I am a native of Chicago, Illinois, and received Bachelor of Arts degrees in political science and speech communication from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, spending one semester studying abroad in London and traveling all over Europe. Following that, I earned my Juris Doctorate from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. I moved to New Jersey following graduation from law school and was licensed by the Supreme Court of New Jersey in 1994 and the Supreme Court of New York in 1995. Moving back to Chicago, I was then licensed by the Supreme Court of Illinois in 1995, and after moving to Texas, I was licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas in 2016. I have also been admitted to practice in the United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit, when I was appointed by the U.S. Court of Appeals as attorney to an inmate in his criminal appeal. I have also practiced in various state and federal courts around the country. During my practice, I have practiced in the areas of family law, corporate and securities litigation, mediation and arbitration, as well as product liability mass litigation, probate, and civil litigation. I am also a certified family law mediator. My primary focus now is on all aspects of family law including divorce, child custody, child support, visitation, and spousal support. Starting in Chicago and then New Jersey, I was blessed with three amazing children. After we moved to Texas, I was divorced from their father, took in two more children, and decided I could best help people by combining my life experiences with my abilities as a lawyer. The practice of family law involves intense emotions in the clients. As an experienced litigator and from my life experiences, I am able to empathize with and fervently advocate on behalf of my clients while offering creative solutions and ideas to help clients adjust to their new “normal”.

Mr. Pierret attended the University of Dallas on full academic scholarship, obtaining a degree in Philosophy, and went straight to law school at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. His first job as an attorney brought him to Fort Worth as a briefing attorney for Justices Clyde Ashworth and David Farris on the Fort Worth Court of Appeals, and he has remained in Tarrant County for the past 35 years. Mr. Pierret’s practice has always revolved around tort law, both plaintiff and defense, and he has been Board-certified in Civil Trial Law since 1991 and Personal Injury Law since 1998. He received a Top 10 Attorney Award in 2020 from the National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys, and his practice at Bailey & Galyen is devoted to representing those who have been injured by someone else’s negligence.

Greg spent 20 years in the military, both Army and Air Force, and retired as a captain in the reserves in 1999. He also served as a police officer in Texas for over 20 years, and holds a master peace officer certification. Greg, as a police officer, was a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) Instructor, an Intoxilizer Operator, and a police academy instructor. He has an Associate's degree (in Liberal Arts) and a Bachelor's degree (in Political Science), the later earned while he was on active duty in the Air Force. After his law enforcement career was over, he attended Texas A&M Law School in Fort Worth and graduated in 2014. Greg has written for Fault Lines, an ABA Top 100 Legal Blawg, and occasionally contributes as a guest columnist to Simple Justice, an ABA Hall of Fame Legal Blawg. Greg clerked for Criminal District Judge Mollee Westfall.

Since 1990, attorney Tom McElyea has earned a reputation for providing his clients with honest, reliable and hands-on legal representation. In fact, if he has proven one thing over the last 30 years, it is that he takes a no-nonsense approach to the practice of law – he will always tell it to you straight no matter the situation. While attorney McElyea recognizes the need for aggressive legal advocacy, he also understands that each case is different, and as such, should be handled with common sense and practical legal guidance. “Although I certainly have the experience to fight for you aggressively in the courtroom, I never just go rushing into litigation. I will take the time to carefully evaluate your case, give you an honest and accurate case assessment, and do everything I can to obtain a favorable settlement for you without the time and expense of court. I am always looking for a way to get the best outcome possible as efficiently as possible.” Regardless of whether you need help with a business matter, a personal injury claim or a family law dispute, attorney McElyea will give you and your case the individualized service you deserve. You can count on him to personally manage your case from start to finish. In 2001, Tom McElyea decided to branch out and establish his own legal practice in the Southlake area – the firm that is now known as McElyea Law. Prior to the opening of his own firm, attorney McElyea primarily defended corporations and insurance companies in defense cases. This particular experience now provides the firm with a significant advantage and unique insight when it comes to pursuing personal injury claims in Texas.

Andrew Howard is a practicing attorney in the state of Texas specializing in Accident & Injury, Divorce & Family Law, and Criminal Defense. Mr. Howard received his J.D. from the Regent University School of Law in 1995.

Professional, yet approachable. Confident, yet easygoing. I will tenaciously represent you with honesty, integrity and empathy. I come from a family of legal eagles, so this profession is in my blood…I have a true passion for the law. My father was a family law attorney before me. I started following him around the Courthouse when I was five, worked in his law office through high school, and served process through college. I grew up on family law and my instincts were honed on complex property, custody and enforcement from the time I was a child. My father would get a kick out of asking me questions about a property case or how to get custody under certain circumstances, and then take my answers and put them into pleadings. By the time I was licensed, I was ready to take on anybody – any issue. As my career took off, I learned that an effective attorney isn’t just aggressive and he doesn’t blindly follow the bullets as he shoots. An effective attorney is strategic and determined, has a strong sense of integrity, and is guided by values and faith. That’s how I try cases. There are two hundred ways to tell every story, but only one of those is the most persuasive. I know the family law process and I believe in it. I understand it and I can explain it to you because I have lived it my entire life. No one else will work harder to guide you through one of the toughest times of your life. I’m proud of what I accomplish – the complicated property cases I try, protecting the children, enforcing the Orders. It’s important for you to unequivocally know that I am committed to protecting you and your children during the battle of divorce, property division and custody disputes with the goal of you leaving here better than when you arrived. Divorce and custody disputes are often stressful, financially taxing and spiritually draining experiences. I will involve you and put you at ease by explaining the whole process, ensuring you understand and agree with our strategies. Experience counts. Yes, this is one of the hardest times of your life, but we take action today for a better tomorrow.

Anna Nika was admitted to the Texas Bar in May, 2005, after graduating from the Baylor University School of Law. She attended Dartmouth College, in Hanover, New Hampshire, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in history. For more than 18 years, Anna Nika has protected the rights of women and men in family law and divorce matters. She also handles tax disputes. Before entering private practice, she served as an assistant district attorney in Cameron County, Texas, where she honed her trial skills handling criminal matters. Originally from Springfield, Illinois, she moved permanently to Texas in 2002. She has practiced extensively in North-Central Texas, representing clients in Harris County, Bexar County, Travis County and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Anna is licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas and is currently working toward her board certification in family law. She has considerable trial experience, handling a wide range of divorce and family law disputes. She also advocates for clients in matters involving Child Protective Services. Anna is proud to be a part of the Bailey & Galyen team, thriving on helping families with all types of legal issues.

Jessica Lesser is a dedicated Attorney at The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to her role. Originally from Midland, Texas, Jessica began her legal career in the Dallas/Fort Worth area in 1997. Over the years, she expanded her professional horizons by living and practicing law in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Richmond, Virginia, before returning to DFW in 2000. Her journey through various cities and legal environments has enriched her perspective and sharpened her skills as a legal professional. In her personal life, Jessica treasures spending time with her family and finds joy in cooking, a hobby she holds dear. Her love for animals is evident in her volunteer work with an animal rescue organization, as well as her personal commitment to fostering dogs over the years. At home, she shares her life with her high school-aged son and a loyal Siberian Husky named Lucy, both of whom bring her immense joy and pride. Jessica’s passion for solving problems led her to pursue a career in the legal field. She is especially devoted to ensuring that the law is applied equally to all individuals, a cause she holds close to her heart. Her personal experience with divorce profoundly shaped her approach to her work. Having navigated the legal system as a client, Jessica gained invaluable insight into the challenges clients face, inspiring her to become a strong advocate for client education. She is deeply committed to equipping her clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their cases. Known for her authenticity, caring nature, analytical mind, and a touch of quirky charm, Jessica is highly regarded by both her colleagues and friends. Her dedication to her work and her clients is matched only by her adventurous spirit. One of her lifelong dreams is to spend a year traveling the country in an RV, a goal that reflects her curiosity and love for exploration. Jessica’s unique blend of professional expertise and personal warmth makes her an invaluable member of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan team.

Deborah Coleman holds a double major in Political Science and Criminal Science from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX (1992), and earned a JD from Oklahoma City University School of Law (1995). A dedicated community member, Deborah Coleman was actively involved in church activities, including roles such as choir member, Youth Sunday School teacher, and chairperson of several committees. Although focusing on family recently, Deborah plans to return to church volunteer work once her youngest completes junior year. Originally from Wichita Falls and now based in Irving, TX, Deborah Coleman is a passionate sports enthusiast, supporting teams such as the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Oklahoma Sooners, Dallas Wings, and Mavericks.

Attorney Champagne practices law in the areas of Wills, Estates, Guardianship and Family Law. She earned her Juris Doctor from Washburn University of Topeka and was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2007. Fellow associates describe Attorney Champagne as a caring, tenacious and a passionate advocate for her clients. Her intelligent approach to resolving your complex legal issues stems from her client centered practice philosophy. Attorney Champagne is committed to finding the solution that fits your individual needs. Attorney Champagne invites you to experience excellent client service. Her goal is to treat every client with respect and dignity. When our firm accepts your case, you will know that your business is important to us.