Seeking Justice in Travis County: Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™

When unexpected legal challenges arise in Travis County, the need for immediate, aggressive, and professional help becomes paramount. Whether you’ve suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence or you’re facing criminal charges, navigating the legal system can be daunting. We are Attorney911, and we are here to be your Legal Emergency Lawyers™, protecting the injured and fighting for the rights of defendants throughout Texas, including right here in Travis County.

Our commitment is simple: to provide expert legal representation with a deep understanding of local nuances, ensuring that residents of Austin and the wider Travis County area receive the dedicated advocacy they deserve. From the bustling streets of downtown Austin to the quieter communities like Pflugerville and Lakeway, we are attuned to the specific needs and legal landscapes that impact our clients.

Your Advocates in Travis County: Understanding Our Unique Approach

At Attorney911, The Manginello Law Firm, we believe that effective legal representation starts with a profound understanding of the law, a relentless pursuit of justice, and a compassionate approach to client service. Our team brings a unique blend of experience and strategic insight to every case, whether it involves complex personal injury claims or challenging criminal defense matters.

We operate on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. This commitment ensures that financial concerns do not stand in the way of seeking justice. Our primary message is clear: “Immediate help. FAST WINS.” Our goal is to resolve your legal emergency swiftly and effectively, providing you with peace of mind during difficult times.

Meet Our Experienced Legal Team

Our firm is led by dedicated attorneys who bring distinct strengths and a shared passion for helping those in need:

Ralph Manginello — Managing Partner

Ralph Manginello, our Managing Partner, is a seasoned attorney with deep roots in Texas. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and South Texas College of Law Houston, Ralph has been practicing since 1998 and founded his own personal injury law firm in 2001. His experience spans over two decades, focusing on complex litigation.

Ralph’s professional affiliations include the Houston Bar Association and the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), signaling his elite criminal defense capability. He is admitted to practice before the Texas State Bar and the New York State Bar Association, and has federal court experience in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This breadth of experience allows us to handle intricate cases, including those with federal jurisdiction, that demand a high level of legal expertise.

His personal motivation drives our firm’s ethos: “Has a passion for helping people and started Attorney911 to make sure people suffering from a legal emergency received immediate, aggressive, and professional help from someone they could trust.” This passion is evident in every case we undertake.

Lupe Peña — Associate Attorney

Lupe Peña brings an invaluable perspective to our team as a former insurance defense attorney. A third-generation Texan born and raised in Sugar Land, Lupe graduated from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio and South Texas College of Law Houston. Licensed since 2012, he spent several years working for a national defense firm, gaining firsthand knowledge of how large insurance companies approach, value, and defend claims.

This insider’s advantage is a critical differentiator for our clients. Lupe understands the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts, allowing us to anticipate their moves and negotiate from a position of strength. Since moving to the plaintiff’s side, he has successfully recovered millions for his clients in cases involving wrongful death, dram shop, trucking accidents, and car crashes.

Fluent in Spanish, Lupe also ensures that we can effectively serve the diverse Hispanic community in Travis County and throughout Texas, providing clear communication and culturally sensitive legal support. His dedication is reflected in his unwavering commitment: “Willing to outwork, outsmart and outfight the other side.”

Navigating Personal Injury Claims in Travis County

Accidents and injuries can happen anywhere, and Travis County is no exception. Our beautiful scenery, vibrant economy, and active communities mean constant movement, which unfortunately can lead to unforeseen incidents. From personal vehicle collisions on I-35 to construction site mishaps in a growing city like Austin, we are here to help victims secure the compensation they deserve.

Car Accidents in Travis County

Travis County roads, particularly major thoroughfares like I-35, MoPac Expressway (Loop 1), and US-183, witness a significant number of vehicle accidents annually. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Travis County reported 27,243 traffic crashes in 2023, resulting in 99 fatalities and 472 serious injuries. The stretch of I-35 through Austin is consistently ranked among the most congested roadways in Texas, contributing to frequent collisions. With the increasing population and ongoing construction, understanding your rights after a car accident is critical.

We understand that insurance companies prioritize their bottom line. They collect billions in premiums and then work to minimize payouts. We are experienced in negotiating with these companies from a position of strength. We work with a broad network of experts—from medical providers to accident reconstructionists—to build a strong case. If insurers refuse to make a fair settlement offer, we are prepared to take your case to trial, as we have done successfully many times before.

Our approach is geared towards obtaining the maximum possible compensation for your injuries, covering medical bills, lost wages, future earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Selected Result: In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. Our experience with these types of cases assured a positive outcome, and this case settled in the millions.

18-Wheeler & Big Rig Accidents on Travis County Corridors

The major transportation corridors crisscrossing Travis County, including I-35, US-290, and US-71, are vital for commercial trucking. While essential for our economy, the sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that accidents involving these vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. In 2023, Travis County recorded 1,213 commercial vehicle crashes that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities [Source: TxDOT, 2023].

These cases are inherently complex, often involving intricate layers of federal regulations—specifically the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSA)—state laws, and commercial insurance policies. Our team possesses the specialized expertise in personal injury law, trucking and transportation law, and interstate commerce law necessary to navigate these challenges. We investigate every aspect of the incident, from truck maintenance records and driver logs to cell phone data and electronic logging device (ELD) data, to build a compelling case.

Selected Result: We have helped numerous families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.

Motorcycle Accidents Across Austin’s Roads

Motorcyclists share the roads of Travis County, from the scenic routes around Lake Travis to the urban arteries of Austin. However, they are often disproportionately vulnerable in collisions. Drivers frequently claim they “didn’t see” a motorcycle, but this is no excuse for negligence. Texas law guarantees motorcyclists equal rights on the road, and negligent drivers must be held accountable.

Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries such as road rash, closed head injuries, brain or spinal cord damage, and limb loss. We aggressively pursue full and fair compensation for property damage, lost income, medical expenses, rehabilitation, and the enduring pain and suffering these injuries cause.

Workers’ Compensation Claims in Travis County

Travis County’s booming economy, fueled by tech, construction, and healthcare, means a robust workforce and, unfortunately, a risk of workplace injuries. Texas operates a unique workers’ compensation system where employers can choose not to subscribe to workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer is a “non-subscriber,” you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them for negligence. Even if they are subscribers, there may be opportunities for third-party claims if someone other than your employer or a co-worker caused your injury.

We understand the complexity of the Texas workers’ compensation system. Following a workplace injury in Travis County, it is crucial to notify your employer promptly and seek medical attention, documenting that the injury occurred at work. Deadlines are strict, and an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in protecting your benefits and fighting against wrongful denials.

Selected Result: The Manginello Law Firm has secured multi-million dollar settlements for various workplace injuries, including a case where a client suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a logging accident.

Construction Accidents in a Growing Austin

Austin and its surrounding Travis County communities are experiencing rapid growth, marked by numerous commercial and residential construction projects. While this growth brings progress, it also increases the risk of accidents for construction workers. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction remains one of the most hazardous industries. In 2023, OSHA reported several serious incidents in the Austin area involving falls, struck-by objects, and equipment malfunctions. [Source: OSHA Inspection Reports, 2023].

Many construction sites involve multiple companies and contractors. This means that while you generally cannot sue your direct employer or a co-worker for a workplace injury, a negligent third party (such as a different subcontractor or equipment manufacturer) often bears responsibility. Identifying and pursuing these third-party claims can provide compensation beyond standard workers’ compensation benefits, covering your full medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We meticulously investigate these complex sites to determine who was truly at fault.

Refinery & Plant Accidents: Leveraging Complex Litigation Experience

While Travis County is not known for large-scale refineries like the Houston Ship Channel area, industrial accidents can still occur in manufacturing plants, chemical facilities, or other industrial operations within the county. When negligence by companies leads to injury, we are prepared to hold them accountable. Our firm has been involved in high-profile cases such as the BP Texas City explosion litigation, giving us unparalleled insight and experience in confronting even the largest international industrial companies.

We believe that those injured due to negligent cost-cutting or unsafe practices deserve both financial compensation and accountability. Our expertise in complex litigation allows us to provide immediate and effective legal assistance, protecting your rights against powerful corporate defendants.

Toxic Tort Claims Pertaining to Travis County Exposure

Exposure to toxic chemicals, whether from contaminated water, hazardous materials in the workplace, or defective products, can lead to debilitating and long-lasting injuries. A “toxic tort” claim allows you to seek compensation if you’ve been harmed due to another party’s negligence. In Travis County, concerns can arise from various sources, including legacy contamination sites or chemical spills. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regularly monitors and responds to such incidents across the state. [Source: TCEQ Incident Reports].

The effects of toxic exposure can be latent, appearing years after the initial incident, making causation challenging to prove. We are skilled in connecting injuries to specific sources of exposure, working with medical experts to assess both immediate and future costs, losses, and expenses. We handle both individual and class action toxic tort claims, ensuring comprehensive advocacy for victims.

Wrongful Death Claims in Travis County

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is an unbearable tragedy. In these profoundly difficult times, we offer compassionate yet relentless legal representation to Travis County families. While you focus on grieving, we handle every legal aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with responsible parties.

We work with economists and other experts to meticulously calculate the full financial and emotional impact of your loved one’s death. This includes not only lost wages and financial support but also the immeasurable losses such as pain and suffering, companionship, and guidance. Whether the cause was a drunk driving accident on I-35, a catastrophic 18-wheeler crash, or medical malpractice, acting quickly is essential to preserve evidence and identify witnesses. Cases are heard across the Travis County District Courts, and we are familiar with local court procedures.

Insurance Claims: Fighting Bad Faith Practices

Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is often to minimize payouts, even to their own policyholders. When an insurer denies a valid claim or offers a lowball settlement in bad faith, we step in. Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney provides us with crucial insider knowledge of how these companies operate, calculate claim values, and employ delay tactics. We use this understanding to expose bad faith practices and aggressively negotiate for the full compensation you are entitled to.

Don’t let an insurance company dictate the value of your legitimate claim. We help clients in Travis County navigate disputes over property damage, personal injury protection (PIP), uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, and other complex insurance matters.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense in Travis County

When you are accused of a crime in Travis County, your future, your freedom, and your reputation are on the line. Facing the Texas judicial system, with its specific laws and enhanced penalties, can be overwhelming. From misdemeanor offenses heard in the Travis County Justice Courts to felony charges in the Travis County District Courts, we provide aggressive and professional defense for a wide range of criminal matters.

DWI/DUI Defense in Austin

DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges in Travis County are taken very seriously, with convictions carrying severe penalties including fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory substance abuse programs. In 2023, the Austin Police Department made over 3,000 DWI arrests within the city, reflecting the ongoing enforcement efforts. [Source: Austin Police Department Annual Report].

We have handled hundreds of DWI/DUI cases and possess extensive experience in defending against these charges. Our strategies include:

Challenging probable cause: Examining if police had a legitimate reason for the stop and arrest.
Contesting field sobriety tests: Often subjective, these tests can be challenged based on administration or physical limitations.
Disputing breath/blood test results: Investigating maintenance records of testing equipment, adherence to protocol, and potential contamination or calibration errors.
Preventing driver’s license suspension: Representing you in Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearings.

We fight for your rights even if you refused to take a breath test, working to protect your driving privileges and your freedom.

Selected Result 1: Our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed improper breathalyzer machine maintenance, leading to the dismissal of charges.
Selected Result 2: A client faced DWI after rolling his car. We discovered no breath/blood test was conducted, no intoxication notes from emergency staff, and missing hospital nurse records. The case was dismissed on the day of trial.
Selected Result 3: For a client charged with DUI/DWI, the video field sobriety test was the state’s primary evidence. We successfully had the case dismissed because our client did not appear intoxicated in the video.

Full Range of Criminal Defense Services

Beyond DWI, we offer comprehensive criminal defense for a vast array of charges in Travis County, from drug offenses to assault and more. We understand that no two cases are alike, and we approach each with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to protecting your constitutional rights.

Our defense strategies frequently challenge:

Lack of probable cause: If law enforcement lacked a legitimate basis for their actions.
Illegal search and seizure: Violations of your Fourth Amendment rights can lead to the suppression of evidence.
Constitutional challenges: Ensuring all your rights were upheld throughout the process.

Selected Result: In a major drug case, police entered our client’s home without a warrant, finding a large quantity of illegal drugs. By identifying weaknesses in the state’s case, we secured deferred adjudication for our client, allowing for dismissal of charges and no jail time, despite initially facing 5-99 years.

We provide defense for:

Drug Possession: Marijuana, Cocaine, Crystal meth, Crack cocaine, Heroin, Ecstasy
Assault Crimes: Including family violence, child abuse, and domestic violence
Theft Crimes: Including petty theft and more serious offenses
DUI / DWI Defense
Firearms Offenses
Fraud
Homicide-Murder
Sexual Assault
Internet Crimes
Expunctions: Helping eligible individuals clear their criminal records.
And many other charges, from animal cruelty to vandalism.

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

Proven Results That Matter

Our track record speaks for itself. We are proud of the significant victories we have achieved for our clients across Texas, including those who have faced legal emergencies similar to what you might be experiencing in Travis County.

Multi-Million Dollar Settlements

Logging Accident: A client suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log was dropped at a logging company. The case settled for a multi-million dollar amount.
Car Accident/Amputation: Following a car accident, a client developed staff infections leading to a partial amputation. This complex case settled in the millions.
Wrongful Death (Trucking): We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for families facing wrongful death cases stemming from catastrophic 18-wheeler accidents.
Maritime Injury: A client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship, due to a lack of assistance. Our investigation led to a significant cash settlement.

Significant Case Victories

BP Explosion Litigation: Our firm was one of the few in Texas involved in the BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to handle complex industrial disaster cases against major corporations.
Drug Charges: We successfully secured deferred adjudication for a client facing 5-99 years in jail on drug charges, preventing jail time and leading to dismissal.

These results highlight our dedication to aggressive representation and our ability to secure substantial outcomes for those we represent.

Your Call to Action: Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

When a legal emergency strikes, time is of the essence. Delays can compromise evidence, diminish your legal options, and add unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation. We are ready to provide the immediate, aggressive, and professional help you need.

Our Austin office is strategically located to serve clients throughout Travis County, ensuring that expert legal counsel is accessible when you need it most. We pride ourselves on clear communication, keeping you informed at every stage of your case.

Don’t face your legal challenge alone. Let us put our experience, our insider knowledge of legal systems and insurance tactics, and our dedication to justice to work for you.

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

You can reach us 24/7 by calling 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or by filling out the contact form on our website. We are your Legal Emergency Lawyers™, ready to fight for you in Travis County.

Frequently Asked Questions for Travis County Residents

We understand you likely have many questions during this challenging time. Here are some answers to common concerns, offering useful guidance for those in Travis County.

Q: What exactly counts as a “personal injury”? (Source: What Exactly Is a Personal Injury?)
A: A personal injury is physical or mental harm caused by another’s negligence or wrongdoing. This includes car, 18-wheeler, motorcycle, construction, and other accidents. We handle these cases on contingency, leveraging experts to build strong claims and are prepared for trial if fair settlements are refused.

Q: What if I’m partially at fault (comparative negligence)? (Source: What Is Comparative Negligence?)
A: Under Texas’ 51% bar rule, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault, and if you are 51% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovery. Early evidence collection (photos, witnesses, official reports) is crucial to accurately apportion fault.

Q: What is the personal injury claim process? (Source: What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?)
A: The process typically involves immediate medical care and documentation, investigation of liability and coverage, developing your damages, submitting a demand, negotiation, and potentially litigation, mediation, and trial if a settlement is not reached.

Q: What does an offshore accident lawyer do? (Source: What Does an Offshore Accident Lawyer Do?)
A: An offshore accident lawyer investigates incidents on vessels or rigs, applying specific federal laws like the Jones Act, Death on the High Seas Act, or Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. While Travis County is inland, many residents may work in Texas’ coastal industries. These lawyers secure “maintenance and cure” benefits, wage loss, and pursue negligent operators with expert testimony.

Q: What is “probable cause” in criminal cases? (Source: The Defendant’s Guide to Probable Cause)
A: Probable cause is the legal standard police must meet to make an arrest or obtain a warrant. In Travis County, challenging the probable cause in your case can be a strong defense strategy, potentially leading to the suppression of evidence or even dismissal of charges.