa | February 7, 2019

Amazing work

Erick Platten has gone above and beyond. He got me exactly what I was wanting from the court. He got the time down for my probation to 3 years instead of 5. What amazes me the most is that since my case had ended I have had some problems or situations I needed his help with and he was ALWAYS just a phone call away. Most lawyers would just take your money and go after the case was over, but Erick no. He even checks in with me to see how I’m doing with everything. He is very personable and caring. Thank you very much for your work. I’m now realizing how hard it would have been if I just took my felony like I wanted from the beginning. Thank you for talking me out of it.

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Posted by anonymous | January 28, 2019

Lona Boyd

I highly recommend Erick Platten!! I hired Erick Platten for a relative who was facing a year in jail. He was always easy to communicate with and available to answer questions. Never once did he not respond to any phone call or text. He worked diligently to identify problems in the case and instead of a sentence of one year in jail, was able to get the time to be served reduced to 15 days. He was then able to get that sentence divided into two separate occasions so that the time could be served during the week she was off work. Thanks to Erick there was no loss of job! I cannot emphasize enough what a blessing he has been!

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Posted by anonymous | January 9, 2019

Great Attorney

Got my felony reduced to a misdemeanor and kept me out of prison. Great attorney.

Posted by anonymous | December 26, 2018

Quality Service and Excellence

Circumstances existed to secure the services of Erick Platten. Erick is extremely knowledgeable and most important a caring professional personally invested in the lives of his clients! Despite challenging cases he keeps a big picture perspective and manages all with his clients best interest in mind. His ability to lessen the severity of case outcomes is proven. Erick immediatly responds regardless of time of day, night weekends and holidays. Over a two year period Erick provided quality service and excellence. When most needed he was calming and reassuring. Beyond the case Erick remains available and true to his commitment providing counsel if needed. Without hesitation I would recommend Erick Platten and his service expertise to anyone in need. Grateful!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

General Counsel
Zoli Firearms USA L.L.C
2013 - Present

Platten Law Office
2000 - Present

Thompson and Associates
1999 - 2000

Gregg County District Attorneys Office
Gregg County
1999 - 2000

Tarrant County Dispute Resolution Center
1997 - 1999

Probation Officer
Dallas County Community Supervison and Corrections Department
1994 - 1995

View all work experience

Education

Texas A&M University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1999

University of Texas System, Tyler
BS - Bachelor of Science
1994

Legal Cases

STATE V. ROSS
DISMISSED

STATE V. COUNAHAN
REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING

STATE V. MOORE
DISMISSED

View all legal cases

Associations

PADI--Professional Association of Diving Instructors
DIVEMASTER--PRO LEVEL
2009 - Present

NSCA--National Sporting Clays Association
Member / Competitor
2009 - Present

H.O.G. Harley Owners Group
Member
2002 - 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
2001 - 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
2000 - Present

American Civil Liberties Union
Member
1996 - Present

Divers Alert Network
Member
1985 - Present

PADI--Professional Association of Diving Instructors
Rescue Diver--EFR Emergency First Responder
1984 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

Spanish

English

Honors and Awards

American Institute of Criminal Law Attorney's
"Top 10 Best Criminal Attorney's in Texas"
2014

Client's Choice Award
AVVO
2014

Mastering Scientific Evidence
National College for DUI Defense
2014

Top Contributor
AVVO
2014

Stuart Kinard's Advanced DWI/DUI
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
2013

Client Choice Award
AVVO
2013

Outstanding Service Award
Smith County Bar Association
2013

Top Contributor
AVVO
2013

People's Choice
AVVO
2012

Top Contributor
AVVO
2012

Outstanding Service Award
Smith County Bar Association
2012

Outstanding delivery of legal services to low – income Texans
State Bar of Texas
2011

Mastering Scientific Evidence
National College of DUI Defense/TCDLA
2005

Intoxilyzer 5000 Maintence Tech/Operator
Stephen Rose M.D. Course on Alcohol/Highway Safety C.E.S. Consulting West Palm Beach, Florida
2003

FST Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
Walden Platt and Associates
2002

Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers College
2001

View all awards

Publications

I'm eighteen now. What are my rights?
I'm eighteen now. What are my rights?
2012

Rights of non US Citizens in the United States
Rights of non US Citizens in the United States
2006

Law Guru
Q&A Pro Bono Legal Advisor 04 to Present Date
2004

Speaking Engagements

Criminal Law Reform
Police Accountability
2013

I'm 18 now. What are my right?
I'm 18 now. What are my rights?
2012

Alcohol and Drug Education
Alcohol and Drug Education
2011

Consequences of your actions
Consequences of your actions
2010

Scared Straight
Smith County Jail Tour
2009

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Rights of Non U.S. Citizens in the United States
2008

Scared Straight
Jail Tour Smith County Jail / Middle and High School Students
2006

Robert E. Lee High School
Alcohol and Drug Education
2005

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (44)

Given (50)

Endorse Erick

Bobby Mims

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Eastland

DUI and DWI Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Estrada

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Clay

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Lacour

Unknown Attorney | 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 Rogers

Unknown Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Other

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

Judd Nemiro

Unknown Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Other

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

Peter Marek

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Chambers

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Breidenbach

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Behar

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

William Housley

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Troy Burleson

DUI and DWI Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hovanes Margarian

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sean Cleary

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

John O'Brien

Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Annilee Reed

Criminal defense Attorney | 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."

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Criminal defense

Criminal defense

Criminal defense

Immigration

DUI and DWI