Cynthia Russell Henley

Cynthia Russell Henley

also known as Cynthia Henley

4.7
Rating: 9.9

Licensed for 37 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Houston, TX
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence, Sex Crime ... +3 more

739 Worthshire, Houston, TX, Houston, TX

About Cynthia

Biography

Practice Areas

6

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 35%

I have always been on the side of defending the accused - in trial, on appeal, and on post conviction habeas corpus (11.07) matters. I personally handle all my cases & answer my phone. I'll discuss the case and potential fees with you over the phone and be honest and frank about your situation. I don't play games with clients trying to extract money like many lawyers.

38 years

35%
Domestic Violence 35%

I see a LOT of these cases. They often have "buyer regret" involved - the complainant later wishes police were not involved & desires to recant / "drop charges". In Harris County there is no dropping charges AND if the complainant recants, the case is reassigned to a special division of prosecutors whose job is to try to get a conviction without the assistance of the complainant. These are emotionally charged & what most of us think of as hearsay can be admitted. Hire a lawyer ASAP.

38 years

35%
Sex Crime 15%

I have handled many cases in which folks were charged with sexual assault, and in particular, sexual assault of children. These are very emotionally difficult cases & very time consuming. People should NEVER talk to police if they are being investigated with any offense, and especially this type. Police are NOT trying to truly investigate because if a child makes an allegation, there WILL be charges in 99% of the cases. Hire a lawyer early is your best defense (& talk to no one but your lawyer.)

38 years

15%
Violent Crime 7%

This is a general descriptor but I handle cases involving allegations of violence including a variety of assaults - against family members, fights, child abuse, murder, sexual assault, etc. 29 years of experience with all types of violent crimes.

7%
Child Abuse 5%

These cases are difficult for families. Oftentimes CPS is involved and there may be family members on opposite sides on the issue. The State usually comes down very hard on these, even when it is a marginal case.

38 years

5%
Credit Card Fraud 3%

More and more we are seeing these charges, and some times more along the lines of gift cards being found by employees who later use them. I'm very bothered by this type of charge especially when the "owner" cannot be identified. Never work with police - hire a lawyer to help you. Police are NOT trying to help you out - ever.

38 years

3%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 37 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 1988

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

739 Worthshire, Houston, TX

739 Worthshire, Houston, TX, Houston, TX, 77008

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Cynthia Russell Henley's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.7 /5.0

47 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (47) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 6 - 10 of 10 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by gary | October 13, 2011 | Lawsuits & Disputes

very helpful, excellent representation

Ms.Henley is an experienced(23 years) and professional lawyer. she knows the system very well. so she can give you outcomes as your reference before go to the court. She really takes care of her clients, like me a foreigner, my English is not that good, she spent a lot of time communicating with me v...ia email. From my case, I feel Ms.Henley really want to get you out of trouble, not just take advantage of your disaster. Ms.Henley charges you at a reasonable rate, she is not a greedy lawyer. before I went to her, a lawyer even want to charge me almost triple price that Ms.Henley asked. I think the reason is, Ms.Henley loves her profession, she enjoys helping people out of trouble. she works at home, saves a lot of money for renting a office. all in all, it is not easy to find a lawyer with best service and good price. I am very thankful to Ms.Henley, finally, my wife got out of trouble within 10 days. She really helps a desperate 'single father' who have to work, study, and take care of a one and a half year old baby. I highly recommended Ms.Henley!

Cynthia Henley

Replied last April 11, 2012

I appreciated the opportunity to help this gentleman and his wife. Sadly too often lawyers do not take the time to understand the pain and suffering that clients and their family's suffer. I had the chance to talk with this man about the situation, and he shared his pain of why his wife was where she was. I am pleased that I was able to get this woman back to her family immediately. And, I enjoyed sharing a moment of watching a humming bird at a feeder outside my office window with the husband. It gave him a few minutes of sanity and beauty, which helped him come back into focus on the fact that situation could be handled. A wonderful ending to a stressful time. I smile thinking of his peace of seeing that bird - something he had not experienced before.

Posted by Michael | August 27, 2010 | Criminal Defense

DISMISSED!!

i called and called many attorneys in my search for representation, i only got 1 to call me back, or answer any of my questions concerning what should i expect in court; Cynthia Henley. She answered my questions with a peaceful and knowledgeable tone in her voice assuring me of my expectations. i s...hortly after, went to her office to meet with her, still with out having retainment set, we talked and ultimately decided to go with Cynthia as my council. She stayed on top of new laws concerning my case, keeping me updated every step of the way!! she was like a firecracker, very deliberate and explosive in the courtroom, getting the things that she needed done, and done fast!! without going into detail of my case she told me when we first met that i was in the hardest courtroom in the world, but not to worry, she was going to do everything in her power to keep me protected from having to go to jail. i am so blessed to have Cynthia represent me, she exceeded all expectations of what an amazing attorney should be!! this morning i got a call from her saying that things were over, and i didn't have to worry about showing up for court again (which has stretched out over a 5 month period), because my case got "no-billed". thanks to the hard work Cynthia did i can breathe a sigh of relief, and move forward with my life!! i highly recommend Cynthia, she knows exactly what she is doing and does it extremely well!! Cynthia worked with me from start to finish!! Thank you so much!!

Cynthia Henley

Replied last April 11, 2012

I call this gentleman a kid because he is so much younger than me but he is really a responsible young man who has had many tribulations to overcome, and overcome them he has. He has a good heart and he worked with me doing as I requested. His also has a wonderfully supported family - a plus in any case.

Posted by Saul | October 14, 2009 | Criminal Defense

Best lawyer in Houston!

I, Saul Portillo, will refer Cynthia to everyone I know, and have for numerous reasons. For one, she knows the law. She actually cares about the case's out come. I am not really proud to say that I have been in trouble plenty of times, and have come to know lawyers more than anyone should...but i hav...e. Anyhow, this last time i was on parole and facing 18 yrs. in prison, the first person that come to mind was..."Cynthia Henley". She has represented numerous of my "friends", and we all have been happy with the results. She will do anything possible to make sure you a fair trial, and will not back down to anybody. We were suppose to go in front of the Judge for a suppression hearing, but the State dismissed the charges the day of the hearing...Other lawyers had told my brother it was a lost cause, and we should save our money and just go with a court-appointed...I will recommend Mrs. Henley for any criminal case. Thank you Chinthia!

Posted by anonymous | June 01, 2009 | Criminal Defense

Cynthia's role in my son's success story

Cynthia started representing my son when he was 16 years old. He started down a bad path with the use of steroids and eventually it led to other addictions. One thing led to another, all bad, but Cynthia was there to help us all of the way. Through her knowledge and her contacts with the bench, DA...s, and the such, she always got our son the best justice and addiction help that he could receive. Her fees were always very reasonable and she worked with us on financing. Two weeks ago my son graduated from a major university with a 4.0 average and was ranked number 1 out of 1271 graduates. He is going into the counseling profession to try to help others. Without Cynthia's help, he would be incarcerated in Huntsville rather than graduating from a university in Huntsville with a 4.0 average!

Cynthia Henley

Replied last July 15, 2009

This client is very special. He had so much talent it was a shame to see him caught up in his addictions, which led him to the criminal justice system. I am so proud to have had the opportunity to represent him. He will be important in so many lives! He still calls on occasion to thank me, and it really helps boost my continued desire to help people. He also had the awesome support of his family. Congratulations to him for overcoming the obstacles to be so outstanding!

Posted by anonymous | May 22, 2009 | DUI & DWI

Cynthia Henley/Criminal Defense Lawyer

I first hired Ms. Henley to defend me in a DWI case about 20 Yrs. ago. My case was her first for a DWI charge as an attorney. She was absolutely amazing the way she handled the trail in which 7 HPD's testified agains me. She went on to win the case that was decided by a jury and have recommended her ...to everyone that I know since.

Cynthia Henley

Replied last July 15, 2009

We did get a not guilty. He was actually my second ever trial. My first was a justice of the peace trial that began at 8 p.m. & went until 3 a.m. the night before this client's case began! True to his word, this client has referred numerous friends to me over the year & we have remained in contact. I believed in him, and we got a just verdict.

See All Client Reviews

Cynthia Russell Henley's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Cynthia
Diana Elizabeth Sims headshot
Diana Sims

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Cynthia since I became an attorney 19 years ago. She is truly a force of nature in the courtroom and an outstanding advocate for her clients. I highly recommend this attorney."

Trayson Nicholas Stephany headshot
Trayson Stephany

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cynthia Russell Henley has a long track record of success defending the accused."

Stephen Anthony Nicholas headshot
Stephen Nicholas

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer because she always takes the time to give the answer to questions in a well thought out manner, that is knowledgeable, as well as, caring to the questioner. Her knowledge of the law is outstanding and she will do research, if needed, to properly answer the question. She is also not afraid to correct any of her peers on any legal points necessary, and does so in a very positive and professional manner."

David N. Payma headshot
David Payma

Unknown lawyer | Aug 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Trinidad Zamora III headshot
Trinidad Zamora

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cynthia is a force to be reckoned with. Her knowledge of the law and processes makes her methods and strategies second to none. Her presence in the courtroom places the State's prosecutors on edge, because Cynthia will take the time to guide less experienced advocates through the smoke of prosecution. One would do well choosing Cynthia to be their voice."

Armen Gabriel Merjanian headshot
Armen Merjanian

Criminal defense lawyer | May 18

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have the pleasure of having Cynthia Henley as my designated mentor. I wouldn't be half the lawyer I am today without Cynthia's mentoring and guidance. She is a true believer who fights extremely hard for her clients. She knows how to beat cases and she routinely gets dismissals. I can't recommend Cynthia enough for you to hire her as your lawyer!"

Thomas G. Briody headshot
Thomas Briody

Criminal defense lawyer | May 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Henley has the ability and the experience to quickly assess and solve difficult situations encountered by criminal defendants. I endorse her without reservation."

Karim K Arzadi headshot
Karim Arzadi

Criminal defense lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"A prolific and insightful contributor here at Avvo, Ms. Russell Henley's long list of endorsements indicates the respect she has earned among her peers. I endorse Cynthia Russell Henley."

Edward K. Le headshot
Edward Le

Unknown lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. His advice and legal answers to complex issues demonstrate rare legal acumen seen in an attorney."

Michael Paul LeMond headshot
Michael LeMond

Criminal defense lawyer | May 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know this Cynthia to be a knowledgeable and kind attorney who spends time offering free advise to help others, I endorse this attorney!"

Randall Lee Kallinen headshot
Randall Kallinen

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cynthia works hard for each client. She is knowledgeable and experienced in all types of criminal cases and not afraid to put the pressure on the prosecution. I would want her in my corner if I am caught up with legal trouble."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Sep 24

Relationship: Other

"I not only endorse this lawyer. I give this lawyer 5 stars!"

Adam Michael Lahood headshot
Adam Lahood

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 06

Relationship: Other

"I endorse Cynthia Russell. She has demonstrated a great command of both Texas Criminal Law and Procedure, and has demonstrated she has the knowledge and ability to fully, and zealously, advocate for her clients."

Kyle R. Tatum headshot
Kyle Tatum

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Henley's contributions and advice are always on point. She is an asset to this website and the legal profession."

Christopher Dean Morton headshot
Christopher Morton

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cynthia is tough, smart, and tenacious. She zealously represents her clients and achieves excellent results for them. I wholeheartedly endorse Cynthia Henley."

Jonathan Tyler Adkins headshot
Jonathan Adkins

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 16

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. Her answers to the questions show her depth of legal knowledge."

Gene Tsukasa Sera headshot
Gene Sera

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 15

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. Based upon my reviews of answers Ms. Henley has provided on AVVO. She clearly understands what she is talking about and what a client might be facing in Harris County. Calling her would be a good decision if you had criminal matters in the Houston area."

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I would reccomend Cynthia to any client thinking of retaining an attorney. She is an avid contributor to the avvo community. Her legal knowledge is spot on. Give her a call first, you won't be disappointed."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sarah Thomas Kovoor headshot
Sarah Kovoor

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have learned a lot from Attorney Henley on criminal defense strategy. Her responses on the Q/A forums are very informative. She is a well respected member of the legal community."

View All Endorsements
Armen Gabriel Merjanian headshot
Armen Merjanian

Criminal defense lawyer

Randall Lee Kallinen headshot
Randall Kallinen

Civil rights lawyer

Wade Bennett Smith headshot
Wade Smith

Criminal defense lawyer

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Criminal defense lawyer

Dustan Orlando Neyland headshot
Dustan Neyland

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael P. Heiskell headshot
Michael Heiskell

Criminal defense lawyer

Betty Blackwell headshot
Betty Blackwell

Criminal defense lawyer

Cynthia Eva Hujar Orr headshot
Cynthia Orr

Criminal defense lawyer

Kathryn M. Kase headshot
Kathryn Kase

Criminal defense lawyer

W. Troy McKinney headshot
W. McKinney

Criminal defense lawyer

John William Armstrong III headshot
John Armstrong

DUI and DWI lawyer

Norman J. Silverman headshot
Norman Silverman

Criminal defense lawyer

Charles Elwood Soechting Jr. headshot
Charles Soechting

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael E. Turner headshot
Michael Turner

Criminal defense lawyer

Sarah Vernier Wood headshot
Sarah Wood

Criminal defense lawyer

Tyrone Cedric Moncriffe headshot
Tyrone Moncriffe

Criminal defense lawyer

Paul Vincent Kendall headshot
Paul Kendall

Criminal defense lawyer

Joshua Zientek headshot
Joshua Zientek

Criminal defense lawyer

John P. Yetter headshot
John Yetter

Criminal defense lawyer

Danny Karl Easterling headshot
Danny Easterling

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.9 (Superb)

Honors

2006

Top Lawyer for the People, H Texas Magazine

2005

Top Lawyer for the People, H Texas Magazine

2002

President's Outstanding Member, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

2002

President's Award, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Work Experience

2000 - Present

Sole Practitioner, Cynthia Henley, Lawyer

1996 - 2000

Partner, Schaffer & Henley

1988 - 1996

Associate, Schaffer, Lambright, Odom & Sparks

Associations

Houston Bar Association

Member

2003 - 2004

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

President

2002 - 2003

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

President-Elect

2001 - 2002

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

Vice President

2001 - 2005

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

2000 - 2001

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

Secretary

1988 - 2008

State Bar of Texas

Member

Education

1987

University of Houston Law Center

JD - Juris Doctor

1984

University of Houston

BS - Bachelor of Science

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

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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