Dick DeGuerin and Rusty Hardin, two esteemed Texas lawyers, have been chosen to lead the prosecution in the Senate impeachment trial of suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton. Both attorneys, known for their involvement in numerous high-profile criminal and civil cases, were introduced at a news conference held at the Capitol. Their selection signifies the significance and historical nature of the case.
Dick DeGuerin has defended notable figures such as former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, who was charged with illegally funneling corporate donations to Texas legislators. DeGuerin also successfully represented former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison against misconduct charges. Other clients include Robert Durst during his murder trial and David Koresh during the Waco standoff.
Rusty Hardin has represented a wide range of celebrities, star athletes, and businesses. He notably defended Arthur Andersen, the accounting firm involved in the Enron scandal, and quarterback Deshaun Watson during his sexual assault lawsuits. Hardin has been recognized as a “Texas Legal Legend” by the State Bar of Texas and previously served as a prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
During the news conference, DeGuerin and Hardin emphasized their combined experience of over 100 years and expressed their honor in representing the House in Paxton’s trial. They pledged transparency in presenting all allegations against Paxton to allow senators, who will act as the jury, and the public to assess whether Paxton should be permanently removed from office.
Hardin expressed shock at the detailed allegations outlined in the 20 articles of impeachment, which include bribery, retaliation, and obstruction of justice. He described the misconduct as a pattern rather than isolated incidents and stated that it is even worse than what has been made public so far.
Both lawyers clarified that their decision to take the case was not driven by ideology or political affiliation, as they have supported candidates from both sides of the aisle in the past. Their hiring has raised the stakes of the upcoming trial and is expected to bring a captivating legal performance.
The selection of DeGuerin and Hardin comes amidst a fast-paced and high-stakes drama that began when Paxton accused House Speaker Dade Phelan of being intoxicated during the chamber’s proceedings. Subsequently, a House committee revealed its months-long investigation into Paxton’s alleged misconduct. The committee recommended impeachment, and the House voted in favor, temporarily suspending Paxton until the Senate trial.
Impeachment managers from the House have been appointed to assist DeGuerin and Hardin in their prosecution. Paxton and his supporters continue to claim political motivation and lack of due process, while assembling a defense team. The Senate trial, scheduled before August 28, will require a two-thirds majority vote for Paxton to be removed from office.
Hardin hinted that there is much more to come.
The allegations, Hardin said, “will blow your mind.”
