Choosing the right criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a case dismissal and a guilty verdict. Houston lawyer James Alston will work hard to defend you in a court of law. Prior to starting his own private practice, James Alston served as an assistant U.S. attorney and assistant district attorney for Harris County for 12 years. The government trained him to litigate crimes in federal and state courts. Attorney Alston is familiar with the methods prosecutors use to seek convictions for criminal offenses like DWI, fraud, assault, white-collar crimes and drug possession. He uses this knowledge to protect the rights of his clients and to maintain their freedoms. James Alston is board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. There are over 70,000 practicing attorneys in the state of Texas. However, only 10 percent of them are board-certified. According to the TBLS, "the Board Certification process is rigorous and thorough with stringent, ongoing requirements after initial certification." To qualify, an attorney is required to meet several criteria, including a minimum of five years in practice and completion of an approved continuing education course. Mr. Alston is also a long-time member of the following professional organizations: • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association • Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association • Houston Bar Association