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J. Gary Trichter

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Avvo Rating10
  • Houston, TX
  • Licensed for 40 years
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About J.

Houston TX DWI and DUI lawyer J. Gary Trichter is one of only four criminal defense attorneys in Texas who is a "DWI Specialist." Known as a leader and one of the most successful DWI trial and appellate lawyers in the United States, Gary is rated "AV" by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest professional and ethical rating a lawyer can receive. Gary has earned his reputation arguing groundbreaking DWI cases and co-authoring the DWI textbook Texas Drunk Driving Law. He has also published more than 46 articles on a broad range of topics from DWI, DUI, BWI, ALR to defending pilot licenses against the Federal Aviation Administration on DWI related issues. Very few Houston, TX DWI and DUI lawyers can demonstrate comparable experience.

Gary has also spoken at more than 256 legal seminars in 30 states where he has taught lawyers, judges and prosecutors about various aspects of the law—particularly DWI. He is one of only four board certified DWI/DUI Attorneys in Texas by the National College for DUI Defense which is the sole entity approved by the American Bar Association to grant such a qualification (the Texas Bar Association does not have a board certification in DWI Defense but it does recognize the ABA DWI board certification. Gary has also been listed seven times in Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession.

He has been practicing law in the state of Texas since 1980 and served as president of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association from June 2011 through June 2012. Gary is past chairman of the DWI committees for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He has also served the longest tenure on the Board of Regents for the National College for DUI Defense where he was Dean of the College from 2002-2003. The NCDD awarded Gary The Erwin-Taylor Award, a national recognition for exceptional lawyers who have dedicated their lives to protecting constitutional rights of citizens and upgrading the level of professionalism for all attorneys. He has also been selected to the Texas Super Lawyers every year from 2003-2014 and is rated 10.0 Superb by Avvo. 

Gary currently serves, Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Katy, Memorial, Clear Lake, Pearland, West University, River Oaks, Spring Branch, Midtown, Southside Place, Meyerland and Bellaire as well as the Texas Hill Country including Bandera, Fredricksburg, Kerrville and surrounding areas. 

 

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Practice areas

DUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 100%

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

Trichter & LeGrand, PC

420 Heights Blvd.
Houston, TX, 77007

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      WYActive201602/28/2021
      AKInactive199903/03/2021
      COActive198702/09/2021
      TXEligible To Practice In Texas 198003/07/2021
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers0
      Legal guides0
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2017
      Best Lawyers in AmericaWoodward-White, Inc.2016
      AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2016
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2016
      Best Lawyers in AmericaWoodward-White, Inc.2015
      AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2015
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2015
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2014
      AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2014
      Best Lawyers in AmericaWoodward-White, Inc.2013
      The Erwin-Taylor AwardNational College for DUI Defense2013
      Super lawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2013
      AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2013
      AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2012
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2012
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2011
      Best Lawyers in AmericaWoodward-White, Inc.2010
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2010
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2009
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2008
      Best Lawyers in AmericaWoodward-White, Inc.2008
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2007
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2006
      Super LawyerTexas Monthly Magazine2005
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      Senior lawyerTrichter & LeGrand, PC1980 - 2016
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember2010 - Present
      National College of DUI DefenseFellow1994 - Present
      State Bar of TexasMember1980 - Present
      Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationPast President1980 - Present
      Harris County Criminal Lawyers AssociationMember1980 - Present
      National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersPast chairman DUI CommitteeN/A
      Texas Hill Country Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMemberN/A
      Texas DWI LawyersPast President and Founding Member2014 - 2014
      Texas DWI LawyersMember and Past-President2014 - 2014
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Voice for the Defense (Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association)DWI Audio/Video Recordings: Expediting Production Where Charges Have Not Yet Been Filed2016
      Voice of the DefenseDrugs: Oral Fluid Collection Devices2014
      The Champion (Journal for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers)Thinking Outside the DWI Voir Dire Box2010
      Voice for the Defense (Journal for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association)Defendant’s Motion to Protect the Fairness of Future Juries2009
      The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association)Ten Commandments of Cross-Examination2009
      The Champion (Journal for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers) Vol. 36, No. 1Neutralizing the Romberg2007
      Voice for the Defense (Journal for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association) Vol. 36, No. 1Officer Romberg vs. Dr. Romberg: A Field Sobriety Test Designed For Failure2007
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      South Texas College of LawDoctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor (J.D.)1980
      University of South FloridaMA - MastersN/A
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      Tapatio Springs SeminarCase Law, Rules of Evidence, Ethics & Kill Shots2016
      Dallas SeminarI-C-A: Immediate Courtroom Application "Cross of the Arresting Officer"2016
      Spring ConferenceFour Rules of Jury Decision-Making2015
      Pure Science: Blood & Breath TestingIntroduction to Pure Science: Blood & Breath Testing / Panel Discussion: Ethics in Science and Law / Summation of Blood and Breath Testing2015
      David Burrows Present “DWI Winning Tactics”Introduction + DWI Case Law Update2015
      Winter SeminarCDLP Presents DWI-Public Defender Training2014
      Summer SeminarBuilding a Better Defense 20142014
      Mastering DWI DefenseVoir Dire: The 4 Rules of Jury Decision Making2014
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      Love v. StateReversed and Dismissed

      Reviews

      (29)
      5 Star
      		97%
      4 Star
      		0%
      3 Star
      		0%
      2 Star
      		0%
      1 Star
      		3%
      Review J. Trichter

      Best Lawyer Ever!

      Posted by

      Gary was amazing in defending me in my case! He exceeded all my expectations and even got me dismissed earlier than expected. I cannot speak highly enough about his professionalism in handling my case. I highly recommend to anyone seeking legal defense. Gary will get it done!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Gary Trichter equals Excellence!

      Posted by

      If you are in doubt, frustrated,and worried about finding the right dwi lawyer... look no further. I am from a small town in texas. I got into one hell of a bind ( totally wrecked my truck and charged with dwi). Instead of calling the local law firm... I pulled out the big guns and hired Gary Trichter. Best move ever. He will serve you in your best interest and like a magician he will make things disappear! Gary = Winning!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Excellent Lawyer

      Posted by

      Mr Trichter did an amazing job left no stone unturned a very accomplished and experienced attorney in all aspects actually ever aspect in his work methodical detailed masterful and a staff that is very through he will do everything possible to get the very best results for you only man for the Job trusting compassionate and honest
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Dr. Barry Gomel

      Posted by

      I call him Gary because he made me fell so comfortably and he understood people need good (experts) to help you life get out of life complicated situations.. if you knew a attorney well don’t waste your time!! Hire Gary .. He’s simply the best !
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      The Absolute Best!

      Posted by

      After I was arrested for a DWI, I was scared, embarrassed, and unsure of what my future would look like as a result of the arrest. I was fortunate to have been given Gary’s name during my search for a defense attorney. From the very beginning, Gary made himself personally available to me to answer questions and offer guidance on critical next steps. His knowledge and honesty were a great source of comfort for me and my family throughout the entire process. As my case progressed, Gary and his team were excellent at communicating with me about what to expect. We reviewed the case evidence together at length and had numerous meetings as we prepared our defense. At every step along the way, I felt informed and prepared. I knew I was in the best hands possible. Gary’s meticulous preparation, knowledge of DWI defense, and his command of the court room simply cannot be matched. I wholly attribute our success in my case to Gary and his team and I am eternally grateful for everything they have done for me. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of needing a DWI defense attorney, then you need to understand that there is simply nobody better than Gary. To say I would highly recommend him would be a drastic understatement. He is truly a master of his trade and, perhaps more importantly, he is a good and honest man who genuinely cares about his clients.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      J. Gary Trichter, Cowboy attorney, pilot, philanthropist and one fine humanitarian

      Posted by

      I met Gary Trichter in August of 2019 when I had an incident that involved a health and auto incident that involved DPS. He met with me promptly and spent much time explaining my case, then gave me his personal cell number and told me to call him for any reason even if it was just to talk. I was immediately impressed with his openness, calm way of speaking and his unsurpassed knowledge of the law. I later found out he pretty much wrote the book on DWI law and is only one of 4 board certified DWI specialists in the United States. He is highly regarded with his colleagues earning him attorney of the year in 2018 as well as being well loved in his community. Gary spent special attention to my case even Making a number of long drives to ensure my case in San Antonio was handled properly. I beileve he got me the absolute best outcome and would recommend him above anyone as there is no better attorney out there. I also want to add that he is an animal lover, philanthropist, and champion for higher education. At the end of my ordeal he let me know he was my friend and to stay in touch with him. I am proud to know Gary as I beileve him to simply be an outstanding human being and do indeed consider him my friend. thank you Gary.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Thankful for my Attorney!

      Posted by

      I will start by admitting that I do not write reviews, but Gary Trichter has saved me in a way I cannot nor could I have ever expected. 5 stars do not do justice to the care and work Gary Trichter and his associates Frank, Kristy, and Tracy have put in for me. People make mistakes and he does understand that. I am a Husband, Father, and Business professional that was on the verge of losing ALL when I received a Felony 3rd DWI along with an unlawful carrying charge. In March of 2019 I was pulled over while driving 93 mph in a 65. Per reports, my blood alcohol was high, and my field sobriety video was not favorable. This all happened in one of the strictest counties in Texas. From the very first time I spoke with Gary he was kind and understanding of my situation and committed to doing everything possible to fight for me, however I would need to commit to following his guidance in order for us to be successful. He was upfront and honest with me about my case including the possibility of prison time. I followed his instruction and direction to a t. From this my mitigation book for my defense was created. Through faith, hard work, and Gary's guidance we went from a 10 year prison sentence to 4 years probation with some other requirements which are keeping me out of prison and saving my family and life! Since the charge I have found sobriety and my bond with God and family is now stronger than ever. We have been given another chance and truly understand how easily things can be taken for granted and lost. Gary truly put his heart into my case and I am grateful for that. I cannot thank Gary and his team enough! What I appreciate the most is that I felt Gary's sincerity and that he was truly invested in me as a person and not just a client. Gary is a guy I can call friend and look forward to continuing our relationship on a personal level in the future! Thank you Gary!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      This is who you want!!

      Posted by

      I cannot praise Gary, Kristy, Tracy and everyone involved in my case highly enough!! Gary had me do things right from the start that made sense, but I never knew could have the impact they did. What did they do? They kept me out of prison!! The documentation Gary had me prepare over the months it took for my case to be finalized was the deciding factor that gave me the opportunity to perform 10 years probation instead of 10 years in TDC. Gary and his team will always tell you how it IS, not how anyone hopes or merely want's it to be. Everything they do and say can be trusted 110%!! If you find yourself in a DWI situation and you need someone who actually cares if you succeed, there is no one better!! Just shut your mouth and do anything and everything this amazing team tells you.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Absolutely Fantastic Law Firm

      Posted by

      Without question Gary Trichter and Aaron White are amazing attorneys. You will not be disappointed in your outcome. They provided me with the tools, support, and expertise necessary to get an extremely favorable outcome. If you are in a position where you need an attorney, I would absolutely turn to them. They are well worth the expense. Their personalized approach, dedication to my case, and overall understanding of my situation are extraordinarily valuable when I was faced with uncertainty. They genuinely care about their clients and will do everything in their power for you. You will not be disappointed but should be prepared to take an active role in your case. It might be an expectation from them. They were entrusted with my life and pulled off a miracle. Can't thank them enough.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Great DWI Attorney

      Posted by

      Gary and his team took on my case with incredible intelligence and aggressiveness, I was very pleased with the outcome of my case and how my charge was lowered from a much higher charge.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      See all reviews

      Attorney endorsements

      (14)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

      Jarrod Smith, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 22, 2019
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Gary is one of the best DWI lawyers in the country. He is a fighter and a trial legend. One of the greats in the legal profession.

      Carl Ward, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 13, 2018
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Gary Trichter is in a class of his own when it comes to defending DWI/DUI cases. I have known Gary for nearly 30 years. While I am widely known for DWI defense in Missouri, Gary is known and respected throughout the US, Canada, and even in some European Countries as the best of the best. He has been my mentor and a friend. He is a Godly man, honest, and one Hell of a trial attorney. I highly endorse him. Carl Ward

      Chris Denuna

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Stephen Baxley, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 13, 2016
      Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

      I endorse this lawyer. I have known Gary since I began work as a baby prosecutor in 1998. As a prosecutor, I only lost 2 DWI trial. One was to Gary and working against him was great training for later when I saw the light and began defending people. When I practiced in Houston, Gary was on the short list of folks to call with any legal question or strategy on a case. He is a wonderful lawyer, great guy, and I endorse him with no reservation.

      Phillip Goff, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 4, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Gary is not only at the top of his field, he is a genuinely nice, caring person. You simply cannot go wrong with him in your DWI case.

      Gary Medlin, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 17, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Gregory Willis, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 19, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse and highly recommend Gary for any and all DUI cases. He is one of the best DUI lawyers in the country.

      Robert Fickman, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 16, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Gary is a recent past President of the Texas Criminal Lawyers Association. Gary is a legal innovator. Gary is intelligent, quick on his feet, well-versed in the law, zealous, tough, creative, thoughtful and well-respected by all parties in courthouses across Texas. Gary is one of the most honorable men You will ever meet. He is a good soul.

      Jessica Joyner, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 28, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Gary Trichter is an extraordinarily knowledgeable, skilled, and passionate DWI attorney. He represents the standard to which other DWI attorneys ought to strive to emulate. He has been an incredible teacher, mentor, and friend to me. He goes above and beyond for his clients and his fellow attorneys. I highly recommend Mr. Trichter to anyone seeking a DWI attorney.

      Bennie Ray, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 28, 2014
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I endorse this lawyer. One of the most knowledgeable lawyers I have ever known

      Lawrence Newman, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 18, 2011
      Relationship: Friend

      I have known Gary Trichter from my attendance at DUI seminars and conferences in Texas, New York, and at Harvard. He is the lawyer's lawyer. Gary is not only a brilliant advocate but in a world of fakes and liars, he is also a genuine human being with a huge heart. He shares of himself in a way few people do. Gary's "can do" attitude brings out the best in all of us, and I consider him to be an inspiration. Because Gary believes in people he makes you believe in yourself.

      Harley Wagner, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 25, 2010
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Having been a member of the National College for DUI Defense for over 10 years now, and as an annual attendee of two to three national DUI defense seminars, I have been privileged to get to know many of our nation's finest DUI defense attorneys. Gary Trichter is undoubtedly amongst this group. His reputation for professional excellence is not limited to the borders of Texas. He has a national reputation of being one of our nation's most experienced, well trained, ultra talented, compassionate DUI defense attorneys that you will find anywhere in America. I loudly and proudly endorse Gary Trichter. The citizen accused could find no better. The fact that he is a personal friend is but a bonus.

      Diego Vargas, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 30, 2009
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer's work.

      Andrew Mishlove, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 4, 2009
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      A Texas original - with a sense of integrity and style born in the West. Gary Trichter is an inspiration and teacher to lawyers from all over America. He is one of the best DUI defense lawyers in the country.