High Plains Regional Public Defender's Office
A pioneering public defender's office in the heart of the Llano Estacado
MEET THE CHIEF
MARIE EISELA GALINDO
Marie Eisela Galindo returns to the High Plains to serve as the first Chief Public Defender of the High Plains Regional Public Defender’s Office (HPRPDO), which she will develop as a model of high-quality, holistic representation for every client residing in the thirteen-county service area. Marie, a Midland native, is the youngest daughter of immigrants who moved their family from Mexico to East Midland in the 1960s. As Marie explained in a 2005 interview, "People say to me all the time, 'You were raised well.' It is the highest compliment I can receive. I don't take compliments well, but I take that one proudly. My parents raised me with a strong work ethic, and they asked that we treat other people with respect and not discriminate against anyone.” These values are the consistent throughlines of Marie’s life and the animating principles of her professional accomplishments.
Since graduating from Rutgers University School of Law, Marie has acquired invaluable perspective, inspiration, and experience by learning from exceptional mentors and mentees; collaborating on complex litigation trial teams; constantly updating her legal knowledge; and serving as a prosecutor, Assistant City Attorney, federal law clerk and judge. Known for her innovative problem-solving techniques and trial approaches, Marie possesses extensive trial and appellate experience. Her previous criminal defense work throughout Far West Texas and the Texas Panhandle encompassed representing individuals accused of state and federal offenses, including capital murder, at trial, on direct appeal and in writ proceedings. Most recently, she led the Appellate Division of the Travis County Attorney’s Office representing the State of Texas. In this position, she also worked with various county officials, community stakeholders and volunteers to organize several annual expunction events for eligible individuals who felt trapped by prior arrests and criminal histories. Marie firmly believes rural communities deserve dedicated counsel and staff members who are committed to holistically addressing the needs of clients; ensuring fundamental fairness as guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the laws of the State of Texas; and cultivating productive relationships that promote respect and dignity for all regardless of color, kind, or creed.
Even if [the accused] can’t afford an attorney, the court must appoint one. . . so that justice is served. And when justice is served, our communities also are served -- and so is our society as a whole.
Justice Hugo Black
