Johnny Lanzillo

Senior Trial Lawyer

State & Federal Criminal Defense Trial Lawyer

Johnny Lanzillo is a highly accomplished criminal defense trial attorney with more than a decade of experience litigating some of the most complex and high-stakes criminal cases in Texas. Renowned for his relentless courtroom advocacy, strategic precision, and unwavering commitment to justice, Johnny has successfully tried cases ranging from Class B misdemeanors to first-degree felonies—including Crimes Against Children, complex federal matters, DWI and intoxication offenses, aggravated assaults, and murder. His deep command of both state and federal criminal procedure has established him as one of North Texas’s most respected and results-driven trial lawyers.

A Trial Career Defined by Early Excellence

Johnny’s courtroom trajectory took shape the moment he entered the legal profession. After earning his Juris Doctor from Texas Wesleyan School of Law (now Texas A&M School of Law) in 2012, he joined a Dallas County criminal defense firm—trying a first-degree felony to verdict within just two months of being licensed. That remarkable early achievement set the tone for a career defined by bold advocacy, meticulous preparation, and exceptional results.

In 2014, Johnny co-founded a criminal defense firm in Collin County, where he served as managing partner and tried cases throughout North Texas. He later launched his own practice before being recruited to lead the Allen office of a respected criminal defense firm as Criminal Division Trial Chief. Across every leadership role, Johnny earned a reputation for excellence in trial strategy, case management, and client-centered representation.

Elite Forensic & Scientific Training

Mr. Lanzillo brings advanced scientific and forensic training to The Crowder Law Firm, strengthening the firm’s litigation edge in DWI, intoxication, and complex felony cases:

• NHTSA/IACP Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certification (2024) – Expert-level training that enhances his ability to challenge DWI investigations and SFST administration.
• Forensic Chromatography: Theory & Practice – Axion Labs, Chicago – Intensive scientific training on blood and breath alcohol testing.
• On track for ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation in 2026.

This specialized knowledge allows Johnny to expose flawed scientific methods, dismantle unreliable forensic evidence, and deliver powerful, science-backed defense strategies.

Recognized for Excellence

Johnny’s skill and professionalism have earned him numerous statewide and national distinctions, including:

• Texas Super Lawyers – Rising Stars (2020–2025)
• Texas Super Lawyers “Up-and-Coming 100” (2023–2025)
• Top 40 Under 40 – National Trial Lawyers Association (2016, 2021)
• 10.0 “Superb” Rating – AVVO & Justia

Professional Affiliations

Mr. Lanzillo maintains active membership in leading criminal defense organizations:

• DUI Defense Lawyers Association
• North Texas State Criminal Law Inn of Court – Barrister
• Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
• Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
• Waco-McLennan County Bar Association
• Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
• Texas Independent Bar Association
• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Speaker & Educator

A respected voice in Texas criminal defense, Johnny frequently teaches advanced criminal law topics to other attorneys across the state. Recent presentations include:

• DGL Dog Days of Summer Advanced Criminal Law Seminar
• “Defending Clients with Mental Health Issues”
• “Jury Selection in Felony Cases”
• June 2024 – Pottsboro, TX
• Dallas Bar Association Bench Bar Conference
• “All Things Pre-Trial Bonds”
• September 2024 – Rockwall, TX

Education & Admissions

Johnny earned his Juris Doctor from Texas Wesleyan School of Law (now Texas A&M School of Law) in 2012 and his Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of North Texas in 2008.

He is admitted to practice in:

• U.S. District Court – Eastern District of Texas
• U.S. District Court – Northern District of Texas

Beyond the Courtroom

Johnny’s discipline and competitive drive were forged long before his legal career. A lifelong athlete, he played NCAA Division II baseball at Christian Brothers University before transferring to the University of North Texas, where he served as President of the UNT club baseball team. Today, he continues to compete in men’s slow-pitch softball tournaments nationwide—bringing the same grit, focus, and tenacity that define his work in the courtroom.