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Attorney911 provides dedicated legal support within Gaines County, a community known for its strong agricultural roots and close-knit feel. Our Gaines County Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Lawyers are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ offering a Free Consultation. For personal injury cases, there’s No Fee Unless We Win, reflecting our commitment to justice for Gaines County residents.

Earth, Gaines County, North America, Texas, United States

Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™: Serving Gaines County, Texas

When a legal emergency strikes in Gaines County, the need for immediate, aggressive, and professional help is paramount. Whether you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence or you are facing criminal charges, the stress and uncertainty can be overwhelming. We understand what you’re going through, and we are here to provide the expert legal guidance and representation you need. Our firm, Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, stands ready to protect your rights and fight for the justice you deserve throughout Gaines County and across Texas.

We are deeply committed to ensuring that individuals affected by legal crises receive exceptional support from a team they can trust. With a proven track record, insider knowledge of how insurance companies operate, and extensive experience in complex litigation, we offer a distinct advantage to our clients in Gaines County, Texas.

Protecting Gaines County Residents: Our Commitment to Your Community

Gaines County, nestled in West Texas, is known for its strong agricultural roots, particularly its vibrant cotton and peanut production, and its significant contributions to the oil and gas industry. Communities like Seminole, Seagraves, and loop, while close-knit, are not immune to the challenges that give rise to legal emergencies. From traffic incidents on State Highway 214 or Highway 180 to workplace accidents in the fields or oil patch, unforeseen events can impact anyone.

Our firm is founded on the principle that people suffering from a legal emergency deserve immediate and effective advocacy. We are proud to extend our services to the residents of Gaines County, offering our expertise in a wide range of personal injury and criminal defense matters.

Our Approach: Immediate Help, Fast Wins, and Unwavering Dedication

At Attorney911, we recognize the urgency of your situation. Our brand promise, “Immediate help. FAST WINS,” reflects our proactive and aggressive approach to legal representation. We believe in moving swiftly to secure evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong foundation for your case from day one.

We operate on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, which means: “We don’t get paid unless we win your case.” This commitment ensures that quality legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation after an unforeseen event. Our goal is to alleviate your burden so you can focus on recovery and rebuilding your life, rather than worrying about legal fees.

Meet Our Attorneys: Experience, Insight, and Local Connection

Our firm is led by a team of highly skilled attorneys whose diverse backgrounds and extensive experience provide a powerful advantage for our clients.

Ralph Manginello: Managing Partner, A Champion for Justice

Our Managing Partner, Ralph Manginello, brings over two decades of legal experience and a profound passion for helping people. Originally from New York, Ralph moved to Texas at age five and grew up in the Memorial area of Houston, attending Hunters Creek Elementary, Awty International School, and Memorial High School. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin and South Texas College of Law Houston, he established his own personal injury law firm in 2001, which has since evolved into Attorney911.

Ralph’s distinguished career includes admission to the Texas State Bar, the New York State Bar Association, and the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. His memberships in esteemed organizations like the Houston Bar Association and the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscore his elite capabilities in both civil and criminal litigation. Notably, Ralph’s firm was one of the few in Texas involved in the significant BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capacity to handle complex, high-stakes cases against major corporations.

Ralph’s personal motivation is clear: to ensure that individuals facing legal emergencies receive immediate, aggressive, and professional help from someone they can trust. When he’s not fighting for his clients, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kelly Hunsicker, and their three children, RJ, Maverick, and Mia, and pursuing interests like basketball, golf, running, and fitness.

Lupe Peña: Associate Attorney, Your Inside Edge Against Insurers

Associate Attorney Lupe Peña is a third-generation Texan who was born and raised in Sugar Land. His roots trace back to the historic King Ranch, grounding him deeply in Texas heritage. After earning his B.B.A. in International Business from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio and his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law Houston, Lupe gained invaluable experience working for a national defense firm. This unique background provided him firsthand insight into “how large insurance companies value claims” and the tactics they employ.

Lupe’s journey from defense to plaintiff’s attorney gives our clients a distinct advantage. He understands the strategies used by insurance companies to minimize payouts and uses this knowledge to outwork, outsmart, and outfight the opposition. Since joining the plaintiff’s side, Lupe has “recovered millions for his clients” in cases involving wrongful death, dram shop, trucking accidents, and car crashes.

Fluent in Spanish, Lupe effectively serves our diverse Texas community, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice. His clients consistently praise his dedication to keeping them informed at every stage of their case. When not advocating fiercely for his clients, Lupe enjoys spending time with his family and on the golf course.

Our Core Practice Areas: Comprehensive Legal Support for Gaines County

We provide comprehensive legal services, focusing on areas where our expertise can make the most significant difference for individuals and families in Gaines County.

Personal Injury: Fighting for the Injured in Gaines County

We protect victims like you throughout Texas, and that includes the hard-working residents of Gaines County. From vehicular accidents on local roads to serious workplace incidents, we stand ready to fight for your recovery.

Car Accidents in Gaines County

Car accidents can happen anywhere, even on the quiet roads of Gaines County. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Gaines County recorded {insert most recent year, estimate} [Number of fatal crashes (e.g., 5 confirmed fatalities, Source: TxDOT Crash Data, 2022)] and [Number of serious injury crashes (e.g., 20 serious injuries, Source: TxDOT Crash Data, 2022)]. Key intersections and corridors like US Highway 180, State Highway 214, and FM 1788 can be points of concern for drivers.

Insurance companies are profit-driven entities that aim to minimize payouts. We understand their strategies. We work with a broad network of experts, including medical providers and accident reconstructionists, to build strong cases. We are prepared to take your case to trial if insurers refuse to make a fair settlement offer, as we have successfully done in numerous cases, including those resulting in multi-million dollar settlements. We handle million-dollar cases and are ready to hear about your accident.

18-Wheeler & Big Rig Accidents

The oil and gas industry in Gaines County means more heavy truck traffic on our roads, increasing the risk of severe 18-wheeler and big rig accidents. These collisions often result in catastrophic injuries and complex legal challenges. Commercial trucking cases involve unique legal issues and intricate commercial insurance policies.

Our team is specialized in these matters, with a deep understanding of state and federal trucking regulations imposed by agencies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). We meticulously gather critical evidence such as truck maintenance records, drivers’ logs, cell phone records, and electronic logging device (ELD) data. We have secured millions for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases, building strong cases against negligent truck drivers and trucking companies.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists enjoy the open roads of Gaines County, but they also face increased vulnerability in accidents. Drivers who claim they “didn’t see” a motorcycle are making an unacceptable excuse. We aggressively pursue full and fair compensation for bikers who have suffered serious injuries, such as road rash, head trauma, spinal cord damage, or limb loss. Texas law includes specifics regarding helmet usage, which can sometimes be a factor in accident claims, but it does not diminish a negligent driver’s fault. We ensure maximum recovery for property damage, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

Offshore Injuries & Maritime Law (Where Applicable to Gaines County)

While Gaines County is inland, many West Texans commute to work in the offshore oil and gas industry in the Gulf of Mexico. For deckhands, rig hands, seamen, or other offshore workers from Gaines County who are injured on a vessel or offshore platform, the legal landscape is unique. We have extensive experience resolving offshore injury cases under specialized federal laws such as the Jones Act, the Death on the High Seas Act, and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. We collaborate with nurses, investigators, and medical providers to build your case against insurance companies and negligent employers. It is critical to contact an attorney before settling claims directly with your employer or their insurer.

Workers’ Compensation

Workplace accidents can devastate individuals and families. Gaines County’s agricultural and energy sectors present specific workplace hazards. The workers’ compensation system in Texas is complex, especially since many employers are “non-subscribers,” meaning they opt out of the traditional state workers’ compensation system. If an employer is a non-subscriber, injured employees may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them directly.

We have successfully recovered millions for clients with workplace injuries. In one instance, a multi-million dollar settlement was secured for a logging accident resulting in a brain injury and vision loss. We help ensure you understand your rights, notify your employer properly, seek prompt medical treatment, and navigate the intricate deadlines and requirements to protect your benefits.

Construction Accidents in Gaines County

Construction is a constant in a growing state like Texas, and Gaines County sees its share of development. Unfortunately, construction sites can be dangerous. While workers’ compensation may provide some benefits, many construction accidents involve third parties—companies or individuals other than your direct employer or co-workers—who may also be liable. Common causes of injury include crane accidents, forklift incidents, falls from heights, and scaffolding collapses. We identify all responsible parties to help secure compensation above and beyond typical workers’ compensation benefits.

Refinery & Plant Accidents

Texas is home to a vast network of industrial plants and refineries. Although Gaines County is primarily agricultural and energy-production focused, its residents may work in or commute to larger industrial centers. Our firm is uniquely qualified, having been involved in the landmark BP explosion litigation in Texas City. This experience gives us profound insight into the negligence stemming from cost-cutting at the expense of worker safety. We provide immediate legal assistance to hold even the largest international companies accountable.

Toxic Tort Claims

Exposure to toxic chemicals, whether from water contamination, black mold, defective products, or industrial chemical leaks, can lead to devastating, long-term health consequences. Proving the link between exposure and injury can be challenging due to delayed symptom onset. We handle both individual and class-action toxic tort claims, working to recover immediate and future costs, losses, and expenses, ensuring you receive the medical care and compensation you need.

Wrongful Death Claims

The sudden loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is a profound tragedy. In Gaines County, as elsewhere, families grappling with such a loss often struggle to deal with legal complexities. We offer compassionate and comprehensive legal support for wrongful death claims, handling all legal issues so families can grieve. We work with economists and other experts to meticulously calculate the financial impact, including lost wages, medical costs, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. Prompt action is crucial to preserve evidence and secure witness testimony.

Criminal Defense: Protecting Your Future in Gaines County

Facing criminal charges in Gaines County can jeopardize your freedom, reputation, and future. We provide aggressive and strategic defense for a wide range of criminal allegations.

DWI/DUI Defense in Gaines County

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges in Gaines County are serious and can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension, hefty fines, and jail time. We have successfully handled hundreds of DWI/DUI cases across Texas. Our strategies include preventing license suspension, challenging breath and blood test results, and defending your rights even if you refused a breath test.

For example, we’ve had charges dismissed where breathalyzer machines were improperly maintained, where police failed to conduct proper tests, and where video evidence did not support intoxication claims. The Gaines County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement are vigilant, making it critical to have an experienced defense team on your side.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense

From drug offenses to assault and more, we offer robust defense for a full spectrum of criminal charges in Gaines County. Drug crimes, including possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of substances like marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine, carry significant penalties in Texas. We often challenge the evidence based on probable cause, illegal search and seizure, and other constitutional violations.

We recently achieved a deferred adjudication for a client facing 5 to 99 years in jail for drug charges where weaknesses in the case were identified due to a warrantless entry. This outcome meant no jail time, with charges dismissed upon successful completion of court-ordered conditions.

Our criminal defense services in Gaines County include:

  • Drug Crimes: Possession (marijuana, cocaine, crystal meth, heroin, ecstasy), trafficking, manufacturing.
  • Assault Crimes: Including family violence, child abuse, and domestic violence.
  • DWI/DUI Defense: Fighting charges from initial arrest through trial.
  • Theft Crimes: From petty theft to grand larceny.
  • Fraud: Defending against various fraud allegations.
  • Firearms Offenses: Protecting your Second Amendment rights.
  • Expunctions: Helping clear eligible criminal records.
  • Other Charges: Animal cruelty, child abuse, elder abuse, extortion, hit and run, homicide/murder, internet crimes, kidnapping, public intoxication, sexual assault, and vandalism.

We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your specific situation and outline a clear defense strategy.

Proven Results: Our Unmatched Track Record

Our commitment to our clients is reflected in our consistent record of success.

Multi-Million Dollar Settlements

  • Logging Accident: We secured a multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a log was dropped on them at a logging company.
  • Car Accident & Amputation: In a complex car accident case, our client’s leg injury led to infection and partial amputation; we achieved a multi-million dollar settlement.
  • Trucking Wrongful Death: Our firm has helped numerous families facing tragic trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions in compensation.
  • Maritime Injury: We obtained a significant cash settlement for an offshore worker who injured his back while lifting cargo due to a lack of assistance.

Significant Case Victories

  • BP Texas City Litigation: Our firm was one of the few in Texas involved in the BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to handle massive, complex industrial accident cases.
  • Drug Charges: We successfully arranged a deferred adjudication for a client facing 5-99 years in jail due to weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Your Advocates in Gaines County

We understand the unique challenges and concerns of living and working in Gaines County. From the agricultural heartland around Seminole to the oil fields, we are here to provide the legal support you need. We may not have a physical office in Gaines County, but we proudly represent clients throughout the entire state of Texas, and we are ready to bring our expertise directly to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

When facing a legal emergency, it’s natural to have many questions. Here are answers to some common inquiries, drawing from our extensive experience:

  • Q: What exactly counts as a “personal injury”? (Source: What Exactly Is a Personal Injury? | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: A personal injury is harm to your body or mind caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. Common examples include car, 18‑wheeler, and motorcycle accidents, construction or refinery/plant incidents, offshore injuries, and toxic exposures. We handle these cases on contingency and build claims with experts; if insurers won’t deal fairly, cases are prepared for trial.

  • Q: How is pain and suffering valued? (Source: What Is Fair Compensation for Pain and Suffering? | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: Pain and suffering are non‑economic damages proven with medical evidence, treatment timelines, limitations in daily living, emotional impact, and credible testimony. Attorney911 pairs records with expert support to show the full human impact.

  • Q: What if I’m partially at fault (comparative negligence)? (Source: What Is Comparative Negligence? | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: Your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. Under Texas’ 51% bar rule, recovery is barred if you’re 51% or more at fault. Evidence (photos, witnesses, logs, vehicle data) is critical to keep fault fairly apportioned.

  • Q: What should I know after a car crash? (Source: The Victim’s Guide to Car Crash Compensation | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: Seek medical care, call police, gather evidence, notify insurers, and avoid recorded statements before counsel. Serious cases (like those involving big‑rigs/semis) need early spoliation and policy limit discovery.

  • Q: What is UM/UIM and when do I use it? (Source: Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists Explained (with Leonor Olivo) | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage pays when the at‑fault driver has no or insufficient insurance. Prompt notice, medical proof, and policy compliance are required; it often runs alongside claims against the at‑fault driver.

  • Q: What does an offshore accident lawyer do? (Source: What Does an Offshore Accident Lawyer Do? | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: An offshore accident lawyer investigates vessel/rig incidents, applies Jones Act/LHWCA/DOHSA frameworks, secures maintenance‑and‑cure and wage loss, and pursues negligent operators and third parties with expert testimony.

  • Q: Can I sue if my employer denies workers’ comp? (Source: Can I Sue My Employer for Denying Workers’ Comp? | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: In Texas non‑subscriber situations, you may bring a personal injury claim against an employer that opted out of workers’ comp. Third‑party claims can also stack above comp benefits when a non‑employer caused the harm.

  • Q: What is “probable cause” in criminal cases? (Source: The Defendant’s Guide to Probable Cause | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: It’s the legal threshold police must meet to arrest or get a warrant. Weak probable cause can support suppression and dismissal motions.

  • Q: How do contingency fees work? (Source: How Do Contingency Fees Work? | ATTORNEY911 – YouTube)
    A: The fee is a percentage of the recovery and is due only if money is recovered. The agreement explains the percentage and responsibility for case expenses.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one in Gaines County is facing a legal emergency, don’t wait. Time is critical in preserving evidence and protecting your rights. We invite you to experience the Attorney911 difference – “immediate help, FAST WINS.” Our team is here to listen, understand your situation, and provide the aggressive and professional legal representation you need.

Contact us today for a SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION.
You can reach us at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911), or visit our website at https://attorney911.com. We are ready to help you navigate your legal emergency in Gaines County, Texas.