Gary McDonald, Attorney at Law

02/09/2026

The statement “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” was reportedly coined by Benjamin Franklin in 1731. In the area of estate and end-of-life planning, this principle often is proven true. However, there are cases where there is no cure for lack of planning. Planning will not take the sting out of death. However, it can make the pain more bearable for surviving loved ones. Among the benefits of planning are peace of mind, family protection, avoidance of family disputes, as well as the avoidance of costly and time-consuming court proceedings. If you have not planned for the protection of your family, I recommend that you contact me and schedule a time for a review of your needs. We can be reached at 870-904-5666.

09/12/2025

Dear Friends & Clients,

Gary McDonald, Attorney at Law, is pleased to announce effective September 15, 2025, he will be available on a limited basis to assist with certain legal matters.

Mr. McDonald stands ready to assist with:

DWI Charges: Navigating the complexities and consequences of driving under the influence charges.

Estate Planning: Preparing End of Life Paperwork such as Last Wills & Testaments, Advanced Healthcare Plan Directives, Healthcare Power of Attorneys, General Powers of Attorneys, Beneficiary Deeds and other documents designed to ensure personal end-of-life decisions are respected.

If you or someone you know needs help with these specific legal issues, please schedule a free consultation with Mr. McDonald.
For your convenience call 870.904.5666.

07/12/2024

My email account was hacked today around noon. Fraudulent emails are being sent to my Outlook contacts. If you receive an email from me bearing today’s date (07/12/2024), please delete it from your system.

03/31/2024

WISHING YOU ALL A BLESSED EASTER filled with joy, hope, and new beginnings! As we celebrate this special day, let us remember the beauty of forgiveness, the power of love, and the importance of faith. May this season bring peace and happiness to you and your loved ones. Have a wonderful Easter Sunday!

03/29/2024

UNDERSTANDING WILLS AND POWERS OF ATTORNEY

Ensuring that your affairs are in order is a vital step towards securing your future and protecting your loved ones. By understanding the significance of wills and powers of attorney, you are taking control of important decisions that can greatly impact your assets and well-being.

A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets and possessions will be distributed after your passing. It is a powerful tool that allows you to express your wishes clearly and protect the interests of your beneficiaries.

On the other hand, a power of attorney grants someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.

Having a comprehensive understanding of wills and powers of attorney empowers you to make informed choices and safeguard your legacy. Don't wait until it's too late – start planning for the future today!

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498
garymcdonald.net

Your attorney for Criminal Defense - Driving While Intoxicated - Planning for Life, Illness & Death

03/25/2024

UNDERSTANDING HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVES

Advance Health Care Directives are legal documents that allow you to specify your healthcare preferences and appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. These directives ensure your wishes are known and respected, especially during critical medical situations.

By creating Advance Health Care Directives, you can have peace of mind knowing that your healthcare choices will be followed, and that your loved ones will not have to make difficult decisions under pressure. It's important to discuss your directives with your healthcare provider and loved ones to ensure everyone is informed and prepared.

Take control of your healthcare decisions today by learning more about Advance Health Directives and how they can benefit you and your family.

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498
garymcdonald.net

Your attorney for Criminal Defense - Driving While Intoxicated - Planning for Life, Illness & Death

03/19/2024

UNDERSTANDING END OF LIFE PAPERWORK

As we navigate the complexities of life, it's essential to consider the importance of end-of-life paperwork. These legal documents, such as wills, advance directives, and powers of attorney, help ensure that your wishes are respected and your affairs are handled according to your preferences when you are no longer able to make decisions.

Taking the time to create and organize your end-of-life paperwork can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. It sets a clear roadmap for your medical treatment, financial matters, and distribution of assets, reducing stress during a challenging time.

Remember, having these important documents in place is a proactive way to protect yourself and your family. Consider discussing your end-of-life wishes with loved ones and seeking professional guidance to ensure that your affairs are in order. Your future self will thank you for the preparation today.

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498
garymcdonald.net

Your attorney for Criminal Defense - Driving While Intoxicated - Planning for Life, Illness & Death

02/26/2024

ATTENTION El Dorado and Magnolia, Arkansas and Residents across Union County, Columbia County, and South Arkansas!

As we embark on a brand new year, it's crucial to ensure that your legal needs are met. Whether it's reviewing your estate plan, drafting important contracts, or seeking advice on various legal matters, our team of experienced attorneys is here to help!

Need to create or update your will and ensure that your assets are protected for your loved ones?

Do you have questions about real estate transactions or need assistance with property disputes? Our knowledgeable lawyers are at your service.

Have you been involved in a personal injury accident and require legal representation to fight for your rights and fair compensation?

At the McDonald Law Firm, we take pride in delivering exceptional legal services tailored to meet your individual needs. With our extensive experience and commitment to excellence, you can trust us to navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf.

Don't procrastinate on your legal concerns - start the year off right by taking proactive steps towards protecting your rights and securing your future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us assist you in achieving your legal goals!

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498
garymcdonald.net

Your attorney for Criminal Defense - Driving While Intoxicated - Planning for Life, Illness & Death

Gary McDonald, Attorney at Law, has been proudly serving El Dorado, Arkansas and surrounding areas with a full range of legal services since 1979. Attorney Gary McDonald specializes in DWI defense, criminal law, personal injury and probate litigation.

02/20/2024

ANNOUNCEMENT OF ATTORNEYS GARY MCDONALD AND JEFFREY SAWYER

Gary McDonald and Jeffrey Sawyer are pleased to announce that they are now sharing an office suite in the Simmons Bank Building, 100 West Grove, Suite 308, El Dorado, Arkansas. Both are accomplished trial attorneys and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional legal services to their respective clients.

Gary McDonald has been practicing law for more than 44 years and has spent much of that time as a criminal defense attorney. He is also recognized as a very capable estate planning and probate attorney.

Jeffrey Sawyer is celebrating his 18th year practicing law. At the end of 2023 Jeffrey resigned from a ten-year stint as a deputy prosecuting attorney for the 13th Judicial District so that he can now practice in the area of criminal defense. In addition to representing clients charged with criminal offenses, Jeffrey will continue to zealously represent clients in varied areas of civil litigation, including divorce and child custody disputes.

While Gary McDonald and Jeffrey Sawyer remain separate law firms, the collaboration of these two professionals adds strength and depth to their respective legal capabilities.

Gary McDonald and Jeffrey Sawyer are available to assist in your legal needs. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call (870) 862-1498 or visit their websites: garymcdonald.net or thesawyerfirm.com.

02/16/2024

FACT CHECK about MESOTHELIOMA TRUST FUNDS!!!

Hello Everyone,

Just a quick update about compensation for Mesothelioma victims. In today’s age of social media and almost instant communication, we see much information that is misleading or just outright false.

TRUE: There has been a large trust fund ALREADY set up for Mesothelioma victims and their families.

TRUE: In most cases, it will not cost a victim or family member any up front legal fees to apply for compensation from this fund.

TRUE: If you or a family member has suffered a loss due to this deadly disease, we may be able to help you receive compensation. Please feel free to contact us to schedule a FREE Consultation!

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498

https://garymcdonald.net/resources.php?id=7

Your attorney for Criminal Defense - Driving While Intoxicated - Planning for Life, Illness & Death

02/11/2024

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY HAS ARRIVED!!

Game time is almost here! Congratulations to both teams! And also, Congrats, football fans! Super Bowl LVIII is going to be one for the books!

The San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs all geared up for an epic showdown at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada!

Kickoff is just a short time off on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. ET (that's 5:30 p.m. local time here in El Dorado)

The 49ers and the Chiefs have battled their way through a challenging season and have arrived at their spot on the biggest stage of all.

Good luck to both teams.

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498
garymcdonald.net

01/25/2024

$30 BILLION TRUST FUND ESTABLISHED for Mesothelioma Victims and Their Families!

In recent years, the mesothelioma epidemic has taken a heavy toll on individuals and families across the United States, leaving countless victims facing immense physical, emotional, and financial hardships.

Amidst this ongoing crisis, Gary McDonald and the McDonald Law Firm have become involved, advocating for the rights of these individuals in El Dorado & Magnolia Arkansas, and the surrounding areas of Union & Columbia Counties, South Arkansas, and North Louisiana. Recognizing that time is of the essence, they are advocating for mesothelioma victims and their families to be able to share in the $30 billion trust fund which is already established.

Mesothelioma is a devastating form of cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral used in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, for decades. The prolonged latency period of the disease often means that individuals may not discover their asbestos exposure until many years later when the disease has already reached advanced stages. This late diagnosis greatly limits treatment options, leaving victims and their families grappling with severe physical and emotional distress.

Gary McDonald, together with the McDonald Law Firm of El Dorado Arkansas, has for years been involved in helping mesothelioma victims apply for and receive a share of the trust fund which has already been established from past mesothelioma litigation.

With their experience in this specialized field, the McDonald Law firm understands the immense toll the disease takes on victims, as well as the urgency in providing them with the necessary financial support and resources to navigate this challenging journey. That is why they are advocating for the disbursement of the $30 billion trust fund specifically dedicated to mesothelioma victims and their families.

There is financial relief available to affected individuals and their loved ones from this fund. This trust fund serves as a lifeline for those affected by mesothelioma, ensuring that they receive the much-needed financial assistance to cover medical expenses, ongoing treatments, palliative care, and other related costs. Additionally, the fund help ease the burden on families who have lost loved ones to this devastating disease, providing them with support for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional counseling to help them navigate their grief.

If you are someone you know is a mesothelioma victim, please do not hesitate to reach out to the McDonald Law Firm for more information. Consultations are confidential and free of charge.

Serving Union & Columbia Counties, South Arkansas and North Louisiana.

PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE WORD by sharing this post with your friends and family who may benefit from our services. Thank you again for your continued support.

GARY MCDONALD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
El Dorado Arkansas (870) 862-1498
garymcdonald.net

Your attorney for Criminal Defense - Driving While Intoxicated - Planning for Life, Illness & Death