22 years criminal trial experience. Current: Texas A&M School of Law Adjunct Professor,Felony/Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Attorney and Mental Health Attorney; Former Tarrant County Prosecutor (13 years); AVVO Top Rated 10.0 Defense Attorney; AVVO Client Favorite Award 2012 and 2014; 2012 - 2016 Fort Worth Magazine Lawyer Worth Knowing in Criminal Law. These recognitions demonstrate Lisa's responsive and compassionate attitude toward her clients. Lisa is one lawyer who truly endeavors to help her clients, who listens to her clients and answers every question with respect, then zealously fights to get the best possible resolution for every client. She truly cares about her clients, plain and simple. She is especially well-versed in mental disorders and mental illness, and regularly represents people involuntarily detained at psychiatric hospitals. The probate judges appoint her to protect the rights of those brought in to JPS on mental health detention warrants.
When Lisa was a prosecutor in the Tarrant County District Attorney's office, she handled a myriad of felony, misdemeanor, juvenile and CPS trials, along with working in the narcotics, occupational driver's license, mental health units. Now as a defense attorney, she uses that experience to pick apart the State's case and negotiate aggressively with the prosecutor. Lisa attends criminal defense seminars each year in multiple aspects of criminal law and as a result has qualified annually for membership in the College of the State Bar of Texas. In 2018, Lisa Haines earned 55 hours of continuing legal education: Immigration (7 hours), Capital Murder Defense (18 hours) and Texas Criminal Trial College (30 hours).
Lisa Haines works proactively from the start of a case to get the best possible outcome for a client, sometimes even getting the charge reduced, dismissed or no-billed by the grand jury. Grand Jurors review all felony charges to evaluate whether there was probable cause for that defendant to have been arrested. Over the past 9 years as a defense attorney, Lisa has aggressively fought to get felony cases no-billed, i.e., dismissed (possibly eligible for expunction in the future). Lisa utilizes her many years as a Grand Jury prosecutor in the Tarrant County DA's Office, to find weaknesses in the DA's charges. As a result, in 2016 and 2017, Lisa had more than two dozen serious felony cases no-billed by the GJ and/or dismissed by the prosecutor (First degree: Aggravated Robberies, Aggravated Assault SBI-Child, Aggravated Assault DW-Family Member; 2nd degree: Sexual Assault of Child, Aggravated Assaults DW; Third degree: Impeding Breathing-FM, Bodily Injury Public Servant). In Nov. 2017, her client was facing 25 to life and 15 to life on two aggravated robbery felonies. Lisa's persistence forced the prosecutor to reevaluate the merits of the State's case on the eve of trial. Literally on the day of trial, the prosecutor dismissed all charges. Lisa's client walked out a free man. In April 2018, Lisa's client was facing charges of sexual assault and impeding breathing. The alleged victim was the wife of Ms. Haines' client. When the prosecutor realized Lisa was never backing down on her claim of vindictive and false allegations by the wife, the prosecutor took a more open-minded look at the allegations. After again meeting with the accuser, the prosecutor dismissed both cases. Both of these defendants will be eligible to have their criminal charges forever erased ("expunged") from their criminal history. She has fought to get several first and second degree felonies no-billed again in 2019.
Having handled thousands of cases over the past 22 years and having tried countless felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile trials, Lisa knows that the facts of every case are unique. Ms. Haines is knowledgeable about the many deferred programs and procedures that are available in Tarrant County. Lisa is very thorough in her evaluation of the merits of a case. She utilizes her 13 years as a criminal prosecutor to find the weakness in the State's case. Being an experienced trial attorney is an asset when negotiating with the State because the prosecutor knows Lisa is never afraid to take a case to the jury. But the decision of whether to go to trial will alway rest with the client. Lisa does not charge a client for a jury trial unless her client tells her he/she wants to go to trial.
Arrested for DWI? There are three different courts involved in a DWI arrest. Lisa handles License Suspension hearings (ALR), Occupational License hearings (ODL), as well as the criminal DWI case. A driver arrested for DWI has only 14 days to challenge the driver's license suspension. The DL suspension will begin on the 40th day after arrest if an ALR hearing is not requested. When you meet with Lisa, she evaluates whether the police violated any of your rights when you were initially detained. She compares your observations with the officer's report and the DWI video to look for inaccuracies and inconsistencies. Having watched countless DWI arrest videos over her career, Lisa shares her knowledge and experience with you in the analysis of the field sobriety test video. Lisa also continually attends legal seminars dedicated to the latest issues in DWI arrest. Ultimately it is the client who decides the case's direction. Lisa does not charge a client for a trial unless and until a client requests a trial. That decision should come after a thorough evaluation of your case. Lisa works hard to prove herself worthy each client's trust. When you meet her you will see why her clients value her legal guidance and support during a very trying time.
Available to answer questions and concerns throughout the duration of each case via office visits, emails and phone conversations. Payment plans are available. Rates are very competitive - particularly in light of Lisa's extensive experience in all aspects of criminal law. Initial consultation regarding criminal charges (in person, over the phone or by email) is free. In-office or phone consultations regarding mental health detentions are available at an hourly rate. Office hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Evening and week-end appointments available. Emails or calls will be returned evenings and week-end.
Practice areas
Lisa has 22 yrs trial & plea experience in all types of felony and misdmeanor cases: murder, aggravated assaults, sexual crimes, drugs, gun charges, theft, etc. as well as probation revocations. Lisa goes thru all the evidence with each client.
25 years
Lisa is a former prosecutor (13 yrs) is well-versed in DWI laws: criminal case, Drivers Suspension and Occupational DL. Lisa's special insight is the result of 22 years prosecuting and defending DWI cases.
25 years
ABI-Family Member cases have serious consequences - whether filed as a misdemeanor or felony. Lisa has handled family violence cases for 22 yrs. She goes thru all evidence with you and fights to obtain the best possible resolution for each client.
25 years
Lisa regularly handles expungements (expunctions) & non-disclosures. She brings 22 yrs of experience yet charges a fee far lower than many other attys. Call Lisa to clear your name -get that arrest, reduction or probation erased from public records.
25 years
Languages spoken
English
State | Status | Acquired | Updated |
---|---|---|---|
TX | Eligible To Practice In Texas | 1997 | 02/17/2022 |
Legal answers | 105 |
Legal guides | 0 |
Award name | Grantor | Date Granted |
---|---|---|
Lawyer Worth Knowing | Fort Worth Magazine | 2016 |
Lawyer Worth Knowing | FW Magazine | 2015 |
AVVO 2014 Clients Choice Award | AVVO | 2014 |
Lawyer Worth Knowing | FW Magazine | 2014 |
Lawyer Worth Knowing | FW Magazine | 2013 |
AVVO 2012 Clients' Choice Award | AVVO | 2012 |
Lawyer Worth Knowing | FW Magazine | 2012 |
Title | Company name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Adjunct Professor Texas A&M Law School | Texas A&M Law School Lawyer Incubator Program | 2017 - Present |
Owner | Law Office of Lisa Haines, P.C. | 2010 - Present |
Assistant Criminal District Attorney | Tarrant County District Attorney's Office | 1997 - 2010 |
Association name | Position name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Texas A&M Law School | Adjunct Law School Faculty | 2017 - Present |
Tarrant County Bar Association | Criminal Law Section | 2012 - Present |
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association | member | 2011 - Present |
Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association | member | 2010 - Present |
Tarrant County Bar Association | member | 2010 - Present |
College of the State Bar of Texas | member | 2010 - Present |
State Bar of Texas | member | 1997 - Present |
Tarrant County Bar Association, Criminal Law Section | Continuing Legal Ed Coordinator | 2012 - 2014 |
Texas District and County Attorneys Association | Member | 1997 - 2010 |
School name | Degree | Graduated |
---|---|---|
Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law | Doctor of Judicial Science | 1996 |
Ohio State University | Master of Arts | 1979 |
State University of New York, College at Brockport | Bachelor of Science | 1977 |
Case name | Outcome |
---|---|
Aggravated Robbery DW cases dismissed day of trial | Both cases were dismissed the day of trial. |
Aggravated Assault Deadly Weapon x 2 | No Billed by Grand Jurors - Cases dismissed |
Felony No Bills (Dismissals) | Felony cases no billed by Grand Jury |
DWI TRIAL | NOT GUILTY |
Aggravated Sexual Assault of Child under 14 | Not Guilty |
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July 23, 2015
Zachary Ferguson, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 8, 2017
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
I endorse this lawyer. When I was a prosecutor, Lisa was always passionate about her clients and knowledgeable about the law as it applied to her client's cases. She would not back down and encouraged me to further investigate my side of the case. This often resulted in a better outcome for her clients.
Colin McLaughlin, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 10, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have known Lisa for several years, from my time as a prosecutor to now as a criminal defense attorney. Lisa is very ethical, and she truly cares about her clients. I definitely endorse Lisa.
Zachary Ferguson, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 8, 2017
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
I endorse this lawyer. When I was a prosecutor, Lisa was always passionate about her clients and knowledgeable about the law as it applied to her client's cases. She would not back down and encouraged me to further investigate my side of the case. This often resulted in a better outcome for her clients.
Colin McLaughlin, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 10, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have known Lisa for several years, from my time as a prosecutor to now as a criminal defense attorney. Lisa is very ethical, and she truly cares about her clients. I definitely endorse Lisa.
Virginia Carter, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 10, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I give this lawyer my highest endorsement. I have worked with Lisa for the last 5+ years. She is an honorable, honest, hard-working, zealous advocate for her clients. She is a fierce fighter in trial and shows great integrity when dealing with lawyers and clients, alike. Lisa Haines is the real deal. You can trust her, and that is a hard thing to find in this world.
Aaron Graham, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 25, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter
Lisa and I worked as a team on a very serious, aggravated sexual assault of a child case. We were able to obtain a NOT GUILTY verdict based largely upon Lisa's tenacity, and courage to step in the trial arena and make the state prove their case. Lisa is a rare gem in that not only will she take a case to trial, she is also very competent in trial tactics and strategy. I strongly recommend Lisa if you are a client looking for a hands on advocate, or an attorney who needs a knowledgeable and gritty co-counsel.
Andrea Townsend, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 16, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
As a former Assistant District Attorney, I personally worked with Lisa on many criminal cases. Lisa is a hard working, compassionate attorney who truly cares about her clients. Lisa will do everything she can to ensure her clients get the best outcome possible. I endorse this lawyer.
Steve Gebhardt, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 13, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have interacted with Lisa on numerous cases. One thing that stands out is her zealous representation for each and every client. She knows the law and treats her clients with great attention and with the utmost respect. I highly recommend Lisa Haines.
Bradley Clark, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 12, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. Lisa is passionate about her representation, compassionate with her clients and knowledgeable. A true advocate.
Pia Lederman-Rodriguez, Criminal defense Attorney on May 9, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. Great trial attorney.
Allen Blake, Criminal defense Attorney on May 7, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Lisa has all the skill and experience you could want in a lawyer, but what separates her from other attorneys is how much she cares about every case. Court appointed and retained clients get the same amount of care and consideration. I highly endorse her for Tarrant County criminal matters.
Sherry R. Armstrong, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 15, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have known Lisa for many years. Her work ethic and determination are second to none. She is knowledgeable and represents her client's interests to the fullest. She is truly a cut above the rest. A standout attorney. I am proud to endorse Lisa.
Thomas Murphree, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 23, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer.
Matthew Davidson, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 11, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Lisa Haines is a dedicated and passionate lawyer who has extensive experience and expertise on all criminal matters. She comes with my highest endorsement.
James Saint, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 30, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
I endorse this lawyer. Lisa was the Assistant District Attorney on a CPS case I had. She was very aggressive and a zealous advocate. She now has a private practice and those skills will serve her and her clients well. She is very knowledgeable of criminal laws and procedure.
Wayne Fowler, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 19, 2013
Relationship: Worked together on matter
Lisa Haines is a knowledgeable and highly skilled criminal defense attorney. I endorse this lawyer without reservation.
Paul Schneider, Family Attorney on May 25, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer.
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