If you’re searching for a seasoned Defense Attorney in Houston, Mike Kohler, JD RN is a name you’ll want to know. Based in Houston, Texas, Mike Kohler runs a criminal defense practice that covers a broad spectrum of state and federal criminal matters.
With decades of experience, he is committed to protecting clients’ rights and designing personalized defense strategies. Below is an in-depth look at Mike Kohler’s practice, the types of charges he handles, and how his approach can make a difference in your case.
Background & Philosophy
Before delving into the practice details, let’s understand the background and guiding philosophy of Mike Kohler:
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Education & Credentials: Mike Kohler earned his Juris Doctor (JD) degree, graduating with honors, and was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2001.
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Unique Foundation: Prior to law, Mike worked as an emergency room Registered Nurse (RN) in Houston. That experience taught him how to perform under pressure, solve difficult problems quickly, and prioritize human dignity — skills that carry into his criminal defense work.
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Core Values: His defense philosophy leans on three key pillars: professionalism, personalization, and perfection. He pledges to handle each case with integrity, treat clients as individuals (not case numbers), and leave no stone unturned in building defenses.
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Hands-On Representation: Unlike large firms where junior associates may take over, Mike Kohler often personally handles client cases. That continuity helps ensure consistency, accountability, and client trust.
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Accessibility: For those who worry about cost, Kohler offers free consultations and payment plans to make defense representation more attainable.
Practice Areas & Types of Charges
Mike Kohler’s firm is a full-service criminal defense practice in Houston, handling a wide range of charges both at the state and federal level.
Below is an overview of the major categories he covers:
1. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI / DUI / Breath Test Cases)
One of the most frequent types of cases, Kohler defends clients in first-time DWI, second or repeat DWI, and cases involving breath test issues. He investigates mistakes in field sobriety testing and challenges the validity of chemical test results.
2. Felony, State Jail & Misdemeanor Crimes
Kohler tackles a variety of felony, state jail, and misdemeanor charges across Houston and surrounding counties.
Some specific categories include:
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Theft, Burglary & Property Crimes
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Assault & Violent Crimes
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Domestic Violence
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Drug Crimes / Controlled Substances
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Gun / Firearm Offenses
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White-Collar Crimes (fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, financial crimes)
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Sex Crimes / Registration Issues
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Probation Violations
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Appeals, Expungement, Sealing of Records
Kohler’s practice doesn’t shy away from high-stakes matters: he handles serious felonies and fights for dismissals, reductions, or acquittals whenever possible.
Why Choose Mike Kohler as Your Houston Defense Attorney?
When facing criminal charges, the lawyer you select can shape the outcome of your case. Here are several compelling reasons clients choose Mike Kohler:
Proven Track Record
Over his career, Kohler has secured many dismissals, charge reductions, and not-guilty verdicts for his clients in felony, state jail, and misdemeanor cases.
Deep Local Experience
He is thoroughly experienced in Houston, Harris County, and adjacent jurisdictions, making him familiar with local courts, prosecutors, and judges.
Strategy-First Approach
Kohler emphasizes methodical investigation, legal research, and defense planning before stepping into the courtroom. His Criminal Defense Strategy page outlines how he builds a case from listening to clients to crafting custom strategies.
Client-Focused & Transparent
You won’t be passed off to a junior attorney. Kohler keeps clients informed, involves them in decision-making, and treats them with respect.
Accessible Representation
His firm offers free consultations and payment plans—so people facing criminal charges can retain representation even under financial strain.
Stress on Constitutional Rights
Kohler stresses that the State holds the highest burden of proof in criminal prosecutions, and he builds defenses to challenge the State’s case, preserve client rights, and demand accountability.
How Kohler Handles a Case — From Arrest to Resolution
Below is a typical path and the role Kohler plays at each step:
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Initial Consultation
You meet (often free) to explain your situation, review charges, and ask questions. Kohler will explain options, timelines, and potential defenses. -
Investigation & Evidence Review
Kohler obtains police reports, video/audio, witness statements, lab results, and other evidence. He looks for procedural or constitutional flaws such as unlawful searches or chain of custody errors. -
Defense Strategy Formation
Based on the facts, Kohler crafts a defense approach — whether to push for dismissal, negotiate a plea, demand suppression hearings, or take the case to trial. -
Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation
Before trial, motions may be filed, such as a motion to suppress evidence. Kohler negotiates with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties when beneficial. -
Trial / Courtroom Advocacy
If a case goes to trial, Kohler presents opening statements, cross-examines witnesses, offers evidence, and pushes for verdicts favorable to his client. -
Sentencing / Appeal / Post-Conviction Relief
If conviction occurs, Kohler may argue for minimal sentencing. He also handles appeals, record sealing, or expungement where possible.
Sample Charges & How Kohler Tackles Them
Here are some examples of specific kinds of charges and how Kohler might approach them:
| Charge Type | Common Risks / Penalties | Kohler’s Defense Focus |
|---|---|---|
| First-time DWI | Jail up to 180 days, fines, license suspension | Challenge breath test methods, field sobriety inconsistencies, procedural defects |
| Repeat DWI / Aggravated | Felony exposure, harsher penalties | Scrutinize prosecution evidence, push for mitigated plea or dismissals |
| Drug Possession / Trafficking | State or federal drug penalties | Attack chain of custody, illegal search, suppression motions |
| Assault / Domestic Violence | Jail, restraining orders, long-term record | Challenge witness credibility, self-defense theories |
| White-Collar Crimes | Heavy fines, restitution, professional consequences | Detailed audits, forensic review, challenging state’s case |
| Gun Crimes | Felony or misdemeanor charges | Contest validity of search, legality of possession, constitutional protections |
Each case is unique, so Kohler adjusts strategies based on evidence, client goals, and risk tolerance.
The Role of Strategy: A Closer Look
When you explore Kohler’s Criminal Defense Strategy, you’ll see how seriously he takes planning and preparation.
Key elements of that strategy include:
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Listening First: He spends time absorbing your side of the story — your background, motivations, and what led to the encounter with law enforcement.
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Thorough Investigation: From crime scene details to police procedure, he looks for holes in the prosecution’s case.
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Tailored Defense Options: No two clients are the same. He creates a defense plan suited to your situation—whether that means suppression motions, plea bargaining, or trial.
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Aggressive Court Advocacy: When negotiation fails, he steps into the courtroom ready to hold the state to its burden of proof.
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Client Communication: He keeps clients informed and included, making sure you understand risks and options every step of the way.
What to Do If You’re Facing Criminal Charges in Houston
If you or someone you care about is confronted with criminal charges in Houston, here are some practical steps:
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Don’t delay legal counsel — early legal intervention often yields better results.
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Limit what you say — exercise your right to remain silent and only talk to your attorney.
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Document everything — names, times, incident details, and any evidence you may have.
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Preserve evidence — don’t destroy or discard anything that could be relevant.
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Seek a free consultation with Kohler — he offers case reviews to evaluate your situation.
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Weigh defense strategies — sometimes dismissal is possible; at other times, a plea or trial may better serve your interests.
Conclusion
Facing criminal charges is a stressful and life-altering event. When you’re in that position, the lawyer you choose must blend skill, tenacity, strategy, and compassion. Mike Kohler, JD RN offers precisely that: a defense attorney in Houston who does not treat your case like just another file, but rather as a personal mission.
Whether your case involves DWI, serious felony charges, assault, drug offenses, or complex white-collar matters, Kohler’s experience, individualized attention, and strategic rigor can give you a real fighting chance.
To learn more about how he builds defenses, visit his Criminal Defense Strategy Houston page. Or to explore the full spectrum of charges he handles, see his Criminal Defense Practice portfolio.
If you’re in Houston and need a defense attorney who will stand by you, understand your rights, and fight tirelessly on your behalf, Mike Kohler is a strong option. Always remember: the earlier you get a qualified defense attorney involved, the better your odds may be.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For your specific case, consult directly with a qualified defense attorney such as Mike Kohler.
