Our Team

Investigator Manny Carrera was born in Los Angeles, CA. He has twenty years of law enforcement experience with Montebello Police Department (CA). He was assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration as a task force officer and specializes in major narcotics and organized crime investigations. He has a Bachelor of Science from Union Institute & University in Criminal Justice. He enjoys spending time with family and smoking barbecue. Investigator Carrera is fluent in Spanish.

Investigator Shayne Cooper is a lifelong resident of the Knoxville area. He has over fifteen years of experience in law enforcement, serving with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the Knoxville Police Department, where he developed a strong foundation in criminal investigations and law enforcement procedures. He has spent more than twenty years as a criminal defense and personal injury investigator. Throughout his career, he has worked at the trial level on a wide range of serious and complex cases, including first-degree murder, drug conspiracy, vehicular homicide, and DUI. His experience on both sides of the justice system provides him with a comprehensive understanding of investigative strategy, evidence evaluation, and courtroom dynamics. Outside of his work, he enjoys spending time with his family.

With over twenty years in marketing, advertising, and video production, Krista has developed a strong foundation in strategic planning and data-driven insights to drive results. While her analytical skills fuel performance, her creativity shines in art, design, and video content creation. Originally from beautiful West Virginia, Krista has called Knoxville home since 2001. She loves traveling the world, exploring cultures through cooking classes, and volunteers locally with Habitat for Humanity and Second Harvest Food Bank.

Mallory Garrison is originally from Conway, Arkansas, and has built her home and career in Knoxville, Tennessee. As the Firm Operations Manager, Mallory oversees daily firm operations and works closely with attorneys and staff to support efficient processes, clear communication, and consistent client service across the firm. Mallory has extensive experience in legal operations and takes a practical, relational approach to leadership. A significant part of her role involves supporting team development and serving as a resource and mentor to staff members while helping ensure the firm’s daily operations run smoothly and effectively. Mallory is actively involved in the East Tennessee community through various volunteer and service efforts, including her work with CASA of East Tennessee, where she advocates for children and families. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, exploring Knoxville’s restaurant scene, and spending time with friends, family, and her dog, Payton.

Lyndsay Southern is a native of Campbell County, TN. She’s always had a strong desire to work with the public in the legal field. Lyndsay began her legal career in the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office in Campbell County where she worked for over sixteen years before joining Garza Law. She is now operating the Jacksboro, TN office as a Paralegal and Office Manager for the Garza Law criminal defense team. Lyndsay helps prepare attorneys for court while ensuring that every client’s needs are being met. Lyndsay is married with a son and daughter. She loves traveling to new places and making memories with her family. In her spare time, she enjoys playing with her children, shopping, running, being outdoors, and hiking in East Tennessee. She can also be found at community events in Campbell County and surrounding areas.

Angela Stembridge brings strong organizational and leadership skills to support the firm’s daily operations to her role as Office Administrator at Garza Law Firm. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Management, and is dedicated to fostering an efficient, client-focused environment. Born in Dallas, Texas, Angela’s life experiences span across eight U.S. states and one Canadian province, offering her a broad and diverse perspective that enhances her professional and personal interactions. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, exploring new and exciting travel destinations, and reading.

Investigator Zaitz was born in Conroe, Texas, and earned his bachelor’s degree in History from Texas A&M University. He previously served in law enforcement, where he received specialized training in DUI enforcement, including advanced instruction through the Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) program. Parker has also assisted in teaching DUI enforcement and impairment detection courses attended by law enforcement officers, attorneys, military personnel, and expert witnesses from across the country. He enjoys spending time with family, cooking, and watching motorsports.