Charles Kent Zavala

Charles Kent Zavala

4.8
Rating: 8.3

Licensed for 11 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Houston, TX
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Immigration, Business

2950 North West Loop, Suite 500, Houston, TX

About Charles

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 40%

Misdemeanor and Felonies

40%
Immigration 40%

USCIS, EOIR, Deportation, Asylum, Bond

40%
Business 20%

Small Business Law

20%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 11 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 2014

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

Zavala Texas Law

2950 North West Loop, Suite 500, Houston, TX, 77092

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Charles Kent Zavala's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

23 Client Reviews

5 star (22)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (1)

Posted by Susana | May 22, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Knowledgeable, responsive, compasionate

The best experience I have ever had with the legal system. He knows his stuff and he doesn't drag his feet. He handled an immigration case for my adopted son with a pending criminal case. Once I turned in the paperwork, he had a positive response back from immigration within 2 weeks. He told us w...hat he needed to put the best application in, we got it for him, he quickly submitted it and got back good results. He knows what he is doing. He knows what you need to give him to get your best results. I recommend him to all my friends and family.

Posted by Priscilla | May 31, 2017 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Awesome attorney

Mr. Zavala was great and by far one of the best experiences I had with an attorney. He was dedicated to my dad's case and honest. He fought for us and never once let us feel like he didn't have every thing under control. I will definitley use him again if needed for anything immigration and most defi...nitely recommend him to anybody in need of an immigration lawyer. Thank you Mr. Zavala again!

Charles Zavala

Replied last June 2, 2017

It was my pleasure! If you ever need anything please let me know.

Posted by anonymous | May 10, 2017 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Hired and Fired! STAY AWAY AT ALL COST!

My experience with Charles Zavala was nothing short of a disaster. I want to share it here so that people can know who he really is, make conscious decision and not fall into his traps. While Charles Zavala speaks to you, he speaks nicely but he is very unprofessional and dishonest in his conduct...s. I hired him for my asylum application but I could endure his unethical and sloppy conducts only for two weeks and eventually fired him. These conducts were: 1. In our initial meeting Charles Zavala and I agreed on a price for his services but two days later, he sent me an email stating that he would charge additional $500 for employment authorization application. This was the first red flag but I didn’t notice it. I wanted to trust him but his deceptions did not stop here. 2. He did not follow what is going on with my case. He asked me the same questions that I already responded to his assistant a week ago. There was an obvious disconnect with him and his assistant about my case. 3. I provided him all the copies of my passport, visa, etc. He promised me that he would go over all of my documents. A week later, he was still asking me the birthplace of my wife… Dude, what have you done during the last week? Party? 4. I wrote more than 10 pages about my story, why I am applying for asylum, etc. In our initial meeting he again promised me that he would go over every single paragraph of my application and make necessary corrections before submitting it. A week later, he said that we did not need to submit a narrative; only I-589 was enough for asylum. Even the day before he was supposedly submitting my application, he still did not have a clear idea about why I was applying for asylum. It was very apparent that he did not even thoroughly read my story. 5. I-589 instructions state that incomplete applications will be denied and applicants should submit three copies of each document that they put in the application file. Let alone three copies, Charles Zavala was talking about not including even one copy of supporting documents in the initial application. He was planning to supplement other documents at a later day. Not following USCIS guidelines seriously concerned me that my application was going to have issues, if not rejected at the first place. The relationships are built on trust and I tried to build that trust from the first day I met Charles Zavala. I accepted his quote, his payment plan and made my initial payment on the day I promised. In return I expected him to provide me the high quality service he promised. However, I observed that his promises were broken one by one. Therefore, I fired him the day before he was supposedly going to submit my (incomplete) asylum application. Even though he kept almost none of his promises and did not spend time on my case, he still charged me hundreds of dollars and gave me only a partial refund. He was very rude when I went to his office for the last time to get my documents and money back. He kept me waiting for more than an hour in the lobby even though I had a scheduled appointment. I cannot believe how this guy is still allowed to practice law in Texas. I hope my story helps you make a better attorney selection regarding your case. Don’t believe in lies. Be smart!

Charles Zavala

Replied last May 11, 2017

At our law practice we work professionally and treat every case with honest attention. I am sorry we did not live up to your standards. We wish you the best of luck in the future.

Posted by Crystal | March 10, 2017 | Consulted Attorney

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Great Advice

Gave great legal advise for free. Very helpful. I trust that he is concerned about his Clients and had their best interest at heart.

Posted by Monica | June 3, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Amazing ,hardworking, & DEDICATED lawyer!!!

I came across Mr Zavala on aavo. After getting a court appointed attorney, i knew I would have to find someone else who would fight. After speaking and meeting several other attorneys l, I called Charles. We set up a meeting, from the time I talked to him on the til today he has been amazing. He ...always returned calls, emails. My fiance was facing a motion to adjudicate on his felony probation (which could of meant 2-10 years TDC.). Mr Zavala had that dismissed and put back on probation. He also had the violation of protective order complete with time served in jail. I recommend Mr Zavala to everyone. If your in a rough spot, call him he will listen to you, give advice, and he will fight for you. I'm so thankful for all he's done!!

Charles Zavala

Replied last June 4, 2016

It was great working with you two. I am glad I was able to help bring your family back together. Good luck

See All Client Reviews

Charles Kent Zavala's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Charles
Elina Magaly Santana headshot
Elina Santana

Immigration lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brent R. Hardy headshot
Brent Hardy

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 30

Relationship: Other

"I endorse Charles Zavala without reservation. He is an exceptional attorney."

Jenna McConnell headshot
Jenna McConnell

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Charles is a charismatic and passionate attorney who puts his clients' interests first. He carefully analyzes each case and is always researching and applying new techniques to get positive results. He is an excellent communicator, with both his clients and with other attorneys, and his knowledge of immigration law is a great asset to his criminal defense practice. I endorse Charles."

Eduardo Tomas Ortiz headshot
Eduardo Ortiz

Unknown lawyer | Jul 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Charles for quite a long time. He has always been professional, hardworking, and ambitious. If you need legal help, you can depend on Charles to look after your best interests."

Richard Keith Oliver headshot
Richard Oliver

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Charles is a relatively new lawyer, but sometimes the newest lawyers are the hungriest and hardest working. That's my impression of Charles. He'll outwork the next guy, and he's not afraid to go into court and fight for his client's rights. He's a guy you'd want in your corner, to be sure."

Shelby B. Burns headshot
Shelby Burns

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Charles a very intelligent attorney that will go the distance for his clients. If you find yourself charged with a crime, you would be lucky to call yourself his client. I endorse this lawyer."

Mana Yegani headshot
Mana Yegani

Criminal defense lawyer | May 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Charles for a couple of years and I know him to be a hard worker, caring towards clients, enthusiastic about helping people, problem solver and above all he is a true defender. I endorse this lawyer."

Justin Thomas Surginer headshot
Justin Surginer

Immigration lawyer | May 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have been privileged to know Charles both before he became a lawyer and after. This gave me the opportunity to see him develop from a student into a knowledgeable and successful attorney. I am proud to know him, to refer anyone to him and to say that I endorse him."

Solomon Morrow headshot
Solomon Morrow

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Zavala is a true professional who is highly knowledgeable in his field. He is passionate about protecting his client’s rights and getting results that count."

Jacques Pierre Leeds headshot
Jacques Leeds

Immigration lawyer | Feb 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Charles is a great immigration attorney. Anyone needing help with their immigration situation, I would highly recommend them to Charles."

Mark Metzger III headshot
Mark Metzger

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Charles is one of the most hardworking lawyers I know. Accepting new responsibilities and working long hours are emblematic of his work ethic. I met Charles when he was in law school, and over the years I have known him, I have been proud to watch his career continue to advance and develop. He has had many successes in life and they are testament to his hard work and strong character. He is an asset not only to his client but also to our legal community as a whole. Charles possesses the highest degree of integrity and is a loyal, honorable, and dependable attorney. I can assure you that he will never back down to a fight, and will be there for you to the very end. If you are charged with a crime or need legal advice, Charles Zavala is the lawyer for you."

Sean Reza Darvishi headshot
Sean Darvishi

Unknown lawyer | Jan 21

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Charles is extremely charismatic and intelligent attorney. I have known Charles for many years and he thinks the kind of way you would want your lawyer to think. Plus he is bilingual which is an added bonus. I highly recommend this attorney."

Miguel Castillo headshot
Miguel Castillo

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Friend

"Ever since I met Charles he's shown the ability to be there for the people who need him. He's dedicated to helping others and has the smarts and courage to defend the rights of his clients. You want a lawyer who truly believes that clients are innocent until proven guilty, Charles is that lawyer."

Trinidad Zamora III headshot
Trinidad Zamora

Unknown lawyer | Jan 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Chuck, is a true testament of diligence and perseverance. He is no ordinary thinker, he weighs and measures the facts of his client's cases in a fashion that can only bring great results. He has positioned himself around wisdom and triumph not only to ensure he recognizes the pathways to success but to be forewarned to avoid the pitfalls the practice of law often delivers. Chuck recognizes what is at stake and is prepared to tackle each obstacle with a fury that is unmatched. You can't go wrong with him, oh, and he'll call ya back."

View All Endorsements
Elina Magaly Santana headshot
Elina Santana

Immigration lawyer

Brent R. Hardy headshot
Brent Hardy

Unknown lawyer

Jenna McConnell headshot
Jenna McConnell

Immigration lawyer

Eduardo Tomas Ortiz headshot
Eduardo Ortiz

Personal injury lawyer

Richard Keith Oliver headshot
Richard Oliver

Criminal defense lawyer

Justin Thomas Surginer headshot
Justin Surginer

Criminal defense lawyer

Mana Yegani headshot
Mana Yegani

Immigration lawyer

Shelby B. Burns headshot
Shelby Burns

Criminal defense lawyer

Solomon Morrow headshot
Solomon Morrow

Unknown lawyer

Jacques Pierre Leeds headshot
Jacques Leeds

Unknown lawyer

Sean Reza Darvishi headshot
Sean Darvishi

Criminal defense lawyer

Trinidad Zamora III headshot
Trinidad Zamora

Criminal defense lawyer

Miguel Castillo headshot
Miguel Castillo

General practice lawyer

Mark Metzger III headshot
Mark Metzger

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  8.3 (Excellent)

Honors

2015

Clients' Choice- Criminal Defense, Avvo

2015

Top Contributor, Avvo

2013

American Jurisprudence Award, Thurgood Marshall School of Law

Work Experience

2017 - Present

Attorney, Zavala Texas Law

2014 - 2014

Legal intern, Harris County District Attorney's Office

2014 - 2016

Attorney, Law Office of Juan Reyes

2013 - 2014

Legal Clerk, Theissen Law Firm

2012 - 2013

Legal Clerk, Law Office of Mana Yegani

Associations

2015 - Present

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

Member

2014 - Present

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2014 - Present

Texas Young Lawyers Association

Member

2014 - Present

Houston Bar Association

Member

2014 - Present

State Bar of Texas

Member/Attorney

2011 - Present

Texas Tech Alumni Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Texas v. I.R

Dismissed

Texas v. JT

Probation

Texas v. Leiva

Dismissed

Texas v. Maldonado

Dismissed

Texas v. Arevalo

Dismissed

Texas v. Paladino

Bond Reduced

Texas v. Rufino

Dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

2014

Thurgood Marshall School of Law

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

2011

Texas Tech University

Bachelor of Arts

2011

Texas Tech University

Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2014

CISD High School Seminar

Setting Positive Goals after High School

2013

CISD Teacher Seminar

Modern Student/Teacher Interaction

Publications

2017

Reasonable Doubt The Future of the Dream

2017

Reasonable Doubt Immigration Bond 101

2017

Reasonable Doubt Theft Values

Languages

Spanish

English

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.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
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