We’re looking forward to introducing you to David Payma. Check out our conversation below.
Hi David, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are usually spent in the courthouse. As a criminal defense attorney with Texas Defenders, I spend my time talking with prosecutors, coordinating with court staff, meeting with clients to discuss their cases, and attending hearings. A lot of my mornings involve negotiating with prosecutors and working on potential resolutions for my clients. Every day is different, but my focus is always on protecting my clients’ rights and making sure their cases move forward in the best way possible.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is David Payma, and I’m a criminal defense attorney at Texas Defenders, where we focus on protecting the rights and futures of people facing criminal charges across Dallas County and the greater North Texas area. I’ve dedicated my career to helping clients navigate some of the most stressful moments of their lives, whether they’re dealing with DWI charges, drug offenses, assault cases, or other serious allegations.
What makes Texas Defenders unique is our personalized, aggressive approach to every case. We know that no two situations are the same, so we take the time to understand our clients, investigate every detail, and build the strongest possible defense strategy. Our mission is simple: to fight for the best outcome and protect our clients’ rights every step of the way.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding our reach in North Texas so we can help even more people who need experienced, committed representation. Whether someone is facing a first-time DWI or a serious felony, we’re here to stand up for them.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
In my experience as a criminal defense attorney, the bond between people, especially between a lawyer and their client, can break when there’s a lack of trust, transparency, and communication. Facing criminal charges is overwhelming, and clients need to feel confident that their attorney is listening, advocating, and fighting for them at every step.
At Texas Defenders, I work hard to build that trust from day one. I take the time to explain the process, walk clients through their options, and answer every question honestly, even when the answers are difficult to hear. I want my clients to know that I’m not just here to handle their case; I’m here to protect their rights, guide them through the system, and fight for the best possible outcome.
What restores the bond is consistency and honesty. When clients see that I’m prepared, responsive, and fully committed to their defense, that trust grows. A strong attorney-client relationship is built on open communication, mutual respect, and a shared goal — protecting their future.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
As a criminal defense attorney, there are definitely challenging days, even cases where the odds seem stacked against you, where the evidence looks tough, and the pressure is high. But at Texas Defenders, we have a very clear philosophy: giving up is never an option.
When someone hires me, they’re often putting their freedom, their future, and their family in my hands. I take that responsibility seriously. No matter how complicated or difficult a case may be, I fight for my clients until every possible avenue has been explored, whether that means challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or taking a case to trial.
I believe every client deserves someone who will stand by them and work tirelessly to protect their rights. Walking away or giving up has never been, and will never be, part of how we do things at Texas Defenders.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
When I first started practicing law, I believed that the justice system always got it right, that if someone was accused of a crime, the process would be fair, the evidence would be accurate, and the outcome would reflect the truth. But over the years, I’ve learned that the system is far from perfect. Mistakes happen. Evidence can be mishandled, rights can be violated, and sometimes innocent people face serious consequences.
That’s why having a strong criminal defense attorney is so critical. At Texas Defenders, we’re here to make sure the system works the way it’s supposed to — by holding the state accountable, protecting our clients’ rights, and ensuring they get a fair shot. Without defense attorneys willing to challenge the process, wrongful convictions would happen far more often.
I no longer assume the system gets it right on its own. I know now that it takes dedicated, relentless advocacy to make sure justice is truly served.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I believe I’m doing what I was born to do. Being a criminal defense attorney isn’t just a job for me, but rather it’s a calling. I’ve always been drawn to helping people and standing up for those who need someone in their corner. At Texas Defenders, I get to do that every single day by protecting my clients’ rights and fighting for their futures.
This work isn’t easy. The stakes are high, and the system can be overwhelming for people facing criminal charges. But that’s exactly why I do it. It’s because everyone deserves a strong defense, someone who believes in them, and someone who refuses to give up on their case. For me, this isn’t about following a path I was told to take; it’s about living out my purpose and using my skills to make a difference when it matters most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.texasdefenders.com
- Twitter: https://x.com/texasdefenders
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DallasCountyLawyer/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7qltIU2mMHf-v4DULoK8iA
Image Credits
David Payma
