Jerry Patchen

Jerry D. Patchen, a Houston, Texas trial lawyer brings five decades of experience and wisdom to the court room having litigated civil and criminal cases in 25 states, and also foreign countries. In 2005, Jerry and his wife Linda joined the ITP Houston Chapter, as a result of meeting Michael Murphy at a presentation sponsored by Lydia Dugan. Fascinated by ITP, a few months later they attended an Esalen workshop led by George and Annie Leonard. Committed to ITP, within a few years Jerry joined the ITP Board of Directors and served for almost 10 years. His legal skill was a handy asset.

Dedicated to service, one of Jerry’s passions as an attorney has been representing the Native American Church and protecting the religious freedom rights of Indian people to use their sacrament Peyote. When the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the right of Indians to use their sacrament, he created a legislative strategy of convincing Congress to amend the American Indian Religious Freedom Act to specifically include Peyote. Working with U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye, Jerry also advanced the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Both of these Acts were passed by Congress. All of his work was pro bono. He paid his own expenses, and the expenses of others. For his achievements protecting religious freedom of Native Americans, the Texas State Bar honored Jerry by presenting him with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jerry credits ITP community and practice with enriching his life, health, strength, resilience, confidence, success, and boundless energy.