BOARD-CERTIFIED CRIMINAL LAW

Less than 1% of Texas attorneys earn Board Certification in Criminal Law through the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Brad Thornton brings this recognized expertise to every criminal defense and DWI case in San Antonio and Bexar County.

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

Before defending the accused, Brad Thornton prosecuted criminal cases for the State of Texas. His insider knowledge of how prosecutors investigate, negotiate, and try cases helps clients build stronger defenses from the very beginning.

PROVEN TRIAL EXPERIENCE

Thousands of criminal cases. More than 100 jury trials. From DWI and drug offenses to serious felonies, Brad Thornton has successfully represented clients throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, and South Texas.

TRUSTED BY CLIENTS

Brad Thornton has earned hundreds of five-star reviews, a 10.0 Justia rating, and recognition among the Top 100 National Trial Lawyers. Clients trust his experience, communication, and commitment to protecting their futures.

San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney

Board-Certified Criminal Defense Backed by Prosecutor Experience

When you are facing criminal charges, choosing the right attorney can have a lasting impact on your future. Brad Thornton is a Board-Certified Criminal Defense Attorney and former Chief Prosecutor who has handled thousands of criminal cases and more than 100 jury trials. From DWI and drug offenses to violent crimes and serious felonies, he provides experienced, strategic representation for clients throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, and South Texas.

Unlike many defense attorneys, Brad understands how prosecutors investigate cases because he once built them himself. That experience helps him identify weaknesses in the State’s evidence, negotiate from a position of strength, and prepare every case as if it could go to trial.

Criminal Defense Representation for San Antonio and South Texas

Thornton Criminal Defense represents individuals accused of misdemeanor and felony offenses in San Antonio and the surrounding communities. Whether you are under investigation, recently arrested, or preparing for trial, our goal is to protect your rights, minimize the consequences, and pursue the best possible outcome.

We regularly represent clients in matters involving:

We proudly serve clients throughout Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, Wilson, Karnes, Atascosa, Frio, and surrounding South Texas counties. Learn more about our Bexar County criminal defense services.

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Experienced DWI Defense in San Antonio

DWI is one of the firm’s primary practice areas. Brad Thornton has extensive experience defending first-time and repeat DWI charges, felony intoxication offenses, and cases involving breath tests, blood evidence, and field sobriety testing. As a former prosecutor, he understands how these cases are investigated and knows where mistakes may occur.

Whether you are trying to protect your driver’s license or avoid a criminal conviction, we work aggressively to pursue dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable resolutions whenever possible.

Learn more about our San Antonio DWI defense services.

Why Clients Choose Thornton Criminal Defense

Clients throughout San Antonio choose Thornton Criminal Defense because they want an attorney who combines courtroom experience with personal attention.

  • Board Certified in Criminal Law
  • Former Chief Prosecutor
  • Thousands of criminal cases handled
  • More than 100 jury trials
  • Strong client reviews and professional recognition
  • Flat-fee pricing with no hourly billing
  • Free, confidential consultations

If you have been arrested or are under investigation, do not wait to get experienced legal guidance. Contact Thornton Criminal Defense or call (210) 439-5627 to discuss your case with an experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney.

San Antonio
Thornton Criminal Defense handles cases all throughout south Texas. We primarily provide criminal defense in Bexar County, Atascosa County, Wilson County, Frio County, Karnes County, Guadalupe County, Medina County, and Comal County.

Client Testimonials

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Awards and Professional Recognition

Our firm is honored to be recognized by the nation's most prestigious legal organizations, reflecting our commitment to excellence and the defense of our clients' rights.

Avvo

Trust and transparency are the pillars of our practice. Bradlee Thornton maintains a perfect 10.0 "Superb" rating on Avvo, the leading independent attorney rating platform. This score is calculated based on years of experience, professional achievements, and a clean disciplinary record. It serves as an objective benchmark for clients seeking a lawyer with a proven track record of excellence.
Elite Lawyer

Bradlee Thornton has been selected as an Elite Lawyer for 2025, a distinction reserved for attorneys who exhibit exceptional experience and a stellar professional reputation. This award recognizes Brad’s standing as one of the most highly-regarded legal advocates in the San Antonio area, providing clients an additional assurance of his commitment to excellence.
Expertise

We are honored to be featured as a 2024 "Best of" criminal defense firm by Expertise.com. This recognition is built on an objective, 25-point inspection of our practice. From our professional certifications to our standing in the San Antonio community, this award confirms our commitment to providing a superior client experience and unmatched legal representation.
Board Certified

We are proud to announce that Brad Thornton is Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. In the state of Texas, only a small fraction of attorneys earn the right to publicly call themselves a "Specialist." This certification is your assurance that you are being represented by an attorney with proven competence and specialized knowledge.
Texas Criminal Defense

Bradlee Thornton is a proud member of the TCDLA, an organization dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals guaranteed by the Constitution. His involvement with this statewide network of legal professionals ensures he remains at the forefront of evolving criminal law, defense strategies, and legislative changes in Texas.
San Antonio Criminal Defense

As an active member of the San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Bradlee Thornton is deeply integrated into the local legal community. This membership signifies his commitment to the Bexar County justice system and provides him with direct insight into local court procedures, judicial expectations, and the specific nuances of practicing law in San Antonio.
National Trial Lawyers

Brad Thornton is honored to be recognized by The National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers. As a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization—a distinction held by only a small fraction of attorneys—Brad combines elite trial skills with over a decade of experience to provide San Antonio with powerhouse defense representation.
Google Reviews

We pride ourselves on our reputation and the real-world results we achieve for our clients. Visit our Google Business Profile to see our latest client success stories, read verified five-star reviews, and stay updated on our recent office news. We invite you to explore our track record of dedicated service and community trust in San Antonio.

Why Hire Thornton Criminal Defense?

Choosing a criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make after an arrest. At Thornton Criminal Defense, we believe experience, preparation, and courtroom skill make a difference. Brad Thornton is a Board-Certified Criminal Defense Attorney and former Chief Prosecutor who has successfully represented clients throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, and South Texas in cases ranging from misdemeanor offenses to the most serious felony charges.

Unlike many attorneys, Brad prepares every case as though it may ultimately be decided by a jury. That level of preparation often strengthens negotiations, exposes weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and positions clients for the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduced charges, or trial.

Experienced Representation When Your Future Is on the Line

Every criminal case is different, which is why we never rely on a one-size-fits-all defense strategy. We take the time to understand your circumstances, explain your legal options, and develop a personalized approach based on the facts of your case.

Whether you have been arrested for DWI, assault, drug crimes, theft, or another criminal offense, you can expect honest advice, direct communication, and aggressive representation from the moment you hire our firm until your case is resolved.

Our goal is simple: protect your rights, protect your reputation, and protect your future.

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Board-Certified Criminal Law Attorney
Former Chief Prosecutor
100+ Jury Trials
Thousands of Criminal Cases
Flat-Fee Pricing
Free Confidential Consultation
Attorney Brad Thornton

MEET ATTORNEY BRAD THORNTON

When your freedom, career, and reputation are on the line, experience matters. Brad Thornton is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist and former Chief Prosecutor who has dedicated his career to defending people accused of crimes throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, and South Texas.

Before becoming a defense attorney, Brad served as the Chief Prosecutor for Atascosa County, where he learned firsthand how prosecutors investigate cases, evaluate evidence, and build convictions. Today, he uses that knowledge to identify weaknesses in the State’s case and develop strategic defenses designed to protect his clients’ rights and futures.

Brad has handled thousands of criminal cases and tried more than 100 jury trials, representing clients charged with offenses ranging from DWI and drug crimes to violent felonies and homicide. Whether negotiating a favorable resolution or taking a case before a jury, his focus remains the same: obtaining the best possible outcome for every client.

In addition to his courtroom experience, Brad is a published legal author and has completed advanced trial advocacy training. His combination of courtroom skill, prosecutorial insight, and Board Certification places him among a small percentage of Texas attorneys recognized for exceptional criminal law expertise.

  • Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist through the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
  • Former Chief Prosecutor with firsthand knowledge of how the State prepares criminal cases.
  • 100+ Jury Trials & Thousands of Cases across misdemeanor and felony criminal defense.
  • Trusted Advocate for DWI & Serious Criminal Charges throughout San Antonio and South Texas.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRAD

Recent Case Results

Brad Thornton has successfully defended clients facing DWI, felony, violent crime, drug, and misdemeanor charges throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, and South Texas. Below are a few examples of favorable case outcomes. Every case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Dismissed

Sexual Assault

Bexar County

The client was accused of sexually assaulting someone from a prior relationship. By uncovering records that contradicted the allegations, the prosecution dismissed the case.

Dismissed

Assault Family Violence – Strangulation

Wilson County

The prosecution intended to pursue one of the most serious felony assault charges. By exposing inconsistencies in the investigation, the case was dismissed.

Reduced

9th DWI Arrest

Bexar County

Facing a potential 25-year prison sentence, our client ultimately received probation after the charges were successfully reduced.

VIEW MORE CASE RESULTS

Types of Cases We Handle

What to Expect from the Texas Criminal Justice System?

To Learn More, Watch the Video Below
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Click Through the Step by Step Process
Step 1
Initial Arrest
Being arrested can be frightening, but you still have rights and options. The actions taken in the first hours after an arrest can have a significant impact on your case. Thornton Criminal Defense begins protecting your rights immediately by reviewing the evidence, identifying legal issues, and developing a strategy from the very start. Early intervention often leads to stronger defenses and better outcomes.
Step 2
Setting Bond
After an arrest, one of the first priorities is securing your release so you can begin preparing your defense. During the bond process, the court considers factors such as the charges, criminal history, and ties to the community. Thornton Criminal Defense advocates for the most favorable bond possible and works to help clients return home to their families while their case moves forward.
Step 3
Choose Your Defense Attorney
Hiring the right attorney early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. As a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist and former Chief Prosecutor, Brad Thornton understands how prosecutors build cases—and how to challenge them. From day one, we begin reviewing the evidence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and developing a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Step 4
Building Your Defense
Every successful defense begins with a thorough investigation. Our team carefully reviews the evidence, interviews witnesses when appropriate, analyzes police reports, and identifies weaknesses in the prosecution's case. We keep you informed throughout the process while building a strategic defense designed to pursue the best possible outcome for your situation.
Step 5
Court Hearings
As your case moves forward, you may attend one or more court hearings. We prepare you for each appearance, explain what to expect, and advocate for your interests every step of the way. Whether negotiating with prosecutors, filing legal motions, or representing you before the judge, Thornton Criminal Defense is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the strongest possible outcome.
Step 6
Case Resolution
Every case is different, but our goal remains the same: achieving the best possible outcome for you. Depending on the facts of your case, that may mean having the charges dismissed, negotiating a favorable resolution, or taking your case to trial. Throughout the process, Thornton Criminal Defense provides honest guidance, aggressive representation, and a strategy focused on protecting your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in San Antonio

Get answers to common questions about arrests, criminal charges, hiring a defense attorney, and protecting your rights in San Antonio and South Texas.

Board Certification in Criminal Law is the highest specialization recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. It is awarded only to attorneys who meet strict requirements for criminal law experience, courtroom performance, continuing legal education, and peer review.

Brad Thornton is Board-Certified in Criminal Law and brings the unique perspective of a former Chief Prosecutor to every case. Whether you are facing DWI, felony, assault, drug, or other criminal charges in San Antonio or Bexar County, working with a Board-Certified attorney means your case is handled by a lawyer whose knowledge and trial experience have been independently verified.

If you are arrested in San Antonio, remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and ask to speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not answer questions, explain your side of the story, or consent to searches without legal advice.

The decisions made during the first few hours after an arrest can have a significant impact on your case. Brad Thornton helps clients throughout San Antonio and South Texas protect their rights from the very beginning by reviewing the evidence, advising them during the investigation, and developing a defense strategy as early as possible.

es. Many criminal cases in Texas are resolved before trial through dismissals, reduced charges, diversion programs, or other favorable outcomes. Whether charges can be dismissed depends on the facts of the case, the strength of the evidence, witness credibility, and whether law enforcement followed proper legal procedures.

As a former Chief Prosecutor, Brad Thornton understands how prosecutors evaluate cases and where weaknesses often exist. He has successfully obtained dismissals and reduced charges for clients facing DWI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, and other criminal offenses throughout the San Antonio area.

Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, fines, a permanent criminal record, driver's license consequences, difficulty finding employment, and other lasting effects. What may seem like a minor offense today can continue affecting your future for years.

An experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate, and fight to minimize or eliminate the consequences whenever possible.

Not necessarily. Many criminal cases are resolved before reaching a jury trial through dismissals, negotiated plea agreements, or other resolutions. However, every case is different, and the right strategy depends on the evidence, the charges, and your goals.

Brad Thornton prepares every case as though it may ultimately be presented to a jury. His extensive trial experience allows him to negotiate from a position of strength while remaining fully prepared to defend clients in court whenever necessary.

You should contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest or as soon as you learn you are under investigation. Early legal representation allows your attorney to protect your constitutional rights, preserve important evidence, communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, and begin building your defense before critical decisions are made.

If you have been arrested or are under investigation in San Antonio, Bexar County, or anywhere in South Texas, speaking with Brad Thornton as early as possible can help you avoid mistakes that may negatively affect your case.

Why San Antonio Clients Choose Brad Thornton
Experienced. Respected. Tested.

Board-Certified San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney

When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, experience matters. Brad Thornton is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization—an achievement earned by only a small percentage of Texas attorneys. Board Certification recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional trial experience, extensive criminal law knowledge, and earned the respect of judges and fellow attorneys through a rigorous evaluation process.

As a former Chief Prosecutor, Brad understands how prosecutors evaluate cases, negotiate plea offers, and prepare for trial. He uses that insider perspective to identify weaknesses in the State’s evidence and build strategic defenses for clients throughout San Antonio and Bexar County.

LEARN MORE

Experienced Trial Representation When It Matters Most

Whether you’re facing a DWI, drug charge, assault allegation, theft offense, or another serious criminal accusation, the attorney you choose can have a lasting impact on your future. Brad Thornton has successfully represented clients in more than 100 jury trials, earning dismissals, reduced charges, favorable plea agreements, and acquittals across South Texas.

From the initial investigation through trial, Thornton Criminal Defense develops a defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of every case while keeping clients informed throughout the process.

Protect Your Rights From Day One

If you are contacted by law enforcement or arrested, remember that you have constitutional rights. Avoid answering questions or making statements before speaking with an attorney. Early legal representation can preserve valuable evidence, prevent costly mistakes, and improve your ability to defend against criminal charges.

Thornton Criminal Defense begins protecting clients immediately by reviewing the evidence, advising them through the investigation, and taking swift action to pursue the strongest possible outcome.

Trusted Criminal Defense Throughout San Antonio

Criminal charges can affect every aspect of your life—from your job and professional license to your finances and family. That’s why Brad Thornton combines Board-Certified expertise, courtroom experience, and personalized representation to help clients navigate some of the most difficult situations they will ever face.

If you need an experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney, contact Thornton Criminal Defense today to schedule your confidential consultation and begin building your defense.

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