Attorneys
Dan Gibbins
Dan Gibbins is an experienced and respected personal injury lawyer in Tyler, TX. Dan has spent years practicing both on behalf of plaintiffs and the defense, giving him an in-depth knowledge of the legal strategy that he now uses to represent individuals who have been hurt by the negligent and wrongful acts of others.
Dan was recently honored to be named Top 40 Under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers.
A La Poynor High School graduate and Tyler Junior College, Dan has East Texas roots, which led him to open Gibbins Law, PLLC in Tyler, TX. Outside the courtroom, Dan enjoys spending time with his wife, Kendra, who is also an attorney, and their two children, Piper and Tessa. His favorite pastimes include playing golf, hunting with his grandfather, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys and Fightin’ Texas Aggies.
Frank Barat
Frank M. Barat is an experienced trial attorney who represents individuals harmed by negligent and reckless conduct. He believes deeply in the rule of law as a means of leveling the playing field between individuals and powerful institutions.
Frank earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and his Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law. He is licensed to practice in Texas and in federal courts throughout the state and has been repeatedly recognized as a Texas Super Lawyers “Rising Star.”
Outside the office, Frank enjoys spending time with his wife and children, coaching youth sports, being active in his church, and following Texas A&M athletics.
Catherine Bateman
Catherine Bateman is a litigation-focused attorney who represents clients in family law and criminal defense matters. She is known for her strategic mindset, direct communication, and commitment to standing up for clients during moments when they feel overwhelmed or unheard.
Catherine earned her law degree from South Texas College of Law Houston and is licensed to practice in Texas. She is drawn to cases where her advocacy can make an immediate difference, particularly those involving family stability, personal rights, and courtroom representation.
Motivated by a belief that everyone deserves a strong advocate, Catherine approaches each case with clarity and resolve. Outside the office, she balances a busy practice with life at home in a large blended family.
Taylor Mann
Taylor Mann is a family-law-focused attorney whose approach to advocacy is shaped by a deep understanding of how overwhelming the legal system can feel. His work is driven by a commitment to protecting clients during moments when clarity and strong guidance matter most, particularly in emotionally charged family matters.
Taylor earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and his Juris Doctor from Baylor Law School. He is currently preparing to sit for the Texas Bar Exam, subject to character and fitness approval and completion of required coursework. His legal training emphasized disciplined analysis, client communication, and practical problem-solving.
Taylor’s decision to pursue law began after a childhood court experience left him feeling powerless and uncertain. That moment shaped his desire to ensure others never feel unprotected in the legal process. Outside the office, he enjoys reading, playing golf, strength training, and spending time with his daughter, who remains his greatest inspiration.
Evan Barat
Evan Barat is an experienced family law attorney who represents clients in various family law matters, including divorce, custody modifications, child support modifications, adoptions, and Child Protective Services (CPS) removal cases. Recognized as a “Rising Star” by Texas Super Lawyers in 2021, 2022, and 2023, Evan is known for her personalized approach, straightforward counsel, and dedicated advocacy.
Evan graduated with honors from Texas Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and earned her Doctor of Jurisprudence cum laude from Texas Tech University School of Law. She has dedicated her legal career to serving clients in East Texas, building her reputation through consistent and committed legal representation.
An active member of the Texas legal community, Evan is involved with the Texas Bar Foundation, the State Bar of Texas, the Smith County Bar Association, and several sections dedicated to family law. She resides in Tyler, Texas, with her husband and children and is actively involved in her community through St. Francis Episcopal Church.
Izabelle Mendoza
Izabelle Mendoza focuses her legal practice on family law, guiding clients through some of the most challenging periods of their lives with patience and clarity. Her approach is rooted in empathy and a strong commitment to client understanding.
Izabelle earned her Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University and was admitted to practice law in Texas in October 2025. During law school, she provided pro bono representation through the Family Law Clinic.
Outside of work, Izabelle enjoys reading, cooking, baking, and music, having played the clarinet for more than a decade.
Mollie Millslagle
Mollie Millslagle represents clients in family law matters with a focus on practical solutions and steady advocacy. She is committed to helping individuals and families navigate uncertainty with confidence and clear guidance.
After earning her undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and her law degree from South Texas College of Law Houston, Mollie returned to East Texas to serve the community that shaped her upbringing.
Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing tennis, and hosting game nights.
