The McLain Law Fund for Future Defenders
The McLain Law Fund for Future Defenders is a $5,000 annual scholarship created to support students pursuing careers in criminal justice law at Texas universities. Our mission is to encourage and empower the next generation of lawyers who are dedicated to defending constitutional rights and upholding justice.
While the application deadline for this year has passed, we continue to celebrate the scholars whose dedication inspires us all.
Why We Created the Scholarship
Founded by Patrick J. McLain, the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC is built on the belief that everyone deserves a fair defense. Criminal defense is not just a profession—it is a calling to ensure that due process and constitutional rights are preserved for all.
Through this scholarship, we hope to:
- Encourage future criminal defense attorneys
- Support students who are passionate about justice
- Inspire the next generation of defenders of the Constitution
Looking Ahead
The McLain Law Fund for Future Defenders will continue to recognize outstanding students who embody the values of integrity, determination, and commitment to justice. Each scholar’s journey reminds us why this work matters and why investing in the future of criminal defense is so important.
Stay tuned as we share more stories of our scholarship recipients in the years to come.
Scholarship Winners
Catalina Bramati, 2025
The University of Texas School of Law
We are proud to announce that Catalina Bramati has been selected as the recipient of our 2025 scholarship award. Catalina stood out among many talented applicants with her dedication to the study of law and her passion for making a lasting impact in the legal field.
Reflecting on this opportunity, Catalina shared:
"I am deeply grateful to have received this scholarship, as it eases the financial burden of law school and allows me to dedicate myself to my studies at UT Law fully. Opportunities like this inspire me to continue pursuing my academic passions in the legal field to become an attorney who makes a meaningful impact."
Watch Catalina's statement here;
DaMazia Gaines, 2024
Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University
DaMazia Gaines was selected as the recipient of our inaugural scholarship award. She stood out among many impressive applicants with her commitment to criminal defense and her drive to make a difference in the legal field.
In her own words:
“This scholarship has reignited the fire within me, giving me the strength to keep pushing forward each day.”
We are proud to support Ms. Gaines in her journey and look forward to seeing the impact she will make in protecting the rights of others.
Watch DaMazia's statement here:
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“The McLain team helped me tremendously”
“Having the McLain team fighting for me (and my families livelihood) was a huge emotional lift!”- Michael -
“With the help of my lawyer, Brad Sauer, I fought the case and won”
“Brad wrote an exceptional defense and pulled every rabbit out of the hat”- John -
“I highly recommend Brad Sauer and the entire team”
“I had an outstanding experience working with Brad Sauer”- Anne -
“The experience, passion and most importantly the care provided cannot be beaten.”
“I would get consistent phone calls making sure that I was okay mentally, and not letting myself get painted as a number or a problem despite my command's efforts.”- John -
“Best attorney”
“Mr. Patrick McLain equals instant and good results for you. Hiring Mr. Patrick McLain is the best decision I had made throughout my military career.”- Master Sergeant Michael A Heath Jr. -
“A Marine through and through. He is dedicated to taking care of his clients.”
“He is an excellent lawyer who gives his all for you and gets things done. He has a no-nonsense approach that gets you results.”- Scott S. -
“First class lawyer!!!!!”
Patrick saved my career and my life by proxy, he did everything and more you would HOPE for from a lawyer. Patrick is what you need if you want to win your case!- David L. -
“If anyone needs an attorney that will stand with you during your time of trouble, look no further.”
“Patrick has truly become a good friend and if anyone needs an attorney that will stand with you during your time of trouble, look no further. Patrick J. Mclain is this man.”- Child Abuse Client
Committed To Your Best Possible Outcome
We care about your safety, your rights, and your recovery.
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Child Pornography Charge Dismissed in Federal Court
Client arrested at home, confessed to child pornography possession. McLain secured dismissal of child pornography indictment. Pleaded guilty to obscenity charge, reducing jail time exposure by 75%.
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Firearm Charges at Airport - Dismissed
Team McLain boasts a 100% success rate with airport firearms cases—no indictment filed by grand jury. Clients, guided by McLain, produced briefings that prevented indictments, keeping them out of court.
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Sexual Assault of Girlfriend's Daughter - Jury Acquits On All Charges
Client, in a long-term relationship with girlfriend, faced molestation allegations from her daughter after a bitter breakup. McLain presented the truth at trial, resulting in a full acquittal by the jury.
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Sexual Assault on Second Wife's Children - Acquittal On All Charges
Client accused of molesting second wife's children and assaulting their own child. After a week-long trial, McLain secured a full acquittal. McLain worked with Client to develop a story proving his innocence.
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Allegations of Sexual Assault on Teenage Stepdaughter - Jury Acquits
Client, the only father figure for his wife's children for over a decade, faced molestation allegations from the daughter when she chose to live with her biological father.
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Client Charged with Assault by Physical Contact
A federal client facing charges of conspiracy to distribute and money laundering worked closely with our team to achieve a significantly reduced sentence.
Why Choose Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC?
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Former Federal Prosecutor & Military JudgeAttorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
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Over 3,500 Cases Successfully HandledPatrick J. McLain has helped thousands secure a better future with tenacious representation.
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Our Firm is Top-Rated & Award-WinningAttorney Patrick J. McLain is widely respected by his peers & clients as seen by his numerous accolades.
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Over Two Decades in the U.S. Marine CorpsAttorney Patrick J. McLain tries all of his cases with integrity and unparalleled work ethic.
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