Sam has extensive trial experience in criminal and family law courts throughout Texas. He graduated from the University of Texas School of Law in 1988. He has been Board Certified in Criminal Law since 1994. Sam practices primarily criminal and family law. Sam has been voted by his peers to be included in the Best Lawyers In America and Texas Monthly’s Superlawyers publications. He also holds the highest rating possible by Martindale-Hubbel. In 2014, the publication Best Lawyers in America designated Sam as Lawyer of the Year for Austin, Texas in the area of criminal defense.

Sam is licensed in State and Federal court. Sam was appointed by the Governor of Texas to the Texas Forensic Science Commission in 2005, where he served as its Presiding Officer until September, 2009. Sam frequently teaches trial advocacy at continuing education events for attorneys. He also served on the State Bar of Texas Grievance Panel for District 9 from 2004 until 2010, when his term expired as Chair of the Panel. Sam presently serves as President of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.

Honors & Awards

Ambassador Award Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers Association--2010
Finalist - Texan of the Year Dallas Morning News--2009
Presidential Award Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association--2008

Professional Affiliations

Texas Forensic Science Commission Member--2006 - 2009
National College of DUI Lawyers Member--2005 - Present
State Bar of Texas Member--2004 - Present
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Director--2002 - Present
Travis County Bar Association President - Crim. Law Section--2000 - 2001
Travis County Bar Association Director--2000 - 2003
Travis County Bar Association Member--N/A
Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Charter Member--N/A

Representative Cases / Verdicts / Settlements

State of Texas v. Cedric Benson --Cases Dismissed Prior To Trial
State of Texas v. JW; In The Interest of W Children --Two Trials - 2 verdicts of not guilty
State v. K.C. --Not Guilty Verdict from Jury

Pertinent information you want included in your Press Release Announcement

University of Texas School of Law Law--JD - Juris Doctor--1988
University of Texas System, Austin Business--Other - Bachelors--1985

Justice Advocates

Samuel E. Bassett