Kent A. Schaffer

Kent A. Schaffer is a distinguished criminal defense lawyer with more than four decades of legal experience. Practicing in Houston and across the United States, he has built a reputation for successfully defending high-profile clients in both state and federal courts. His practice spans white collar crime, homicide, government investigations, and complex litigation.

Kent began his legal journey as an investigator for the legendary Richard “Racehorse” Haynes before pursuing his law degree at the University of Houston’s Bates College of Law, graduating in 1981. He also holds a degree from the University of Texas (1978). He is licensed to practice in Texas, the District of Columbia, and before the U.S. Supreme Court and multiple federal appellate courts.

Kent has successfully represented a wide range of high-profile clients, including business leaders, public officials, and entertainers. His noteworthy client list features former Houston Mayor Fred Hofheinz, rapper Travis Scott, and professional athletes such as Shakur Stevenson and Alex Caruso. Known for his strategic, results-driven defense, Kent has secured grand jury no-bills, case dismissals, and significant litigation victories in matters involving aggravated assault, white-collar crime, and multimillion-dollar fraud.

Beyond individual representation, Kent has counseled major corporations on environmental, regulatory, and business matters. Clients such as McGraw-Hill, Lucas Aerospace, and the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana have benefited from his comprehensive legal insights and negotiation skills in litigation and compliance matters.

Kent A. Schaffer remains actively involved in legal organizations, having served as president of the Harris County Bar Association and the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He frequently lectures nationwide on criminal defense, trial strategy, and white collar investigations, contributing to the education of legal professionals nationwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Schaffer Kennedy Johnson
• Member, Harris County Bar Association
• Member, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, American Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section
• Member, American Board of Criminal Lawyers
• Member, Houston Bar Association

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• Bates College of Law, University of Houston
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Texas
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges