The purpose of TCDLA is to protect and ensure by rule of law those individual rights guaranteed by the Texas and Federal Constitutions in criminal cases; To resist the constant efforts which are now being made to curtail such rights; To encourage cooperation between lawyers engaged in the furtherance of such objectives through educational programs and other assistance; And through such cooperation, education and assistance to promote justice and the common good. The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association's mission statement, as set forth in 1971 by our founders, is alive and well and going strong today. TCDLA is the largest state association for criminal defense attorneys in the nation. TCDLA started off as a small, non-profit association and has grown into a state-of-the-art organization, providing assistance, support and continuing education to its members. TCDLA provides a statewide forum for criminal defense lawyers and is the only voice in the legislature interested in basic fairness in criminal defense cases. We are proud that among our 3,000-plus members are found the “who’s who” of the criminal defense profession in Texas. TCDLA hosts approximately 50 seminars each year, providing the highest quality legal education available for new lawyers, as well as seasoned veterans. Attended regularly by members, non-members, judges and professionals in related fields, our yearly seminar attendance has increased to over 5,300 people seeking to continue their educational opportunities.