2nd Annual Digital Defenders: Using AI to Strengthen Your Case
Plano, Texas, USA
Grant Staff: +1.972.244.3415
Registrar: +1.972.244.3404
E-Mail: mhooper@cailaw.org
Program Overview
Registration Opens November 1, 2025
Don’t miss our hands-on course, "AI for Defense"! The Digital Defenders course is set for February 13, 2026, in Plano, Texas. Registration is required, and additional details, including the agenda and full lineup of speakers, will be provided once they are confirmed.
This training is designed to help criminal defense professionals strategically integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their practice. Participants will learn how AI can enhance evidence analysis, legal research, case management, and decision-making, ultimately improving efficiency and access to justice.
Scholarships are available, as well as funding for Public Defenders traveling outside the DFW area.
This course is funded by a grant from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
Speaker and Topics
Program Chair
Felix Valenzuela
The Valenzuela Law Firm
El Paso, TX
Felix Valenzuela is a seasoned defense attorney whose practice is built on years of trial experience and a commitment to defending the rights of his clients. In addition to his defense work, he offers consulting services for law firms seeking to integrate and optimize AI tools into their practices. By focusing on automating labor-intensive tasks such as document review, data organization, and discovery, Felix provides tailored strategies that help firms streamline complex litigation, improve case management efficiency, and maximize the value of their legal teams.
The faculty list and agenda will be posted as they become available.
Topics will include:
- AI in Case Preparation – Exploring Hands-On Technology in Organizing, Analyzing, and Presenting Information.
- Leveraging AI Tools for Legal Research – identifying how emerging platforms can support faster, more accurate research.
- Ethical Considerations and Professional Responsibility – outlining boundaries and responsibilities when using AI in defense practice.
- AI and Evidence Review – considering how automation may aid in handling large volumes of discovery material.
- Future Trends in Legal Technology – a broad look at where AI is heading and how it may reshape the defense landscape.
Who Should Attend?
Attendance is exclusive to Texas criminal defense attorneys, Texas public and private defenders, and their staff, unless invited as faculty. Other registrations will not be accepted.
MCLE Credit
This course will be submitted to the Texas State Bar for 6 hours of MCLE credit and 1 hour of ethics..
After the course, CAIL will apply for credit in California and New Mexico if requested. Attorneys in other states may seek credit through self-submission, provided that course materials and evaluations are not required.
Hotel Accommodations
For participants traveling from outside the Dallas–Fort Worth area, we're delighted to partner with The Cambria Hotel Plano Frisco. We've secured a special discounted rate just for CAIL program attendees! Situated close to our facility, Cambria offers comfortable modern rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to local attractions. To enjoy this exclusive rate, book through the reservation link below — the discount is already applied. Hurry, space is limited, and this offer is reserved for our event attendees!
Cambria Hotel Plano Frisco
Address: 7500 Parkwood Blvd, Plano, TX 75024
Phone: (972) 473-9010
Scholarship Policy
- First three years of practice in the field
- Submission of a qualifying statement (150 words or less) or a reference letter, at least four weeks before the event
Priority may be given to those with a recommendation letter. Scholarships are awarded three weeks before the course and must be accepted within 24 hours. If declined, the opportunity passes to the next qualifying candidate.
Scholarship decisions are based on need and merit and are subject to approval by CAIL staff. Successful applicants will be reimbursed for eligible travel expenses after attending, in accordance with grant guidelines and restrictions. Covered expenses may include:
- Transportation (airfare, bus, mileage)
- Lodging
- Meals during travel (lunches provided at the event)
- Full tuition waiver
Tuition Waiver Policy
To request an application for a scholarship or tuition waiver, contact Melissa Hooper at mhooper@cailaw.org.
Other Information
We will be using a third party platform to host this webinar/event. By registering for this event, your email address and registration information will be used by our webinar host to communicate with you about this event and other services.
Cancellation Policy
Written cancellation must be received 5 business days prior to a program to receive a refund (Email: lgaspar@cailaw.org). After this date, no refunds, but substitution of attendees for this program will be permitted with prior approval. Registrants not entitled to a refund will receive the course materials. Note: Free registrants must attend the program to receive materials at no cost.
Nondiscriminatory Policy
The Center for American and International Law does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status in educational activities, scholarship programs or admissions.
Privacy Policy
We do not sell or rent information to any outside parties. By providing your information, you will receive postal and electronic communications from The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) in accordance with CAIL's Privacy Policy. If we co-sponsor a program with another organization, information may be shared between the parties. All such co-sponsors will be identified on the event details and registration page. At any point, you can opt-out or unsubscribe by selecting either link at the bottom of each email or call us at 972.244.3400.