Representing death row inmates is one of the most demanding areas of legal practice. It is widely recognized that death penalty litigation is difficult and complex and skilled lawyers are essential to the process in light of the seriousness of the penalty. Appointed counsel must mount a thorough investigation of all of the evidence at trial and on appeal and simultaneously navigate an extraordinarily complex area of the law laden with traps for the unwary.

TDS attorneys and other seasoned death penalty lawyers - many with broad experience and national reputations - present at seminars on capital issues. The seminars address many areas including: developments in United States Supreme Court, federal and state jurisprudence, techniques for investigating and presenting mitigation evidence, jury selection, implementing "best practices" as set forth in the American Bar Association and Texas Capital Guidelines for death penalty defense, ensuring that the defense has the tools necessary to properly present the case, including critical resources for securing investigators and experts, and methods to recognize and develop mental health issues.

Upcoming training events where TDS staff attorneys are presenting include: