Biography

I’m an attorney and counselor at law, with an emphasis on the role of counselor.

When discussing estate planning with you, my first job is to listen and ask questions to learn about your circumstances and wishes. I then outline your options and list the advantages and disadvantages, if any, of each option.

When I Understand Your Wishes, I Prepare the Necessary Legal Documents

Collectively, these documents function together as your personal estate plan.

My Legal Background

I have been an attorney licensed by the State of Texas for more than 30 years. I am admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States, as well as Texas state courts.

I am a member of the State Bar of Texas and the Austin Bar Association, as well as a member of the Real Estate, Probate and Trust Law Section of the State Bar of Texas and the Estate Planning and Probate Law Section of the Austin Bar Association.

I am proud to be a member of The College of the State Bar of Texas. The College of the State Bar of Texas is an honorary society of lawyers who are among the best trained attorneys in Texas.  Members are qualified attorneys who are interested in both high ethical standards and improved training for all Texas attorneys.

I was appointed and served as a commissioner to the Supreme Court of Texas Permanent Judicial Commission for Children, Youth and Families from 2009 to 2011.

Community Involvement

I am a member, at my church, of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and a frequent volunteer for Breakthrough Austin. With my son, Charlie, I am a former volunteer for the Handy Wheels program of Meals on Wheels and More.

For more information about my background.

See information about fees.

  • Education

      I am a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of University of Texas, having received a B.A. with honors (majoring in Economics) and a J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law. While attending law school, I was selected as a Teaching Quizmaster and awarded the Consul award in recognition of leadership and service to the law school.

      The most important part of law school was discovering my life partner and wife, Joanne. Together, we are the proud parents of son Charlie and daughter Jenna.

  • Professional Career

      I started my legal career in Houston as a trial attorney. I moved back to Austin to serve as chair and legal counsel to the Texas Industrial Accident Board, I also served as general counsel to a state senate committee. Prior to establishing my law office, I was executive director of Texas CASA, a statewide nonprofit organization advocating for children in foster care. I was honored by the organization upon my departure by the creation of an award in my name given each year to a local CASA staff person in recognition of outstanding service and commitment to children.

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Barton Oaks Plaza One, Suite 300
901 South MoPac Expressway
Austin, TX 78746
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By submitting this form Joseph Gagen - Attorney at Law will take no action to protect your interests. Submission of this form does not establish an attorney-client privilege.