Deshonda P. Charles, Esq., was an award-winning attorney, seasoned entrepreneur and respected community leader with more than 23 years of legal experience. As the founder and CEO of D. Charles Law Firm PLLC, she led a boutique Houston based practice focused on estate planning, probate litigation, business succession planning and civil litigation. In 2026, she proudly celebrated 15 years at the helm of her law firm, which had become a trusted resource for families, business owners and professionals seeking clarity, protection and legacy.
Licensed to practice in Texas, Louisiana, New York and Connecticut, Attorney Charlesbuilt a reputation for delivering strategic, client-focused legal solutions. She was especially known for her skill in navigating complex probate disputes, guiding clients through estate planning strategies and helping business owners protect their companies and transfer wealth across generations.
Her leadership and influence earned national recognition. She served as a featured panelist at the 2023 National Minority Supplier Development Council’s Annual Conference & Exchange and the 2024 NAREB National Convention W.I.R.E. Conference, bringing insight and authority to discussions about business, legacy and collaboration. In 2025, she was named Supplier of the Year (Class I) by the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council. She was also a multi-year honoree of Houston’s Top 50 Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs.
A graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, Attorney Charles was a respected professional speaker and educator who regularly presented on topics such as estate planning, business succession, entrepreneurship and collaborative business strategies.
Beyond the courtroom, classroom and stage, Attorney Charles had a deep commitment to uplifting her community. In 2007, she founded Camp AATTIA, a youth summer enrichment program in Houston that inspires and empowers young minds through STEM education and creativity. She also served as a mentor to solo entrepreneurs and emerging professionals.
Attorney Charles was a past president of the Houston Lawyers Association, a member of the Texas Bar College and an alumna of the United Way Project Blueprint program. Through every role she held, she led with vision, service and integrity.
Above all, she believed in the power of planning, purpose and community to transform lives and businesses — a belief that guided her daily work and inspired those she served.
Attorney Charles practiced law in Houston, where she lived with her husband, Joseph Smith.
POSTHUMOUS HONOREE
DESHONDA P. CHARLES, ESQ.
CEO, D. Charles & Associates, PLLC
2023 Top 30 Influential Woman
She’s Got Influence Advisory Board Member
