Sidney C. Williams
Defamation Lawyers
Attorney Sidney C. Williams was an Endowed Presidential Scholar at The University of Texas at Austin with a BA in Government and an emphasis in African American / Multi-Cultural Studies. He received his Doctor of Jurisprudence as an Endowed Heaman Sweatt Scholar from The University of Texas School of Law in 2003. During his law school term, he served as a summer associate with Locke, Lidell, and Sapp LLP, handling civil defense claims in the civil litigation department. Additionally, Sidney worked in the Law Offices of Judge Joel B. Bennett, the Drug Court Judge for Travis County, where he received first-hand experience with the multifaceted issues of substance abuse, rehabilitation, and social constructs in the Travis County Criminal Justice System.
Sidney completed both the Juvenile Justice Clinic and the Criminal Justice Clinic at the University of Texas School of Law. He has been a member of the Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer Association, where he has served as both president and a member of the board of directors. Additionally, he was appointed as a subcommittee member on the Justice and Planning Committee for the City of Austin, completing justice evaluations and recommendations. Sidney is also a member of the board of directors for the Capital Area Private Defender’s Service, a non-profit that supervises and establishes standards for private attorneys appointed to indigent defendants in the Travis County Criminal Justice System.
Jennifer D. Ward
Defamation Lawyers
Jennifer Ward is the Principal Attorney at Law Office of Jennifer D. Ward based in Austin, Texas. Her practice focuses on employment law and general counsel services for employees, small businesses, and non-profits. She handles a range of legal issues from business formation to noncompetes to workplace disputes. Ms. Ward was honored to be named one of Austin’s Top Attorneys in Business Law by Austin Monthly Magazine every year since 2020. In 2022, she was also recognized as a Top Attorney and Top Woman Attorney in Employment and Labor Law by Super Lawyers. She is licensed to practice in the State of Texas, the State of California, the Western District of Texas, the Southern District of Texas, the Eastern District of California, and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Ms. Ward has been admitted to the Texas Bar College each year since 2015, an honorary society for lawyers recognized for high ethical standards and advanced legal training. In 2017, she was selected to join the Austin Bar Association Leadership Academy.
In 2010, Ms. Ward graduated from University of California, Davis School of Law with a Certificate in Public Interest Law. She participated in Moot Court and Appellate Advocacy, served as Research Assistant to Professor Lisa Pruitt, and was active in numerous organizations. She also enjoys giving presentations. Her most recent speaking engagement was titled “Wearing the Many Hats of HR”.
Prior to attending law school, Ms. Ward pursued a career in the Arts with the goal of becoming a music professor. She graduated cum laude from Rice University with a double major in piano performance and music history. She earned a Master’s of Music from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in piano performance. She also founded a piano studio and worked as an independent music teacher for a number of years.
Joe Lopez
Defamation Lawyers
Joe Lopez, an esteemed personal injury lawyer based in Austin, Texas, began his legal career in 2003. In 2015, he founded Joe Lopez Law, where he is the lead trial attorney. His practice is dedicated to advocating for individuals who have experienced significant harm due to accidents and negligence. Mr. Lopez has represented clients in a variety of cases, including car accidents, boating accidents, commercial vehicle accidents, DWI victim accidents, premises liability, truck accidents and wrongful death. He serves clients in Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, New Braunfels, Round Rock, San Marcos and West Lake Hills.
Mr. Lopez’s has devoted his career to helping those who have suffered severe injuries, such as spinal and brain injuries, as well as families who have lost loved ones due to dangerous working conditions. His belief in using the law as a tool to prevent harmful behavior and enhance community safety drives his dedication to his work. His approach to law is not just about winning cases but also about making a positive impact on society by holding wrongdoers accountable.
In recognition of his exceptional work, Mr. Lopez was selected in 2013 to join the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, an exclusive organization that acknowledges the top trial lawyers in the country. That same year, he became a lifetime member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a prestigious group of trial lawyers who have achieved multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements.
Growing up in El Paso, Texas, Mr. Lopez’s diverse background and fluency in Spanish enable him to connect deeply with a wide range of clients. Outside of his professional life, he and his family are active participants in community events and dedicate their time to various volunteer projects, reflecting their commitment to giving back to society.
Jessica Bernstein
Defamation Lawyers
Jessica practices criminal defense in the Austin, Texas area (Travis, Williamson, and Hays Counties).
She places a high priority on representing every client with honesty, compassion, and dedication.
She believes in providing her clients with realistic expectations while fighting zealously for the best possible outcome.
She will help you understand and navigate the difficulties of our deeply flawed criminal justice system.
Many people find themselves in the criminal justice system at a major low point in their lives. Jessica takes the “counselor” part of “attorney and counselor at law” seriously and strives to ensure that her clients find themselves at the conclusion of representation in a better overall position to move on and put this phase behind them.
If this is the sort of criminal defense representation you are seeking, contact us today for a free consultation. consultation. We work with clients to arrange payment plans that are within reach.
Jessica was born and raised in Houston. She moved to Austin in 2004 and received her undergraduate degree in the Plan II Honors program from the University of Texas in 2007. She went on to earn her law degree, also from the University of Texas, in 2011.
She is a member of the Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer’s Association. She has presented to a statewide audience on the topic of DWI and has been invited to help train new attorneys in the Travis County Public Defender’s Office.
Jessica knows the local criminal justice system intimately. However large or small the case, she puts in the hard work for each client to secure the best possible result. In her free time, Jessica enjoys reading, working as a kickboxing trainer, and travelling to national parks and abroad.
Drew Gibbs
Defamation Lawyers
Drew Gibbs has settled or tried cases for over a thousand clients helping them recover fair and just compensation for their injuries. On his path to becoming a board certified personal injury trial lawyer, Drew started in public service, trying dozens of cases for the State of Texas as a county prosecutor. He then added to this valuable jury trial experience by working as an insurance defense attorney representing many of the same insurance giants he now dedicates his career to fighting against. Drew Gibbs not only has acquired an elite level of successful trial experience, he has seen and worked on both sides of personal injury litigation.
The thousands of clients he has helped get justice can attest to Drew’s ability to help the injured, as do the numerous awards and acknowledgements he has received.
In addition to receiving Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Drew has been recognized as a Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers (a Thompson Reuters service) since 2018. He is a Lifetime Member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates.
Many lawyers advertise that they handle personal injury cases, including even such complex matters as commercial vehicle collisions, products liability claims and workplace injuries. Few attorneys however can ethically claim that they “specialize” in such personal injury claims. Drew Gibbs can make this claim. He is certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Just a few of the hurdles he cleared to earn this designation include taking personal injury cases to a jury verdict, passing a rigorous exam covering personal injury rules and procedure, receiving the recommendation of at least one judge before whom he had tried a personal injury case and numerous attorneys he had tried personal injury trials with and against. If you see attorneys advertising that they specialize in personal injury cases, their names should be found on this list or they are advertising in violation of the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. If you are considering hiring an attorney to handle a personal injury matter, ask yourself why you would entrust your fight for justice to an attorney who is not board certified in the area of your legal need.
Kell Simon
Defamation Lawyers
I am attorney Kell Simon, and I founded the Law Offices of Kell A. Simon to provide individuals facing employment law matters with the personalized legal solutions and experienced counsel they deserve. Throughout a legal career dedicated to representing employees in disputes, I have focused on providing quality representation and creative solutions to help my clients obtain the legal remedies they deserve.
As a labor and employment law specialist certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, I have wide-ranging experience in all aspects of labor and employment law. I was also selected for inclusion in the Super Lawyers list from 2015 to 2020. Super Lawyers is a rating service by Thomson Reuters based on peer nominations to highlight attorneys’ professional achievements.
I have substantial courtroom experience and have successfully litigated cases against some of the country’s largest employers. I have also served as class counsel in several long-running and multifaceted Title VII class actions and collective actions under the Fair Labor Standards Act. My zealous pursuit of justice extends outside the courtroom, where I have negotiated advantageous settlement terms for many satisfied clients.
Andrew Traub
Defamation Lawyers
Andrew Traub is one of the top personal injury auto accident lawyers in Austin, Texas. Andrew is an experienced trial lawyer with many awards and recognitions and has been practicing law for over two decades in Austin. Contact Austin Accident Lawyer Andrew Traub today to see if he can help you.
- No Win, No Fee
- No Health Insurance, No Problem. You Can Still Get Treated.
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Kevin Glasheen
Defamation Lawyers
Kevin is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Kevin is also an FAA-licensed pilot, enabling him to fly the firm’s TBM airplane whenever necessary without the need to hire a third-party pilot.
Kevin opened his own law office immediately out of law school and began handling personal injury cases. That early success gave Kevin the opportunity to work on many other significant cases, and he has been lead counsel in many multi-million dollar civil cases.
Kevin has tried many cases as a personal injury lawyer, including injuries in meat packing plants; car, motorcycle and truck wrecks; injuries in the oilfield, and train wrecks. He was lead counsel in the two largest railroad crossing accident cases in Texas, one resulting in a $65-Million verdict for wrongful death ($22 Million settlement on appeal; $13.5 Million net-to-client) and one resulting in a $46-Million verdict for wrongful death ($8 Million settlement on appeal; $4.6 Million net-to-client).
Kevin’s dedication and service to our clients is captured by numerous awards over the years. He has been selected to Thomson Reuters’ Texas Super Lawyers list continuously since 2004 . Only 5% of attorneys are selected. He has also attained AV Preeminent status by Martindale-Hubbell. The AV Preeminent rating demonstrates that a lawyer has earned the highest rating available for their legal ability and professional ethics. Kevin is also a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. The forum is limited to only those attorneys who have won million-dollar verdicts and settlements.
Kevin served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Tech Law School Foundation from 1995-2015, served as a member of the Board of Directors of the South Plains Council of the Boy Scouts of America from 2000-2014, and served as the President of the Texas Tech School of Law Alumni Association from 2012-2013.
What to Expect During the Legal Process After a Texas Commercial or Delivery Vehicle Accident Injury
Experiencing an accident involving a commercial or delivery vehicle in Texas can be overwhelming, especially when injuries are involved. Understanding the legal process that follows such incidents is crucial for victims seeking compensation for their injuries and damages. This article outlines what to expect during the legal process after a Texas commercial or delivery vehicle accident injury.
Initial Steps After the Accident
Seek Medical Attention
The first and most critical step after any accident is to seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, it is essential to get evaluated by a healthcare professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and prompt medical care can prevent complications later on. Additionally, medical records will serve as vital evidence in any legal proceedings.
Document the Scene
If you are able, document the accident scene thoroughly. Take photographs of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and anything else that may be relevant. Collect contact information from witnesses and obtain a copy of the police report if law enforcement is involved. This documentation will be crucial for your case.
Consulting with an Attorney
Importance of Legal Representation
After ensuring your health and safety, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in commercial vehicle accidents. Legal representation is vital for navigating the complexities of Texas law regarding liability and compensation. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations, allowing you to understand your rights without financial commitment.
Evaluating Your Case
During your consultation, your attorney will evaluate the specifics of your case. They will consider factors such as:
- The circumstances surrounding the accident.
- The extent of your injuries and damages.
- Whether the driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident.
This evaluation will help determine the viability of pursuing a claim against the driver or their employer.
Understanding Liability
Vicarious Liability
In Texas, employers can be held liable for accidents caused by their employees while they are acting within the “course and scope” of their employment. This principle is known as vicarious liability. If a delivery driver causes an accident while making deliveries for their employer, both the driver and the employer may be liable for damages.
Independent Contractors vs. Employees
It’s important to distinguish between employees and independent contractors in these cases. If a driver is classified as an independent contractor, their employer may not be held liable for accidents they cause while working. Your attorney will help clarify this distinction based on the specifics of your case.
Filing a Claim
Demand Letter
Once you have gathered evidence and consulted with an attorney, they will typically prepare a demand letter to send to the at-fault party’s insurance company. This letter outlines:
- The details of the accident.
- The extent of your injuries.
- The damages you are seeking.
The insurance company is required to acknowledge receipt of this letter and begin an investigation into your claim.
Negotiating a Settlement
After reviewing your demand letter, the insurance company may respond with a settlement offer. It’s essential to remember that initial offers are often lower than what you might deserve. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Litigation Process
Filing a Lawsuit
If negotiations do not yield satisfactory results, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit against the responsible parties. This process involves submitting legal documents to the court outlining your claims and evidence supporting them.
Discovery Phase
Once a lawsuit is filed, both parties enter a discovery phase where they exchange information related to the case. This may include depositions (sworn testimonies), interrogatories (written questions), and requests for documents. This phase can take several months but is crucial for building a strong case.
Pre-Trial Motions
Before going to trial, either party may file pre-trial motions to resolve specific issues or dismiss parts of the case. Your attorney will handle these motions based on legal strategy and evidence gathered during discovery.
Trial Process
Court Proceedings
If your case proceeds to trial, both sides will present their arguments before a judge or jury. This includes presenting evidence, witness testimonies, and expert opinions if applicable. The trial can last from days to weeks depending on its complexity.
Verdict and Appeals
Once all evidence has been presented, the judge or jury will deliberate and reach a verdict. If you win, you may receive compensation for your injuries and damages. However, if you lose or feel that the verdict was unjust, there may be grounds for an appeal.
Post-Trial Considerations
Collecting Compensation
If awarded damages, collecting compensation can involve additional steps such as negotiating payment plans with insurance companies or dealing with liens from medical providers who treated you after the accident.
Ongoing Medical Treatment
Even after receiving compensation, ongoing medical treatment may be necessary for recovery from injuries sustained in the accident. Keep thorough records of all medical visits and treatments as they can impact future claims or negotiations regarding additional compensation.
Conclusion
Navigating the legal process after a commercial or delivery vehicle accident in Texas can be complex and daunting. From initial medical care to potential litigation, understanding each step is essential for ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Engaging with an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly enhance your chances of success in this challenging journey. Your well-being should always come first; therefore, seek professional guidance to navigate this intricate process effectively.