Philip G. Bernal
Biography
Phil Bernal is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer with more than 35 years of courtroom experience representing individuals and families in complex, high-stakes litigation throughout South Texas and the Hill Country. His practice focuses on catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases, including negligent security, premises liability, commercial vehicle and 18-wheeler crashes, ATV wrecks, assault cases, and medical malpractice.
Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization is a distinction Phil has held since 1998 and reflects substantial jury trial experience, peer review, and demonstrated excellence in courtroom advocacy. He prepares every case for trial and has spent decades litigating serious injury and wrongful death claims before juries in both state and federal courts.
Over the last three decades, Phil has obtained multiple significant settlements and jury verdicts in cases involving medical malpractice, commercial trucking collisions, automobile accidents, premises liability, product defects, and excessive force claims against law enforcement. In 2016, he secured the 51st highest jury verdict in the nation and the 6th highest verdict in the State of Texas between 2016–2018 — a $37,875,000 verdict in Dallas County against a commercial driver and his company.
In 2024, after nearly a month-long federal trial in the Western District of Texas, a jury returned a verdict of more than $9.2 million against two San Antonio police officers for excessive force. This verdict was the first excessive force jury verdict in the Federal Western District of Texas since 1989 and reflects Phil’s willingness to try difficult cases and hold powerful defendants accountable in the courtroom.
Born in Eagle Pass, Texas, and fluent in Spanish, Phil graduated from Southside High School in San Antonio before earning his law degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law. Prior to becoming an attorney, he practiced respiratory therapy, treating and rehabilitating patients with pulmonary disease and overseeing ventilated patients in surgical, coronary, and medical intensive care units. His medical background provides him with a unique perspective when handling complex catastrophic injury and wrongful death litigation.
Outside the courtroom, Phil is an accomplished endurance athlete and triathlete. He has completed two full Ironman triathlons, ten half Ironman triathlons, nine marathons, and more than eighty half marathons, along with multiple century rides. He also enjoys ranching and horseback riding. Phil shares his life with the love of his life, Michelle, his daughter Nicole, and his granddaughter Sabrina.
Areas Of Practice
- Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Wrongful Death
- Dog Bites
- Truck Accidents
- Commercial Vehicle Accidents
- Premise Liability
- Medical Malpractice
- Medical Product and Prescription Drug Injuries
- Child Injuries
- Negligent Security
- ATV Wrecks
- Sexual Assault
Bar Admissions
- Texas, 1991
What Phil's Clients Say
It was an incredible journey witnessing Phil and his team fight for something they truly believed was worth the battle. Despite the obstacles that were present, Phil and his team skillfully maneuvered through the legal system and achieved an impressive victory. I highly suggest that if you’re looking for more than just a regular lawyer, but rather a highly skilled and seasoned attorney, Phil is the perfect choice for you. Sly, his assistant, was incredibly supportive and always ready to address any questions or concerns I had. We are truly grateful for all your hard work. Thank you for everything!!
– Bren Herrera
Janicek Law is a class act from start to finish. From day one just speaking with an associate over the phone they showed concern and compassion regarding my accident. Handled all my medical care as if I was a family member rather than a client. Throughout the process Sly Rede provided updates and ensured I was doing well. Mr. Philip Bernal made my visit with him personal and professional. He is a down to earth person who communicates not as your lawyer but as your best friend. No gimmicks with numbers or ads just the Truth you can Trust!
– Ruben Vidales
No one ever wants to have to retain an attorney. But if you find yourself in need… I encourage you to consider Mr. Phil Bernal at Janikcek Law. Phil & his team have the expertise, tenacity & grit to advocate on behalf of their clients. Without reservation, I highly recommend the Janikcek Law Team!
– Sindi Rosales
I am so thankful for Janicek Law Firm! Working with Philip Bernal and Cassidy Muniz was a blessing. They got to work on day one of my accident. I didn’t even know where to start with what happened. They prioritized my needs and made sure I was taken care of. I felt so stress free and able to focus on getting myself better. They made sure of that!
There are no words that could truly describe how phenomenal Cassidy is. She went above and beyond handling every aspect. From doctors appointments, physical therapy, working with my insurance and so much more. She was always a phone call away to assist me with what I needed.
I was well informed on every step of my case. They gathered all the documentation and evidence needed to get me a wonderful settlement. But know that this feeling of peace could not have been done without Cassidy, Philip, and the Janicek Law Firm. Thank you so much for everything! I highly recommend them!!
– Virginia-Ann Bernal
Multi-Million Dollar Results For Over 30 Years
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