James T. Chiles focuses his legal practice exclusively on criminal defense in Texas, bringing extensive experience to a wide range of cases. He has defended clients against serious felony charges, including murder, domestic violence, aggravated assault, sexual offenses, drug crimes, and weapons charges, as well as numerous misdemeanor cases. James has successfully handled hundreds of cases across at least 20 counties, with a primary focus on the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, achieving a notable rate of dismissals. A graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, James served as Chief of the SMU Criminal Justice Clinic and gained early experience as a post-bar intern at the Capital Habeas Unit of the Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. He further honed his skills working alongside seasoned criminal defense attorneys in private practice. James’s background as a nationally recognized debater and coach has enhanced his oral and written advocacy, contributing to his creative and assertive approach to criminal defense. He is well-versed in criminal procedure, Texas evidence rules, and the Sixth Amendment’s confrontation rights.
Outside of work, James enjoys Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, philosophy, and studying historic criminal trials. He is a member of NACDL, TCDLA, DCDLA, and 3CDLA.
