Criminal Defense Attorney
Dick DeGuerin
Notes from Evan Smith
"Tom DeLay's lawyer is a loyal Democrat who's advising Kinky Friedman in his race for governor. Only in Texas, folks -- and just another day at the office for Dick DeGuerin, one of the state's most famous and successful and colorful attorneys of the modern era. Born in Austin, the 63-year-old graduated from the University of Texas and UT Law School, where he first became acquainted with the legend of famed Houston defense attorney Percy Foreman. After stints with the Harris County D.A.'s office and the big-bucks Butler and Binion law firm, Foreman offered DeGeurin a job, and he took it, working alongside his idol for 11 years. In 1982, he and two colleagues struck out on their own, and the new legend was born. DeGeurin's big-name clients over the years include U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, New York real estate heir and accused murderer Robert Durst, and Branch Davidian leader David Koresh -- which should give you some idea of his range. But the biggest name of all may be DeLay, the momentarily deposed House majority leader, who was indicted on charges of money laundering and conspiracy late last year following an investigation by Travis County D.A. Ronnie Earle. Twelve years ago, Earle had indicted Hutchison as well, and DeGeurin bested him in that match-up, which never really got to trial. This time, with the atmosphere even more politically charged, DeGeurin is one again energetically defending a client with whom he agrees very little. Law, like politics, makes strange bedfellows." - Evan Smith, Texas Monthly Talks, Broadcast 1.19.06
