Eric attended both Gonzaga and Seattle University Schools of Law. During law school, Eric earned a spot on the prestigious Law Review team where he became an associate editor. He also served as a member of the Moot Court team arguing a mock appellate matter before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, CA. He graduated from law school, in 2003, with a 3.3 GPA in the top twentieth percent of his class. Mr. Engel has extensive experience handling litigation matters in domestic disputes. The majority of his family law practice concerns contested family law litigation matters for high net worth clients and child custody disputes involving serious parenting allegations such as Sexual Abuse, Drug Addiction, and Domestic Violence. His Dallas, Texas, law practice includes divorce and family law. Besides working for his clients, Eric enjoys reading, jogging, playing the piano, Sagittarius *A, Roman history post Republic, and has a peculiar interest in global oil production and Hubbert’s Peak.

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.

Elliott has practiced for decades in the area of wills, trusts, estates, guardianships, and probate. He routinely prepares living trusts, wills and handles probate administrations for his clientele. Elliott provides strategic advice and planning regarding trust and estate-related disputes. He is skilled in helping clients resolve family-related disputes arising after the death of a family member and has guided many clients through the litigation process. He is the Managing Director and a versatile team member of our accomplished group of fiduciary, trust, and probate litigation-focused attorneys.

Robert A. Thornton is a family law attorney at the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, serving clients from the firm’s Dallas office. Robert brings experience in both family law and criminal defense, along with a background as a solo practitioner. Robert earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Alabama and his Juris Doctor from Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. He has achieved a not guilty verdict in a felony jury trial. Robert was drawn to the legal profession by a belief that advocating for others is one of the highest callings. He is passionate about standing up for individuals facing difficult situations.

Not every family law case should go to trial—but every case should be handled with strength, strategy, and control. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, founded by Houston family law attorney Bryan Fagan, Diana Weitzel helps clients resolve complex divorce and custody matters through strategic negotiation, mediation, and when necessary, strong litigation. With more than a decade of experience practicing family law in Texas, she brings both depth and perspective to every case.

When your case is likely to be decided in a courtroom, experience is critical. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, founded by Houston family law attorney Bryan Fagan, Melvin Thathiah represents clients in Dallas and across North Texas in contested divorce, custody, and litigation-driven family law matters. With more than 20 years of litigation experience, including hundreds of bench trials and over 50 jury trials, he provides clients with trial-ready representation and strategic courtroom advocacy. Melvin previously served as a Visiting Judge in Collin County, presiding over civil and criminal matters.

John R. Vermillion works as an estate planning and probate attorney and is licensed to practice in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. A native Texan, he graduated from Texas Christian University in 1974 receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science. In 1977, he received his Juris Doctor degree from the Louisiana State University Law School. Upon graduation from law school, Mr. Vermillion worked extensively as a corporate attorney in the fields of oil and gas exploration and production, real estate development, finance and estate planning. He served for many years as corporate counsel and Vice President of a private independent oil and gas company. Mr. Vermillion is a member of the State Bar of Texas, the Dallas Bar Association, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Oklahoma Bar Association, and the Tennessee Bar Association. He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.