We had the good fortune of connecting with Jon McCurley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jon, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have a talent for client intake and relations. This gives me the confidence to believe that I could succeed at running my law firm, where I have greater control over the types of clients and cases I accept.

I had intended to be a small-town prosecutor. That job search was frustrating and disappointing. Starting my law firm allowed me to create my path and pursue cases that I find interesting.

Running my law firm provides greater flexibility and control over my work and schedule.

Overall, starting my law firm was a way to take control of my career, pursue cases that interest me, and have more autonomy and flexibility in my work (although I work a lot).

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

What sets me apart from other attorneys in your field is my legal advice — blunt, so blunt you can smoke it. I give my clients realistic expectations and motivation that they are more significant than the charges before them, and they will recover from it. I am passionate about my work, particularly cannabis defense and driver’s license restoration.
Marijuana laws have allowed law enforcement to circumvent the 4th Amendment. With the 2018 Farm Bill, it is time to restore the 4th Amendment and hold police accountable. I am pro-police but hold law enforcement to a higher standard. The Constitution is to protect people from an overreaching government, and I support the Constitution of the United States and Texas.
I started law school in 2018 when I was 50 years old. My inspiration was to become a small-town prosecutor. After several interviews with prosecutors’ offices, it was apparent that I was not what prosecutors were looking for. I got on the court appointment wheel and found that many counties arrested people for Driving While License Invalid. Many people didn’t have a license due to old outstanding tickets. I contacted the courts and prosecutors about clearing up those old citations, getting rid of the warrants, and having clients obtain their driver’s licenses. That was when the Not Riding Dirty movement started.
As with any new career, there are obstacles and setbacks. My first trial was for a DWLI; not only did I lose at trial and appeal, but the jury also wanted to know how to give him more time. As of this writing, I have petitioned the Criminal Court of Appeals. Even if the Court does not accept my review, I know juries better and may have to recommend my client not go to trial.
The Not Riding Dirty Campaign: has made a difference in many people’s lives. Some of my clients have not had a license for decades. It is essential to have people licensed to keep routine encounters with law enforcement just that routine. They can’t catch you riding dirty if you are “Not Riding Dirty.” My approach is holistic, holding my clients and law enforcement accountable and preventing future legal issues.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re in the mood for some seriously delicious fried chicken, Big Daddy’s Chicken in South Dallas is the place to go. 4121 Colonial Ave Dallas, TX 75215. The line is long, but you can call in your order. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be hit with the mouth-watering aroma of freshly fried chicken, and you won’t be able to resist digging in. The menu offers a variety of options, from classic fried chicken, chicken salad, and fried pork chops. I highly recommend the breakfast pork chop, which is juicy and perfectly seasoned. The chicken salad is easily enough for two.

The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with friendly staff and a welcoming vibe. There is no dining area, so I suggest you eat in the car or sit on your tailgate while the food is still hot from the fryer. It’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or breakfast.

Overall, I highly recommend Big Daddy’s Chicken to anyone looking for seriously delicious fried chicken in South Dallas. You won’t be disappointed!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to all the prosecutors out there! Remember, the haters are going to hate, hate, hate, but you just need to shake it off. Keep fighting the good fight and pursuing justice for all! #ProsecutorLife #TaylorSwiftWisdom

Website: www.notridingdirty.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/notridingdirty/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-mccurley-1057715

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NotRidingDirty

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089025282683

Image Credits
Steve Christopher (motorcycle shot) Rose Mercer (photo of me with Ellen Pryor)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.