About Brad Thornton – San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney
As a Board Certified San Antonio criminal defense attorney, Brad Thornton brings over a decade of experience to defend clients in Bexar County and surrounding areas. A former Chief Prosecutor in Atascosa County, he leverages insider knowledge to craft winning strategies for cases ranging from DWI and drug crimes to murder and aggravated assault. Recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 attorney by Elite Lawyer and rated 5/5 on Avvo, Thornton combines expertise, compassion, and local court knowledge to achieve the best possible outcomes for his clients.
At Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC, we understand the stress of facing criminal charges. Our client-centered approach ensures you receive honest guidance, aggressive representation, and personalized support. Whether you’re dealing with a felony, misdemeanor, or high-profile case, Brad Thornton is committed to protecting your rights and securing your future.
Why Choose Thornton Criminal Defense?
- Board Certified Expertise: One of the few Board Certified criminal attorneys in San Antonio, a mark of unparalleled skill and experience.
- Former Prosecutor Advantage: Led prosecutions and trained law enforcement statewide, giving unique insight into the opposition’s tactics.
- Honest Guidance: Transparent case evaluations without false promises, ensuring you know what to expect.
- Client-Centered Care: A holistic approach addressing both legal and personal challenges to improve case outcomes.
- Compassionate Service: Professional, courteous support to ease the stress of criminal charges for you and your family.
Brad Thornton’s dedication to criminal law ensures he stays updated on the latest legal developments, from the Texas Penal Code to recent court rulings, providing you with cutting-edge representation.
Education and Credentials
Brad Thornton’s academic and professional credentials reflect his commitment to excellence in criminal law:
- Texas Tech University School of Law – Doctor of Jurisprudence, Cum Laude; Editor-in-Chief, Texas Tech Law Review; Top Advocate, The Board of Barristers.
- Oxford University, St. Edmund’s Hall – Studied English Legal History.
- The University of Texas at San Antonio – B.S. in Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Emphasis on Courts and Adjudication.
His education, combined with rigorous training, equips him to handle even the most complex criminal cases with precision.
Proven Experience
With over 10 years in criminal law, Brad Thornton has built a reputation for excellence in both prosecution and defense:
- Chief Prosecutor, 81st Judicial District Attorney’s Office – Led prosecutions in Atascosa County, making charging decisions and presenting cases to grand juries.
- Assistant District Attorney – Montgomery County and Brazos County, honing trial skills and training law enforcement.
- Intern, U.S. District Court – Worked under The Honorable W. Royal Furgeson, Jr., gaining federal court experience.
Thornton has defended clients in high-profile cases, including murder, manslaughter, sexual assault, and drug crimes. For example, he successfully secured a dismissal for a client charged with aggravated assault by uncovering evidence of self-defense, demonstrating his meticulous approach to case analysis.
Local Court Expertise
Navigating the Bexar County legal system requires intimate knowledge of local courts, judges, prosecutors, and procedures. As a former Chief Prosecutor in the 81st and 218th Judicial Districts, covering Atascosa, Wilson, and surrounding counties, Brad Thornton brings insider expertise to every case. His relationships with local legal professionals and understanding of regional practices give clients a distinct advantage.
Whether you’re facing charges in San Antonio or nearby counties, Thornton’s local knowledge ensures effective representation tailored to your jurisdiction. Explore our practice areas to learn more.
What Clients Say
“He made sure to represent me with his best work…”
Brad Thorton as my defense attorney went out of his way to explain my case to me and what to expect. He made sure to represent me with his best work and even had my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
Markus P.
“He’s smart, reliable, and trustworthy.”
Brad is an amazing attorney. He’s smart, reliable, and trustworthy. I highly recommend him!
Amanda P.
“We got all charges dismissed”
I contacted Bradlee Thornton about 5 months ago, on 5 charges 2 being second degree felony’s with a prior so punishment was automatically 2-20. Working with Brad and his knowledge about the in’s—and out’s of the criminal justice system. We got all charges dismissed and one misdemeanor guilty verdict. No probation no jail, just a fine. If I ever need criminal representation again I will use Bradlee hands down. I suggest if you want a solid attorney who works the system for you don’t hesitate to c...
Brandon
“My issue was resolved much faster than anticipated and out of court!”
I have used at least a dozen attorneys in the area and none of them were even close to being as professional and responsive as Thornton Criminal defense was. My issue was resolved much faster than anticipated and out of court! Well worth every penny.
Linnea C.
“He is an expert in his field and compassionate with his clients.”
We’re forever grateful to Brad Thornton and his team!!! He took care of our situation. He is an expert in his field and compassionate with his clients. I highly recommend Brad Thornton as your attorney. I assure you, you will be so happy to have him on your side!!
Yvonne S.
Read more client reviews on Avvo or check our Google reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Board Certification mean?
Board Certification by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization is a rigorous credential requiring extensive trial experience, peer recognition, and specialized testing. Only a small percentage of attorneys achieve this distinction, ensuring unmatched expertise in criminal law.
Why hire a former prosecutor?
A former prosecutor like Brad Thornton understands the prosecution’s strategies, from evidence collection to plea negotiations. This insight allows him to anticipate and counter the government’s moves, giving you a stronger defense.
Get Started Today
Facing criminal charges in San Antonio? Trust Thornton Criminal Defense to protect your rights and fight for your future. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case.
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