Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Clifford Winter Duke is a Dallas criminal defense lawyer and Senior Trial Attorney at Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys with more than two decades of legal experience, including 17 years as a Dallas County public defender. Since earning his law degree in 2004, Clifford has defended clients facing charges ranging from Class C misdemeanors to serious felony offenses, including capital murder.
A native of the Pacific Northwest, Clifford grew up in the Rocky Mountains of Southeast Idaho. He attended Gonzaga University, where he completed both his undergraduate studies and legal education and earned his Juris Doctor in 2004.
After law school, he moved to Texas with his wife and began his legal career practicing plaintiff's law and criminal defense. In 2008, he joined the Dallas County Public Defender's Office, where he spent the next seventeen years representing indigent Texans accused of criminal offenses. During his tenure, he handled cases at every level of the criminal justice system, from municipal offenses and misdemeanors to serious felony prosecutions and capital murder charges.
Clifford's extensive courtroom experience allows him to assess cases from multiple angles, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and develop defense strategies tailored to each client's circumstances. His background includes navigating complex felony prosecutions, protecting constitutional rights, and guiding clients through difficult decisions at every stage of their cases.
At Michael & Associates, Clifford defends clients throughout Dallas and Collin Counties, including those facing misdemeanor charges, serious felonies, and complex criminal prosecutions. His extensive experience in North Texas courts gives him firsthand familiarity with local court procedures and the challenges defendants face in the region.
Clifford has held numerous leadership positions within the Texas criminal defense community. He is a Past President of both the Collin County Young Lawyers Association and the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
He currently serves as a Director of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and a Board Member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Project, organizations dedicated to supporting criminal defense attorneys and advancing the quality of criminal representation throughout Texas. He also lectures on criminal law at the University of Texas at Dallas.
In October 2026, Clifford appeared on Oxygen's Prosecuting Evil with Kelly Siegler, Season 3, Episode 2, "Deadly Deception." The episode featured his work as a defense attorney representing Darrin Lopez in a high-profile criminal case, offering viewers insight into the challenges and responsibilities of defending clients facing serious criminal allegations.
Clifford understands that every case, regardless of the charge, is deeply important to the person facing prosecution. He approaches each client as both a zealous advocate and a trusted counselor, providing guidance and support throughout the criminal justice process.
Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys
Dallas, Texas
June 2025 to present
Dallas County Public Defender's Office
Dallas, Texas
August 2008 to June 2025
"From the moment of the first phone call that I received from this Law Firm, I knew I was in good hands. My attorney was direct, prompt; and very focused on every detail of my case. Backed and supported by a second-to-none paralegal, never once did I have to sit and wonder what was going on with my proceedings. Empathetic, honest, and assertive. These are words that come to mind when I reflect on the professionalism of Mr. Clifford Duke, and Ms. Sheila Jiminez. Michael and Associates are truly a dream team, and as dictated by the outcome of my case, are recommended as a first and only choice, when it comes to seasoned representation. Excellent job without a doubt!"
Joe S.
August 2025
"I made an informed decision to partner with Michael and Associates, and it proved to be a game-changer for my case. The firm´s commitment to client service is exemplary, and I experienced this firsthand through my interactions with attorney Clifford Duke and his assistant. They demonstrated unwavering support, maintaining open lines of communication and providing accompaniment to court appointments. Their professionalism and empathy were reassuring, making me feel valued as a client. I wholeheartedly endorse this team of dedicated lawyers, who tirelessly work to amplify the voices of those who need representation."
Michael M.
January 2026
"I had an excellent experience working with attorney Clifford Duke and paralegal Sheila. From the very beginning, they were professional, responsive, and genuinely invested in my case. They explained everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and answered all of my questions with patience and care. Thanks to their knowledge, attention to detail, and dedication, my case was successfully dismissed. I'm extremely grateful for their hard work and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of strong legal representation."
Saheed L.
January 2026
"Michael & Associates were amazing with helping me through my case. They kept me informed through the process and worked hard to get this frivolous case dismissed. From the beginning to the end I had a peace of mind with them having my back. Highly recommended."
Curtis S.
September 2025
"My attorney did an amazing job with my case. She and her legal team were always available to answer all my questions. I would definitely recommend Jessica and the rest of this amazing legal team!!!"
Alma
January 2024
"Excellent service, very prompt from start to finish. No issues & all or any questions wrench answered before I can even think to ask them. Recommend & will use again if needed"
Bishop
May 2025
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