Philip G. Bernal

Attorney

Biography

Phil Bernal is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer with more than 30 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

Schedule a Free Consultation

    
 
 
        
   Natasha Garza 
 31 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing experience with Janicek Law from beginning to end. Karen Rangel recommended us to Cassidy Muniz, and we are so thankful she did. Cassidy assisted myself, my husband, and our two daughters, and all four of us are extremely happy with the experience and outcome.

Cassidy truly went above and beyond for our entire family. She was always responsive, patient, professional, and helpful, and she kept us informed throughout the entire process. Everything went smoothly, we had no issues, and she made what could have been a stressful situation so much easier for us.

The entire team at Janicek Law is amazing, and we felt like we were in great hands from start to finish. We are incredibly grateful to Karen for recommending Cassidy and especially grateful to Cassidy for everything she did for our family.

We would 100% recommend Cassidy and Janicek Law to anyone looking for a team that truly cares about their clients. Thank you all so much for everything! ❤️
  
 
       
   Alex McWhirter 
 18 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We were referred to Janicek Law firm from a lawyer in Brownsville, who pointed out that they are experts in the field of medical malpractice and I am so grateful. We worked with Andrew and Gaby and they were dedicated and worked hard to get us the best possible outcome. They kept us informed and updated through every step of the process, always with a friendly and very professional disposition. Despite language and distance challenges, they accommodated all of our needs, and I would highly recommend Janicek Law Firm. They made a bad situation better by listening to our concerns, helping us through a sorrowful time for my family, and advising on how to defeat our opponent. For any families that have a beloved and elderly relative who suffered in the hands of callous and neglectful medical institutions, Janicek Law Firm were amazing in advocating for our relative and making these corporate entities accountable. Thank you, Andrew and Gaby, we really appreciated your help!
  
 
       
   Heidi Soto 
 8 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr Bernal and Karen were great. They always kept me up to date on all that was going on at all times. When it came down to mediation Mr Bernal knew exactly what to do and say to make things clear with the insurance company who wanted to take advantage of me. I highly recommend Mr Bernal if you ever are in an accident. He will definitely take care of you.
  
 
       
   Lucy 
 30 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am beyond thankful for everyone at Janicek law for the professionalism, dedication, and support you all have showed throughout my lawsuit. From the very beginning, you all made a difficult and stressful situation much easier to navigate! Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, keeping me informed every step of the way and making this process as stress free as possible! I can without a doubt definitely recommend this law firm!
  
 
       
   Iris Contreras 
 16 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have started this review so many times, but every time I do, I realize there simply aren't enough words to thank the people at Janicek Law.
Almost 3 years ago, my world ended. I lost my son, Zayden—the greatest love of my life. My other son, Zy, witnessed the unimaginable that day. He carries those memories with him every single day, and we are forever grateful that he is still here because we very easily could have lost him too. Our family didn't just experience a tragedy—we experienced trauma that changed us forever.
When I first met the team at Janicek Law, I wasn't just grieving. I was broken. I was a mother trying to survive the unthinkable while helping my surviving son heal from something no child should ever witness. I didn't know if I had the strength to keep fighting.
There were so many moments when I wanted to give up. Every deposition, every conversation, every piece of evidence forced me to relive the worst day of my life. I told them I couldn't do it anymore. But they never let me forget why we were fighting. They reminded me that Zayden deserved justice. They reminded me that Zy deserved justice. They believed in my family even when I couldn't believe in myself.
What makes Janicek Law different is that this was never just a job to them. They never made me feel like another client or another case number. They knew my children by name. They celebrated Zayden's life. They cried with us, prayed with us, hugged us, encouraged us, and walked beside us through every heartbreaking step. They carried a piece of this burden with us, and I will never forget that.
Even after the case was over, they didn't disappear. They still answer my calls. They still help me with paperwork. They still check on me. They still make me feel like my family matters. That's something you cannot fake. That's love. Somewhere along the way, I stopped seeing them as "my attorneys" and started seeing them as family. And I truly believe I have a family for life.
No amount of money will ever bring my little boy back. I would trade every penny to hear his laugh one more time. But because of Janicek Law, I have peace knowing that his life mattered, his story was heard, and that they fought for my boys with everything they had.
From the deepest part of a mother's heart... thank you. Thank you for loving my children. Thank you for never giving up on us when I wanted to give up myself. Thank you for standing beside us through the darkest chapter of our lives. You gave my family more than legal representation—you gave us hope, dignity, and people we will love for the rest of our lives. You helped a grieving mother find the strength to be the voice her son no longer had. In a world that can feel so unfair, you reminded me that there are still genuinely good people. We love each and every one of you, and we will never forget what you did for Zayden, for Zy, and for us.❤️
  
 
       
   Destiny Sanchez 
 14 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My friend Karen referred us to Janicek law firm and I am so grateful. We worked with cassidy moving forward and she went above and beyond while helping me with my accident case. From the very beginning, she was professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. She kept me informed throughout the entire process and made a stressful situation much easier to handle. Her dedication, hard work, and attention to detail truly made a difference in my case. I am incredibly grateful for everything she did for me and my family. I would highly recommend Cassidy and Janicek Law Firm, who genuinely cares about clients and fights for the best possible outcome. Thank you cassidy for everything!
  
 
       
   Virginia-Ann Bernal 
 8 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After my accident, I felt overwhelmed and had no idea what to do next. Choosing Janicek Law Firm was one of the best decisions I could have made. From the very beginning, Philip Bernal,  Cassidy Muniz, and Karen Rangel took the time to explain the process, answer my questions, and make sure I always knew what to expect.

Cassidy and Karen were  absolutely incredible throughout my entire case. They coordinated my medical care, helped with scheduling appointments, communicated with my insurance, and was always available whenever I needed guidance or reassurance. Their compassion and dedication truly made a difficult time so much easier.

The entire team worked hard to build my case, keeping me informed every step of the way, and ultimately secured a settlement I was very happy with. More importantly, they gave me the peace of mind to focus on healing instead of worrying about the legal process.

I can’t thank Philip, Cassidy, Karen and everyone at Janicek Law Firm enough for their professionalism, kindness, and commitment. If you’re looking for a law firm that genuinely cares about its clients, I highly recommend them. THANK YOU SOO MUCH!!
  
 
       
   Corey Sil 
 29 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Skemp and Gaby took care of everything and made my suit for Wrongful Death as easy as possible. I couldn’t have done any of this with out them! They honored and represented my Mother to the fullest and for that I am greatful! G. Silvas
  
 
       
   Jasub Baez 
 22 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good lawyers .
  
 
       
   Aldo Salinas 
 10 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend the team at Janicek Law. From the very beginning, they provided outstanding legal service that was both professional and deeply compassionate. The entire staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and they made a complex process feel manageable and stress-free. It’s rare to find a firm that combines such high-level legal expertise with a genuinely friendly, client-focused approach. I am very grateful for their support and would choose them again without hesitation.
  
 
 
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 4.8 of 5, based on 358 reviews

Janicek Law handled my case with such professionalism. I was always kept in the loop about what was going on with my case. Cassidy Muniz is amazing at what she does and I really felt like they actually cared about me and my case. Highly recommend Janicek Law Firm!

I could not be happier with the service and compassion from the Janicek Law Firm. They were friendly, responsive and knowledgeable throughout the entire process. I would give ten stars if I could – They are excellent!

Janicek Law was patient and understanding to my situation – it’s a fight – but they would make my father proud. Thanks you for taking the time to look over my case and speaking up for my family.

Beth and Mona have been truly helpful with our case! They have really done an amazing job. I would highly recommend them to anyone I know.

Incredibly talented and knowledgeable attorneys that will fight negligent nursing homes and bring Justice to the elderly and their families.

I am very happy and pleased with the Janicek Law Firm. I had such a difficult time finding someone to look into my case. The Janicek Law Firm has been very professional and attentive to my questions. They will take the time and review your situation and have been very dedicated in reviewing my case.