About Eric S.
Eric S. Coats is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in Amarillo, Texas, with a robust legal career spanning over 30 years. Licensed to practice in Texas since 1992, he holds bar card number 00783845. Coats is board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction that shows his expertise in the field. His credentials also include admission to practice before several prestigious courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S.
District Court for the Northern District of Texas. Coats earned his Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law in 1992. His legal journey began shortly after graduation when he took on the role of Assistant Federal Public Defender in Amarillo, Texas, starting in November 2019. This position allowed him to represent clients in federal criminal cases, further enhancing his experience in criminal defense. Before joining the Federal Public Defender's Office, he spent two years at the Potter County Attorney’s Office, where he gained invaluable insights into the workings of both prosecution and defense. In June 1995, Coats established his own practice in Amarillo, where he has since built a reputation for effective representation.
Throughout his career, Coats has conducted over 100 jury trials, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for his clients' rights. His practice areas encompass criminal defense, criminal appeals, and appellate criminal law. This lets the attorney assist clients at various stages of the legal process. Coats’ extensive trial experience equips him with the skills necessary to navigate complex legal challenges, making him a advocate in the courtroom. Fluency in Spanish further enhances Coats’ ability to serve clients in the Amarillo area. This language skill allows him to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring they receive comprehensive legal support.
His dedication to client service is reflected in his approach, where he takes the time to understand each client's unique circumstances and legal needs. Coats operates his law office at 1716 S — Polk St., Amarillo, TX 79102, strategically located to serve the local community. He is affiliated with the Federal Public Defender's Office for the Northern District of Texas in Amarillo, reinforcing his commitment to providing quality legal representation. For those seeking legal assistance, Coats can be reached at (806) 374-1333, where he is ready to offer guidance and support in handling the requirements of criminal law.
