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- Philip Gommels
Philip Michael Gommels
- Houston, TX
- Licensed for 10 years
About Philip
I'm a Houston criminal defense lawyer. Advocate for the poor everywhere. Believer in redemption. Former motorcycle adventurer, and barbecue fiend. Now dad with high cholesterol and life insurance.
I'm a former Army Reserve Combat Medic and former prosecutor. I dedicate one hundred percent of my practice to criminal defense. From allegations of driving while intoxicated and domestic violence to murder and complex white collar cases.
I'm a frequent lecturer around the world on criminal justice topics. I've appeared on television to discuss arrests and crime in the media, and I contribute criminal justice expertise to the Huffington Post (found here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/phil-gommels/) and the Harris County Criminal Lawyer's Association's blog "Reasonable Doubt" (found here: https://hcclatv.com/author/phil-gommels/)
I use my experience to defend anyone accused of committing a crime. And I do my best to do so with compassion and zeal each and every day.
Call me for a no-obligation consultation:
Practice areas
- Criminal defense: 60%
By providing more than just legal representation to individuals charged with crimes, we take a holistic approach to criminal defense – dealing also with root causes of criminal behavior, such as poverty and mental illness, as well as collateral consequences, like license suspensions and disclosure to employers.
11 years, 300 cases
- Violent crime: 10%
Violent crimes include assault, assault family member, aggravated assault, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault of a child, robbery, aggravated robbery, and others. Some of these carry special rules about punishment. Philip M. Gommels is a former prosecutor who has experience to handle these difficult cases.
11 years
- White collar crime: 10%
White collar cases typically involve some type of fraud. They are usually referred to as "paper" cases by the lawyers because they involve such detailed research of volumes of records. Philip M. Gommels attended the University of Pennsylvania - home the the Wharton School of Business, where he took some of his courses. His background and acute mind suits the rigorous demands of these cases.
- Sex crime: 10%
- Personal injury: 10%
Beginning in 2020, The Law Office of Philip M. Gommels is bringing the same award-winning customer service and trial skills to bear to help a new class of client: those injured by the careless or intentional acts of others.
Languages spoken
English, Spanish
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Resume
| State | Status | Acquired | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|
| TX | Eligible To Practice In Texas | 2010 | 12/05/2020 |
| Legal answers | 42 |
| Legal guides | 0 |
| Award name | Grantor | Date granted |
|---|---|---|
| Rising Star | Super Lawyers | 2020 |
| Client's Choice Award | Avvo | 2018 |
| Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Houston | Expertise.com | 2016 |
| Texas Bar Today Top 10 Blog Post | State Bar of Texas | 2016 |
| Texas Bar Today Top 10 Blog Post | State Bar of Texas | 2016 |
| Winner of Distinction Award for Excellence | Better Business Bureau | 2015 |
|---|---|---|
| Top Lawyers | Houstonia Magazine | 2015 |
| Client's Choice Award | AVVO | 2015 |
| Top 100 Trial Lawyers | The National Trial Lawyers | 2014 |
| Top Lawyers | Houstonia Magazine | 2014 |
| Client's Choice Award | AVVO | 2014 |
| Top Lawyers | Houstonia Magazine | 2013 |
| Client's Choice Award | AVVO | 2013 |
| Title | Company name | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Attorney | The Law Office of Philip M. Gommels, PLLC | 2013 - Present |
| Assistant District Attorney | Harris County District Attorney's Office | 2010 - 2012 |
| Combat Medic | United States Army (Active & Reserve) | 2002 - 2010 |
| Association name | Position name | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Houston Bar Association, Criminal Law and Procedure Section | N/A | 2018 - Present |
| Galveston County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association | N/A | 2018 - Present |
| National College of DUI Defense | N/A | 2015 - Present |
| American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys | N/A | 2015 - Present |
| National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers | N/A | 2014 - Present |
| The College of The State Bar of Texas | Member | 2013 - Present |
|---|---|---|
| Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association | Member | 2013 - Present |
| Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association | Member | 2013 - Present |
| State Bar of Texas, Computer and Technology Section | Member | 2013 - Present |
| State Bar of Texas, Juvenile Law Section | Member | 2013 - Present |
| State Bar of Texas, Criminal Justice Section | Member | 2013 - Present |
| Fort Bend County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association | Member | 2013 - Present |
| State Bar of Texas | Member | 2010 - Present |
| American Bar Association | Member | 2007 - Present |
| Publication name | Title | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Reasonable Doubt, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) | Even Criminal Lawyers Tire of Violent Crime | 2016 |
| Reasonable Doubt, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) | A Parents’ Guide to Criminal Charges | 2016 |
| Reasonable Doubt, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) | Student, Father Jailed for Missing Four Midnight Phone Calls | 2016 |
| The Huffington Post | The Sandra Bland Video Demonstrates How Knowing a Little About Your Rights Can Be Just as Dangerous as Not Knowing Them at All | 2015 |
| The Huffington Post | Sandra Bland Conspiracy Theories Officially Debunked With Release of New Jailhouse Footage -- Waller County Not Totally Off the Hook | 2015 |
| School name | Degree | Graduated |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Methodist University | J.D. | 2010 |
| University of Pennsylvania | B.A. | 2006 |
| Conference name | Title | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Capital Defense College | Effective Use Of Technology In The Courtroom | 2016 |
| Military Defense Counsel Trial Litigation | Using PowerPoint Effectively in Trial | 2015 |
| Indigent Defense | Technology in Trial Preparation and in the Courtroom | 2015 |
| Harris County Indigent Defense | Procedures and Billing | 2015 |
| Criminal Defense Trial Skills & Trial Law Program | Technology in Pretrial Preparation | 2015 |
| Capital Defense College | Technology in Trial Preparation and in the Courtroom | 2015 |
|---|---|---|
| ALARM Conference | Evidence Collection and Preservation in Sexual Assault Cases | 2014 |
| ALARM Conference | Preserving Information | 2014 |
| ALARM Conference | The Right to Representation | 2014 |
| Veterans Job Conference | Legal Challenges Facing Job-Seeking Veterans | 2013 |
| Continuing Legal Education | Challenges to Prosecution: Contemporary Model for Prosecution of Mentally Ill or Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Defendants | 2012 |
| Case name | Outcome |
|---|---|
| State of Texas v. KS | Case dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JE | Case dismissed (Grand Jury no-bill) |
| State of Texas v. MV | Case dismissed |
| State of Texas v. AN | Case dismissed |
| State of Texas v. AS | Case dismissed |
| State of Texas v. GO | Cases dismissed |
|---|---|
| State of Texas v. CJ | Case dismissed |
| State of Texas v. SV | No Bill (Case Dismissed) |
| State of Texas v. JH | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JH | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. SS | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. MJ | Not Guilty |
| State of Texas v. PA | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. CS | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. LL | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. TF | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. CE | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. AS | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. ND | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. ZF | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. RB | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. FW | Motion to Adjudicate Guilt Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. VB | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. EL | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. ZF | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. KD | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JG | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. AW | Motion to Suppress Granted - Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. KD | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. NC | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JB | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. MH | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. PC | Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. AM | Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. DH | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. MG | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. RJ | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. MC | Motion to Suppress Granted - Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. EG | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JS | Cases Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. QB | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JM | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. MH | Not Guilty - Jury Trial Verdict |
| State of Texas v. JZ | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. TL | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. TA | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. DI | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. CG | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. OC | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. LM | Case Non-suited (Dismissed) |
| State of Texas v. LA | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. YR | Motion Granted |
| State of Texas v. EM | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. MA | Case Dismissed |
| State of Texas v. JG | Case Dismissed |
My experience
Posted by Abraham
Sat May 16 2020
Outstanding Attorney
Posted by anonymous
Sun Feb 09 2020
PHIL GOMMELS IS AN EXCELLENT CRIMINAL LAWYER IN HOUSTON.
Posted by CLIVE
Mon Jan 27 2020
Excellent attorney and consummate professional.
Posted by anonymous
Thu Jun 06 2019
So thankful for Phil
Posted by Scott
Tue May 14 2019
The best lawyer
Posted by anonymous
Thu Mar 14 2019
Excellent experience, and a great lawyer!
Posted by anonymous
Wed Feb 20 2019
WORDS CANNOT DESCRIBE!!
Posted by Dominic
Wed Dec 05 2018
Excellent Attorney and Remarkable Man
Posted by anonymous
Fri Jul 13 2018
He Saved My Life
Posted by anonymous
Wed Jun 13 2018
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Attorney endorsements
(26)Grant Scheiner, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 4, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have known Philip Gommels since his early days as a prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney's Office. Phil was widely respected as a tough, fair and honest prosecutor. He also developed formidable trial skills, racking up courtroom victories against some of the most seasoned criminal lawyers in Houston. What impresses me most about Phil is that he works harder, and thinks faster on his feet, than just about every attorney I have ever met. Now that he has opened his own private practice concentrating in criminal defense and juvenile matters, I am confident that Phil will soon join the ranks of the most outstanding criminal defense attorneys in Texas.
Rand Mintzer, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 1, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. One of my law professors would state that a great lawyer should be able to argue both sided of the same case. If that is the case, Mr. Gommels is a great lawyer. He was one of the few prosecutors that actually cared about my clients as human beings. He has now carried that compassion and empathy to the defense side. Of course, I would be remiss if I did not state the he is a talented lawyer and an outstanding advocate for the persecuted.
Diana Sims, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 19, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have know Phil since he was a young prosecutor. He is so talented and a strong advocate for his clients. I highly recommend him to anyone.
Clinton Portis, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 3, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I've worked alongside Mr. Gommels for many years and have always found him to be a passionate and professional advocate for his clients. I endorse him highly.
Andrew Willey, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 9, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Phil has an amazing heart for his clients and will work harder for them than other attorneys. His background gives him insight into how the system operates so that he can better serve his clients. I fully endorse him.
Sean Darvishi, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 23, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. Phillip is an excellent lawyer and I would highly recommend his services to anyone in need.
Alan Macias, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 21, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Gommels truly cares about his clients. As an ADA he was often the last person to leave the office. He has seemlessly transitioned to the defense bar and brings that same tireless work ethic to his clients. Anyone who hires Mr. Gommels is lucky to have him.
James Sullivan, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 11, 2015
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
When Phil was a prosecutor in the Harris County DA's office, I worked with him on several criminal cases where my clients were mentally ill or suffering from the effects of PTSD after having served in Iraq or Afghanistan. Having served as a combat medic himself in the U.S. Army, Phil both understood like no other how such trauma can lead to criminal charges and was compassionate to the defendants and their families. Since Phil left the DA's office and entered private practice, Phil has brought with him the same mindset, passion and zeal in his practice defending those accused of breaking the law. His clients are lucky to have him.
Elan Levy, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 8, 2014
Relationship: Worked together on matter
Phil and I tried a DWI case together in Fort Bend County. He convinced the judge to grant his "motion to suppress" evidence. In the end, this meant the prosecution was forced to dismiss the case during trial. The jury picked up on his good vibes and was ready to acquit his client if the judge hadn't stepped in. He is one of the most pleasant people you'll ever meet and I highly recommend him.
Christopher Morton, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 25, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Phillip is tough, smart, and tenacious. He zealously represents his clients and achieves excellent results for them. I wholeheartedly endorse Philip Gommels.
Daniel Lazarine, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 2, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. Philip and I have been colleagues for the last 5 years. Philip's ability to understand and analyze the law is matched only by his ability to communicate effectively with juries and judges. Mr. Gommels works hard for his clients, and anyone who hires him is in good hands.
Scott Markowitz, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 6, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Phil has a warmth and genuiness about him that are evident the first time you meet him. Above all other traits, these are the ones that distinguish the really great defense lawyers from all the others!
Eric Benavides, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 19, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Mr. Gommels is an attorney who truly cares about people. That came through when he was a district attorney, and it has followed him into private practice. He is an asset to the defense bar and to all of his potential clients.
Russell Neumann, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 5, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Phillip is a great defense attorney. When he left the District Attorneys office he wasted no time getting cases and doing a thorough job. I have seen some of the results of his cases and his demeanor in court and both are impressive.
Jason Luong, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 22, 2013
Relationship: Worked together on matter
Phil and I worked together as prosecutors in Harris County, and I had the pleasure of sitting with him on several trials. He is an excellent advocate. He always knew the law and always went beyond the call of duty in preparing. I highly recommend Phil.
Patricia Sedita, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 14, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
Phil has a great deal of experience in cases and always works hard.
Maverick Ray, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 13, 2013
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
While I worked under Phil at the Harris County DA's Office, I watched and learned as Phil tried many cases including DWIs and Assaults to a jury. At the time I didn't understand the importance of interviewing and preparing witnesses for trial, but after spending a Saturday at the office with Phil, I watched how he was able to question his witnesses in a truly conversational approach that put them at ease and got them ready to testify at trial. I know Phil still takes this approach to his client's cases today. Phil also comes with the added benefit of working for several years at the DA's office, which gives him the ability to truly know how the prosecutors think and work. I highly recommend Phil if you are looking for a smart and dedicated attorney that is willing to put his client first and fight for the best possible outcome.
Staci Biggar, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 13, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
When Phil was a prosecutor, I worked closely with him on innumerable criminal cases where my clients were mentally ill. Not only does Phil have an annoyingly good understanding of the law (he's always citing the code by chapter and verse), he more importantly deals with mentally ill people and their families with human compassion and understanding. Since Phil has entered private practice, I haven't hesitated to ask him for help with my own clients. And he has helped them with the same attention to detail and personal care as he did when he was a prosecutor. Phil is an excellent lawyer and I endorse him strongly.
Priscilla Bush, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 4, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
When Phil was with the District Attorney's Office, I had the pleasure of working with him as opposing counsel. Phil was always professional, knowledgeable and hard working. Since his leaving the District Attorney's Office, I've asked Phil consult on a case because I could think of no better lawyer to assist my client. Phil is extremely knowledgeable as well as kind and generous. Phil Gommels is a dedicated, talented advocate for his clients. I endorse him.
Abel Izaguirre, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 28, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
I endorse this lawyer.
Ryan Mitchell, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 14, 2013
Relationship: Other
Philip and I both worked at the Harris County District Attorney's Office at the same time. As a prosecutor Philip gained the respect of his co-workers and the defense bar. He was known as a dedicated attorney that always fought hard. We both left the District Attorney's Office around the same time and now I get to see him use his experience to zealously represent his clients.
Brittany Carroll Lacayo, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 8, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
I endorse this lawyer. I had the pleasure of working as opposing counsel with Phil while he was at the Harris County District Attorney's Office on several cases, and I came to know Phil as a hardworking and honest attorney. Phil is a strong advocate and I would not hesitate to refer clients to him.