I’m Tad A. Nelson, founder of a boutique criminal defense and DWI firm guided by the principle: “Big City Experience, Small Town Values.” For me and my team, representing clients in court and protecting their constitutional rights isn’t just a job—it’s a privilege. We put people before profits, always prioritizing the well-being of our clients, their families, and their peace of mind.
Based in League City, we serve Galveston County, Harris County, and communities throughout the Texas Gulf Coast. Our firm focuses on criminal defense, DWI, and family law, handling family law cases exclusively in Galveston County, while also taking on criminal cases across the region. We’re proud to offer personalized, results-driven representation backed by real trial experience and advanced scientific training.
I’m one of a select group of attorneys in the U.S. designated as a Lawyer-Scientist by the American Chemical Society. I also hold a Master’s Degree in Forensic Toxicology, which enables me to challenge the science behind DWI charges, drug tests, and forensic evidence in ways that most lawyers can’t. Since 1996, I’ve been Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, and throughout my career, I’ve personally handled over 400 jury trials.
Clients come to us during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Whether you’re fighting a serious felony, navigating a divorce, or facing a first-time DWI, we treat every case with the care, attention, and dedication it deserves. We believe in honest communication, aggressive representation, and treating every client like they matter, because they do.
If you’re facing criminal charges or family law challenges, we’re ready to help you move forward with strength and confidence.
- University of Florida
- M.S. (2016) | Forensic Toxicolgy
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- Honors: Master's in Forensic Toxicology from the Veterinary School
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- Thomas M. Cooley Law School
- Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor (J.D.)
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- Assistant District Attorney
- Texas
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- Former Felony Prosecutor Assistant. Galveston County Dist. Atty.
- Criminal Law
- Texas State Bar
- Board Certification
- Texas Board Of Legal Specialization
- Lawyer-Scientist
- American Chemical Society
- DUI Defense Lawyers Association
- Founding Member
- Current
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- National College for DUI Defense
- General Member
- Current
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- Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
- Current
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- American Chemical Society
- Current
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- Texas Board of Legal Specialization  # 14906350
- Board Certified
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- Texas
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- Federal Circuit
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- Free Consultation
- Credit Cards Accepted
- Contingent Fees
- DUI & DWI
- Criminal Law
- Criminal Appeals, Drug Crimes, Expungement, Fraud, Gun Crimes, Internet Crimes, Sex Crimes, Theft, Violent Crimes
- Divorce
- Collaborative Law, Contested Divorce, Military Divorce, Property Division, Same Sex Divorce, Spousal Support & Alimony, Uncontested Divorce
- Family Law
- Adoption, Child Custody, Child Support, Father's Rights, Guardianship & Conservatorship, Paternity, Prenups & Marital Agreements, Restraining Orders, Same Sex Family Law
- Personal Injury
- Animal & Dog Bites, Brain Injury, Car Accidents, Construction Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Premises Liability, Truck Accidents, Wrongful Death
- Car Accidents
- English: Spoken, Written
- Spanish: Spoken, Written