Gregory Ziegler, Attorney Specializing in Navigating Legal Challenges for Engineers and Architects
Gregory Ziegler, Attorney, has built an impressive legal career dedicated to representing engineers and architects in complex legal matters. Born and raised in Texas, Gregory Ziegler was profoundly influenced by his early experiences in construction and design. His father, who built the family home from scratch, exposed Gregory to architectural drawings and the hands-on work required to bring those designs to life. These early interactions ignited a passion for the intricacies of design and construction, which would later shape his legal career. Additionally, with his son pursuing a career in engineering, Gregory’s personal connection to the industry only deepened, reinforcing his commitment to serving those who shape our built environment. Today, Attorney Gregory Ziegler is a well-respected legal expert, dedicated to helping engineers and architects protect their licenses, reputations, and businesses. In this interview, Gregory Ziegler shares his insights on the legal challenges within these specialized fields, the importance of collaboration in the industry, and the values that guide his approach to law.
How do you stay inspired and motivated during challenging times?
Staying motivated, particularly during challenging times, comes from a deep sense of responsibility to my clients. Engineers and architects face a lot of risks in their work—one misstep could result in significant financial losses, reputational damage, or even the loss of a professional license. Knowing that I can help guide them through these critical situations keeps me driven. For me, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing the tangible results of my work—whether it’s helping a client successfully navigate a lawsuit or avoiding a potential disaster through strategic legal advice. That sense of accomplishment, knowing that I’ve made a real difference in my clients' lives and careers, is what keeps me going.
What’s one trend that excites you in your industry?
One trend I’m particularly excited about is the increasing emphasis on collaboration within the construction industry. Traditionally, this field has been marked by a significant amount of conflict and litigation, as each party—whether it’s the owner, designer, or contractor—often has different priorities. However, we’re seeing a shift toward collaboration as a way to manage risks and improve outcomes for all parties involved. This collaborative approach is not only minimizing disputes but also leading to more innovative and successful projects. It’s exciting to see how the industry is evolving to adopt practices that prioritize cooperation over conflict, and I believe this trend will continue to grow in the coming years.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing your business today?
Like many sectors, the legal industry faces several challenges, particularly when it comes to finding young attorneys who are both skilled and committed to a client-focused approach. There’s a talent shortage in many professional industries, and law is no exception. For firm owners like myself, this presents a challenge but also an opportunity to invest in training and mentorship for the next generation of lawyers. Another challenge we face, especially in representing architects and engineers, is the increasing complexity of the legal landscape. As regulations become more intricate, and as new technologies like AI and automation continue to influence the design and construction fields, staying up-to-date on the latest developments is more critical than ever.
Where do you think your industry will be in 5 or 10 years?
The legal industry, like many others, is constantly evolving. Over the next five to ten years, I anticipate continued consolidation within the profession. Larger firms are likely to continue growing, while new firms will break off to establish themselves, creating a dynamic and competitive environment. Specifically, in the area of law that deals with engineering and architecture, I expect the demand for specialized legal services to grow as projects become more complex and regulations more stringent. Additionally, I see technology playing a greater role in the industry. The rise of digital tools and platforms that aid in project management, risk assessment, and dispute resolution will transform how legal professionals, like myself, interact with clients. However, while technology will certainly enhance efficiency, the human element—building relationships and trust—will remain crucial to long-term success.
What advice would you give to someone seeking a career in your industry?
If I could give advice to someone starting out in law—particularly in fields related to engineering and architecture—I’d emphasize the importance of gaining a broad range of experiences. Don’t just focus on legal knowledge; try to learn about the industries your clients work in. Engage in public service, participate in community projects, and stay up-to-date on technological advancements. But perhaps most importantly, develop strong communication skills. It’s one thing to know the law, but it’s another thing entirely to communicate complex legal concepts in a way that your clients can understand. Always listen more than you speak, and be clear and concise in your messaging.
If you were to start your career again, what would you do differently?
Looking back, if I had the chance to start my career again, I would spend more time learning from others. Early in your career, it’s easy to be focused on proving yourself, but there’s tremendous value in taking the time to listen, observe, and absorb knowledge from those with more experience. I wish I had asked more questions and taken more notes. Listening is such an important skill in this profession, and it’s something I continue to work on even today. The legal field is always evolving, and being open to learning from every experience is key to long-term success.
Why is your city a great place to live and work?
I have a deep love for my community. The people here are hardworking, kind, and have a strong sense of togetherness. There’s also a certain pride in the community that makes it a wonderful place to live and work. From a business perspective, it’s a very supportive environment, which is crucial for professionals like myself. It’s also centrally located, which makes it easy to stay connected with clients across various regions. Overall, the combination of a welcoming community and a business-friendly atmosphere makes this city a great place to build a career and a life.
What would you consider your most significant career accomplishment?
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to help many clients navigate some very difficult situations. There are a few instances that stand out as particularly significant. First, there have been several cases where I helped clients save their businesses, licenses, or careers when others thought they were done for. Second, I’ve advised clients against certain projects or relationships that could have led to financial disaster. And finally, guiding clients through depositions or trial testimony—which can be incredibly stressful—has always been rewarding. When a client shakes my hand afterward and thanks me for helping them through a tough process, that’s when I know I’ve made a real difference.
What hobbies or interests do you pursue in your free time?
Outside of work, I’m very much a family man. Spending time with my family is my top priority. In addition, I enjoy fishing, ranching, and of course, football. These hobbies help me unwind and maintain balance between my personal and professional life. Texas is the perfect place to enjoy these activities, and they provide a great way to relax and recharge after a busy week.
Can you share a quote that has been particularly meaningful or inspiring to you?
A quote that has always resonated with me is from Bo Schembechler: “No one is more important than The Team. The Team, the Team, the Team.” It’s a powerful reminder that success is rarely the result of individual effort alone—it comes from working together toward a common goal. This mindset has shaped not only how I approach my legal practice but also how I interact with my colleagues, clients, and family. It emphasizes collaboration, unity, and the importance of supporting one another.
Looking Ahead
Gregory Ziegler, attorney and expert legal counsel to engineers and architects, remains committed to his core values of integrity, collaboration, and client advocacy. His deep understanding of the legal challenges these professionals face, combined with his passion for helping them protect their careers, positions Greg Ziegler as a leader in the field. Looking to the future, he is poised to continue making a significant impact in the legal profession and the industries he serves.
