Charles A. Pelowski is a Board-Certified Criminal Law specialist, Houston criminal defense attorney, and Senior Trial Attorney at Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys. He leads the firm's Houston office and represents individuals facing misdemeanor and felony criminal charges throughout Harris County, Brazoria County, and Southeast Texas.
During his tenure at Michael & Associates, Mr. Pelowski has handled more than 330 criminal cases involving DWI, drug offenses, assault allegations, weapons charges, probation violations, and other serious criminal matters. DWI and intoxication-related offenses comprise a significant portion of his practice, giving him extensive experience with the legal, scientific, and procedural issues that frequently arise in alcohol- and drug-related prosecutions.
He prioritizes thorough case preparation, strategic motion practice, and trial-ready defense strategies, helping clients navigate some of the most challenging situations of their lives.
A Texas native, Mr. Pelowski graduated cum laude from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology before earning his Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law in 2010. During law school, he served as Articles Editor of the Texas Tech Law Review and was inducted into the Order of Barristers, a distinction recognizing excellence in advocacy and courtroom skills.
Before entering private practice, Mr. Pelowski served as Assistant Chief Public Defender at the Caprock Regional Public Defender's Office. That role provided substantial courtroom and trial experience while giving him firsthand insight into criminal prosecutions, judicial decision-making, and effective defense strategy.
Mr. Pelowski is licensed to practice in Texas and before the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, DUI Defense Lawyers Association, Brazoria County Bar Association, State Bar of Texas, and the American Chemical Society.
Because DWI cases comprise a substantial portion of his practice, Mr. Pelowski has pursued advanced education in forensic toxicology, analytical chemistry, forensic science, and laboratory quality standards. This training allows him to better evaluate breath-testing procedures, blood-alcohol analysis, drug-testing methodologies, laboratory protocols, and expert testimony that frequently play a critical role in intoxication and drug prosecutions.
His commitment to criminal defense and forensic education has earned recognition from both clients and peers, including a "Superb" 10.0 rating from Avvo and numerous positive client reviews. He is known for meticulous preparation, direct communication, and relentless advocacy on behalf of individuals facing life-changing criminal allegations.
Advanced Scientific Education and Pending Credentials
ISO/IEC 17025 Internal Auditor Certification (ANAB)
Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy, University of Houston Law Center (appointment begins Fall 2026)
Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (anticipated Fall 2026)
ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation, American Chemical Society (anticipated October 2026)
Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Forensic Science concentration, University of Florida (anticipated Summer 2027)
Credentials and Professional Memberships
Board Certified in Criminal Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Published Author, Voice for the Defense (Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association)
Admitted to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas
Juris Doctor, Texas Tech University School of Law
Articles Editor, Texas Tech Law Review
Order of Barristers
Former Assistant Chief Public Defender
Member, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Member, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association
Member, DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Member, Brazoria County Bar Association
Member, American Chemical Society (Greater Houston Section)
Member, ACS Chemistry and the Law Division (CHAL)
Member, ACS Analytical Chemistry Division (ANYL)
Member, ACS Chemical Toxicology Division (TOXI)
Clients often come to Mr. Pelowski during some of the most stressful moments of their lives. He believes they deserve honest answers, clear communication, and a lawyer who is fully prepared to challenge the prosecution's case.
