Philip G. Bernal
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Biography
Phil Bernal was born in Eagle Pass, Texas and speaks Spanish fluently. Phil graduated from Southside High School here in San Antonio, Texas. Phil has been practicing personal injury trial law for over 30 years in South Texas and the Hill Country. Phil graduated from St. Mary’s School of Law here in San Antonio, Texas. Phil has been Board Certified In Personal Injury Trial Law by The Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1998. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Phil practiced respiratory therapy where Phil treated and rehabilitated patients with pulmonary diseases and oversaw patients on short term and long term ventilators in the surgical intensive care unit, coronary intensive care units and medical intensive care unit.
Over the last three decades Phil has obtained multiple settlements and jury verdicts in the areas of medical malpractice, commercial vehicle (18 wheeler), automobile accidents, premises liability, products liability, and police civil rights cases. In 2016 Phil obtained the 51st highest jury verdict in the nation and the 6th highest verdict in the State of Texas between 2016-2018 against a commercial driver and his company for over $37,875,000.00 in Dallas County. Most recently, Phil Bernal, along with his exceptional team—Danny Kustoff, Melanie Sanders, Taylor Crull, and Thad Spalding—secured a landmark $7,000,000 verdict in federal court. This outcome delivers justice for our client, who suffered severe injuries after being wrongfully identified and assaulted by San Antonio Police officers in 2014.
Phil has been consistently recognized by his peers by being selected as one of the Best Lawyers in America 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Phil has also been nominated and been designated a SuperLawyer 2013, 2014 and 2016.
In his spare time, Phil is an avid endurance athlete and triathlete. Phil has completed 2 full Ironman Triathlons, 6 half Ironman triathlons, seven marathons, and over 70 half marathons with multiple century cycle rides. Phil also enjoys ranching and horseback riding. Phil shares his life with the love of his life Michelle and his daughter Nicole.
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
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 25 Years
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Michelle MenchacaNovember 13, 2024 Their professionalism and ability to understand my situation made a difficult time much easier for me. Jessica‘s knowledge and expertise were deeply appreciated. Thank you all so much. Kim KeithNovember 12, 2024 Andrew & Gabby, thank you both for all the hard work you put into this case. Always staying in contact with me, Thank you Mark WilsonNovember 11, 2024 When I first decided to pursue legal action, I was terrified of how long it might drag on, as I had never sued anyone before. Janicek Law's team achieved a fantastic result before even having to go to court and got me full limits of coverage and negotiated down my medical bills. Highly recommend! jim wynnNovember 9, 2024 Our family was placed in a difficult situation with a nursing home. After seeing a commercial for Janicek Law we contacted them for help. Andrew and Gabby were very professional, compassionate, and kept us informed throughout the process. Through mediation, Andrew negotiated an acceptable settlement for our family. We highly recommend Janicek Law. Robin MitchellNovember 8, 2024 My family and I had a great experience with this firm. They helped us when others weren’t willing to. We worked exclusively with Andrew and Gaby and they couldn’t have been more helpful or compassionate. I would definitely recommend them. Bren HerreraNovember 4, 2024 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!! Tx GirlNovember 4, 2024 My Personal Experience with Beth Janicek Law Firm: The whole team was professional, prompt, responsive to communication, and always had our best interest in mind throughout. Mostly, I worked with Andrew Skemp once this case was accepted. He was great at communicating the legalities in a way that made sense to myself with no legal background. Actually I had never even been involved in any legal semite prior to this case. The fact that this case was accepted was a major deal because I contacted over a dozen other attorney offices prior to this firm, who would not touch this case… it was a complicated case to say the least. However, Beth Janicek accepted this case and this firm has fought hard for our family. Thank you so much for representing our family during a tragic time. I’m thankful for the opportunity to work with this law firm and I would highly recommend Beth Janicek Firm. Debora RidenerNovember 1, 2024 Andrew and Gabby were a pleasure to work with. Both were incredibly professional and empathetic to our situation. They worked diligently to help our family and exceeded my expectations. Julie DupuisOctober 25, 2024 They took my case when another would not. Case was pretty cut and dry. The process was really easy. I appreciated their help. Jessica Rodriguez was great. Carrie AdamsSeptember 26, 2024 Joy at Janicek Law Firm was awesome she went above and beyond to get our case settled