The Counselor Who Cares: Craig Carlson and the Carlson Law Firm

Craig Carlson is not only an attorney, he is an attorney who is well aware of what is at stake for families and individuals, alike. He chose law as his career for reasons that are extremely personal. This gives him an unparalleled insight into the needs of his clients. “When I was a young boy, my parents were unable to afford an attorney to represent them against a Nebraska city trying to take a portion of our farm for water rights. Rather than allow this injustice, as a 12 year old I stood up on behalf of my family”, explains Craig. “My family was able to keep their land and I claimed my first legal victory”. Ever since, Carlson has dedicated his life to ensuring that no one ever had to face this type of injustice again, at least not on his watch.

Craig Carlson went on to serve in the Army as the Chief of Legal Assistance, Chief of U.S. Army Claims and Senior Trial Counsel in the U.S. Army JAG Corp from 1989-1992 at Fort Devens. He moved on to be stationed in Fort Hood, where he served as the Senior Trial Defense Counsel from 1992-1994. After retiring from the military, he wanted to continue serving others through the law in a way that aligned with his values. This is what prompted him to start the Carlson Law Firm. Helping people has always been at the heart of why Carlson became an attorney. This is what he would consider his favorite aspect of his profession. “Without caring about others, none of the verdicts, settlements and hard work mean anything” states Craig. This is part of their core values and why they “hire for heart” at The Carlson Law Firm. Aside from this, Craig Carlson submits that his faith inspires his dedication to a life of serving others, and informs his decisions in everything he does.

A few years ago, a client filed a claim on behalf of her husband who was catastrophically injured after a delivery truck ran a red light. He had a severe brain injury and will be in a wheelchair the rest of his life. His family was concerned the wife had ill intentions and was planning to take whatever settlement he was awarded. All documents were drafted in a way to protect him and award him all of the money, a very significant amount for a very significant injury that altered his life. His wife did end up leaving him in the end but his assets and monetary award from the case were protected. He and his family expressed how incredibly grateful they were to Carlson and the firm, for not only protecting him, but being a voice for the injured as well.

Aside from making a difference in the life of his clients, Craig Carlson also pursues community involvement in the spirit of service. Carlson Cares is the charitable program of The Carlson Law Firm dedicated to improving the lives of everyone in our communities. They started Carlson Cares in June 2018. Since then, their Austin-area staff has volunteered with local food banks and MADD. They’ve supplied backpacks and snacks to hundreds of students, hosted trunk or treats, donated toys and costumes to local charities, and helped ensure dozens of children in the Austin area can wake up on Christmas morning with a tree and gifts and more through their Christmas Miracle program.

Craig Carlson and the Carlson Law Firm put values over value, and people over profit. They are a veteran-owned, faith-based operation led by a man of sincere integrity.