In this heartfelt episode, Kerri Anderson Donica opens up about her two-year sobriety journey and how it reshaped both her personal life and her work as a criminal defense lawyer. She reflects on the turning point that made sobriety feel necessary, the early challenges, and the myths she had to let go of along the way.

Kerri discusses how defense-lawyer culture influenced her habits, how her support system helped (or didn’t), and the practical tools she now relies on—like mindfulness, boundaries, and new daily routines. She shares how sobriety has strengthened her clarity in the courtroom, improved her relationships, and expanded her compassion for herself and others.

The episode closes with what year three looks like for her, the message that’s carried her through this journey, and why TCDLA remains such an important part of her life.

Welcome to our Staff Spotlight Series — a mini-collection of behind-the-scenes conversations that introduce you to the incredible people who keep TCDLA moving. Each episode shines a light on the voices, talents, and personalities that power our mission every day. Get to know the team like never before!

Today, meet your TCDLA Registrar, Kierra Preston! See how she manages registrations and records to ensure members and attendees have a smooth, accurate experience from sign-up to completion.

Welcome to our Staff Spotlight Series — a mini-collection of behind-the-scenes conversations that introduce you to the incredible people who keep TCDLA moving. Each episode shines a light on the voices, talents, and personalities that power our mission every day. Get to know the team like never before!

In this episode, Kierra Preston sits down with your TCDLA Communications Director, Alicia Thomas!

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick McLain to explore his path from military service to private criminal defense practice. He shares how military discipline, values, and legal experience shaped his civilian work, the challenges of shifting gears, and the surprising overlaps between military and criminal law.  With insights on building a Texas criminal defense practice, with military niche practice representing active duty military personnel, and the power of mentorship, this conversation is amust-listen for any lawyer—civilian or military—seeking to grow in the field of criminal defense. 

Welcome to our Staff Spotlight Series — a mini-collection of behind-the-scenes conversations that introduce you to the incredible people who keep TCDLA moving. Each episode shines a light on the voices, talents, and personalities that power our mission every day. Get to know the team like never before!

In this episode, TCDLA President Nicole DeBorde Hochglaube interview your TCDLA CEO, Melissa Schank!

Discover how to select, evaluate, and prepare expert witnesses who can make or break your case in “Vetting Your Experts.” Join us as Katherine Mayer shares practical tips, common pitfalls, and key strategies to ensure your experts are courtroom-ready and credible.

Learn how to turn records into powerful tools for defense in “What to Look for When You Get the Records & How to Use Them.” with our guest, Patrick McCann. This episode provides actionable tips on analyzing, interpreting, and presenting records to build a compelling case strategy.

Should a juvenile adjudication follow someone into adultcourt? In this episode, we break down § 12.42(f) of the Texas Penal Code—a little-known law with big consequences. Learn how this statute allows juvenile records to enhance adult sentences, why it clashes with the core values of juvenile justice, and what defense lawyers can do to push for change.

Join us as we discuss with Warren Wolf

On this episode, Ian Stephens , a recent A&M Law graduate, discusses Texas' licensing scheme and the hurdles it creates for inmates released from prison who seek employment.

🎙️ In this special episode, President Nicole DeBorde Hochglaube shares her vision and priorities for the year ahead. From strengthening our community to advancing the mission of criminal defense, hear what’s in store and how you can be part of the momentum.