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O'Connell West, PLLC - Austin, TX

505 West 12th StreetSuite 200 Austin, TX 78701

Updated: 11/11/2024

Austin Criminal Defense Law Firm

Overview

O'Connell West, PLLC is comprised of exceptional Attorneys and Paralegals with a passion for fighting for our clients. We believe results matter and are committed to providing unmatched legal services to clients in need of high quality representation.

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the law firm of O'Connell West, PLLC, provides unmatched representation to clients throughout its region who have legal needs involving any of the following:

• Criminal defense for all types of felonies and misdemeanors; state and federal court,
• Military Administrative Law, Non-Judicial Punishment and UCMJ Actions,
• Personal Injury Lawsuits,
• Family Law Representation.

The law firm's founder, attorney Douglas K. O'Connell has practiced law since 1994. During this time, he has successfully handled more than 100 jury trials in state and federal courts. He is also a former state and federal prosecutor, so he has a wealth of insight and knowledge of the criminal justice system to help you devise the most effective defense strategy possible. Mr. O'Connell is a proud veteran of the Army Special Forces - the legendary Green Berets, where he reached the rank of Colonel.

Regarded as among the leading trial lawyers in the country, the law firm's attorneys have earned Top 100 Trial Lawyer rankings and many other top endorsements from members of the legal community. They have also received numerous five-star reviews from their satisfied clients, and O'Connell West, PLLC, has received countless testimonials and referrals from past and current clients as well.

The bulk of our attorneys at OC-West are Veterans. Fighting for military service members and Veterans is at the core of our mission.

To schedule a consultation concerning your legal matter, you can contact O'Connell West, PLLC, to request an appointment. The firm also currently offers virtual consultations and in-office visits in Austin or Harker Heights, Texas.

About O'Connell West, PLLC
Practice Areas
• STATE & FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE
• PERSONAL INJURY
• MILITARY ADMINISTRATIVE & UCMJ LAW
• FAMILY LAW
• CRIMINAL DEFENSE

The OC-West team represents both corporations and individuals under investigation or charged with crimes in Federal and State Court. We have a combined total of more than 60 years of criminal law experience and our attorneys have prior experience as federal and state prosecutors and Defense Attorneys.

We have extensive jury trial experience having first-chaired more than 150 jury trials in both federal and state courts. We believe our years of service as Assistant County Attorneys, Assistant District Attorneys and Special Assistant United States Attorney provide invaluable insight and an in-depth understanding of the government's approach and strategy in investigating and prosecuting criminal allegations.

OConnell West has a well-earned reputation for fierce, unrelenting legal representation.
Negligent Homicide
Violent Crimes
Theft Charges
Firearms Offenses
Driving While Intoxicated
Poaching
Murder & Aggravated Assault
Sexual Assault Allegations
Assault / Family Violence
Protective Orders
Federal Wire Fraud Charges
Federal Tax Fraud Charges
Federal Bribery & Conspiracy

PERSONAL INJURY CASES
We understand that sometimes bad things happen to good people. We also understand the hardships that come from serious injuries and accidents. Physical pain, emotional distress and serious financial strains can ruin quality of life due to someone's negligence, wrongdoing, or careless behavior. Those at fault should be held accountable.

We handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means if we do not recover compensation for your case - you do not pay legal fees.
• Trucking accidents
• Wrongful Death
• Dog bite cases
• Intoxicated Driving Accidents
• Car Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Defective Products
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Industrial Accidents

MILITARY LAW & VETERAN'S LEGAL ISSUES - NATION WIDE REPRESENTATION.

O'Connell West, PLLC is owned and led by military veterans. We regularly represent military service members and veterans unwittingly caught in the legal system, including in civilian and military courts, security clearance issues, administrative separations, and petitions for the correction of military records. If you are a service member or veteran and you think you need an attorney, call us. Our team will help you analyze your situation. If it's not something within our expertise, we will assist you in contacting an attorney that can help you.

Known for his aggressive defense of service members, our founder, Doug O'Connell is sought out by other attorneys for advice and guidance on defending service members. He is well known for his ability to develop mitigating or exculpatory evidence especially where the client has suffered Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, and other service-connected disabilities.

Military Criminal Law Representation
• UCMJ Prosecution Representation
• Military Sexual Assault Charges
• Military Court Martial Defense
• Special, Summary & General Courts Martial

Military Administrative Law Representation
• AR 15-6 Investigations
• Non-Judicial Punishment
• General Officer Reprimands
• Administrative Separations
• Conscientious Objector Status
• Withdrawal of Federal Recognition
• Rank Reduction
• Adverse Evaluation Reports and Appeals
• Denial or Revocation of Promotion
• Withdrawal of Security Clearance
• Military Crime Victims Representation
• Army Board for Correction of Records
• Air Force Board for Correction of Records
• Board for Correction Naval Records
• Whistleblower Protections
• Alcohol and Drug Use Issues and Charges
• Fraud Waste and Abuse Reporting
• Military Protective Orders
• Constitutional Protections (Practice of Religion, Free Speech)
• Inspector General Investigations
• Discharge Upgrades
• Professional Qualifications (Flight, medical)

Our Firm believes by upholding the Texas Family Code's best interest of the children standard, we represent your very best interest. Also important to us is the protection of your separate and community property. We seek to prevent litigation altogether by helping you with prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. Sometimes, however, you may need to help you enforce the Orders you have. O'Connell West attorneys' years of litigation experience will shine for your case.

• Prenuptial Agreements
• Postnuptial Agreements
• Uncontested/contested Divorce
• Suits Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship
• Motions for Enforcement
• Mediation/Arbitration of case
• One-time consultation/guidance

About O'Connell West, PLLC

Practice Areas

  • Criminal Defense
  • DWI
  • Drug Charges
  • Sexual Assaults
  • Murder
  • Assault and Fam Violence
  • Negligent Homicide
  • Violent Crimes
  • Theft Charges
  • Firearms Offenses
  • Poaching
  • Protective Orders
  • Federal Wire Fraud Charges
  • Federal Tax Fraud Charges
  • Federal Bribery & Conspiracy
  • Personal Injury
  • Trucking Accidents
  • Wrongful Death
  • Dog Bite Cases
  • Intoxicated Driving Accidents
  • Car Accidents
  • Construction Accidents
  • Defective Products
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Industrial Accidents
  • Military Criminal Law Representation
  • UCMJ Prosecution Representation
  • Military Sexual Assault Charges
  • Military Court Martial Defense
  • Special, Summary & General Courts Martial
  • Military Administrative Law Representation
  • AR 15-6 Investigations
  • Non-Judicial Punishment
  • General Officer Reprimands
  • Administrative Separations
  • Conscientious Objector Status
  • Withdrawal Of Federal Recognition
  • Rank Reduction
  • Adverse Evaluation Reports And Appeals
  • Denial Or Revocation Of Promotion
  • Withdrawal Of Security Clearance
  • Military Crime Victims Representation
  • Army Board For Correction Of Records
  • Air Force Board For Correction Of Records
  • Board For Correction Naval Records
  • Whistleblower Protections
  • Alcohol And Drug Use Issues And Charges
  • Fraud Waste And Abuse Reporting
  • Military Protective Orders
  • Constitutional Protections (Practice Of Religion, Free Speech)
  • Inspector General Investigations
  • Discharge Upgrades
  • Professional Qualifications (Flight, Medical)
  • Prenuptial Agreements
  • Postnuptial Agreements
  • Uncontested/Contested Divorce
  • Suits Affecting The Parent-Child Relationship
  • Motions For Enforcement
  • Mediation/Arbitration Of Case

Office Information

Address

505 West 12th StreetSuite 200 Austin, TX 78701

Accepts Credit Cards

Yes

Other Offices

O'Connell West, PLLC (Chamber of Commerce Building) 552 East FM 2410 Harker Heights, TX 76548 512-649-8281

O'Connell West, PLLC 6391 De Zavala Road San Antonio, TX 78249 512-649-8281

O'Connell West, PLLC 717 North Main Taylor, TX 76574 512-649-8281

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By Anonymous on Nov. 04, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

O’Connell West was fantastic to work with from the first call to our final outcome they treated us like family! I could not have asked for a better experience given a difficult and unfamiliar situation. The entire team was professional and easy to work with, they always communicated clearly and honestly with my family. It was a true blessing to find this firm. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a down to earth, honest and professional staff. We got the best outcome in our case and I know it is due to their presence and desire to help.

O'Connell West, PLLC

O'Connell West, PLLC

replied on Jan. 03, 2025
We are so happy that you felt like we treated you as family! That's our goal with every client. Great communication is something we strive for on each case - we know that the vast majority of our clients have never been exposed to the justice system and it can be confusing and intimidating. Thank you for trusting us to help you when it mattered the most.
By Anonymous on Mar. 21, 2025
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

If you are reading this you are probably in the unfortunate position I was in just a short month ago which was trying to find the best possible criminal defense attorney in Austin TX. This has to be one of the worst feelings in the world knowing you have been accused of a crime and need to hire a firm to represent you. Here is what I can tell you from first-hand experience. At age 62 I was accused of a very serious crime which was a second-degree felony in TX. Understand I never even had a traffic ticket in my life, so this took its toll on my mind, body & spirit. Just like you I went online and started reading up on different attorneys/firms and spent most of my time reading reviews because any attorney can say he/she is the best but it's the reviews that truly tell the whole story and what I pay attention to because these are real world examples. There are certain things in life you can skimp on to save a few dollars but the one thing you can NEVER skimp on is the quality of the attorney representing you especially when accused of criminal charges. As soon as I read Doug O'Connell's biography and background, I immediately knew I found my law firm. When I contacted the firm Doug immediately assigned my case to Laurie Drymalla after he read my intake form to make sure the attorney with the best skill set for my case was assigned to me. God as my witness about three weeks after retaining the firm, Laurie told me she convinced the DA to reject the charges – based on the firm’s investigation. And just like that my nightmare became a beautiful dream. It blows my mind how quickly this case was put to rest because the stress was literally killing me. All I can say if you are reading reviews to help you decide on which firm to hire, this should be the last review you read as there is no better firm in Austin. I need to mention I am a veteran and when I read that Doug was a Colonel in the Green Berets I was immediately sold on his firm. Doug is not only a super lawyer but a real-life Rambo who knows how to fight and win. O'Connell West is truly the very best firm and I am still amazed they were able to get my case resolved

By Anonymous on Jan. 04, 2025
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I was accused of DWI. If I were convicted it would have killed my career. Doug and Laurie relentlessly fought for me and in the end my case was dismissed. They both were understanding and were always readily available if I had any questions. I would highly recommend this law firm.

By Anonymous on Jan. 01, 2025
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

Laurie Drymalla at O’Connell West helped our family with some very unexpected legal issues involving our child. Her legal expertise, her compassion, and her perspective as both legal counsel and as a mother guided our family through this difficult time with the best possible legal outcome. I would highly recommend Laurie and would hire her again.

O'Connell West, PLLC

O'Connell West, PLLC

replied on Jan. 03, 2025
We were very proud to fight for your family member and we're very happy about this outcome.
By Richard D. on Sep. 11, 2024
Verified Client

4.5 out of 5 stars

recently had the opportunity to be involved in employing the O'Connell Law Firm to represent a family member for a personal situation. Doug O'Connell personally met with us and was extremely professional and knowledgeable. He introduced us to his staff, which was very impressed with and was glad to be able to start this potential relationship on a face to face note. Doug reviewed his extensive legal background and his very impressive military background. Knowing he had served our country during times of war and beyond immediately gave me a feeling that we could trust him. Shortly, as the meeting began, it was very evident that this is the person, I wanted to fight for my family member. He spoke with a kind, but firm voice outlining every step he would begin to take to fight for my family member immediately. He delivered on everything word he was able to deliver on and he was upfront and honest on those items he could not control and explained the risks involved. His extensive legal background and the stellar reputation his firm has earned, was personally noted as he updated us along the way. The entire staff was engaged and supportive in fighting for my family member. It felt as if I had the entire law firm defending my family member. The compassion Doug and his office had for the entire time period was incredible. We were blessed with a positive outcome of our situation. I would not want any other lawyer in Austin, representing myself or my family than Doug O'Connell, whether victorious with the outcome or we would have to face the reality of life. Doug would be by your side fighting for his clients, families of the clients, and for truth and justice as if you were a fellow solider or just an ordinary person.

O'Connell West, PLLC

O'Connell West, PLLC

replied on Sep. 11, 2024
Our team is proud of the work we did for your family member. And we're extremely happy with the outcome. We hope that you never need our services again, but if you do we will be here for you.
By Anonymous on Jun. 14, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I had the opportunity to work with Andrew Roundtree (Drew). Drew has a servant's heart and will work for the best outcome for his service clients! There were many obstacles, pushbacks, and resistance throughout our journey that would point to giving up or surrendering for less. God said that was not our portion and presented an outcome that comes as an uncommon favor! Drew fought and won for our family! I would like to thank the O'connell West team, which is familiar with providing service to military veterans and protecting their rights!

O'Connell West, PLLC

O'Connell West, PLLC

replied on Sep. 11, 2024
We are so happy that we could obtain an excellent outcome for you! We agree - Drew is a FIGHTER!
By Anonymous on May. 22, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

We retained O?Connell West for the adoption of my daughter. It was refreshing to work with such a professional group of attorneys that kept us informed during the entire process. Specifically, our attorney Trinh Warner was very communicative and genuinely cared about our case. I would highly recommend them for your legal needs!

O'Connell West, PLLC

O'Connell West, PLLC

replied on May. 23, 2024
Congrats on the adoption of your daughter. We are thrilled and happy for your whole family. Thank you for trusting us to help you with this critically important family law matter.
By Anonymous on Apr. 29, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I was arrested for assault when I defended myself and escaped from a dangerous altercation. My first interactions with O'Connell West Law Firm were through Ashley Haisler, their Paralegal Secretary. Her responses were timely, and she helped me secure an in-person meeting with an attorney with short notice. Andrew carefully reviewed all the documents I had brought with me, listened to the entire account of the events that led to my arrest, and compassionately validated the trauma I was experiencing. He gave me a clear and honest legal opinion and described what he would do if I hired him. To my surprise, Mr. Doug O?Connell, one of the owners, also came in to meet me. This demonstrates how the attorneys at this firm collaborate and assist each other, fully utilizing the many years of experience among them. The very next business day, Andrew began diligently working on my case. His defense was strategic and thoughtful, and he never forgot my children were also living this crisis with me. His experience as a prosecutor really shone in his ability to converse well with the county prosecutor. This gave us a chance to compile targeted documentation and further strengthen my defense. Throughout it all, he returned my emails and calls within the same business day, often within a few hours. Because I am a Soldier, this wrongful arrest threatened my career and livelihood. Andrew?s experience as a JAG Officer gave him the ability to fully comprehend the magnitude of the threats I faced. When the bureaucracy of the court system caused lags, Andrew reassured me and aggressively sought a conversation with the prosecutor to expedite the process. His professionalism and expertise paid off. The prosecutor decided to dismiss the charge completely without ever going to court. Andrew is passionate about winning justice for his clients. I recommend this firm to anyone facing criminal charges, especially members of the military and law enforcement. Thank you, Andrew!

By Kenneth B. on Apr. 02, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

On a moment's call for league help Andrew Roundtree was there to help me settle my case. A thank you is not enough

By Anonymous on Feb. 12, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I'm thankful for the services provided by Doug and Ashley who helped me with an involuntarily extension in the military following some allegations. From the very beginning they were there in regards to the case and other problems that came from it. Easy communication and quick responses whenever I had questions. I highly recommend their services.

By Marcos G. on Feb. 03, 2024
Verified Client

4.5 out of 5 stars

Oconnell West saved my career after I was wrongfully accused of wrong doing in the Army’s G-Rap scandal. The Army initially denied my promotion, which in turn forced me out of Army National Guard. Doug Oconnell worked tirelessly and ensured I understood the process. He was able to get me exonerated and the back pay I deserve. I am very thankful I hired Oconnell West

By Anonymous on Jan. 26, 2024
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I cannot say enough good things about this group. Laurie and Ashley are just the best. From the first meeting in their office, to being notified of the dismissal of charges, the level of competence and communication they delivered was top notch. I do not for one second regret trusting O'Connell West and cannot thank Laurie enough.

By Anonymous on Oct. 08, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I highly recommend the O'Connell West firm, Doug, Laurie, and Ashley were exceptional to work with. We worked very closely with Laurie Drymalla, she was very knowledgeable, professional, and understanding. I was charged with a criminal offense and it was a very unsettling time, thanks to Laurie and the firm my case was dismissed.

By K H. on Aug. 06, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

Attourney Doug O’Connell and his team at O’Connell are 100% the best there is. I had an legal that state appointed attourney allowed to drag out for over a year and half, I was referred to work with Mr. O’Connell and his team, and after some discussion we concluded that we should work together. They resolved my legal issue in a month, and with excellent results. Mr. O’Connell and his team strive to do their best to take care of and defend veterans to resolve their legal issues with the best possible outcome. I am exceptionally grateful to have had the privilege to have Mr. O’Connell and his team take care of my cases. As a veteran and a new father looking to build the best possible future for my family, Mr. O’Connell ensured that my legal issues were fully resolved so that I could move forward with my life and career. Their team is flexible, hard working, reliable and simply excellent. I cannot say enough. If you find yourself in trouble, hire Doug O’Connell.

By Anonymous on Jul. 27, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

Great people.Helped me through tough times would recomend to anyone

By Anonymous on Jun. 30, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I was facing denial of a government security clearance, based on some youthful indiscretions. If the security clearance wasn?t granted, I would have lost my job and the career I had spent years working towards. I found O?Connell West law firm, and they have a great deal of experience fighting security clearance battles. Once they got involved and demanded a hearing, the government folded and the clearance was granted in short order. They did a great job for me, and I'm glad I had them in my corner.

By Rico S. on May. 17, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I was falsely accused of sexually assaulting a woman. This was the most traumatic thing that has ever happened to me. Hiring Doug & Laurie was the best decision I could have made. I was completely new in town & had just hit hard financial times right before I found out I was a suspect. I didn't know what to do & I was distraught. Doug O'Connell shook my hand, looked me in the eye and told me everything would be all right. Then he delivered. Doug Laurie & the team listened to my account of the night in question, and worked with me on a generous financing plan. They kept me updated Ultimately the charges were rejected. If you are ever in a bind, call O'Connell West.

By Anonymous on Apr. 28, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I cannot recommend the services of O'Connell West enough. The entire team is professional, proactive, trustworthy, knowledgeable, efficient, and communicative. I worked closely with Laurie throughout the process and she was absolutely phenomenal. She worked quickly to get my misdemeanor charge rejected and also secured an early expungement of the record of the arrest, answering my questions and keeping me informed every step of the way. Navigating the criminal justice system can be terrifying and overwhelming, but I knew from the moment I met their team that I was in good hands. I am forever grateful to them for their work on my behalf, especially Laurie, and I highly recommend their team.

By Anonymous on Apr. 28, 2023
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

I recently had the pleasure of working with Oliver Mintz, and I have nothing but praise for his exceptional legal services. As a lawyer, he brings a unique blend of compassion, kindness, and efficiency to his work, making the legal process smoother and less daunting for his clients. One of the things I appreciated most about Oliver was his speed and responsiveness. He always made himself available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the process. His easy communication and attention to detail made it easy for me to understand what was happening at every step of the way. What sets Oliver apart from other lawyers is his military background, which gives him access to military bases and an understanding of the unique legal issues faced by veterans. As an army veteran himself, he is committed to providing top-notch legal services to those who have served our country. But what really stood out to me was how he hand-walks clients through every step of the process. He is patient, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure his clients' needs are met. I felt like he truly cared about me as a person and not just as a case file. In conclusion, I highly recommend Oliver Mintz to anyone in need of legal services. His expertise, compassion, and dedication to his clients are second to none. Whether you're a veteran or not, you won't find a better lawyer to guide you through the legal process.

By Anonymous on Oct. 20, 2022
Verified Client

5.0 out of 5 stars

Being charged with a criminal offense can be a life changing event and you will want to make sure you have the best people representing you. This great team of experienced lawyers listened to me, understood my situation entirely, and fought hard on my behalf. Ultimately, my case was dismissed.

Call us at 512-649-8281

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505 West 12th StreetSuite 200 Austin, TX 78701

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