Jeremy Rosenthal | January 29, 2026 | Firm News
As Texas Defense Firm begins 2026, the firm is proud to announce the expansion of its leadership team with the addition of Gonzalo Serrano and Kristi Tyler as Partners. This milestone reflects the firm’s continued growth across North Texas and its long-term commitment to developing experienced leaders from within.
Headquartered in McKinney, Texas Defense Firm has grown into one of the larger criminal defense practices in the region, serving clients throughout Collin County and surrounding North Texas counties. The partnership appointments were finalized internally during the holiday season and are now being formally introduced as part of the firm’s strategic vision for the future.
A Leadership Expansion Rooted in Growth and Experience
The addition of Serrano and Tyler aligns with Texas Defense Firm’s deliberate approach to growth—expanding its reach and services while maintaining high standards of advocacy, preparation, and client communication.
Both attorneys joined the firm in 2019 and have played key roles in shaping its reputation and success. Their promotion to Partner recognizes their leadership, legal skill, and dedication to both clients and the broader community.
Gonzalo Serrano: A Commitment to Advocacy and Community
Gonzalo Serrano’s practice is defined by strong advocacy, clear communication, and a dedication to serving both his clients and the community he calls home.
Extensive Courtroom and Prosecutorial Experience
Before joining Texas Defense Firm, Gonzalo Serrano served as an Assistant District Attorney in Dallas County, where he developed substantial trial and courtroom experience. He also worked as a Staff Attorney with the Equal Justice Center, reinforcing his commitment to fairness and access to justice.
This background gives Serrano a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, allowing him to approach defense cases with insight into how prosecutors build and evaluate cases.
Serving Spanish-Speaking Clients with Clarity and Understanding
Serrano is fluent in Spanish and has devoted much of his practice to representing Spanish-speaking clients throughout North Texas. He is known for his ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and with cultural sensitivity, ensuring clients understand their rights and options at every stage of the legal process.
His advocacy is grounded in trust, transparency, and a strong connection to the communities he serves.
Active Engagement in the McKinney Community
Beyond his legal practice, Serrano is deeply involved in the McKinney community. He serves on the Board of the McKinney Chamber of Commerce and participates in other local organizations focused on civic engagement and access to justice. His leadership reflects Texas Defense Firm’s belief that strong legal advocacy includes meaningful community involvement.
Kristi Tyler: Strategic Defense Informed by Prosecutorial Leadership
With a foundation in prosecutorial leadership and more than a decade of dedicated juvenile law practice, Kristi Tyler provides clients with a steady, strategic defense grounded in experience, insight, and clear guidance.
Prosecutorial Leadership at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office
Before transitioning to defense work, Kristi Tyler spent over six years at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office, where she served in several leadership roles, including misdemeanor court chief, Chief of Domestic Violence, and Chief of the Felony Crimes Against Children Division.
A Decade of Independent Juvenile Law Practice
After leaving the District Attorney’s Office, Tyler spent approximately ten years practicing juvenile law independently, representing young clients and families across a wide range of matters. This extended period of solo practice sharpened her courtroom skills, strengthened her client-centered approach, and reinforced her commitment to advocating for youth within the legal system.
Applying Prosecutorial Insight to Criminal and Juvenile Defense
Since joining Texas Defense Firm in 2019, Tyler has represented clients in juvenile, CPS, and criminal matters. Her prosecutorial background allows her to identify weaknesses in the State’s evidence, anticipate opposing strategies, and approach each case with precision and preparation.
Clients and colleagues alike value her calm demeanor, thorough case analysis, and steady presence in high-pressure situations.
Community Involvement and Professional Recognition
Beyond the courtroom, Tyler has demonstrated a strong commitment to mentorship and community engagement. She previously served as a mentor for two years in Frisco ISD’s Independent Studies Program and remains actively involved in the Juvenile Law Section of the Collin County Bar Association.
Her professional recognitions include membership in the Texas Bar College, designation as an Elite Lawyer, and selection as one of the Top 100 Trial Attorneys in Criminal Law by the National Trial Lawyers Association.
Strengthening Texas Defense Firm’s Leadership for the Future
Together, Serrano and Tyler strengthen Texas Defense Firm’s leadership capacity as the firm continues to expand its footprint across North Texas. As Partners, they will continue representing clients while also contributing to firm-wide initiatives focused on mentorship, collaboration, and sustainable growth.
Their leadership supports the firm’s ability to meet increasing demand while maintaining its core values of disciplined preparation, clear communication, and steady advocacy.
Contact Texas Defense Firm for a Confidential Consultation With a Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyer
Texas Defense Firm serves clients throughout Collin County and the surrounding counties. With the addition of Serrano and Tyler to the partnership, the firm enters 2026 well-positioned to continue providing trusted courtroom advocacy while remaining an engaged and respected presence in the North Texas community.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in McKinney or its surrounding areas and need legal help, contact our skilled criminal defense attorneys at Texas Defense Firm. Schedule a confidential consultation today to discuss your case and protect your rights.
We proudly serve Collin, Denton, Kaufman, and Rockwall counties and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Texas Defense Firm – McKinney Office
7300 State Highway 121 Suite 400
McKinney TX 75070
(972) 369-0577
Available 24/7