Legal Services to the Poor in Criminal Matters Committee announced its 2023 Indigent Defense Award

Michelle Moore, of Burnet, was awarded the Warren Burnett Award. Named for the late legendary Texas Attorney Warren Burnett, the Warren Burnett Award recognizes extraordinary contributions to improving the quality of criminal legal representation to indigent Texans. The award honors either an individual or organization for their work in the courtroom, legislature, or in the public sphere.

Moore is a dedicated attorney who has made a name for herself in the legal community. In her last role before retiring, she served as a public defender at the North Hill County Public Defender’s Office in Burnet County. Her passion for law began when she was young. She pursued justice with a determination that has led to several accolades. After completing her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University, Moore enrolled in law school at the University of Arkansas. During her studies, she focused on criminal defense and became well-versed in various areas of the law. Upon graduation, she started her career as an attorney, and her exceptional work in the field quickly caught the attention of her peers.

In 2003, she supervised a team of misdemeanor public defenders in Dallas County and assisted with SMU Dedman School of Law clinics. Moore’s knowledge of the law and her keen analysis and strategic planning has been essential to her ongoing success as a public defender. In 2007, while working with the Innocence Project of Texas, she successfully assisted in the exoneration of several wrongfully convicted individuals. Her clients consistently commend her for her unwavering commitment and dedication to protecting their rights. Having worked on numerous cases, Moore has earned a reputation for being a formidable opponent in the courtroom.

In 2011, Moore founded the Burnet County Public Defender’s Office and by 2021, she expanded the office to cover two additional counties. Her efforts have contributed significantly to the Burnet County Public Defender’s Office’s success, earning the trust and respect of the legal community and beyond. She excelled in creating a first-class Indigent Defense Program and received the IDC Gideon Recognition Award in her second year of service. Under Moore’s leadership, the Public Defender’s Office has created a more efficient and effective justice system for the county.

 Michelle Moore, of Burnet, was awarded the Warren Burnett Award. Named for the late legendary Texas Attorney Warren Burnett, the Warren Burnett Award recognizes extraordinary contributions to improving the quality of criminal legal representation to indigent Texans. The award honors either an individual or organization for their work in the courtroom, legislature, or in the…… Continue Reading