Gary Coley
Of Counsel
Judicial Insight in Commercial Trucking Cases
Judge Gary Coley is an integral part of Cherry Johnson Siegmund James, bringing more than three decades of legal experience—including 16 years on the bench—to the firm's national commercial trucking and catastrophic injury practice. During his time as a district court judge, he presided over a wide range of complex matters, including commercial litigation, personal injury, and medical malpractice cases. That experience provides a clear understanding of how these cases are evaluated, tried, and decided, helping the firm build stronger cases from the outset and maximize results for our clients.
Gary supports complex trucking cases nationwide, contributing to a track record of more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements in cases involving wrongful death, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, and paralysis. His judicial background informs every phase of these cases—from early case evaluation through trial and resolution.
A Trusted Guide Through Injury & Recovery
Gary understands that a catastrophic trucking collision can have lasting consequences for individuals and their families. He brings a compassionate, measured approach to each case—helping clients understand the process, evaluate their options, and make informed decisions during a difficult time as he works to pursue full and fair compensation.
Judicial Leadership & Professional Distinction
- Former District Court Judge, 16+ years on the bench
- Visiting Judge, by assignment
- Member, American Board of Trial Advocates
- Vice Chair, Supreme Court Permanent Judicial Commission for Children, Youth & Families
- Adjunct Professor, Baylor Law School
Nationwide Practice
Gary is licensed in multiple state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. As part of the Cherry Johnson Siegmund James team, he supports commercial trucking and catastrophic injury cases across the country. Drawing on his experience on the bench, he brings a practical, evaluative perspective to cases across jurisdictions, working with local counsel as appropriate to ensure seamless representation for clients in all 50 states.
Education & Background
Gary earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University before obtaining his Juris Doctor from Baylor University School of Law. He built a successful litigation practice before serving more than 16 years on the bench, where he was known for his fairness, leadership, and commitment to innovation. During his judicial career, Gary co-founded the Heart of Texas Human Trafficking Coalition—an initiative that has been replicated internationally—and trained judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement on complex legal issues around the world.
Professional Leadership & Industry Involvement
Gary is an active member of the American Board of Trial Advocates, a selective, invitation-only organization of experienced trial lawyers and judges dedicated to preserving the right to trial by jury and advancing excellence in trial advocacy. In addition, he serves as an Adjunct Professor at Baylor Law School, where he teaches Juvenile Justice and mentors future leaders in the legal profession.
Outside the Office
Outside of his practice, Gary is actively involved in this community and enjoys supporting local organizations, including the Rotary Club and the Waco Symphony Association.
To discuss your commercial trucking case with Gary Coley, contact Cherry Johnson Siegmund James today.