On April 25, The Center for American and International Law’s (CAIL) Criminal Justice and Actual Innocence (CJAI) Programs team brought its work back into the field—co-hosting Ethical Challenges for the Prosecution with the Bexar County Conviction Integrity Unit at the Bexar County Justice Center in San Antonio. While CAIL’s CJAI team has continued delivering in-person education at its Education Center in Plano, this marked the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic that the team hosted an off-site program in another city.
Photo: Bexar County ADA Nicole Thornbro presenting on Criminal Discovery in 2025
The course was chaired by Assistant District Attorney Matthew Howard of the Bexar County District Attorney’s Conviction Integrity Unit and served as the first prosecutor-focused training offered under the Actual Innocence grant. It drew more than 150 prosecutors from across the state, with the largest representation from Bexar and Fort Bend Counties. The strong turnout and engagement underscored the legal community’s commitment to deepening its understanding of prosecutorial ethics in a rapidly evolving justice landscape.
Throughout the day, the program addressed some of the most pressing ethical challenges prosecutors face, including Brady disclosures, compliance with Article 39.14, state witness credibility, in-camera reviews, and the nuances of prosecutorial discretion. Participants also explored recent updates to the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct, with a particular focus on Rule 3.09, which outlines the special responsibilities of prosecutors. The lineup of speakers included Nicole Thornbro, Colin Belair, Jacquelynn Chuter, and the Hon. Jefferson Moore—each offering practical insights and legal clarity.
Photo: Hon. Judge Jefferson Moore presenting case law updates for prosecutors.
Special thanks to CJAI Director Shannon Evans and Program Manager Melissa Hooper for their thoughtful leadership and seamless execution of this important program. We’re also grateful to the Bexar County Managed Assigned Counsel Office for their logistical support, as well as to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and Central Jury Room employees for their coordination and hospitality.
Programs like this are at the heart of CAIL’s mission. By equipping prosecutors with the tools to navigate complex ethical dilemmas, we help strengthen the integrity of the legal system and guard against miscarriages of justice. As we continue to expand our reach across Texas, we remain focused on what matters most—upholding the rule of law and ensuring fairness for all.