Episode Description – Spotify Podcast Notes

In this episode of Sidebar with TCDLA, we are joined by TCDLEI officers Laurie Key and Mehr Singh for a conversation that gets to the heart of what makes the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Educational Institute so special: scholarships, fundraising, and community.

They break down how TCDLEI scholarships open doors for new, rural, and financially burdened defense lawyers—helping ensure access to high-quality CLE, mentorship, and professional growth. From over 100 CLE scholarships awarded each year to the Charlie Butts Law Student Scholarship, the discussion highlights how education today becomes leadership and service tomorrow.

We will also dive into the fun (and impactful) side of fundraising—merchandise, wine pulls, silent auctions, and yes, the fan-favorite dog bandanas. Every purchase and donation goes directly toward supporting scholarships and strengthening the defense bar across Texas.

🎧 Tune in to hear how TCDLEI turns CLE into TLC—Teaching, Learning, and Caring—and why defending dreams starts with defenders like you.