Douglas W. Poole

Douglas W. Poole is a highly accomplished trial lawyer with decades of experience in railroad law, toxic torts, environmental litigation, aviation matters, personal injury, and business disputes. Known for his commitment to legal excellence, he has tried more than 100 railroad cases to verdict and has been involved in numerous published appellate and federal court decisions. His work includes FELA claims, grade-crossing incidents, mass torts, employment matters, product liability, transportation cases, and insurance coverage litigation at McLeod, Alexander, Powel, & Apffel, P.C. Clients value his practical approach, strategic insight, and strong courtroom advocacy grounded in years of hands-on work in the railroad industry before beginning his legal career.

Mr. Poole earned his B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and his J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law. His academic foundation supports his long-standing commitment to trial practice and complex litigation across state and federal courts.

Mr. Poole has helped clients throughout his career, navigating high-stakes disputes with clarity and confidence. He maintains an active trial docket for major transportation and industrial entities, including BNSF Railway Company, Union Pacific Railroad Company, Amtrak, Galveston Railway, Inc., The Port of Galveston (Galveston Wharves), Professional Transportation, Inc., and several insurance companies. His work has supported individuals, businesses, and insurers in resolving challenging cases involving injuries, contractual conflicts, and large-scale environmental and transportation issues. By focusing on careful preparation and strong courtroom presentation, he consistently guides clients toward effective and efficient outcomes.

Douglas W. Poole is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an honor he has maintained since 1982 through multiple recertifications. His professional achievements include recognition by national legal publications, service in leadership roles within the National Association of Railroad Trial Counsel, and selection as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. His long record of service and leadership reflects his dedication to advancing the practice of trial law and supporting the legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Firm Officer, McLeod, Alexander, Powel, & Apffel, P.C.
• Member, State Bar of Texas
• Member, State Bar of Oklahoma
• Member, Galveston County Bar Association
• Vice President, National Association of Railroad Trial Counsel, Southwestern Region, 2004-2005
• Member, Texas Association of Defense Counsel
• Life Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation
• Attorney-Delegate, Southern District of Texas, Galveston Division, Fifth Circuit Judicial Conference 2004

Licensed State

• Texas
• Oklahoma

Education

• St. Mary’s University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Texas at Austin
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges