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Angelica Cogliano – Austin Criminal Defense Attorney

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Angelica Cogliano

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We’re Here to Help With Your Case (512) 375-3303

Bio

Angelica Cogliano is an Austin criminal defense attorney known for two things: trying cases and taking apart the science the State relies on to win them. She has tried cases to verdict in eight states, and she carries that work through appeal and into federal court, with oral arguments before the Texas Third Court of Appeals, the Fifth Circuit and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

Her trial practice and her forensic work feed each other. Angelica chairs two annual forensic science conferences, one statewide and one national, and serves on committees that shape forensic science standards in Texas. She speaks across the country on DNA, child abuse and shaken baby cases, fentanyl and drug overdose homicides, mental health litigation, junk science, evidence, and pretrial motions practice. That work shows up in the courtroom: she has kept the State’s experts off the stand in multiple cases, including DNA analysts and child abuse pediatricians.

She also teaches the craft and helps other lawyers win. Angelica trains trial lawyers nationally through the Trial Lawyers College, teaches law students, and publishes in state and national criminal defense magazines. Lawyers around the country bring her in to consult on jury selection and trial strategy, and she runs virtual mock jury focus groups nationwide.

Speaking & Teaching: see Angelica’s talks, publications, and what attendees say

Angelica has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star two years running and received the Rising Star Award from the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. She is a former president of the Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and serves on the boards of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Her toughest panel remains her dog, Ginsburg, and two cats, Stardust and Schrödinger, who provide companionship, critique, and quantum uncertainty.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars from 20 client reviews on Avvo (as of October 2026). Read Angelica’s client reviews on Avvo.

Super Lawyers Rising Star badge for Angelica Cogliano

“Angelica’s online jury focus group was invaluable in shaping my case strategy. Their modern approach, professionalism, and commitment led to a great outcome. Highly recommended!”

-Charlie Baird

“I was charged with manufacturing delivery enhanced facing a mandatory minimum 25 years. After almost 5 years, 6 stubborn prosecutors, threats of life sentences, revoked bonds and so much more somehow Angelica negotiated 2 years with back time. Even with this Angelica assured me that she would fight like hell at trial. (I believe it’s highly likely that we would’ve won at trial). I had to make a tuff decision. Coming from facing a life sentence to time served is bittersweet because I believe I had the best representation in tx and I could win but in the end the choice was mine and I decided to do what was best for my family. These attorneys were angels!!”

-W.S. – Hays County

“CMK Defense, PLLC provided exceptional legal support. Their team was knowledgeable, supportive, and committed to achieving the best outcome. I felt informed and empowered throughout. I highly recommend them—they truly care and deliver results you can trust.”

-Anonymous

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