A Life of Advocacy

“Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.”

Lauren’s passion for criminal defense is rooted in her deeply held belief that there is inherent good in everyone. She believes all people are created in the image of God, and that no one is beyond redemption. As Bryan Stevenson so aptly put it, “each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.” This belief was ingrained in Lauren at a young age, when her parents repeatedly taught her “but for the grace of God go I.” Lauren understands that life is messy, and that most cases are not so clear cut. As an advocate, Lauren strives to find the good in every story and every situation.

Prior to founding Lauren Woods Law in 2019, Lauren served as a Federal Public Defender in Dallas, Texas for five years. During that time, she represented more than 250 individuals charged with federal crimes. The invaluable training she received at the Defender’s Office gave her insight into the federal system that few others possess. Described as a “tireless and effective advocate” by her peers, Lauren Woods zealously advocates for each client until the very end.

Lauren obtained her law degree from SMU’s Dedman School of Law in 2011, where she graduated cum laude. While at SMU, she co-founded the law school’s Human Rights Legal Association, serving as its president. She also served as both a student advocate and mentor in the Criminal Defense Clinic and was a member of the Science and Technology Law Review. Prior to law school, Lauren received her B.A. in International Politics and Diplomacy from Texas A&M University, with a focus in French. She spent a semester working for World Vision International’s Geneva UN Liaison Office conducting research on global human rights and social justice issues across the Middle East and Africa. While at A&M, she organized an annual University-wide student fundraiser to assist orphans affected by HIV/Aids and exploited children in developing countries. An accomplished singer, Lauren also frequently performed concerts around the Bryan/College Station metroplex, often with a focus of raising awareness of global humanitarian issues.