Raising the Bar – Setting Up the Appeal & Capital Murder Training

The "Raising the Bar – Setting Up the Appeal & Capital Murder Training" is a two-day seminar organized by the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (TCDLA). Scheduled for February 12-13, 2026, in Houston, Texas, this event aims to enhance the skills of criminal defense attorneys through focused sessions on appellate practice and capital murder defense strategies.

The first day, titled "Raising the Bar – Setting Up the Appeal," is dedicated to improving appellate practices. Sessions include discussions on jury charge issues, recent case law updates, petitions for discretionary review, and ethical considerations from a judicial perspective. The agenda also covers Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure (TRAP) issues, motions for new trials, and brief writing processes.

The second day, the "9th Annual Harris County Capital Murder Training," focuses on capital murder defense. Topics encompass trial preparation, understanding firearms, managing extensive evidence, addressing extraneous offenses under Rule 404(b), and strategies for voir dire. Ethical considerations are integrated throughout the sessions, emphasizing effective assistance of trial counsel.

This seminar is ideal for criminal defense attorneys, public defenders, investigators, judges, and mitigators seeking to refine their appellate and capital murder defense skills. Attendees will benefit from expert-led sessions, practical insights, and networking opportunities with peers in the field.