The best criminal defense lawyers in San Antonio in 2026 include Brad Thornton, a former chief prosecutor, Mario Del Prado, a board-certified specialist and former major crimes chief, Patrick L. Hancock for homicide and juvenile cases, and Barton & Associates, founded by a former Bexar County prosecutor.
| Firm | Office | Focus | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Thornton Criminal Defense | Midtown & Monte Vista | DWI, family violence and drugs | DWI and family violence charges |
| 2. Del Prado Law | Midtown & Monte Vista | Serious felonies and DWI | Serious felony charges |
| 3. Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock | Midtown & Monte Vista | Homicide, juvenile and probation | Parents of a charged teen and probation issues |
| 4. Barton & Associates | Downtown San Antonio | State criminal defense | Downtown clients |
Bexar County felony and misdemeanor cases are heard downtown, and several defense offices are a short drive away on McCullough Avenue. Many of the lawyers here say they hold board certification or were prosecutors, and you can check certification with the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Former chief prosecutor, per the firm.
Brad Thornton says he's a former chief prosecutor and board certified in criminal law. He defends DWI, family violence and drug charges.
1800 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Former chief of a major crimes division, per the firm.
Mario Del Prado says he's a board-certified criminal law specialist and formerly led a major crimes division, and his site explains why certification matters.
342 W Woodlawn Ave, Suite 302, San Antonio, TX 78212
Lists juvenile and probation matters.
The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock handles homicide, domestic violence, juvenile crimes and motions to revoke probation.
Good to know: Bring your probation paperwork.
1800 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Founded by a former Bexar County prosecutor, per the firm.
Barton & Associates handles criminal defense from Camaron Street, downtown, and it also has an Austin office.
115 Camaron St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Stay polite, give your identifying details, and say you want a lawyer. Don't answer questions without one, and don't discuss the case on a jail phone.
Some records can be expunged or sealed through an order of nondisclosure, depending on the charge and outcome. Ask a lawyer what applies.
The Texas Board of Legal Specialization certifies lawyers in fields such as criminal law. You can check whether a lawyer holds it on the board's site.