Daragh Carter

Attorney Daragh Carter

Experienced litigator who gets results

Houston personal injury lawyer Daragh Carter graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Houston Law Center. At graduation Daragh was ranked 20th in a graduating class of over 380 students. Daragh also has a master's degree in applied psychology from the University of Ulster and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Queens University of Belfast, both universities being in his native Northern Ireland.

Prior to joining Smith & Hassler, Daragh was a litigation associate for Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P. in their Houston office. Daragh's practice is focused on personal injury law, insurance bad faith and consumer law, and he is admitted to practice law in the State of Texas.

Daragh has tried several cases to a jury verdict, including taking an excess verdict (a verdict for an amount above the defendant's insurance policy limit) in a car accident injury case. Daragh takes an interest in representing clients injured by drunk drivers and in representing children.

When not advocating for his clients, Daragh enjoys spending time with his wife and three young children at his in-law’s cattle ranch in Breckenridge, Texas. Daragh is an adjunct professor who teaches trial advocacy skills to future attorneys at his alma mater, the University of Houston Law Center. He is a member of the Houston Trial Lawyers Association (HTLA). Daragh is board certified in personal injury trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Sarah E
5 Star
In May of 2019 I was involved in a MVC. From the start I thought I could handle everything on my own, but before I knew it the 2-year statute of limitations was quickly approaching, and the other party’s insurance was dragging their feet. In May of 2021 less than 2 weeks before the statute would’ve hit, I got in contact with Daragh Carter about my case. Despite such a short notice, he was still able to successfully get the other party served in time. Working by his side is Abigail, who is just as great. They truly make an amazing team. Abigail did a wonderful job in keeping me informed throughout the process and ensuring that all the necessary paperwork and documents were obtained. Anytime I had a question or a concern I knew I could count on Abigail to get me an answer. Between Mr. Carter and Abigail, I felt confident that my case was in great hands, and I never worried about the outcome. My only regret in all of this was not contacting Mr. Carter from the start. I know for a fact had I done this without the two of them I would not have had such a favorable outcome.
Thursday 22nd December 2022

Eric Hackett
5 Star
I absolutely couldn't be happier with the service or the results of my experience with Daragh Carter and his staff. He was up front and honest with me from the beginning, answered every question I had and told me exactly what to expect during each step of the process. Every calculated move he made kept us one step ahead of the insurance company and yielded the best results possible, a 100% recovery of the insurance policy. It was truly a professional experience and I would recommend Daragh to anyone seeking legal representation.
Tuesday 28th February 2017

Mary Romere
5 Star
I hired Daragh to represent me in a motor vehicle accident case, where I was rear-ended in a turning lane by a distracted driver. As a result of the accident, I have 3 cervical herniated disks in my neck. After months of PT and chiropractic treatments at a Spine Center and 2 epidural steroid injections under anesthesia, I was recommended to have a 2-level ACDF (fusion) by my spine specialist. I was initially going to settle the claim myself and had prepared a demand letter to State Farm. Several days before the 2-yr statute of limitations would expire on my case, I changed my mind and hired Daragh after doing extensive internet research to find a competent, board-certified personal injury attorney. I couldn't be more pleased with my decision! Daragh met with me the next day, outlined the steps in the case, answered my extensive questions, and prepared a written contract that explained the attorney's fees in detail. He filed the case in a timely manner, gathered all of the medical records needed, prepared me for deposition, negotiated a fair settlement with State Farm and my health insurer (who had a medical lien to recoup their paid claims) and paid out the settlement funds promptly. My settlement was 2.5-3X their initial offer. Throughout the process, Daragh always returned phone calls and emails personally the same day or informed me if he was in court or depositions. He had my best interests in mind and did not rush me to settle the case prematurely or have unneeded procedures or surgery. He has extensive knowledge of the law and is a kind, easy-going guy who is a great negotiator. His positive relationships with his adversaries from the insurance companies is a great asset in achieving a fair settlement. I highly recommend Daragh Carter. He has restored my faith that there are decent, honest, plaintiff's attorneys.
Friday 29th July 2016

Maria Lopez
5 Star
Daragh Carter & his team are so amazing! Very professional, honest and keep the communication flowing with their clients. They were upfront and so friendly. They contacted me as needed and whenever I had question(s), they responded quickly. They held my hand during the entire process and explained step-by-step what was going to happen. I will happily refer everyone to him.
Tuesday 3rd March 2020

Tim Ratliff
5 Star
Outstanding Attorney Daragh assisted us when my wife was in an auto accident where she was hit head-on by a teenage driver while she was texting on her way to school. That accident totaled our car and also required my wife to have spinal surgery. Daragh did a phenomenal job for us as he handled all the details and managed expectations regarding the entire process. He ensured that we were not only fully compensated for the accident but that we were covered for likely expenses that we may be faced with in the future. He helped us navigate this process very smoothly and expertly managed all the dealings with various insurance companies. I would highly recommend Daragh, he is a true professional that is very easy to work with.
Sunday 31st May 2015