Texas Civil Defense Attorney



At JW Zepeda Law Firm, PLLC, we understand that civil lawsuits can threaten your assets, reputation, and peace of mind. As your dedicated Texas civil defense attorney, we blend decades of courtroom experience with a client-first philosophy to deliver strategic, personalized advocacy tailored to your unique situation. Whether you’re facing a complex contract dispute or defending against a professional malpractice claim, our firm stands ready to protect your rights and guide you through every stage of the process.

Why Choose Our Texas Civil Defense Attorney
Choosing the right attorney means more than legal advice—it means having a partner who anticipates challenges, communicates clearly, and fights tenaciously on your behalf. Led by U.S. Marine veteran J.W. Zepeda, our team brings over 80 years of combined civil-litigation experience in Texas state and federal courts, and full bilingual support in English & Español. We never hand your case off to junior associates; you work directly with our senior attorneys who craft every argument, oversee every negotiation, and ensure you’re fully informed at every step.
With over 80 years of combined legal firepower, our battle-tested attorneys fight tooth and nail for your reputation—never handing your case off to rookie lawyers.
The Right Defense Team Means Freedom
We Do Not Force You To Settle- We Fight
U.S. Marine Veteran Leadership
As a Texas civil defense attorney firm led by U.S. Marine veteran JW Zepeda, our veteran leadership brings military-grade discipline, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to every case. When you choose our veteran-led team, you’re securing a defense fortified by honor, resilience, and an unbreakable promise to fight for your honor.
Client-Centered Approach
We Care About Your Individual Case
Proven Results, Not Just Posing
A Highly Rated Firm
“JW was everything I needed in a lawyer when I was seeking legal advice and help. He's honest and unafraid of doing what's right. If ever again I find myself in need of legal assistance, I won't hesitate to call JW. Thank you, JW, for you service, not only to me, but to our country, as well.”
- Lauren H, Hill Country

Contract Dispute Defense
- Our attorneys dissect every clause of your agreements, interview key witnesses, and analyze industry-standard practices to build defenses that minimize liability and secure favorable outcomes without unnecessary delay.
Employment Litigation Defense
When you’re accused of wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage-and-hour violations, we leverage deep knowledge of the Texas Labor Code and federal statutes to challenge the claims, negotiate mediations, or take cases to trial if needed.
Business Litigation Defense
From shareholder and partnership disputes to trade-secret misappropriation, our firm navigates complex corporate conflicts with precision, employing expert testimony and targeted motion practice to shield your business interests.
Professional Malpractice Defense
In high-stakes malpractice suits—whether medical, legal, or accounting—we conduct exhaustive reviews of industry standards, consult leading experts, and craft defenses that underscore your commitment to professional excellence.
Landlord & Tenant Dispute Defense
Whether you’re a property owner facing holdover or eviction defense, or a tenant combating unlawful rent increases and habitability claims, our team applies the Texas Property Code to protect your rights and achieve rapid resolutions.
Comprehensive Texas Civil Defense Attorney Services

Our Six-Step Civil Defense Process
1. Immediate Case Review
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Analyze court filing or demands, evidence, and potential defenses.
2. Investigation & Evidence Gathering
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Engage in investigations, ready forensic experts, and interview key witnesses.
3. Pre-Trial Motions
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File motions to suppress evidence, motions to dismiss the case, and challenge all contentions, if possible, of the opposing side.
4. Plea Negotiation
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Advocate for settlement if dismissal is not available
5. Trial Preparation & Advocacy
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We prepare every case as if it will go before a jury or judge—developing targeted jury-selection strategies, coordinating expert testimony, and drafting compelling opening statements and closing arguments. This rigorous readiness not only equips us to litigate effectively when necessary but also strengthens our bargaining position, so the vast majority of cases settle on favorable terms before trial.
6.Minimize Damages
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When liability cannot be avoided, our focus shifts to containing the financial impact on you. We negotiate realistic damage caps, structure payment schedules aligned with your budget, and pursue alternative resolutions—all designed to protect your interests and preserve your resources.
This Process Ensures No Detail Is Overlooked and Should Give You Confidence in the Defense of your Honor
J. Vaelzquez
I want to share my experience with JW Zepeda Law Firm because they truly made a difference during a very difficult time for me. I was just five days away from a trial, and after speaking with several attorneys, no one was willing to take my case because it seemed too challenging to handle in such a short time. However, JW Zepeda Law Firm not only agreed to help but fully committed themselves and worked tirelessly during those days.
From the very start, the attorney was upfront and honest about what I could expect, and that gave me a lot of confidence. Plus, for the level of professionalism, dedication, and effort they put into my case, I can honestly say their fees are more than fair and very competitive, especially compared to firms that charge significantly more.
Thanks to them, I now feel confident that my case is in the best hands.
If you need an attorney who truly cares about you and will represent you with integrity and expertise, don’t hesitate to reach out to JW Zepeda Law Firm.
Some Unsolicited Reviews
S. Aldrich
JW Zepeda Law Firm is absolutely the best choice you can make for retaining an attorney! I'm a client of his in a very complicated law suit, and he has shown me nothing less than 💯 compassion, patience and complete knowledge of the law and how it works!
Mr Zepeda always makes sure that I'm doing well before we discuss anything else. My personal well being is his first concern and everything else comes after that.
He brings his Christian morals and values into the situation but also brings the determination of a Marine veteran that doesn't know the meaning of quitting, giving up or ever taking anything less than complete justice requires and deserves...
He Will and Does treat every case as it was his own family and fights accordingly.
I rate him and the Law Firm a 5 star rating and Highly recommend him to anyone who needs legal advice or help with the confidence that you will only be extremely pleased and not disappointed at all. If you call or contact him and he's not available at that precise moment, he will without a doubt contact you back as soon as humanly possible. Do to him being such a great attorney he is also very busy.
He very often works on his own personal time which takes away from his family and their time together , but he does what it requires to do the best for the client. Unfortunately there are some people out there that don't acknowledge the fact that attorneys are people who have families and other important things outside of the office, but most people are considerate to the fact and more than not do respect it.
I thank JW and all of the staff at the Law Firm for taking excellent care of me, keeping me updated on everything happening, and fighting hard against any person harming innocent victims to bring them the justice they truly deserve.
I'll never have any other attorney besides the JW Zepeda Law Firm to handle any legal issues I might have in the future!! Great job guys!
L. Gonzalez
I was in need of an attorney to help me with some family matters. I called around and when I called Mr. Zepeda.
He listened to me and gave me the best advice in regards to my needs.He listened and asked questions .
He is a very caring and professional man.
I would highly recommend his services.
Thank you Mr.Z for your professional and your Service to our country.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a Texas civil defense attorney do?
A: A Texas civil defense attorney specializes in defending individuals and businesses against lawsuits filed in state and federal courts, including contract disputes, employment claims, business litigation, professional malpractice actions, and property controversies. Our role is to analyze the plaintiff’s allegations, develop strategic defenses, negotiate settlements when appropriate, and, if necessary, advocate vigorously at trial to protect your rights and interests.
Q: How can a civil defense attorney help me in a contract dispute?
A: In contract disputes, we thoroughly review the terms of your agreement, gather all relevant communications and performance records, and identify contractual ambiguities or procedural defects that may invalidate or limit the opposing party’s claims. By leveraging industry experts and targeted motion practice—such as motions to dismiss or for summary judgment—we work to achieve favorable resolutions, whether through settlement or verdict.
Q: What should I expect during the civil litigation process in Texas?
A: Civil litigation begins with an initial consultation, followed by the filing of an answer to the complaint. We then engage in written discovery, depositions, and document production. After fact gathering, the parties typically participate in mediation or other alternative dispute resolution. If no settlement is reached, we prepare pre-trial motions and proceed to trial. Throughout, if would like like you’ll receive regular updates, clear explanations of your options, and our recommendation on the best strategic path forward.
Q: How long does a civil case usually take to resolve?
A: Timelines vary based on case complexity, court schedules, and whether ADR succeeds. Uncontested or simple matters might conclude within 6–12 months, while complex business litigation and high-value disputes can extend 18–24 months or longer. Early case evaluation and proactive motions often shorten the overall duration by narrowing issues or achieving early dismissals.
Q: What are the typical fees for a Texas civil defense attorney?
A: Fee structures depend on the nature of the case and client preferences. Many civil defense matters are billed on an hourly basis, with rates reflecting attorney seniority and expertise. Flat-fee arrangements may be available for discrete tasks like motion drafting or mediation representation. In certain complex business or high-stakes disputes, we can discuss blended or phased fee agreements to align costs with milestones and outcomes.
Q: Can I avoid court through mediation or arbitration?
A: Yes, Texas law encourages alternative dispute resolution. Mediation offers a confidential forum for negotiation with a neutral mediator, often leading to mutually acceptable settlements. Arbitration, whether binding or non-binding, provides a private hearing before an arbitrator. We evaluate whether ADR fits your objectives and represent you throughout the process to protect your interests.
Q: Do you handle business litigation and shareholder disputes?
A: Absolutely. Our civil defense practice includes representing corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and shareholders in matters such as breach of fiduciary duty, partnership dissolution, minority shareholder oppression, and trade-secret misappropriation. We develop industry-specific defenses and work to protect your business interests through strategic negotiations or vigorous courtroom advocacy.
Q: What is summary judgment and how can it benefit my case?
A: A summary judgment is a pre-trial motion asking the court to decide the case in your favor because there are no genuine disputes of material fact. Winning summary judgment can eliminate costly and time-consuming trials by resolving all or part of the claims against you. We assess whether the facts and legal standards support such a motion and prepare compelling briefs to secure a favorable ruling.
Q: How do you handle professional malpractice defense?
A: In malpractice cases—whether against medical professionals, lawyers, accountants, or other service providers—we review the applicable standard of care, retain leading experts to critique the plaintiff’s allegations, and identify procedural or substantive grounds to challenge the claim. Our goal is to demonstrate that you met or exceeded professional standards, leading to case dismissal or substantial reduction of damages.
Q: Can you represent me if I’m sued in another Texas county?
A: Yes. Our firm covers all 254 Texas counties. Whether your case originates in Travis County, Harris County, Dallas, Bexar, or beyond, we ensure consistent, high-quality representation wherever your dispute arises.
Q: What role do depositions play in my defense?
A: Depositions allow attorneys to question witnesses under oath before trial, preserving testimony and identifying weaknesses in the opposing side’s case. We prepare you and any company representatives thoroughly, formulate strategic lines of questioning, and use deposition transcripts to shape pre-trial motions, negotiate settlements, or prepare for trial.
Q: How often will I receive updates about my case?
A: Communication is a cornerstone of our client-centered approach. You will receive status reports at critical stages—after initial case review, discovery, mediation sessions, and following significant rulings or negotiations. We are also available to answer questions by phone or email whenever you need clarity or an update.
Q: What’s the difference between a civil defense attorney and a civil litigation attorney?
A: The terms are often used interchangeably; both defend or prosecute civil claims. “Defense attorney” emphasizes representing the party being sued, focusing on strategies to dismiss or reduce claims. “Civil litigation attorney” can refer to either side. For precision in your search and legal needs, “Texas civil defense attorney” ensures you connect with lawyers specializing in defending civil lawsuits.
