Texas is responsible for more than one-third of all executions in the United States since 1972. Founded in 1995, Texas Defender Service (TDS) litigates on behalf of indigent people facing the death penalty in Texas. TDS attorneys handle a limited number of cases directly to ensure sufficient time to thoroughly investigate and brief each case and to serve as a benchmark for quality representation. TDS provides consulting support to attorneys litigating capital cases at trial or on appeal. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TDS focuses its attention on cases with broad significance and provides education to the public and policymakers about the administration of the death penalty in Texas.

Supporting the work of TDS is not about being for or against the death penalty. TDS is committed to the belief that the legal proceedings in capital cases must be as fair and accurate as possible. Because the stakes are so high, a reliable and just process is critical. We seek justice in individual cases and work to ensure that each person facing a death sentence in Texas is treated fairly and represented by a qualified, committed attorney.