Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™ in Gregg County: Immediate, Aggressive, Professional Help When You Need It Most
Life in Gregg County, Texas, moves at its own pace. From the bustling energy of Longview to the historic charm of Kilgore, our vibrant communities are built on hard work and Texas spirit. However, even in our close-knit communities, unexpected legal emergencies—from serious injuries to bewildering criminal charges—can turn lives upside down in an instant. When these critical moments arise, knowing where to turn for immediate, aggressive, and professional legal help can make all the difference.
At Attorney911, The Manginello Law Firm, we understand the profound impact a legal emergency can have on you and your family. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™, dedicated to protecting the injured and fighting for the rights of defendants across Texas. While our offices are located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our commitment to justice extends throughout the state, and we are proud to serve the residents of Gregg County with the same unwavering dedication and expertise we bring to every case.
We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This contingency fee basis ensures that our interests are always aligned with yours, removing financial barriers so you can focus on recovery and justice.
Navigating Gregg County’s Legal Landscape with Experienced Attorneys
Gregg County’s unique blend of industry, roadways, and community life presents specific legal challenges. Whether you were injured in a devastating vehicle collision on US-80 or US-259, faced unexpected charges in Longview Municipal Court, or were impacted by an incident at one of the area’s industrial facilities, we are here to provide the expert guidance you need.
Our team, led by Managing Partner Ralph Manginello and Associate Attorney Lupe Peña, brings a depth of experience across complex personal injury and criminal defense cases. We understand the nuances of Texas law and how it applies to situations faced by individuals and businesses here in Gregg County.
Ralph Manginello, with over two decades of practice since 1998, founded our firm with a passion for helping people. His experience spans complex federal litigation, including his involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, showcasing his capability to stand against the largest corporations. As a member of the Houston Bar Association and the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), Ralph’s insights are particularly valuable for intricate criminal defense matters.
Lupe Peña offers a truly distinctive advantage. Having spent years working at a national defense firm, he gained firsthand knowledge of how large insurance companies value claims and formulate their strategies. This insider’s perspective allows us to anticipate their moves, ensuring we negotiate from a position of strength and fight effectively for the maximum compensation our clients deserve. Moreover, Lupe’s fluency in Spanish ensures we can effectively communicate with and support a broader range of clients throughout our diverse Texas communities, including the vibrant Hispanic population in Gregg County.
Together, we bring a dynamic combination of federal court experience, insider insurance knowledge, and a relentless commitment to achieving justice for our clients.
Personal Injury: Your Shield Against Negligence in Gregg County
When an accident causes serious injury, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, lost wages create financial strain, and the physical and emotional pain can feel insurmountable. You need a powerful advocate who understands not just the law, but also the tactics insurance companies use to minimize your claim.
Car Accidents in Gregg County: Our county experiences its share of traffic incidents, particularly on major thoroughfares like Interstate 20, US-80, US-259, and State Highway 31. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Gregg County reported 3,842 total crashes in 2022, resulting in 16 fatalities and 111 serious injuries. Dangerous intersections in Longview, like those along Loop 281 and Eastman Road, often see a higher volume of collisions. After a crash, you need attorneys who know how to investigate, collect crucial evidence, and stand up to insurers. We meticulously examine accident reports, witness statements, vehicle damage, and medical records to build an irrefutable case.
18-Wheeler & Big Rig Accidents: Commercial truck accidents on I-20 or other busy corridors in Gregg County can lead to catastrophic injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. These cases are inherently complex, involving federal regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), intricate insurance policies, and often multiple liable parties. We have a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar recoveries for trucking-related wrongful death cases, demonstrating our ability to navigate these challenging legal waters. We work with accident reconstructionists and other experts to analyze maintenance records, driving logs, and even cell phone data to expose negligence.
Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcyclists in Gregg County have the same rights on the road as any other driver. Yet, they often face bias and significant injuries when negligent drivers fail to see them. Whether it’s “road rash” and scarring or traumatic brain injuries, we aggressively pursue full and fair compensation for bikers injured due to another’s carelessness. Texas law does have specific requirements regarding helmets for riders under 21, but a negligent driver is still responsible for their actions regardless of helmet use by an adult rider. Common roadway hazards on less-maintained county roads can also contribute to accidents, and we investigate thoroughly to identify all contributing factors.
Workers’ Compensation and Industrial Accidents: Gregg County has a significant industrial presence, including oil and gas operations and manufacturing. Accidents at these facilities, such as the Longview Integrated Polyethylene Plant or other sites within the county, can result in severe injuries. While workers’ comp is often the initial route, Texas operates a complex system where many employers are “non-subscribers,” meaning they opt out of traditional workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer is a non-subscriber, you can directly pursue a personal injury claim, potentially recovering far greater compensation than traditional workers’ comp benefits. Even if your employer subscribes, a third party—like a contractor or equipment manufacturer—could be responsible for your injury, allowing for an additional personal injury claim. We have experience with multi-million dollar settlements in serious workplace injury cases, including a brain injury from a logging accident. Our firm was also one of the few in Texas involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, showcasing our deep experience with refinery and plant accidents and holding negligent corporations accountable.
Offshore Injuries & Maritime Law: While Gregg County is inland, many of its residents may work in Texas’ vibrant coastal or offshore oil and gas industries. If you are a deckhand, rig hand, or other offshore worker from Gregg County injured at a job site in the Gulf of Mexico, your claim falls under specialized maritime laws like the Jones Act, the Death on the High Seas Act, or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. These laws are complex, but offer crucial protections and potentially significant compensation for seamen and maritime workers. We have an established network of experts, including nurses, investigators, and economists, to build a watertight case for our injured clients. We recently secured a significant cash settlement for an offshore worker who injured his back due to a lack of assistance while lifting cargo.
Toxic Tort Claims: Exposure to hazardous chemicals or contaminants, whether from industrial spills or defective products, can lead to chronic illness and debilitating conditions. These “toxic tort” claims demand a sophisticated understanding of medical causation and complex litigation. We handle cases involving chemical exposure, water contamination, and even defective drugs, fighting to secure compensation for both immediate and latent injuries. If you believe your health has been compromised due to toxic exposure in Gregg County or elsewhere in Texas, it’s vital to seek expert legal counsel promptly.
Wrongful Death Claims: The loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is an unimaginable tragedy. In Gregg County, as anywhere in Texas, families facing such a profound loss deserve compassionate yet aggressive legal representation. We handle every aspect of wrongful death claims, working with economists and other experts to meticulously calculate damages, including lost income, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and the immense pain and suffering endured by the family. Our priority is to relieve families of legal burdens so they can focus on healing.
Proof of Our Skill in Personal Injury
- Multi-Million Dollar Settlement for Car Accident: Our client’s leg injury in a car accident led to infection and partial amputation. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement.
- Multi-Million Dollar Settlement for Workplace Brain Injury: A log dropped on our client at a logging company resulted in a brain injury with vision loss, leading to a multi-million dollar settlement.
- Millions Recovered in Trucking Wrongful Death Cases: We have helped families facing trucking-related wrongful death recover millions in compensation.
- Significant Cash Settlement for Offshore Injury: A client’s back injury from unassisted cargo lifting on a ship resulted in a significant cash settlement.
Criminal Defense: Protecting Your Rights and Future in Gregg County
Facing criminal charges in Gregg County can be a terrifying and isolating experience. A conviction can threaten your freedom, your reputation, your career, and your family’s stability. Whether you are facing charges in Longview, Kilgore, or the justice courts across the county, you need a powerful defense team that understands the local legal system and aggressively protects your constitutional rights.
DWI/DUI Defense in Gregg County: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges are serious in Texas, with potentially severe penalties, including hefty fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension. Gregg County law enforcement and prosecutors actively pursue DWI cases. We have successfully defended hundreds of DWI/DUI cases utilizing a broad range of tactics. This includes challenging the probable cause for your stop, scrutinizing field sobriety tests, and questioning the accuracy and maintenance of breathalyzer equipment. Our expertise allows us to fight for your rights, even if you refused a breath or blood test.
- Case Success Highlight: In one instance, our client’s DWI charge was dismissed when our investigation revealed improper maintenance of breathalyzer machines by police department employees.
- Case Success Highlight: We also achieved a dismissal for a client charged with DUI where the state’s main evidence was a video field sobriety test; we successfully argued our client did not appear intoxicated in the video.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense: Beyond DWI, we handle a full spectrum of criminal charges in Gregg County, from drug crimes to assault, theft, and more serious offenses. If you are facing drug possession charges in Gregg County, know that a conviction is not inevitable. We analyze every detail, from the legality of search and seizure to constitutional challenges. Our experience includes securing deferred adjudication for a client who faced 5 to 99 years in jail for drug possession, allowing their charges to be dismissed after successfully following court rules.
We represent clients facing charges such as:
- Drug Possession (Marijuana, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Heroin, Ecstasy)
- Assault Crimes, including Family Violence and Child Abuse
- Theft Crimes
- Firearms Offenses
- Homicide/Murder
- Sexual Assault
- Expunctions (clearing your record)
- And many others
Understanding the specific procedures and norms within the Gregg County criminal justice system, including the Gregg County District and County Courts, is crucial for an effective defense. We are committed to meticulously investigating your case, challenging weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and pursuing every available defense strategy to protect your freedom and future.
Proof of Our Skill in Criminal Defense
- DWI Dismissals: We secured dismissals in multiple DWI cases, including one where police failed to properly maintain breathalyzer equipment and another where a video field sobriety test did not show intoxication.
- Deferred Adjudication for Serious Drug Charge: Achieved deferred adjudication for a client facing 5-99 years for drug possession, leading to dismissal of charges.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Gregg County Legal Emergency?
When you are facing a legal emergency in Gregg County, you need more than just legal advice—you need a team that acts immediately, aggressively, and professionally. Here’s why Attorney911 stands apart:
- Insider Insurance Knowledge: Lupe Peña’s background as a defense attorney for national insurance firms means we understand how they operate, value claims, and strategize—giving you a distinct advantage in personal injury cases.
- Complex Litigation Power: Our firm has a proven track record in high-stakes, intricate cases, from multi-million dollar trucking accidents to involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation and handling complex federal court matters. We are ready to take on the largest corporations and most challenging legal battles.
- Client-Centered Approach: We operate on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases: we don’t get paid unless we win. This ensures our unwavering commitment to your success. We also pride ourselves on keeping clients informed at every stage, providing peace of mind during stressful times.
- Deep Texas Roots, Broad Reach: While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we represent clients throughout Texas, including Gregg County. Our statewide practice means we understand the diverse legal and cultural landscape of our state.
- Bilingual Support: With Lupe Peña’s fluency in Spanish, we effectively serve the diverse needs of our Texas communities, ensuring clear communication and understanding.
Our primary message is clear: “We protect the injured and fight for the rights of defendants.” This commitment guides everything we do. We believe that everyone, regardless of the challenges they face, deserves immediate, aggressive, and professional legal representation from someone they can trust.
Your Next Step: Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one in Gregg County is facing a legal emergency, don’t delay. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be. Delay can jeopardize crucial evidence and impact your legal options.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your specific situation, understand your needs, and outline a clear path forward. During this consultation, we can assess the facts of your case, answer your questions, and explain how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION by calling 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or visiting our website at https://attorney911.com. We are ready to be your Legal Emergency Lawyers™.
Frequently Asked Questions for Gregg County Residents
We understand you have questions, especially during a legal emergency. Here are some answers to common concerns, directly from our attorneys, drawing on our expertise and commitment to our clients:
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Q: What should I know after a car crash in Gregg County?
A: After ensuring your safety and seeking any necessary medical attention, it’s crucial to call law enforcement to file an official report, gather evidence like photos and witness contact information, and notify your insurer. Avoid making recorded statements to insurance adjusters before consulting with an attorney. For cases involving serious injuries or commercial vehicles on major routes like I-20 or US-80, prompt legal guidance is essential to preserve evidence and protect your rights. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLbNemS_YlM) -
Q: What if I’m partially at fault for an accident in Texas (comparative negligence)?
A: Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering any damages. This rule highlights the importance of thorough investigation and evidence collection, which we handle diligently to ensure a fair apportionment of fault. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4) -
Q: What exactly counts as a “personal injury”?
A: A personal injury is harm to your body or mind caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. This includes various incidents common in Gregg County, such as car, 18-wheeler, and motorcycle accidents on our local roadways, workplace injuries at industrial facilities, or harm from toxic exposures. We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis and build claims with experts, ready to go to trial if insurers refuse a fair settlement. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWdADo3DHRI) -
Q: What is “probable cause” in a criminal case, and how does it affect my charges in Gregg County?
A: Probable cause is the legal standard law enforcement must meet to make an arrest or obtain a search warrant. If the police lacked probable cause, any evidence obtained illegally might be suppressed, potentially leading to dismissal of your charges. Challenging probable cause is a key defense strategy we employ, especially in cases before the Gregg County District Courts. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPqiwrLDDgw) -
Q: Can I get probation if charged with a crime in Gregg County?
A: Probation, also known as community supervision, may be an option depending on the specifics of your charge, your criminal history, and the policies of the Gregg County District Attorney’s Office and courts. Our attorneys evaluate all options, including deferred adjudication, to minimize jail time and secure the best possible outcome. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdOktxAQQDg) -
Q: Will my personal injury case go to trial, or will it settle?
A: Most personal injury cases settle out of court. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. Our readiness to litigate—including working with experts, conducting depositions, and presenting compelling evidence—strengthens our negotiation position, often leading to better settlement offers. If insurers in Gregg County refuse to make a fair offer, we will not hesitate to take your case to court. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc) -
Q: How do your contingency fees work for personal injury matters?
A: Our contingency fee arrangement means you do not pay us any attorney fees unless we secure compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the final settlement or award. This structure ensures that quality legal representation is accessible to everyone in Gregg County, regardless of their current financial situation. The specifics of the percentage and responsibility for case expenses are clearly outlined in our fee agreement. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc)