Shane O’Neal

Shane O’Neal is a criminal defense attorney who represents people facing serious charges throughout West Texas. He handles cases from investigation through trial and appeal, with experience in both state and federal courts. His practice includes violent offenses, drug cases, smuggling and border-related prosecutions, and complex constitutional challenges.

Before opening O’Neal Law, Shane served as an Assistant Federal Public Defender, where he defended indigent clients in high-stakes cases and argued appeals before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. He also clerked for a United States District Judge, giving him an inside view of how judges evaluate criminal cases. Shane is Board Certified in Criminal Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by only a small number of Texas attorneys.

Shane brings a trial lawyer’s instincts and an appellate lawyer’s precision to every case. He is fluent in Spanish, perfected while teaching bilingual first grade. His work has drawn attention beyond the courtroom, reflecting a practice built on careful preparation and principled advocacy.

Shane lives primarily in Alpine, Texas, with his dog Cafecito, while defending criminal cases throughout West Texas.