Death Penalty
Criminal Defense

The Constitution sets the standard. We bring it to life.

“That they may truly and impartially administer justice.”
- Judge Robert Strayton

Focused Representation for Life-Altering Results.

Williams Mitigation & Consulting is a boutique, Houston-based firm specializing in capital defense mitigation and consulting throughout all stages of litigation. With over a decade of experience, we understand that a meaningful mitigation investigation—as defined by the U.S. Constitution and ABA guidelines—requires specialized, focused attention to uncover evidence about a defendant’s life history, background, and circumstances. We intentionally take on a limited number of cases, ensuring each client receives the dedicated, high-quality advocacy they deserve.

What is Mitigation?

Mitigation is constitutionally required in capital cases. The U.S. Supreme Court has made clear in cases like Wiggins v. Smith that failing to investigate and present mitigating evidence violates a defendant’s right to effective legal representation.

Mitigation doesn’t excuse what happened—it helps explain who the client is. It provides the court or jury with the full context needed to make a moral, legal, and humane sentencing decision.

Areas of Practice

    • Record Collection and Analysis

    • Atkins Investigations

    • Comprehensive Life History Investigations

    • Mitigation Theme Development and Strategy

    • Trauma-Informed Consultations for Client-Team Dynamic Concerns

    • Cultural or Communication Barriers

    • An Introduction to Culturally-Responsive Care

    • Atkins Investigation in Capital Cases

    • Signs and Symptoms of Serious Mental Illness in Capital Representation

    • Trauma-Informed Care and Culturally-Responsive Practices and Interviewing 

MEET THE TEAM

AMY WILLIAMS, LCSW-S
Founding Principal,
Mitigation Specialist

ELEANOR BECERRA, LMSW
Mitigation Specialist

KALEIGH CORTEZ, OBM
Practice Coordinator

Get in Touch.

The right mitigation specialist can make or break a capital case. You need someone with the appropriate expertise, cultural background, and jurisdictional insight to meet the constitutional standards of capital defense. Contact us for a free, 15-minute consultation to see if our services align with your specific needs.