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Trusted Mississippi Personal Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers
Merkel & Cocke, P.A has been a trusted advocate for accident victims and their families since 1982. Our firm specializes in personal injury and medical malpractice cases, combining over 200 years of collective legal experience with a team-oriented approach to achieve favorable outcomes. We prioritize client needs through transparent communication, ethical standards, and meticulous case preparation. Our attorneys leverage advanced technology and collaborate with industry experts to build robust cases, ensuring accountability for negligence.

Recognized by peers and clients alike, we handle complex litigation with a focus on justice and client well-being. With offices across Mississippi, we offer free consultations and operate on a contingency basis, ensuring accessibility to all clients. Our track record includes landmark verdicts and settlements, reflecting our commitment to excellence and client advocacy.
Services
Personal Injury Medical Malpractice Product Liability Wrongful Death Workers Compensation Legal Malpractice Premises Liability Casino Litigation Mass Torts Contract Disputes
Details
  • Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
  • We have over 40 years of experience in personal injury and medical malpractice law.
  • Our team approach leverages collective expertise for comprehensive case strategies.
  • We utilize state-of-the-art technology for efficient case preparation and analysis.
  • Our attorneys are admitted to practice in all Mississippi state and federal courts.
  • We operate on a contingency fee basis with no upfront costs for clients.
Associations and certifications
  • BBB
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • Super Lawyers
  • Best Lawyers
What people say
Aggressive representation Changed my life Diligent work Cared about me Favorable outcome
Services
Personal Injury
Our personal injury practice focuses on cases involving negligence resulting in serious injuries. We represent clients in motor vehicle accidents, construction injuries, and catastrophic events. Our attorneys work with investigators and medical experts to establish liability and secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With decades of experience, we advocate for victims across Mississippi and the Gulf Coast region.
Medical Malpractice
We hold medical professionals accountable for preventable errors causing birth injuries, misdiagnoses, and surgical mistakes. Our team collaborates with healthcare experts to demonstrate breaches in care standards. Cases include hospital negligence, chiropractic malpractice, and pharmaceutical errors. We pursue justice for victims suffering permanent disabilities due to medical negligence across Mississippi and neighboring states.
Product Liability
Our firm represents clients harmed by dangerous consumer products and pharmaceuticals. We investigate manufacturing defects, design flaws, and inadequate warnings. Cases involve automotive defects, medical devices, and toxic substances. We work with engineers and safety experts to prove manufacturer liability and secure compensation for injuries caused by defective products.
Wrongful Death
We assist families seeking justice for loved ones lost to medical errors, vehicle accidents, and workplace negligence. Our attorneys handle complex claims against hospitals, corporations, and individuals responsible for fatal incidents. We focus on securing financial support for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional damages while providing compassionate legal guidance.
Workers Compensation
We advocate for injured workers navigating Mississippi's workers' compensation system. Our services include appeals for denied claims, representation in disputes over medical treatment, and pursuit of third-party liability claims. We help clients secure benefits for occupational illnesses, construction accidents, and industrial injuries while protecting their rights against employer retaliation.
People
Charles M. Merkel, Jr.
Managing Member
Co-founder with over 40 years of experience in personal injury litigation. Specializes in complex medical malpractice and catastrophic injury cases. Admitted to multiple federal courts and recognized for landmark verdicts in Mississippi and Tennessee.
John Hartwell Cocke
Managing Member
Co-founder focusing on trial advocacy and appellate practice. Handles high-stakes personal injury cases with emphasis on medical malpractice and product liability. Maintains active involvement in legal education and professional associations.
Edward P. Connell, Jr.
Member
Specializes in workers' compensation and premises liability cases. Over 30 years of experience representing injured workers across Mississippi. Recognized for successful appeals and legislative advocacy in workers' rights.
Cynthia I. Mitchell
Of Council
Focuses on medical malpractice and birth injury cases. Known for compassionate representation and meticulous case preparation. Active participant in national legal associations for women attorneys.
Christopher W. Winter
Member
Handles complex litigation including mass torts and commercial disputes. Experienced in federal court proceedings and appellate advocacy. Specializes in cases involving defective medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
Questions
What types of cases does Merkel & Cocke handle?
We specialize in personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, workers' compensation, and legal malpractice cases across Mississippi and neighboring states.
How are legal fees structured?
We work on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, meaning no upfront costs and payment only if we win your case.
Can I consult with an attorney remotely?
Yes, we offer phone and video consultations through platforms like Zoom for clients unable to visit our offices.
What makes your firm different from others?
Our combination of decades of experience, team approach, and proven track record in complex litigation sets us apart.
Do you handle cases outside Mississippi?
Yes, we represent clients in Tennessee, Arkansas, and federal courts across the Southeastern United States.
How long do cases typically take?
Case duration varies by complexity, but we work efficiently to resolve matters while preparing for trial if necessary.
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