About Kristi
Kristi Blake is a seasoned Texas criminal defense attorney with 29 years of legal experience spanning service as a judge, prosecutor, government attorney, and criminal defense lawyer. Her background gives her a rare perspective on the criminal justice system from multiple sides of the courtroom.
Before joining Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys as a senior trial attorney, Kristi served as an Assistant City Attorney, Assistant Criminal District Attorney, Chief Felony Prosecutor, and Justice of the Peace. As a prosecutor, she handled serious felony cases, including capital murder prosecutions. As a judge, she presided over misdemeanor and other matters within the jurisdiction of the Justice Court. She also has years of experience defending individuals facing criminal charges in both Texas state and federal courts.
This combination of judicial, prosecutorial, and criminal defense experience allows Kristi to evaluate cases from multiple perspectives. She understands how prosecutors investigate and build criminal cases, how judges evaluate legal arguments and evidence, and how effective defense strategies can challenge the government's case.
Kristi earned her undergraduate degree from West Texas A&M University before receiving her Juris Doctor, with honors, from the University of Tulsa College of Law. She continued her legal education at the University of Houston Law Center, earning an LL.M. in Health Law.
Raised on a wheat and corn farm in the Texas Panhandle, Kristi developed an early appreciation for hard work, honesty, and perseverance. Those values continue to shape her approach to representing clients. Known for her tenacity and authenticity in the courtroom, she helps clients understand the charges against them, navigate the criminal justice process, and make informed decisions about their defense.
A ninth-generation Texan, Kristi is the mother of two children and an active community volunteer who supports several nonprofit organizations. Outside the courtroom, she is an avid college football fan and enjoys cheering for the Texas A&M Aggies and Houston Astros.
Career History
Senior Trial Attorney
Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys
July 2026 to Present
Texas, United States
Assistant Criminal District Attorney
McLennan County
April 2021 to February 2026
Waco, Texas, United States
Assistant City Attorney
City of Waco
May 2016 to July 2020
Waco, Texas
Justice of the Peace
McLennan County
April 2006 to February 2014
Waco, Texas
Assistant Criminal District Attorney
McLennan County
July 2000 to April 2006
Waco, Texas
Assistant City Attorney
City of College Station
June 1998 to March 2000
College Station, Texas
Awards
- American Association of Attorney Advocates Top 10 Law Firm (2026)
- American Institute 10 Best Law Firm (2026)
- American Institute of Legal Advocates Top Law Firm (2026)
- American Institute of Trial Lawyers Best Law Firm (2026)
