Meet Zo Onyeise-hayes | Houston Accident & Estate Planning Attorney

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zo Onyeise-hayes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zo, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and when I was six years old, my father was transferred to the United States for work. Our family initially moved to Kansas, but we eventually settled in Houston, Texas. Growing up, I witnessed the incredible dedication of my parents, who worked tirelessly to provide a better life for me and my siblings. Their hard work and determination allowed us to immigrate to the United States, where we could pursue an education and greater opportunities.

Their example of resilience and perseverance is something that shaped my own path. After graduating from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a degree in public relations, I worked for Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio, where I helped raise awareness and funds for underserved communities. That experience galvanized my love for public service and gave me a sense of purpose, which eventually led me to law school.

At Texas A&M School of Law, I found my voice as an advocate, and through my involvement in Phi Delta Phi, the Black Law Students Association, and mock trial competitions, I developed the skills to serve others through the legal system. My journey from Nigeria to the U.S., and the values instilled in me by my family, continue to drive my passion for giving back to my community. Today, as the founding attorney of Zo Legal Group, I am committed to helping others, just as my parents helped me reach where I am today.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets Zo Legal Group apart is our personalized approach to every case. I’ve always believed that each client deserves more than just legal representation—they deserve someone who truly listens, understands their story, and advocates passionately for their best interests. Whether it’s estate planning or personal injury cases, my team and I approach each matter with the same level of care and dedication.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the connection I’ve built with my clients. The trust they place in me is what fuels my work and drives me to deliver the best outcomes. Founding Zo Legal Group wasn’t easy—it’s taken a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, and dedication. There were definitely moments of doubt, but I’ve been fortunate to have an incredible support system, especially from my husband, Dr. Stephen Nicholas Williams Hayes, D.D.S., whose encouragement gave me the courage to keep going.

An important lesson I’ve learned is the value of having a strong support system, both personally and professionally. Sometimes, that support extends beyond family and friends and comes from finding a community that helps you stay grounded and focused. For me, that community has been Level 1 Fitness. Beginning my fitness journey there has been transformative, not just in terms of physical health, but also in maintaining mental clarity and resilience. Level 1 is more than just a gym—it’s a community hub that promotes health and fitness while also giving back to those around them, which is incredibly inspiring. The support I’ve received from this team has kept me accountable, both mentally and physically, and serves as a reminder of the importance of balance in all aspects of life.

Overcoming challenges has been about perseverance and adaptability. One lesson I’ve learned along the way is that success isn’t just about knowing the law; it’s about building relationships, being empathetic, and being willing to learn and grow from every situation. I’ve had to learn how to balance the business side of running a law firm with my passion for advocating for my clients, and that’s a skill I continue to develop.

What I want the world to know about Zo Legal Group is that we are here to make a difference. We’re not just another law firm—we’re a team that cares deeply about our clients and their outcomes. Our story is one of resilience, service, and commitment to justice. I’m excited about what the future holds as we continue to grow and serve more people in need of compassionate legal guidance.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want to give them a true taste of Houston’s diverse food scene, nightlife, and cultural spots. We’d kick off the week with brunch at The Breakfast Klub, where their wings and waffles are an absolute must. Afterward, we’d head to Buffalo Bayou Park for a scenic walk or bike ride, enjoying the skyline and outdoor art installations.

For lunch, I’d take them to Houston’s Chinatown, where we’d have dim sum at Ocean Palace or try the hand-pulled noodles at Mein Restaurant. There’s so much variety in Chinatown, so we’d spend an afternoon exploring the shops, grabbing boba tea, and snacking on street food like Jinya Ramen Bar or Pho Binh by Night. For an evening treat, we’d hit up Tiger Den for ramen or the late-night vibes at Kung Fu Tea.

Midweek, I’d show them Houston’s famous food truck scene. We’d stop by The Waffle Bus for delicious chicken and waffles on the go or Oh My Gogi!, which is known for its Korean-Mexican fusion tacos. We’d pair it with some craft beer from 8th Wonder Brewery, where there’s often a collection of food trucks parked outside.

For dinner, we’d elevate the experience with fine dining in the Galleria area. We’d start with an elegant meal at Steak 48 for incredible steaks and seafood or head to Mastro’s for a luxurious dining experience. If we’re craving something international, Le Colonial offers upscale Vietnamese cuisine with a chic atmosphere.

No visit to Houston would be complete without experiencing its nightlife. We’d explore bars like High & Dry in Downtown for rooftop views or head to 77 Degrees in Midtown for cocktails with a tropical vibe. For a more intimate evening, we’d visit Anvil Bar & Refuge, where the craft cocktails are second to none. If we’re feeling adventurous, Alice Blue in The Heights offers an elegant bar experience with creative drinks.

During the day, we’d explore the Museum District, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science and The Museum of Fine Arts, followed by a relaxing afternoon at Hermann Park or the Houston Zoo. For a break from the city, we’d take a day trip to Galveston, spending time on the beach and checking out Moody Gardens or the Strand District.

As the week comes to an end, we’d enjoy a Sunday at Discovery Green to see if any events or festivals are happening. To cap off the trip, dinner at Uchi or Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen would be the perfect finale—whether we’re craving sushi or the city’s iconic Cajun flavors.

Houston has so much to offer, from its vibrant restaurant scene in Chinatown to its exciting food trucks and upscale dining options in the Galleria. The city’s diversity and the welcoming energy of its people are what make it truly special.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my husband, Dr. Stephen Nicholas Williams Hayes, D.D.S. His unwavering encouragement and support have given me the strength to face every challenge with confidence. His belief in me has been a constant source of motivation, and I am deeply grateful for his love and partnership throughout this journey.

Website: https://www.zolegalgroup.com

Instagram: @zo.legalgroup

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zo-legal-group-pllc