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Attorney911 provides dedicated legal support in Upshur County, a region known for its strong community values and rich history. Our Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Lawyers are ready to assist. We offer a Free Consultation and operate as Legal Emergency Lawyers™. For personal injury cases, there’s No Fee Unless We Win.

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Attorney911: Your Legal Emergency Lawyers for Upshur County, Texas

Life can change in an instant. One moment, you’re living your daily routine in Gilmer, Big Sandy, or Gladewater; the next, you’re facing overwhelming injuries, a devastating loss, or serious criminal charges. When these legal emergencies strike here in Upshur County, it’s natural to feel lost, scared, and unsure of your next steps. That’s where we come in.

At Attorney911, The Manginello Law Firm, we are your Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We understand the unique challenges and concerns that arise when unexpected legal events disrupt your life in East Texas. We are dedicated to providing immediate, aggressive, and professional legal representation to protect your rights and secure the justice you deserve.

We recognize that for many in Upshur County, our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont might seem distant. However, distance is no barrier to justice. We proudly represent clients throughout Texas, including the communities of Upshur County, ensuring that expert legal counsel is always within reach. Our commitment to securing justice for Texans means we are prepared to bring our extensive resources, deep legal knowledge, and proven track record right to your doorstep, virtually or in person, whenever your legal emergency calls for it.

Your Advocates in Times of Crisis: Why Upshur County Residents Trust Attorney911

When facing a legal crisis, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a dedicated advocate who understands the intricacies of the Texas legal system and fights tirelessly on your behalf. Here in Upshur County, whether you’ve been injured in a collision on US-80, cited for a DWI near the Courthouse in Gilmer, or suffered harm in an industrial accident, our firm stands ready to help.

Our attorneys bring a unique blend of experience and a passion for justice to every case. We believe that everyone deserves top-tier legal representation, and we are committed to making that a reality for the residents of Upshur County. 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 vital legal assistance is accessible when you need it most, without upfront financial burden.

We protect the injured and fight for the rights of defendants. This dual focus allows us to approach legal challenges with a comprehensive understanding of how both sides operate, offering a distinct advantage to our clients in Upshur County.

Ralph Manginello: A Foundation of Passion and Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, founded Attorney911 to ensure that those suffering from a legal emergency received immediate, aggressive, and professional help from someone they could trust. Born in New York, Ralph moved to Texas at age five and grew up in the Memorial area of Houston. His deep roots in Texas, combined with a robust educational background from the University of Texas at Austin and South Texas College of Law Houston, provide a strong foundation for his legal practice.

Admitted to the Texas State Bar since 1998 and the New York State Bar Association, Ralph brings over two decades of experience to the table. His admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, underscores his capability to handle complex federal litigation. Ralph’s membership in the Houston Bar Association and the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) further signals his elite criminal defense capabilities.

Ralph’s interests extend beyond the courtroom to his family, basketball, golf, running, and the beach. He will also be inducted into the Cheshire Academy Hall of Fame in 2021, recognizing his athletic achievements. This blend of professional prowess and personal dedication fuels his passion for helping people navigate their most challenging legal battles.

Lupe Peña: Insider Knowledge Fighting for You

Associate Attorney Lupe Peña brings an invaluable perspective to our team, particularly for our personal injury clients in Upshur County. A 3rd generation Texan, born and raised in Sugar Land, Lupe’s heritage is tied to the historic King Ranch. He earned his B.B.A. in International Business from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio before obtaining his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law Houston.

Lupe’s unique strength lies in his “insider” knowledge. Before dedicating his career to fighting for the injured, Lupe worked for several years at a national defense firm. This experience gave him firsthand insight into how large insurance companies value claims, operate, and strategize against plaintiffs. He then applied this knowledge to the plaintiff’s side, recovering millions for his clients in cases involving wrongful death, dram shop liability, trucking accidents, and car crashes.

Licensed in Texas since 2012 and admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, Lupe is a skilled negotiator and trial attorney. He is known for “outworking, outsmarting, and outfighting the other side,” bringing a “unique and practical skill set to every case.” His fluent Spanish also allows us to effectively serve the diverse Hispanic community across Texas, including Upshur County.

Your Pathway to Justice: Our Practice Areas for Upshur County Residents

When you’re facing a legal emergency in Upshur County, you need a law firm that can address a wide range of needs with proven expertise. At Attorney911, we cover the critical areas of law that most often impact individuals and families in our communities, from personal injury protection to robust criminal defense.

Personal Injury: Protecting the Injured Across Upshur County

Life in Upshur County, while often serene, is not immune to accidents and injuries caused by others’ negligence. Whether you’re on a local road or working at one of the area’s industrial sites, we are here to support you.

Car Accidents in Upshur County

Car accidents can be particularly devastating, especially on Upshur County’s busy roadways like US-80, US-271, and Texas State Highway 155. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Upshur County saw 504 motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2022, resulting in 2 fatalities and 5 serious injuries [TxDOT, 2022]. These numbers underscore the real risks faced by drivers in our community.

Insurance companies are profit-driven entities that will try to minimize your compensation. Our team is experienced in negotiating with them from a position of strength, utilizing a broad network of experts, including accident reconstructionists and medical providers, to build an irrefutable case. We have litigated numerous cases in court with an excellent record of success, consistently securing significant settlements for clients, including multi-million dollar outcomes. For instance, in a recent case, our client’s leg injury from a car accident led to a partial amputation due to infection during treatment. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement, proving our ability to manage complex injury claims and ensure positive outcomes for our clients.

18-Wheeler & Big Rig Accidents Near Gilmer

The proximity of Upshur County to major commercial corridors means that 18-wheeler and big rig accidents are a serious concern. Large trucks frequently traverse US-80 and US-271, and I-20 is just south of the county, increasing the risk of catastrophic collisions. Truck accidents often involve complex legal issues due to interstate commerce laws and the intricate commercial insurance policies covering these large vehicles.

Our attorneys are specialists in these complex cases. We have helped numerous families recover millions of dollars in trucking-related wrongful death cases. We meticulously examine all available evidence, including truck maintenance records, driving logs, cell phone records, and electronic logging device (ELD) data, to establish liability. We then partner with experts to address all aspects of your claim, from medical bills and lost wages to diminished earning capacity and pain and suffering.

Motorcycle Accidents: Fighting for Bikers’ Rights

Motorcyclists enjoy the scenic routes throughout Upshur County, from winding country roads to state highways. Unfortunately, they also face significant risks due to negligent drivers. Drivers often claim they “didn’t see” a motorcycle, but the law requires all drivers to be aware and in control of their vehicles at all times.

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries such as road rash, closed head injuries, brain or spinal cord injuries, or limb loss. We aggressively pursue full and fair compensation for property damage, lost income, future medical needs, and pain and suffering, ensuring negligent drivers are held accountable.

Workers’ Compensation: Protecting Upshur County’s Workforce

Upshur County’s economy includes various sectors, from timber and agriculture to manufacturing and service industries. Workplace accidents can happen anywhere, and the Texas workers’ compensation system is notoriously complex. If you’ve been injured on the job in Gilmer, Big Sandy, or any other community, you must notify your employer promptly and seek medical attention.

Texas operates a non-subscriber workers’ compensation system, meaning some employers opt out of traditional workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer is a non-subscriber, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through this intricate process, protect your benefits, and defend you against any refusals. For instance, we secured a multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a log was dropped on him while working at a logging company, demonstrating our commitment to achieving justice for injured workers.

Construction Accidents: Beyond Workers’ Comp

Construction sites, whether for new developments in Gladewater or infrastructure projects along the county’s major roads, are inherently dangerous. While workers’ compensation may offer some relief, sometimes a third party’s negligence causes an injury, allowing for personal injury claims beyond workers’ comp benefits.

You cannot sue your employer or a co-worker in most cases, but if another company or individual on a multi-company construction site was at fault (e.g., a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner), you can pursue a third-party claim. We investigate crane accidents, forklift incidents, falls from heights, and scaffolding collapses to determine all responsible parties and secure maximum compensation.

Refinery & Plant Accidents: Holding Corporations Accountable

While Upshur County itself is not a major refinery hub like some areas further south, its proximity to East Texas industrial zones means that its residents may work in or be affected by plant operations. Accidents at industrial facilities, including those involving hazardous materials, often stem from negligent cost-cutting and insufficient safety protocols.

Our firm has extensive experience in these complex cases. We were one of the few firms in Texas involved in the BP explosion litigation, a testament to our capability to challenge even the largest international corporations. We believe injured workers deserve financial compensation and that negligent parties must be held accountable. We provide immediate legal assistance to help you understand your rights and pursue justice against powerful industrial entities.

Toxic Tort Claims: Exposure and Long-Term Harm

Exposure to toxic chemicals, whether from water contamination, black mold, defective products, or chemical spills, can lead to severe, long-term health issues for Upshur County residents. These “toxic tort” claims require meticulous investigation to link your injuries to a specific source of exposure, especially since negative effects can take years to develop.

We handle both individual and class action toxic tort claims, ensuring you receive the medical care you need and are fully compensated for all immediate and future costs, losses, and expenses.

Wrongful Death Claims: Compassionate Advocacy

The sudden loss of a loved one due to an accident caused by another’s negligence is an unimaginable tragedy. In Upshur County, as anywhere, families need time to grieve, not deal with complex legal processes. Whether it was a drunk driving accident, a motorcycle collision, an 18-wheeler crash, or even medical malpractice, we handle every aspect of your legal claim.

We work with economists and other experts to assess the full financial impact of your loved one’s death, including lost wages, future earning capacity, and all other losses. More importantly, we also fight for compensation for pain and suffering and the profound loss of companionship. Prompt action is crucial to preserve evidence and identify witnesses, and we are here to guide you through every step with compassion and expertise.

Insurance Claims: Fighting for Fair Payouts

Insurance companies are in the business of collecting premiums, not paying out claims. When your claim for personal injury, property damage, or other compensatory losses is denied or undervalued, you need a fierce advocate. Our insider knowledge of how insurance companies operate, honed through years of experience on both sides of these cases, gives us a decisive edge in fighting for the fair compensation you deserve.

Criminal Defense: Protecting Your Future in Upshur County

Facing criminal charges in Upshur County, whether in Gilmer, Big Sandy, or Gladewater, can be a terrifying experience. Your reputation, livelihood, and freedom are all at stake. From the Upshur County Courthouse to local police stations, we are here to aggressively defend your rights.

DWI/DUI Defense in Upshur County

DWI charges in Upshur County are serious, with potential consequences ranging from hefty fines and license suspension to jail time and a permanent criminal record. In 2022, Upshur County recorded 91 DWI-related crashes, resulting in 5 serious injuries and 1 fatality [TxDOT, 2022]. These incidents lead to arrests, and residents facing such charges need an effective defense.

We have handled hundreds of DUI/DWI cases across Texas, employing a broad range of defense tactics to prevent license suspension and challenge the evidence against you. We investigate every detail, from the legality of the traffic stop to the calibration records of breathalyzers and the administration of field sobriety tests.

Consider these examples of our successful DWI defenses:

  • In one case, a client charged based on a breath test saw their charges dismissed after our investigation revealed improper breathalyzer maintenance by the police department.
  • Another client faced charges after a rollover accident. We secured a dismissal on the day of trial by highlighting critical investigative flaws, including unperformed blood/breath tests, missing notes, and lack of intoxication recording by emergency staff.
  • A client charged with DUI/DWI presenting field sobriety test videos as primary evidence also saw their case dismissed because, despite the officer’s claims, our client did not appear drunk in the video.

We understand the local nuances of Upshur County legal procedures and are prepared to challenge probable cause, illegal search and seizure, and other constitutional violations that may lead to the dismissal or reduction of your charges.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense for Upshur County Residents

Beyond DWI, we offer a full spectrum of criminal defense services for those accused of crimes in Upshur County. From drug charges to assault, theft, and more, our firm provides aggressive representation to protect your rights and your future.

We have successfully fought hundreds of drug charges, challenging possession, trafficking, manufacturing, and DWI/DUI offenses. In a significant case, police made a warrantless entry into our client’s home, finding a large quantity of illegal drugs. By identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, we secured a deferred adjudication, allowing our client to avoid jail time and have charges dismissed upon successful completion of court-ordered conditions – an outcome far better than the 5 to 99 years of jail time initially faced.

Our defense strategies always include scrutinizing probable cause, challenging illegal search and seizure, and raising other constitutional challenges to protect our clients. We handle a wide range of cases, including:

  • Drug Possession (Marijuana, Cocaine, Crystal meth, Crack cocaine, Heroin, Ecstasy)
  • Assault Crimes (including Family Violence, Child Abuse, Domestic Violence)
  • Driving with an Invalid License
  • Expunctions
  • Fraud
  • Homicide-Murder
  • Sexual Assault
  • Theft Crimes
  • And many more.

If you are facing criminal charges in Upshur County, contact us for a free initial consultation to discuss your options.

Proven Results: Our Commitment to Justice

Our firm’s track record speaks volumes about our dedication and capability. While each case is unique, our history of significant recoveries and victories demonstrates our unyielding commitment to our clients.

Multi-Million Dollar Settlements Include:

  • Logging Accident: A client suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a log was dropped while working at a logging company. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement.
  • Car Accident/Amputation: Following a car accident, our client developed staff infections, leading to a partial amputation. We settled this complex case for millions.
  • Trucking Wrongful Death: We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for families facing wrongful death due to negligent trucking operations.
  • Maritime Injury: A client who injured his back lifting cargo on a ship without assistance received a significant cash settlement after our investigation revealed negligence.

Significant Case Victories:

  • BP Explosion Litigation: Our firm was one of the few in Texas involved in the litigation following the tragic 2005 BP Texas City refinery explosion, demonstrating our capacity for complex, high-stakes industrial accident cases.
  • Drug Charges: Our success in securing deferred adjudication for a client who faced 5 to 99 years in jail due to a drug possession charge showcases our ability to achieve favorable outcomes even in severe criminal cases.

These results are not promises, but they highlight the aggressive, professional, and successful representation you can expect from Attorney911.

Our Unique Advantage: Expertise That Makes a Difference

For residents and businesses in Upshur County, choosing Attorney911 means gaining access to unparalleled legal advantages:

  • Insurance Industry Insider Knowledge: Lupe Peña’s background as a defense attorney for national firms provides us with invaluable insights into how insurance companies operate. We understand their claim valuation methods, reserve-setting secrets, and delay tactics. This insider perspective allows us to anticipate their moves and counter their strategies effectively, ensuring you receive a fair settlement.
  • Complex Litigation Experience: From federal court practice to our involvement in the BP explosion litigation, and deep expertise in maritime law (Jones Act, Longshore Act, Death on the High Seas Act) and commercial trucking regulations, we are equipped to handle the most intricate and challenging cases. For Upshur County, this means we can address complex industrial accidents, significant trucking collisions, and other multi-faceted legal disputes with confidence.
  • Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery: While our physical offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our attorneys possess a profound understanding of Texas law, including the 51% Modified Comparative Fault Rule, Dram Shop Liability, and the unique non-subscriber aspect of Texas Workers’ Compensation. We apply this knowledge to every case across the state, including any specific legal nuances of Upshur County.
  • Bilingual Capability: With fluent Spanish speakers on our team, we can effectively communicate and provide legal services to the Spanish-speaking community in Upshur County and throughout Texas, ensuring no one is left without proper representation due to language barriers.
  • Proven Results Track Record: Our history of multi-million dollar settlements, successful criminal dismissals, and victories in complex litigation underscores our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Educational Resources for Upshur County Residents

We believe that an informed client is an empowered client. Our commitment to you extends beyond direct legal representation to providing clear, accessible information on critical legal topics. We invite residents of Upshur County to explore our extensive online resources, including our blog and YouTube channel, where we break down complex legal concepts into understandable advice.

Recent articles like “Can an insurance company refuse to pay a claim?” and “The Victim’s Guide to Car Crash Compensation” directly address questions frequently asked by individuals facing legal emergencies. Our YouTube channel, @Manginellolawfirm, also features a wealth of information, covering topics such as:

  • What Exactly Is a Personal Injury?
  • How Do Contingency Fees Work?
  • What to Do After an Accident
  • The Victim’s Guide to Car Crash Compensation
  • What is “Probable Cause” in Criminal Cases?

These resources are designed to help you understand your rights and the legal process, giving you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.

FAQs for Upshur County Legal Concerns

We understand you have questions when facing a legal emergency. Here are answers to some common inquiries that might be on your mind:

  • Q: What exactly counts as a “personal injury”? (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWdADo3DHRI)
    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, as well as injuries from construction, plant operations, or 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: What is the personal injury claim process? (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs)
    A: The general process involves seeking immediate medical care and documenting your injuries, then investigating liability and coverage, developing your damages, submitting a demand package, negotiating with insurers, and potentially proceeding to litigation and trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

  • Q: What should I know after a car crash? (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLbNemS_YlM)
    A: After a car crash, prioritize seeking medical care, contacting the police to ensure an official report is filed, gathering evidence (photos, witness info), notifying your insurer, and avoiding recorded statements with the other driver’s insurer until you’ve consulted with an attorney.

  • Q: What is “probable cause” in criminal cases? (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPqiwrLDDgw)
    A: Probable cause is the legal threshold police must meet to arrest you or obtain a warrant. It means they must have a reasonable belief, based on facts and circumstances, that a crime has been or is being committed. If not met, evidence can be suppressed, potentially leading to dismissal.

  • Q: How do contingency fees work? (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc)
    A: For personal injury cases, a contingency fee means our payment is a percentage of the financial recovery we secure for you. If we don’t win your case, you generally don’t pay attorney’s fees. This arrangement ensures you can pursue justice without upfront legal costs.

  • Q: Is there a statute of limitations for my case? (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c)
    A: Yes, strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, apply to legal claims. These deadlines vary depending on the type of case and jurisdiction. Acting quickly by consulting an attorney is critical to preserve your rights and avoid having your claim barred.

Your Legal Emergency Starts Here

When legal emergencies happen in Upshur County, you need immediate, aggressive, and professional help. From serious personal injuries suffered on the rural roads or local businesses of Gilmer and Big Sandy, to navigating complex criminal charges in the Upshur County court system, Attorney911 is here for you. We provide expert legal representation throughout Texas, bringing our deep experience and proven track record to your corner.

Don’t face your legal emergency alone.

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION by calling 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or visiting our website today. We are ready to help you navigate your legal challenge with confidence and fight for the justice you deserve.