Meet Laurie: Your Trusted Advocate

Laurie Drymalla

An Advocate for you
Before pursuing law, Laurie Drymalla developed a passion for assisting the less fortunate. In high school, she dedicated a summer to teaching English and hygiene in Costa Rica through the Amigos Del Las Americas Program. Throughout college, her spring breaks were devoted to service work with the homeless in Washington, D.C., and aiding citizens in Monterrey, Mexico, affected by Hurricane Gilbert. Post her graduation from Baylor Law School, Laurie commenced her legal journey by representing indigent clients in the criminal county courts at law in San Antonio. As a court-appointed attorney in Bexar County, she successfully resolved pre-trial cases through hard work. Recognizing the need for courtroom experience, Laurie joined the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office in San Antonio in November 1997. This strategic move aimed to elevate her practice and equip her with the trial expertise required to vigorously defend her clients’ rights in criminal law, particularly in Austin, Texas.
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More About

Laurie Drymalla

Laurie Drymalla’s legal journey in Austin, Texas, began when her family relocated to the city. Continuing her commitment to public service, she joined the Travis County’s Attorney’s Office, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the county’s first full-time Family Violence Court. While at the Travis County Attorney’s Office, Laurie not only handled jury cases involving domestic violence but also contributed to the special prosecution team, investigating and prosecuting crimes implicating public officials.

In 2001, Laurie extended her legal expertise to the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office in Waco. As an assistant district attorney, she managed a diverse caseload involving serious felony offenses from arrest through trial, representing the State in felony revocation hearings. This experience proved instrumental when Laurie returned to Austin in 2007, joining the Travis County District Attorney’s Office.

Throughout her career, Laurie has demonstrated proficiency in investigating and prosecuting a wide range of serious offenses, including violent felonies, homicides, intoxication offenses, sexual offenses, white-collar crimes, police officer use of force cases, police misconduct, and officer-involved shootings.

After retiring from the Travis County District Attorney’s Office in 2021, Laurie now channels her extensive expertise in the criminal justice system to assist individuals accused of crimes. Whether navigating the legal system, providing counsel on criminal cases, or preparing clients for grand jury or court testimonies, Laurie is dedicated to ensuring justice prevails.

Officer Representation

Pictured above: Laurie At the Travis County District Attorney’s Office where she served as the chief of two major units, Chief of the 167th District Court and the Chief of the Critical Incident Unit.

During her seven-year tenure with the Critical Incident Unit (renamed the Civil Rights Unit in 2017), Laurie played a pivotal role in responding to scenes of officer-involved shootings. In this capacity, she collaborated with law enforcement to draft search warrants, make charging decisions, and oversee the collection of essential evidence. Post-investigation, Laurie meticulously prepared cases for grand jury proceedings, involving the preparation of experts, police officers, and civilians for their testimonies. Upon indictment, Laurie continued as the prosecutor assigned to the case. Notably, in one instance, when the officer’s case transitioned to federal court, Laurie remained an integral part of the prosecution team, ensuring seamless continuity in handling the case at the federal level.

Law Enforcement Representation

Law Enforcement Representation

Title IX Representation

Title IX Representation

Pursuing Justice

Pursuing Justice

Victim Representation

Victim Representation