Meridith Black
Associate Attorney
Professional Bio
Meridith Black is an Associate Attorney at Daniel Ogbeide Law, PLLC, where she practices family law and child welfare law. She brings a deeply client-centered approach to her work, shaped by her roles as a mother, wife, minister, and dedicated advocate for families. Ms. Black is known for her trauma-informed, collaborative approach to legal representation, demonstrating empathy and understanding for clients navigating some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
Ms. Black has significant trial experience and is a zealous advocate for her clients in complex and contested matters. Her legal knowledge extends beyond family law into related areas including education law, business law, general civil law, and guardianship law, allowing her to effectively manage a wide range of legal issues that arise within family law cases.
Her educational background is both extensive and multidisciplinary. Ms. Black earned a Master of Science in Juvenile Forensic Psychology and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the same institution. This strong academic foundation enhances her ability to analyze complex family dynamics and legal issues. In addition, she is a credentialed mediator and is committed to advocating for favorable outcomes through both litigation and alternative dispute resolution.
Ms. Black is admitted to practice in the State of Texas, as well as in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. These admissions allow her to represent clients across a broad range of legal forums.
In addition to her legal practice, Ms. Black is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) with 20 years of experience and a Licensed Child Placing Agency Administrator (LCPAA) with 6 years of experience. Her professional background includes serving as a Parent Coordinator/Facilitator, performing amicus work for courts, and conducting hundreds of adoption evaluations and multiple child custody evaluations. She is deeply committed to serving children and families and brings a comprehensive understanding of the psychological and legal complexities involved in family law matters.
Ms. Black is also actively involved in mentoring attorneys and contributing to the legal community. She has served as the Chair of the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) and continues to support the profession through volunteer work. She is a frequent speaker at Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs, lawyer wellness events, and State Bar of Texas educational initiatives. Her dedication to attorney well-being and professional development reflects her broader commitment to strengthening the legal profession.
Her diverse experience, compassion, and depth of knowledge make her an integral part of Daniel Ogbeide Law, PLLC.
Practice Areas
- Family Law
- Child Welfare and Child Protection Law
- Divorce and Complex Property Division
- Child Custody and Conservatorship Matters
- Protective Orders
- Enforcement Actions
- Post-Judgment Relief
- Mediation
- Parent Coordination and Parent Facilitation
- Child Custody Evaluations
- Adoption Evaluations
- Parenting Plan Evaluations and Brief Focused Assessments
Bar Admissions
- State Bar of Texas
- United States District Court, Southern District of Texas
- United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
Other Professional Licensures
- Licensed Professional Counselor – Board Approved Supervisor (LPC-S)
- Licensed Child Placing Agency Administrator (LCPAA)
Professional Memberships
- State Bar of Texas – Member
- State Bar of Texas Family Law Section – Member
- Texas Bar College – Member
- Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) – Subcommittee Member (Former Chair)
- American Bar Association – Member
- Association of Family and Conciliation Courts – Member
Education
Juris Doctor
Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Master of Science (M.S.)
Juvenile Forensic Psychology – Prairie View A&M University
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Counseling – Prairie View A&M University
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Criminal Justice – Prairie View A&M University
CLE Presentations
- “Gatekeeper Goals: A Guide to Guarding Our Own Gates Using Self-Care,” Becoming a Fiduciary Litigator, State Bar of Texas (2026)
- “The Light We Carry: Self Care for Child Welfare Professionals,” Advanced Child Protection Law Course, State Bar of Texas (2023)
- “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Navigating Challenges as a Practicing Lawyer,” Texas Lawyers Assistance Program – Houston 3rd Monday Wellness Group (2022)
- “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Navigating Challenges as a Practicing Lawyer,” San Antonio Lawyer Wellness Group (2022)
- “Just Ask: How We Must Stop Minding Our Own Business in the Legal World,” American Bar Association (2021)
- “Just Ask: How We Must Stop Minding Our Own Business in the Legal World,” Texas Bar CLE (2021)
- “Secondary Traumatic Stress,” Advanced Family Law Conference (2021)
- “Business Disputes: Communication Skills and Well-being for Attorneys,” Texas Bar CLE (2021)
- “The Wellness and Wisdom of Minority Women Lawyers,” Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (2021)
- “Crisis Fatigue and Lawyer Wellness,” Porter Hedges Law Firm (2020)
- “Depression and Suicide Awareness,” Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (2020)
- “Young Lawyer Well-Being During the Coronavirus,” Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (2021)
- “Trauma and Secondary Traumatic Stress,” Advanced Family Law Conference, State Bar of Texas (2021)
Publications
- “The Risible Dream Team: Self-Represented Capital Defendants with Mental Illness and Their Standby Counsel Stacking the Deck for Death,” Thurgood Marshall Journal on Race, Gender, and Social Issues
Contact Information
Get Started Today
Don’t wait! Contact us for an in-person, phone, or video consultation. Let us help you figure out what your best next steps are. The sooner you have a plan of action, the better your chances of taking the correct steps to get the results you want.
- Talk to A Passionate Attorney:
Why Choose Daniel Ogbeide?
- Extensive trial and courtroom experience
- Strong focus on family law litigation
- Proven ability to handle high-conflict custody and divorce cases
- Strategic, results-driven legal approach
- Trusted by clients for clarity, communication, and advocacy
If you are facing a divorce, child custody dispute, or another family law matter, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAYS
Shelby wagner
03:28 13 Mar 26
My experience with Ogbeide Law was positive & successful. Mr Ogbeide is a very personable individual, which is the entire reason I hired this firm. Avian his wife is just as amazing as well. Meridith was in charge of my custody case, she was knowledgeable & professional. It was handled with such care which made it less stressful for me. I highly recommend this firm for any of your legal needs.
Edmond Quanon
02:45 13 Mar 26
I worked with Meridith Black through my divorce and she was great. Court process doesn't always work the way you want it, but I will definitely recommend her.
Jewel Clark
20:30 11 Mar 26
Lawyer Daniel Ogbeide provided me with excellent representation. I needed a family lawyer the next day in court. Mr. Ogbeide actually traveled 120 miles for my case. You have to listen to him. He’s not a therapist, but he gives excellent sound advice.
He’s an awesome defender and he tells it like it is. So don’t waste your time with someone else.
He’s an awesome defender and he tells it like it is. So don’t waste your time with someone else.
ozarka water
03:57 04 Feb 26
Every time I have legal questions, he always answers. Had I lived nearby, he would be my #1 attorney to use.
Quincy Roberson
11:09 03 Feb 26
This company will just take your money honestly. My original attorney quit or was fired and I wasn’t notified until months after the fact. To remedy this they just assigned different attorneys to me. This caused a lot of confusion at the office because some how no one knew where we were with paperwork and processes in my case. Everything that I requested to be added in my custody order was left out. They did not notify the opposing party but told me that they did. They would ignore my text messages when I wanted to ask for advice or information until I called the actual office and had someone get them to call me back. One would say she’s in a meeting and hang up in my face, and I never even got to work with her. Their billing department however was awesome. How ironic.. If you are a father seeking custody or getting an order established do not use this company. You will get the run around, and they will contact the opposing party behind your back. My attorneys were Jazmine Spencer(last moment), Erin Thompson, and Grace Smith. Daniel’s wife however was helpful and polite during my time with this office. Do not waste your time.
Redacted
19:41 25 Jan 26
I contacted this law firm during an extremely stressful and sensitive period. From the intake call to my interactions with the attorney, the entire experience was world class. Daniel was my assigned attorney and he did a phenomenal job. Daniel was knowledgeable and wise with respect to the subject matter, he understood my needs and was very clear about how we should achieve those means. He was very clear about risk management, extremely grounded, and displayed a sophisticated level of foresight. His advice and counsel was measured, calm and intentional. He was responsive, timely and provided stellar legal service. I highly recommend this law firm.
Jessica Benoit
00:48 20 Jan 26
I had a really good experience speaking with this attorney today. Even though he is not my attorney, he was professional, responsive, and extremely efficient. I reached out with a request and he handled what needed to be done quickly and without unnecessary delay.
He made sure everything was completed right away and promptly sent over the decree and related documents. The entire interaction was straightforward, respectful, and didn’t take long at all. I genuinely appreciated how smoothly the process went and how seriously he treated my request.
Based on my experience, I would absolutely recommend him for his professionalism, responsiveness, and efficiency.
He made sure everything was completed right away and promptly sent over the decree and related documents. The entire interaction was straightforward, respectful, and didn’t take long at all. I genuinely appreciated how smoothly the process went and how seriously he treated my request.
Based on my experience, I would absolutely recommend him for his professionalism, responsiveness, and efficiency.
Keenan Bartholomew
03:53 16 Jan 26
Grace Smith is my lawyer. Shes smart, reliable and dependable .She conducts herself very well in court. And willing to fight if its needed. I would recommend Grace Smith and the whole law firm to anyone that need a lawyer.
Kasandra Jones
03:10 16 Jan 26
I had an amazing experience with Grace. She was very personable, patient, and always took the time to explain everything clearly. From start to finish, she made me feel like I wasn’t just another case — she felt like family. She fought for me through the entire trial and I couldn’t be more thankful. I highly recommend her!
Yaoska Martinez
22:16 16 Oct 25
I had a consultation with this office,and within those 30 minutes I knew the kind of attorney I want representing me. They were understanding, knowledgeable, honest. The fees were explained up front which I appreciated. I have been through 2 different law firms,and I wish I would have called them first. Would have saved me alot of money, time and stress.
Response from the owner 23:33 17 Oct 25
Hello Yaoska Martinez, We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Daniel Ogbeide Law. Your wonderful feedback truly resonates with our commitment to provide clear, understanding and upfront services to our clients. We are proud that we could represent the qualities you were looking for and save you from further stress. Your appreciation is our greatest motivation to keep doing our best. Thank you for your kind words and 5-star rating. Wishing you all the best! Daniel Ogbeide Law Team.
Molly Farah
15:44 27 Sep 25
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with Meridith after previously dealing with attorneys who didn’t listen and, frankly, were dismissive and rude. From the very beginning, Meridith stood out for her integrity, compassion, and kindness. She was consistently calm, level-headed, and collected, which gave me confidence and peace of mind during an extremely contentious and high-conflict case.
What impressed me most was that she was not afraid to go to trial if needed—a rare quality, as many attorneys try to avoid it. Even though we ultimately resolved the matter in mediation, she made me feel fully supported and truly heard every step of the way.
Meridith and Daniel together were excellent. They clearly operate with the highest respect for the law and an unwavering commitment to their clients. After working with them, I can honestly say I would never hire another attorney. I cannot recommend Meridith enough to anyone seeking representation rooted in professionalism, compassion, and true integrity.
What impressed me most was that she was not afraid to go to trial if needed—a rare quality, as many attorneys try to avoid it. Even though we ultimately resolved the matter in mediation, she made me feel fully supported and truly heard every step of the way.
Meridith and Daniel together were excellent. They clearly operate with the highest respect for the law and an unwavering commitment to their clients. After working with them, I can honestly say I would never hire another attorney. I cannot recommend Meridith enough to anyone seeking representation rooted in professionalism, compassion, and true integrity.
Response from the owner 23:41 01 Oct 25
Thank you for the wonderful review!
Omolara Jowojori
01:50 18 Sep 25
It was such a pleasure working with this law firm. Grace was assigned to my case in helping us with the name change of my baby. Glad it’s over and done with! Thanks Grace and Daniel. You both are amazing!
Response from the owner 01:16 23 Sep 25
Thank you for the great review!!
SuperDavion gaming
15:14 23 Aug 25
Great law firm for family law needs!
Response from the owner 15:31 23 Aug 25
Thank you for the great review!
Devon kelley
23:10 21 Aug 25
Great team really works for you. Would recommend their law firm for any father working to have their rights to the their child or children 👌🏿
Response from the owner 00:59 22 Aug 25
Hi Devon,Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience with our team at Daniel Ogbeide Law. Helping fathers assert their rights and strengthen their bonds with their children is a central part of our mission. Your recommendation means a lot to us and reinforces our commitment to providing compassionate and effective legal support. If you need any further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here for you!Warm regards,Daniel Ogbeide Law
Christiana
22:45 21 Aug 25
Mr.Daniel and his team are honest, professional, and supportive. They walked with me through every step, explained everything clearly, and truly understood my situation. I highly recommend this law firm to anyone seeking dedicated and trustworthy legal help!
Response from the owner 00:59 22 Aug 25
Hi Christiana,Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! We're thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience with Mr. Daniel and our team. It's our mission to provide honest, professional, and supportive legal assistance, and we're grateful for the opportunity to walk with you through every step of your legal journey. Your endorsement means a lot to us, and we're here whenever you need dedicated and trustworthy legal help.Warm regards,Daniel Ogbeide Law
KayChi
16:17 28 Jul 25
Nkeiruka Grace Smith was our representative in a really messy divorce case. She helped my family, specifically my brother and helped us work out an agreement that ensured the safety of my niece and nephew. We are so thankful for all her help, and we recommend working with them! Five stars!!!
Response from the owner 14:24 04 Aug 25
Hi KayChi,Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that Nkeiruka Grace Smith was able to assist your family during such a challenging time. Ensuring the safety and well-being of your niece and nephew is exactly the kind of outcome we strive for at Daniel Ogbeide Law. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we're grateful for your trust. If your family ever needs further assistance, we're here to help.Warm regards,Daniel Ogbeide Law Team
Kenneth Ual
16:17 28 Jul 25
Just wrapped up a roller coaster case, Grace and Daniel delivered me such an amazing victory. Case was not easy, road was bumpy, but no matter what came my way, this amazing legal team backed me up. I pray people dont have to go through what I had to, but this legal team can and will guide, support, and deliver amazing results. Grace took time to not just make me “respondent” in the case. I was a human, a father, and they fought for me even when I got in my own way. Can’t recommend a better legal team!
Response from the owner 14:24 04 Aug 25
Hi Kenneth,Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear about the positive outcome. Navigating such challenging situations is never easy, and we admire your resilience throughout the journey. We're glad that Grace and Daniel could provide you with the support and representation you needed, treating you not just as a client, but as a human and a father. Your words reaffirm our commitment to fighting for our clients' best interests. Thank you for recommending us so highly. We're here for you if you ever need assistance in the future.Warm regards,The Daniel Ogbeide Law Team
Nikki
19:50 26 Jul 25
The entire staff at this firm was professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, effective, and kind. There is no nickel and diming here. I'm happy with their service and especially the integrity in which they work. Mr. and Mrs. Ogbeide were an answer to my prayers. Ms. Meredith Black was assigned to my case and I couldn't have been happier. Thank you all for helping me navigate my way through this difficult time.
Response from the owner 21:03 26 Jul 25
Thank you so much for your honest heartfelt review! I am glad the team didn't disappoint you!
Michelle
16:00 06 Jun 25
My Gods grace i stumbled upon my attorney Daniel, through faith I decided to hire him to help fight for the sole custody of my daughter and the protection order. I’m beyond grateful God has used him to bless us among many others with the outcomes we prayed for. Thank you for the wisdom, knowledge, expertise, and honesty you use to fight these battles. To anyone considering hiring anyone on his team I couldn’t recommend them enough! May God continue to have his hand upon you and guide you in every case you face !
Response from the owner 16:30 06 Jun 25
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. We are truly grateful for your kind words and are honored to have played a part in your journey. Your faith and trust in us mean the world, and we’re glad to have been able to secure the outcomes you hoped and prayed for. May God continue to bless you and your family, and may you always find the peace and protection you deserve. Thank you again for your support and recommendation!Warm regards,Daniel Ogbeide and the team
londeka Addison
20:34 29 May 25
I’m currently going through a complex same-sex divorce and custody case in Texas, and I truly don’t know where I’d be without Mr. Ogbeide. From the very beginning, he has been honest, upfront, and transparent (qualities that are unfortunately rare in the legal world).
Unlike other attorneys I’ve encountered, Mr. Ogbeide doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He laid out the realities of Texas law, the possible outcomes I might face, and helped me prepare for each step of the process. He is incredibly patient, communicative, and always present. He doesn’t just treat you like a case number, he speaks to you like a real person, with genuine care and legal guidance that makes you feel supported and seen.
Even though my case is still ongoing, I couldn’t wait to express how much I appreciate his integrity and dedication. If you’re looking for an attorney who will fight for you, TELL YOU THE TRUTH, and stand by your side with both legal expertise and compassion, I highly recommend Mr. Ogbeide and his team.
Once my case is done, I will be back again to give an update
Unlike other attorneys I’ve encountered, Mr. Ogbeide doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He laid out the realities of Texas law, the possible outcomes I might face, and helped me prepare for each step of the process. He is incredibly patient, communicative, and always present. He doesn’t just treat you like a case number, he speaks to you like a real person, with genuine care and legal guidance that makes you feel supported and seen.
Even though my case is still ongoing, I couldn’t wait to express how much I appreciate his integrity and dedication. If you’re looking for an attorney who will fight for you, TELL YOU THE TRUTH, and stand by your side with both legal expertise and compassion, I highly recommend Mr. Ogbeide and his team.
Once my case is done, I will be back again to give an update
Response from the owner 16:41 06 Jun 25
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and your kind words. It’s a privilege to be able to walk alongside you during such a challenging time, and I’m honored that you trust me and the team to handle your case with honesty, compassion, and diligence. Your courage and openness have been a source of inspiration, and I want you to know that we’re here for you every step of the way.We look forward to standing by your side through the remainder of your case and ensuring the best possible outcome for you. Your trust and appreciation mean so much to us. Thank you again for your generous review—it truly motivates us to keep fighting for our clients.Warm regards,Daniel Ogbeide and the team
Bernard Yeboah
21:54 08 May 25
In short words Grace Smith did an amazing job on my divorce and child support case ,she was helpful right from beginning to the end
Keep up the good work saving families and individuals who find themselves in tough situations like mine
Keep up the good work saving families and individuals who find themselves in tough situations like mine
Response from the owner 22:49 08 May 25
Thank you for your kind words about Grace Smith. We are thrilled to hear that she was able to assist you effectively with your divorce and child support case. At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we are committed to supporting individuals and families through challenging times, and it is gratifying to know that Grace's dedication made a positive impact on your experience. Your feedback encourages us to continue with our mission to provide empathetic and proficient legal support. Should you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out.Best regards, The Daniel Ogbeide Law Team
Derrick Hill
22:40 24 Apr 25
Hands down the best law firm you can work with. Grace Smith is an amazing and knowledgeable attorney and will fight hard for your needs. Daniel Ogbeide is an amazing and knowledgeable lawyer who cares about his staff and the people who he represents. Would always use them for anything I my need in their field of practice.
Response from the owner 02:12 25 Apr 25
Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our law firm. Grace Smith and Daniel Ogbeide are indeed exceptional attorneys, and it’s wonderful to see their dedication and care recognized. Knowing you would choose us for all your legal needs within our practice areas is the highest compliment. Please feel free to reach out anytime you need assistance. We're here to support and serve you. Wishing you the very best!
Anthony Prude
19:00 24 Apr 25
Spoke to Ms. Doris and she was extremely respectful and transparent with my questions and concerns. Don’t feel hesitant to reach out to her regarding your custody or any other issues going on!
Response from the owner 21:26 24 Apr 25
Thank you so much for your kind words and positive feedback! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Ms. Doris. Our team is dedicated to providing respectful and transparent support to everyone. Knowing that you felt comfortable reaching out means a lot to us. Should you need any further assistance, don't hesitate to get in touch. Your recommendation is truly appreciated!
Omotosho Joseph Bodunde
14:33 17 Apr 25
Response from the owner 14:45 17 Apr 25
Thanks for your review!
Oile Caraballo
17:11 14 Apr 25
Thanks to Grace Smith for the patience working on my case. She is very knowledgeable and professional. Even when I lost the faith, she kept pushing and finally she got it. Always smiling and always available for answering any questions. First class service. Total control of the case on the jury and great presentation of facts. Really appreciate hers security and elegance every time of the process. I felt safe and confident with her representation. Thanks…
Response from the owner 22:04 14 Apr 25
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Grace Smith. Her dedication, expertise, and professionalism are truly invaluable to us. It's wonderful to know that she provided first-class service and made you feel secure and confident throughout the process. We'll be sure to pass along your compliments to her. If you have any further questions or need assistance in the future, please don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you all the best!
Ben Ogidan
21:34 11 Apr 25
Attorney Daniel sought to understand my context and goals. He ensured good follow up with me and his team while sharing a balanced perspective on costs and outcomes.
I am withholding a 5th star for initial challenges with junior lawyer that was quickly recognized and resolved.
I will recommend you for future services.
I am withholding a 5th star for initial challenges with junior lawyer that was quickly recognized and resolved.
I will recommend you for future services.
Response from the owner 00:30 12 Apr 25
Thank you for the honest review. We will continue to strive to do better. It was a delight to work with you!!