🛡 Highly Rated Houston Defense Law Firm
Experienced Courtroom Advocacy.
Personalized Client Defense.
Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming. At Shellist & McAlister, LLP, we bring former prosecution insight, deep courtroom expertise, and aggressive strategies to secure your future.
AV Preeminent
20+ Years
Former Prosecutors
Highly Respected Trial Attorneys
At Shellist & McAlister, LLP, you work directly with veteran trial partners. We provide personal care, direct communication, and relentless legal advocacy.
Steven D. Shellist
Steven Shellist is a seasoned Houston-area trial lawyer focused on personal injury and wrongful death cases. As founder of Shellist Law, he brings decades of courtroom experience, including more than 200 jury trials, to serious injury matters involving catastrophic accidents, trucking cases, and life-changing injuries. Known for his trial-tested approach, Steve fights to protect injured clients and their families throughout Houston and Deer Park.
Sean T. McAlister
Sean T. McAlister is a Houston native and experienced trial lawyer with a strong background in criminal defense, juvenile law, and serious felony cases. A former Harris County prosecutor, Sean served as Chief Prosecutor at both the County Court and District Court levels and has tried more than 60 first-chair trials. He brings disciplined preparation, courtroom judgment, and deep knowledge of the Harris County legal system to every client he represents.
Comprehensive Defense Representation
We provide aggressive, custom representation across a broad spectrum of state charges.
DWI & Alcohol-Related
Relentless defense against blood draws, license suspensions, and misdemeanor/felony intoxication charges.
Murder & Homicide
Capital murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide. Full trial-ready defense.
Juvenile Law
Protecting the futures of young individuals facing criminal accusations in Harris County.
While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our absolute commitment to securing the best possible result for every client.
Every case is unique, but our commitment to victory remains constant. Explore a selection of our state case results.
Felony DWI – 3rd Offense
Harris County District Court
DWI & Intoxication
Acquittal at Trial / Not Guilty
Allegation: Facing mandatory prison sentence after failing blood draw warrant.
Defense Strategy: Steve Shellist successfully challenged the chain of custody of the blood vial and proved the laboratory's calibration records were out of compliance. Jury returned a Not Guilty verdict in under 45 minutes.
First-Degree Murder
Harris County Grand Jury
Violent Crimes
Reduced to Self-Defense / No Bill by Grand Jury
Allegation: Accused in connection with a fatal shooting during an altercation.
Defense Strategy: Sean McAlister conducted an independent forensic reconstruction of the scene, proving our client acted in clear self-defense. The Grand Jury declined to indict.
Misdemeanor DWI & Refusal
Fort Bend County Court at Law
DWI & Intoxication
Reduced to Reckless Driving
Allegation: Refused breathalyzer and failed field sobriety tests on camera.
Defense Strategy: We proved the arresting officer lacked reasonable suspicion for the initial traffic stop, suppressing critical dashcam evidence and forcing a favorable plea reduction.
Aggravated Robbery (Juvenile)
Harris County Juvenile Court
Juvenile Law
Transfer Denied / Probation Secured
Allegation: Minor facing transfer to adult court and up to 20 years in prison.
Defense Strategy: Our team presented extensive psychological and rehabilitative evidence. The court denied the state's motion to try our client as an adult, securing a path to rehabilitation.
Client Testimonials
Trusted by individuals and families facing complex state and federal legal battles.
“Steve Shellist saved my career and my freedom. I was facing serious federal charges and felt completely lost. From day one, Steve was focused, strategic, and relentless. The case was ultimately dismissed.”
— Robert M.
Federal Defense // Houston, TX
“"Sean McAlister represented my son in a juvenile matter. He treated us with respect, explained everything clearly, and fought hard in court. He successfully kept my son's record clean.”
— Maria G.
Juvenile Law // Harris County, TX
"I was arrested for a DWI and was terrified of losing my license and job. Steve Shellist analyzed the police video, found flaws in their tests, and got my charges reduced to reckless driving. Incredible trial lawyer."
— David L.
DWI Defense // Fort Bend County, TX
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Protect Your Rights & Freedom
When facing serious accusations, every hour counts. Securing experienced trial counsel early is critical to protecting your rights, assets, and liberty.
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We are conveniently located at 5373 W Alabama St. Ste 600 B in Houston, Texas. Use our interactive map to find the best route to our office.