Jacquelyn Raechelle Carpenter

Jacquelyn “Jackie” Carpenter has spent her career defending the rights of people facing serious charges in Texas courts. Raised in Houston, she knows the local system — the prosecutors, the judges, and the courtrooms.

She earned her law degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston and was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2003. Her career spans more than two decades of criminal defense — 8 years in private practice, then 14 years inside the Harris County Public Defender’s Office, and now back in private practice representing individuals facing serious charges. Across that time, she has tried more than 50 cases, handling charges from serious felonies and sexual assault to capital murder.

14 Years at the Harris County Public Defender’s Office

After beginning her career in private practice, Jackie joined the Harris County Public Defender’s Office as an inaugural member of its Felony Trial Division. She spent 14 years with the office, finishing her tenure as Assistant Chief Public Defender. In that role, she handled complex felony cases and led teams of trial attorneys in strategy, jury selection, and cross-examination. She later returned to private practice to represent individuals facing serious criminal charges.

Defense Philosophy: Preparation First

Jackie believes cases are won before jury selection starts — through careful evidence review, witness work, and clear communication with every client.

Evidence Review

Challenging illegal searches, flawed police work, and weak testimony.

Clear Communication

Helping clients understand every step, plea offer, and option.

Career Highlights

20+ Years of criminal trial experience in Texas.

50+ Jury Trials tried to verdict in serious felony cases.

2025 Leader Board: Top 4 defense attorneys for winning not guilty verdicts.

14 Years with the Harris County Public Defender’s Office, after starting in private practice.

Served as Assistant Chief Public Defender, leading felony teams.

Inaugural member of the Harris County Felony Trial Division.