Learn About the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

The Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (DCDLA) stands is dedicated to protecting and ensuring constitutional rights in criminal cases through education, cooperation, and advocacy. The Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (DCDLA) is one of the oldest criminal defense organizations in the United States, established in 1949. The organization was founded as the country’s longest-continuously operating criminal defense organization. Its primary purpose was to represent the criminal defense bar in matters relating to judges, the District Attorney’s office, media, commissioner’s court, and other political matters

Mission and Core Purpose of DCDLA

DCDLA’s primary mission is threefold:

• To protect and ensure individual rights guaranteed by both Texas and Federal Constitutions in criminal cases
• To resist ongoing efforts to curtail these constitutional rights
• To foster cooperation between defense lawyers through educational programs and other assistance

Looking for a Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you’re looking for a Dallas criminal defense lawyer, contact Varghese Summersett. We’re conveniently located a 2100 Ross Ave, Suite 950 in Downtown Dallas. Our founder, Benson Varghese, is a long-time member of DCDLA. Our roster includes a former Dallas County prosecutor as well as three Board Certified Criminal Specialists – Benson Varghese, Anna Summersett, and Letty Martinez. With Varghese Summersett you get:

• Decades of Combined Experience: The team at Varghese Summersett comprises seasoned attorneys well-versed in Texas criminal law, offering clients a deep understanding of the local court system.
• Strategic Defense Approach: They develop tailored strategies aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes, whether through negotiation or litigation.
• Client-Centered Service: Communication is a priority. Their attorneys strive to keep clients informed every step of the way and treat every case with the attention it deserves.
• Proven Track Record: With a history of successful results in high-stakes criminal cases, the firm has established itself as a leading choice for individuals facing serious charges.

Call us today at (214) 903-4000

Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Governance and Leadership

DCDLA operates under a sophisticated governance structure:

• Board of Directors: 13 elected officers including:
  • 8 Directors
  • 4 Executive Board members
  • The immediate Past President
• Executive Board consisting of:
  • President (Chief Executive Officer)
  • President-Elect
  • Treasurer
  • Secretary

All board members serve specified terms and must maintain active engagement in criminal defense practice in Dallas County.

DCDLA Meetings and Operations

The organization maintains a regular meeting schedule:

• General meetings held monthly on the third Thursday following CLE programs
• Board meetings conducted on the second Thursday of each month
• Special structured board meetings that include open discussion with judges followed by closed-door sessions for organization business
• Social Activities have included a CLE cruise, Night Out at the Ballpark, Clay Pigeon Shoot, and Annual Charity Golf Tournaments.

DCDLA Educational Programming

DCDLA demonstrates its commitment to professional development through:

• The annual Judicial Bench Bar Conference, a major continuing legal education event that brings together defense attorneys and members of the judiciary
• Monthly CLE (Continuing Legal Education) programs
• Regular educational sessions coordinated by the President-Elect
• Professional development opportunities for members

The DCLDA Strike Force Initiative

One of DCDLA’s most innovative features is its Strike Force Committee, a specialized group designed to:

• Review and address issues regarding elected officials affecting members
• Operate under strict confidentiality protocols
• Provide structured recommendations to the Board of Directors
• Take action on behalf of the organization when approved

DCDLA Membership Structure and Dues

DCDLA maintains a tiered membership structure with corresponding dues rates that accommodate different categories of legal professionals. The organization offers special rates for new attorneys, public defenders, and law students, while providing honorary memberships for senior members and past presidents who have served the organization. Sustaining and lifetime membership options are available at higher rates for those seeking long-term commitment to the organization.

To join DCDLA, candidates must:

• Be members in good standing of the State Bar of Texas
• Be engaged in criminal defense cases
• Receive endorsement from a current DCDLA member
• Not be members of the judiciary or employed in prosecutorial offices (except honorary members)

DCDLA maintains several membership categories designed to serve different segments of the legal community:

• Regular Members: Actively practicing criminal defense attorneys, excluding county prosecutors, judges, and district attorneys
• Sustaining Members: Regular members who make a $1000 payment covering 7 years of membership
• Lifetime Members: Regular members who make a $2500 payment for lifetime membership
• Affiliate Members: Legal assistants, investigators, law students, and other professionals who contribute to criminal defense

A unique aspect of DCDLA’s membership policy is its automatic revocation system for members who become prosecutors or judges, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to maintaining its focus on criminal defense.

Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Policy and Advocacy

The organization maintains strict protocols for public advocacy:

• Official pronouncements must be authorized by the Board of Directors
• The President has discretionary power to make urgent policy declarations
• All actions must align with the organization’s constitutional protection mission

DCDLA Member Facilities and Resources

DCDLA maintains a members’ lounge on the 8th floor of the Dallas County courthouse.  This dedicated space provides members with a professional environment to work, meet, and prepare  while at the courthouse. The lounge serves as a valuable resource for attorneys managing their court appearances and client meetings.

Looking Forward

As a cornerstone of the Dallas legal community, DCDLA continues to evolve while maintaining its core mission of protecting constitutional rights and supporting criminal defense practitioners. The organization’s detailed governance structure, combined with its commitment to education and advocacy, positions it as a crucial resource for criminal defense attorneys in Dallas County.

For attorneys practicing criminal defense in Dallas County, DCDLA offers not just professional resources and support, but participation in a structured, mission-driven organization dedicated to protecting constitutional rights and advancing the practice of criminal defense law.

Become a Member of Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Interested attorneys can apply for membership here. The organization maintains strict vetting procedures to ensure members align with its mission and standards. All applications are reviewed by the Secretary or President and must be inducted by board resolution.