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FRENKEL&FRENKEL PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS
Frenkel & Frenkel is a Dallas-based law firm handling serious injury cases for over 25 years. Committed to making our community safer, we relentlessly fight for the rights of our clients and their families.
D Best, 2015-2020
214.333.3333 | 817.222.2222 | 800.834.0000 | TruckWreck.com
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D BEST PARTNERS, LEFT TO RIGHT: MARK FRENKEL, SCOTT FRENKEL, GENE BURKETT
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LAWYERS PROFILES 2020 INDEX A Brad Adatto....................................... 108 Jeff Anderson......................................82 B Hunter Biederman............................110 Francesca Blackard............................ 75 Robert J. Bogdanowicz III................110 Frank Branson.................................... 83 Alexander Brauer...............................84 Quentin Brogdon...............................80 Alyson Brown..................................... 87 Stacy Hoffman Bruce.........................88 Dawn Ryan Budner............................ 79 Gene Burkett....................................... 77 Jim Burnham...................................... 111 Warren Burns..................................... 85 Jason K. Burress................................. 111 Michael Byrd..................................... 108 C Carla Calabrese................................... 79 Greg Carr............................................ 111 Daniel Charest.................................... 85 Daniel Clancy.................................... 111 Todd Clement.....................................86 Keith Clouse........................................ 87 David R. Clouston............................ 108 Stuart Cochran.................................106 Bill Cobb.............................................. 88 Bill Cox.............................................. 109 Rob Crain............................................80 Richard A. Cuccia, II.........................112 D David Deary........................................ 97 Lisa Duffee........................................ 109 Rogge Dunn........................................89 E Melinda Eitzen................................. 109 Katherine Elrich.................................88 Robert Epstein.................................... 75 Dawn Estes..........................................90
Not every lawyer who was named a Best Lawyer chose to purchase a profile in this special advertising section. Advertising has no bearing on how the list of Best Lawyers was determined.
F Tom Fee............................................... 91 Jim Flegle............................................. 97 Mark Frenkel....................................... 77 Scott Frenkel....................................... 77 G Gregg Gallian.....................................112 Charles N. Geilich.............................112 Donald E. Godwin.............................92 Andrew Gould...................................112 Deandra Grant.................................... 93 Dean Gresham..................................106 H Melissa S. Hayward...........................113 Terry Bentley Hill...............................94 J Tonya Johannsen................................90 Beth M. Johnson................................. 79 K Heather A. Kemble............................113 Camille Knight..................................113 Jacob B. Kring....................................113 Nicole Knox........................................94 L Adam LeCrone...................................114 Jennifer Lee......................................... 91 Chris Lewis......................................... 95 Laura Canada Lewis.........................114 Brian M. Lidji......................................96 Alan Loewinsohn............................... 97 Shawn Long...................................... 105 M Messina Madson...............................114 Ben C. Martin....................................114 Ramona Martinez..............................88 Ron McCallum..................................110 Kelly McClure..................................... 75 P. Michael McCullough Jr................ 115
Christi M. Merchant......................... 115 Martin Merritt....................................98 Robert Miklos.................................... 115 Jim Mitchell........................................99 Leslye E. Moseley............................. 108 Jim Mueller........................................100 N Majed Nachawati..............................101 Darren Nicholson.............................. 85 O Michelle May O’Neil........................ 102 P Scott H. Palmer................................ 103 Andy Payne.........................................99 Carol Payne.........................................90 Carrie Johnson Phaneuf....................88 R Jeffrey Rasansky................................ 104 Matt Ray.............................................. 97 Wendi Campbell Rogaliner............ 105 Kirstine Rogers.................................106 S Dick Sayles........................................ 105 Adam L. Seidel................................... 115 Toby Shook........................................116 Craig Simon........................................ 97 Dani Smith.........................................116 Bruce Steckler...................................106 T William Toles...................................... 91 Dan Tostrud........................................88 W Dan Winikka....................................... 97 Lindsey K. Wyrick..............................88 Z Karin Zaner....................................... 107
HOW TO USE THIS PROFILE ADVERTISING DIRECTORY: In the editorial section, pages 66
through 71, the lawyers are listed in alphabetical order and by specialty. To learn more about the lawyers in the specialty in which you are interested, look up their profiles on the following pages. If their profile does not appear, you may contact the Dallas Bar Association for more information. The lawyers provided the information contained in these profiles; D Magazine has not independently verified the information. dmagazine.com May 2020
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Left to right: Jeffrey O. Anderson Brad M. LaMorgese
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Francesca Blackard Robert Epstein Kelly McClure 1 0 0 % F A M I LY L A W McClure Law Group is a prominent family law practice rooted in compassion and expertise. Best Lawyers Kelly McClure, Robert Epstein, and Francesca Blackard work zealously to achieve the best possible results for their clients’ divorces, custody disputes, pre- and post-marital agreements, surrogacy issues, grandparents’ rights cases, and other family law matters. Because they are 100% dedicated to the practice of family law, McClure Law Group is the team for all of your divorce and family law needs. The McClure Law Group team is comprised of 12 high-energy attorneys ready to tackle any obstacle on a moment’s notice. This team will do whatever it takes to preserve important family relationships while protecting assets that are often depleted in high-conflict battles. With different levels of partners and attorneys, including a CPA, the team at McClure Law Group is efficient and effective. McClure, the firm’s founder and CEO, has more than 25 years of experience as a family law attorney. Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, she began her career in tax law, adding to her long list of qualifications to represent high-net-worth clients with complicated estates. Executives, professional athletes, celebrities, and stay-at-home parents find McClure’s experience, talent, and compassion invaluable. She has a deep-rooted passion for protecting the relationships, finances, homes, and businesses of the families she represents. McClure’s reputation in the community speaks for itself, repeatedly recognized as a best family lawyer in Dallas by D Magazine for the past 17 years. Clients continually praise Epstein’s strategic, insightful, and above-and-beyond approach to family law cases. Also Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and a partner at the firm, he is driven in his desire to relieve the financial and emotional strain of divorce for his clients and to deliver real solutions to the real-life problems facing each client. Discreet and empathetic, he, too, is an expert negotiator known for achieving settlement agreements that at first seem impossible to achieve. Epstein’s charisma, intelligence, and attention to detail serve his clients extraordinarily well in and outside of the courtroom. A firm partner, Blackard makes sure to know every client’s case details inside and out, making sure they get the attention and support they need to navigate through this complicated time in their lives. Blackard’s dedication to her clients shines in the courtroom, where she confidently advocates their position to the fullest extent possible. Her availability is what clients love most—ensuring their needs are taken care of even outside of usual business hours. This is a family law practice rooted in compassion and expertise, and they are always ready to do whatever it takes to preserve important family relationships while protecting assets. They genuinely care about their clients and expertly and compassionately guide them through what is unarguably one of the most difficult chapters of their lives while ensuring a solution that is tailored to meet the needs of each individual client.
Left to right: Kelly McClure | CEO and Managing Partner Robert Epstein | Partner Francesca Blackard | Partner
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Park Cities/Dallas | 8115 Preston Road, Suite 270 Dallas, Texas 75225 | 214.692.8200 Collin County: by appointment only | 972.731.2501
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Left to right: Left toFrenkel Mark right: JeffreyBurkett O. Anderson Gene Brad M. LaMorgese Scott Frenkel
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Gene Burkett Mark Frenkel Scott Frenkel PLAINTIFF’S PERSONAL INJURY For over a quarter of a century, the personal injury lawyers at Frenkel & Frenkel have held negligent individuals and companies accountable. Mark Frenkel, Scott Frenkel, and Gene Burkett, all named among the Best Lawyers in Dallas in D Magazine, are attorneys with a history of results, representing clients in courtrooms nationwide who have suffered catastrophic injuries from the careless and irresponsible actions of others. Their clients have suffered from automobile, motorcycle, and trucking collisions; medical errors; defective products/drugs; on-thejob injuries; premises liability; and animal (dog) bites. As experienced and tenacious personal injury trial lawyers who previously defended insurance companies, hospitals, and doctors, they use their knowledge from the other side’s playbook to bring valuable insight to each case. They understand the devastating effect catastrophic injuries have on people’s lives and thoroughly investigate each case to expose negligence and the full extent of damages. Mark Frenkel, Scott Frenkel, and Gene Burkett work tirelessly to make the community a safer place for all of us. They take the “counselors” part of “attorneys and counselors” very seriously and believe clients need advocates who understand their losses. The firm has an in-office attorney/medical doctor— a distinct advantage in understanding the nature of complex injuries. Mark Frenkel has received numerous multi-million-dollar results for his clients that have garnered local and national attention, but more importantly, influenced the way corporations do business. He is a member of the American Association of Justice, board member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, president of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, and member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. He has consistently been named to D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas from 2009 through 2020, a Top Attorney in Forth Worth Magazine in 2018 and 2019, and to Thomson Reuters’ Super Lawyers list from 2014 to 2018 in Texas Monthly. Scott Frenkel has been representing clients in the courtroom and through settlement for more than 30 years. He is a member of the American Association for Justice, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, and Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association. He was also honored to be inducted into the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and named to Thomson Reuters’ Super Lawyers list from 2011 to 2018 in Texas Monthly. He has been among the Best Lawyers in Dallas in D Magazine in 2002 and from 2007 through 2020, as well as a Top Attorney in Fort Worth Magazine in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Gene Burkett, a partner in Frenkel & Frenkel for 24 years and named among the Best Lawyers in Dallas in D Magazine from 2015 to 2020, is recognized for obtaining excellent results for his clients in automobile accidents, wrongful death, personal injury, mass torts, truck wrecks, products liability, and general negligence claims. Burkett, also named a Top Attorney in Fort Worth Magazine in 2017, 2018, and 2019, is a member of the American Association of Justice, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, and the Tarrant County Bar Association. He has been inducted into the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
F R E N K E L & F R E N K E L , L . L . P. KENT BARKER
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12700 Park Central Drive, Suite 1900 Dallas, Texas 75251 214.333.3333 | 817.222.2222 | 800.834.0000
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Left to right: Left to Beth M.right: Johnson JeffreyCalabrese O. Anderson Carla Brad M. LaMorgese Dawn Ryan Budner
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Calabrese Budner LLP F A M I LY L A W Leaders in Collaborative Divorce & Family Law Litigation Calabrese Budner offers a modern approach to Family Matters™ that protects what clients value most—assets and family—while also promoting healing, growth, and dignity. Emotionally Intelligent Lawyering™ is a game changer in the courtroom and the conference room. Unlike traditional family court litigation, Emotionally Intelligent Lawyering™ focuses on the truth and favorable outcomes for the clients versus the lawyers. Collaborative divorce provides the ultimate protection for the client’s privacy, wealth, and family relationships. When your future is at stake, you need enlightened counsel with expertise in these contemporary approaches to family law. And that’s what you will find with Calabrese Budner. Carla Calabrese Carla Calabrese is the city’s go-to lawyer for collaborative divorce. As one of only five Master Credentialed collaborative divorce attorneys in Dallas, Calabrese has over 25 years of experience in every conceivable family matter—from division of high-net-worth marital estates with interwoven business entities to navigation through mental health and addiction issues that often plague families in divorce. When handling complicated family matters, Calabrese believes a collaborative lawyer’s level of experience can make or break the case. Informed clients now seek credentialed collaborators to elevate their divorce experience and outcomes. Calabrese has been named among the Top 50 Women Lawyers in Texas (Texas Monthly), Best Lawyers in America®—Family and Collaborative Law (Woodward White), and Texas Super Lawyers (Texas Monthly). Dawn Ryan Budner Dawn Ryan Budner leads the Calabrese Budner litigation team with passion and purpose. As a former equity partner with a top litigation firm, Budner developed a reputation for excellence as a trial lawyer. She brings that big firm experience to the family courts, advancing civil claims and leveraging strategies more commonly applied in business litigation. The results for family law clients have been extraordinary—like a successful challenge to a divorce settlement obtained with fraud, after nearly five years. And a settlement many times over the unconscionable terms of a marital agreement obtained without full disclosure. Less flashy but just as notable are the many clients Budner has helped to restructure their families and estates in collaborative divorce or with a settlement that avoided unnecessary depletion of assets. Budner has been named as a Woman Leader in the Law (American Lawyer), among the Best Lawyers in America®—Family Law (Woodward White), and Top 10 Family Lawyers in Texas (Attorney and Practice Magazine). Beth M. Johnson After years of tracking and reporting on every Texas appellate court opinion dealing with family law, Beth M. Johnson has become a go-to expert on Texas family law jurisprudence. Johnson’s expertise in appellate family law gives Calabrese Budner clients a strategic advantage. Johnson guides clients in the trial court on how to preserve or avoid error in the record. In the event of an appeal, Johnson is right there to handle the matter—minimizing appellate costs because of her understanding of the case from the beginning. Johnson, a master of complex legal writing, has written numerous articles published in the Dallas Bar Association’s Headnotes, the Texas Bar Journal, and the State Bar Family Law Quarterly Section Report. Calabrese, Budner, and Johnson all are named among D Magazine’s 2020 Best Lawyers in Dallas. Calabrese Budner LLP is named among the Best Law Firms in America® (U.S. News & World Report). Emotionally Intelligent Divorce™ Because Your Family Matters™ VANESSA GAVALYA
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Park Cities | Preston Hollow | Dallas | Collin 214.939.3000
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Rob Crain Quentin Brogdon C ATA S T R O P H I C P E R S O N A L I N J U R Y Crain Brogdon Rogers, LLP is one of the most recognized personal injury and wrongful death firms in North Texas. The attorneys include past presidents of many of the legal profession’s most prestigious associations. It is little surprise, considering the personal approach the firm embraces. Each client receives the cellphone numbers for all the professionals working his or her case, and the firm follows a simple philosophy—give advice and make decisions as if the case belongs to a family member. This personal approach, combined with the firm’s relentless drive to maximize their clients’ results, has produced landmark verdicts and settlements. But the firm’s mission goes further; many of their cases end with requirements for the wrongdoers to change their policies and procedures to ensure the tragedy is not repeated. “We are blessed in that our clients are just as concerned as we are that the devastating damage done to their family does not happen to another family,” says firm co-founder Rob Crain. Crain is a nationally sought personal injury attorney and a former president of the Dallas Bar Association, one of the country’s most active and influential bar associations. His results include some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the nation, including a precedent-setting verdict awarded to the parents of a child who died in a day care facility. Texas Monthly listed Crain in its most recent list of Top 100 Super Lawyers in Texas. In 2017, the National Trial Lawyers named him one of the top 100 civil plaintiff lawyers in the country. In 2016, the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association awarded Crain the prestigious John Howie Award, “for the courageous pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.” Quentin Brogdon, also a co-founder of the firm, is a Fellow in the invitationonly International Academy of Trial Lawyers and a Fellow in the invitation-only American College of Trial Lawyers. He is board certified in personal injury trial law and in civil trial advocacy. He has served as president of the Dallas Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, president of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, president of the Association of Plaintiff Interstate Trucking Lawyers of America, and as a vice president of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association. He is listed in the Best Lawyers in America, and Texas Monthly repeatedly has selected him as a Top 100 Super Lawyer in Texas. The Association of Plaintiff Interstate Trucking Lawyers of America awarded him its Thurgood Marshall Fighting for Justice Award, and the State Bar CLE department awarded him its Standing Ovation Award. Brogdon is a sought-after lecturer on legal subjects. He says, “It’s a privilege to share our legal experiences with attorneys across the country; our firm is blessed to work on cases that stretch boundaries, both in magnitude and in legal questions.”
E D U C AT I O N
CRAIN BROGDON ROGERS LLP
3400 Carlisle Street, Suite 200 Dallas, Texas 75204 214.522.9404
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VANESSA GAVALYA
Rob Crain: B.A., high honors, University of Texas at Austin; J.D., University of Texas at Austin School of Law Quentin Brogdon: B.A., Rice University; J.D. and M.B.A., with honors, University of Houston
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Left to right: Rob Crain Quentin Brogdon
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Jeff Anderson F A M I LY L A W Jeff Anderson’s memories of his childhood are hazy in the way they are for us all. But one thing he remembers very clearly is following his father around the courthouse when he was 5 years old. While Anderson was too young to understand what his father and those he worked with were talking about, he understood that it was important. That his father was helping people. Years later, Anderson remembers talking to a friend, discussing their plans for the future. “What do you want to do?” his friend asked. The answer was obvious—and one he had arrived at many years before. He would do what his father did. He would be an attorney. He would help people. More than 25 years into his practice, you can’t have a serious conversation about family law in the state of Texas without mentioning Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson. Yes, each of the firm’s partners is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. And yes, the firm has more Top 100 Texas Super Lawyers than any other law firm in the state, according to Thomson Reuters. But at the end of the day, the firm’s success comes down to attitude. Aggressive. Compassionate. And while some might see those two things as being at odds, Anderson disagrees. He gets what his clients are going through because he’s been there himself. Anderson is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Thomson Reuters has named him among the Texas Super Lawyers each year since 2003, and one of the Top 100 Lawyers in Texas since 2016. He’s been listed as one of the Best Lawyers in America each year since 2009 by BL Rankings.
E D U C AT I O N
B.A., Texas A&M University J.D., Southern Methodist University School of Law
DAN SELLERS
ORSINGER, NELSON, DOWNING & ANDERSON, LLP
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2600 Network Boulevard, Suite 200 Frisco, Texas 75034 972.963.5459
ondafamilylaw.com
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Frank L. Branson C ATA S T R O P H I C P E R S O N A L I N J U R Y
There’s a reason why they call it the practice of law. Trial lawyers who are truly committed to their work and never stop learning really do get better with time and experience. At the Law Offices of Frank L. Branson, renowned trial lawyer Frank L. Branson has earned a distinguished reputation for excellence based on a foundation of hard work and a commitment to fighting for his clients’ causes. It’s this unwavering ethic that has earned the firm he founded six of the state’s largest jury verdicts since 2007, according to VerdictSearch. Since founding the litigation-focused firm, Branson has consistently recovered standout jury verdicts and settlements for his clients in catastrophic injury cases involving defective products, trucking accidents, oil field explosions, and almost every type of negligence and personal injury litigation in state and federal venues across the Southwest. Some of the firm’s notable successes include: • No. 1 product liability verdict in Texas against Toyota, according to VerdictSearch. This 2018 verdict was the No. 3 product liability verdict in the nation and resulted in the Branson lawyers being named Trial Team of the Year by the National Trial Lawyers organization and Branson being named among the 50 Most Influential Lawyers in America. • No. 4 jury verdict in Texas and No. 15 verdict in the nation in 2015 in fraud/intentional torts case related to oil & gas lease acquisitions, according to VerdictSearch • Top 100 verdict in Texas in 2016 for the family of an 83-year-old woman who died when a charter bus crashed en route to the Choctaw Casino, according to VerdictSearch • No. 1 verdict in Texas in 2012 in medical partnership dispute, according to VerdictSearch • No. 1 settlement in Texas in 2012 for a construction defect settlement for collapse of a Dallas Cowboys practice facility, according to VerdictSearch • Top 100 verdict in Texas and in the U.S. in 2007 for a jury verdict on behalf of an 83-year-old woman whose husband was killed in a wreck caused by an unqualified truck driver who had drugs in his system, according to VerdictSearch • Mega verdicts and settlements in cases involving trains, planes, automobiles, and trucks In the course of his career, Branson has earned some of the legal profession’s highest honors. He has been recognized by the National Law Journal and the Elite Trial Lawyers in 2012, 2019, and 2020 and was named among the organization's 50 Most Influential Lawyers in the U.S. in 2019. Branson has been honored among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Texas every year since 2007 by Thomson Reuters; included among Texas Lawbook’s “Lions of the Bar”; and received separate Living Legends recognition in 2019 by the Texas Trial Lawyers and the Dallas Trial Lawyers associations. Texas Lawyer has recognized him as one of its “Go-To” trial lawyers, and he was inducted in the VerdictSearch Hall of Fame in 2013.
TH E L AW OFFICE S O F FR AN K L . BR ANSO N JEREMY ENLOW
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Highland Park Place | 4514 Cole Avenue, Suite 1800 Dallas, Texas 75205 | 214.522.0200
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Alexander Brauer B U S I N E S S / C O M M E R C I A L L I T I G AT I O N
Dedication to providing aggressive, creative legal solutions to clients who expect nimble, sophisticated representation is the cornerstone of Bailey Brauer co-founder Alex Brauer’s litigation practice. Drawing on their Big Law background, Brauer joined with partner Clayton Bailey in 2013 to open the litigation boutique Bailey Brauer. Providing clients with the same level of service expected of large firms, but in a much more agile and personalized fashion, the firm has quickly grown to be among the most respected firms in the country, earning multiple individual and firm honors, as well as the trust of business leaders throughout Texas and across the nation. “A boutique law firm affords the flexibility to build relationships that allow you to understand what will best help a business achieve success,” says Brauer. “Our clients appreciate working directly with attorneys who are dedicated to understanding their unique business needs and take a personal approach to helping them meet those objectives.” Brauer’s broad, industry-spanning commercial litigation practice focuses on high-stakes disputes ranging from allegations of fraud and deceptive practices in business transactions to claims of trade-secret theft and breaches of fiduciary duties, making him the attorney to whom executives turn with their most challenging legal and business issues.
E D U C AT I O N
B.S., cum laude, Florida State University J.D., Georgetown University Law Center
VANESSA GAVALYA
BAILEY BRAUER PLLC
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Campbell Centre I 8350 North Central Expressway Suite 650 Dallas, Texas 75206 214.360.7433
baileybrauer.com
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Burns Charest LLP CLASS ACTIONS C O M M E R C I A L L I T I G AT I O N Warren Burns, Daniel Charest, and Darren Nicholson are honored to be recognized by their peers as being among the Best Lawyers in Dallas in 2020 for class actions and commercial litigation. Burns Charest takes on big challenges and complex claims for the causes that matter. Trials: Burns Charest is winning trials for homeowners and businesses devastated by Hurricane Harvey, international arbitrations to secure deep-water drilling rights over oil and gas blocks off the coast of Africa, and commercial arbitrations involving Permian Basis oil and gas deals. Class Cases: Burns Charest is taking on Big Pharma for overcharging America’s EpiPen purchasers; protecting the rights of detained immigrants abused by private, for-profit prison systems; bringing the architects of the opioid crisis to justice for hospitals; suing major airlines for conspiring to restrict capacity and increase profits; and forcing Facebook to change its practices and care for its content moderators. Commercial Cases: Burns Charest is pursuing individuals’ rights against oil and gas operators and lessors, seeking overpayments to oil and gas vendors by a major operator, and enforcing contractual rights of individuals and companies across the nation. Burns Charest is proud to stake a claim as one of the premier litigation boutiques in Dallas. Whether fighting for individuals, companies, or a class, Burns Charest’s dedicated team of talented lawyers is ready.
Left to right: Warren Burns, Daniel Charest, Darren Nicholson BURNS CHAREST LLP
900 Jackson Street, Suite 500 Dallas, Texas 75202 Dallas | New Orleans | Denver 469.904.4550
burnscharest.com
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Todd Clement PERSONAL INJURY
As one of only six attorneys recognized as a D Magazine best personal injury lawyer in every Best Lawyers listing since 2009, representing victims of serious injuries or wrongful death is more than a job for Todd Clement. “My passion is to help those who have experienced a tremendous loss and try to make it better through meaningful financial compensation or influencing change that helps prevent the same tragedy from happening again—hopefully both.” Clement’s safety mission extends beyond the courtroom. As a preeminent legal expert on the dangers of cellphone use while driving, Clement speaks pro bono for the National Safety Council and at distracted driving summits nationwide. His mission has been featured in the Dallas Morning News, the Washington Post, and on NBC Nightly News. While Clement has received many professional accolades, such as being named a Super Lawyer every year since 2009 and being elected president of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, his greatest satisfaction comes from the personal service provided to his clients as reflected in their own words: “I needed serious legal counsel and called Todd. His legal experience, in conjunction with moral compass, was exactly what I was looking for and delivered the result that I was expecting. His emotional support during a difficult environment has made him a friend for life.” – Eric B. “My mother and niece were killed by a distracted driver using a cellphone. Todd worked tirelessly trying to gain some justice for our loss. He was just as concerned that the company make policy changes to prevent another family from having to go through such an accident. We couldn’t have had a better lawyer nor a better man.” – David W. “Thank you for being my voice and saying it louder, more often, and better than I could have. Thank you for talking to me, not at me. Thank you for listening and investigating my every question. You are a superb attorney and a fine man— not an easy combination to achieve.” – Teresa C.
ALEXA VOSSLER
“I am a confident educated female who has a terrific job and unbelievable family. Then came the day when my world was turned upside down by a driver who had fallen asleep while driving impaired. Fate then brought me to Todd and his terrific team. He gave me great counsel and worked tirelessly to fight on my behalf. Yes, he won my case with phenomenal success, but most importantly, he gave me my confidence back and positioned me to take back my life.” – Debbie L.
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17855 Dallas Parkway, Suite 155 | Dallas, Texas 75287 972.250.9250 | todd@clementspeer.com
clementspeer.com
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Clouse Brown PLLC E M P LOY M E N T L AW C-suite executives spend years climbing to the top of the ladder, so it’s no surprise that they would choose a team with decades of employment law experience when negotiating employment agreements, equity plans, or facing high-stakes litigation. Keith Clouse and Alyson Brown, both Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, have each practiced law for more than 30 years and have practiced together as an executive employment law team for two decades. They’ve represented thousands of executives and licensed professionals in their employment matters, whether drafting employment agreements, conducting workplace investigations, or fighting for their clients’ interests in the courtroom. Last year, in recognition of his renowned career, Clouse was inducted into the prestigious College of Labor and Employment Lawyers, which bestows fellowships upon lawyers who have elevated the practice of law through their distinguished work in the field. As individuals, and with their firm, Clouse and Brown have been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America 2020 edition for Labor and Employment Law. Brown has been named as one of the Top Women Attorneys in Texas by Texas Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters service. Despite the changes in employment law over the years, their mission has been consistent: helping CEOs, senior business leaders, and companies effectively address their most important employment issues.
Left to right: Alyson Brown Keith Clouse CLOUSE BROWN PLLC
1201 Elm Street, Suite 5250 Dallas, Texas 75270 214.239.2705
clousebrown.com
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Cobb Martinez Woodward Cobb Martinez Woodward offers businesses and professionals a rare and welcome combination of legal expertise, efficiency, and real-world results.
Left to right: Stacy Hoffman Bruce | Labor & Employment
Recognized as one of the Best Law Firms in America by U.S. News & World Report and by Best Lawyers, the firm delivers trial, appellate, and arbitration representation in commercial litigation, in professional malpractice defense, and in tort, medical, and products liability defense litigation.
Ramona Martinez | Tort Product & Medical Liability Litigation, Defense
CMW lawyers give legal counsel built on trust, experience, and sound judgment, while passionately and ethically championing their clients’ interests.
Bill Cobb | Professional Liability Litigation Carrie Johnson Phaneuf | Professional Liability Litigation Lindsey K. Wyrick | Professional Liability Litigation Katherine Elrich | Appellate Law Dan Tostrud | Professional Liability Litigation 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3100 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.220.5200
cobbmartinez.com
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Rogge Dunn B USI N E S S & E M P LOY M E N T L AW When you need the power of a trial attorney, call Rogge Dunn. Executives, entrepreneurs, and Fortune 500 companies hire Dunn for advice and, when necessary, litigation. Paper pushers can take you only so far, while an attorney with a track record of success in the courtroom maximizes your negotiation leverage. Dunn’s clients include Fortune 1000 companies like Beal Bank, CBRE, Cigna, Cintas, and Outback Steakhouse; sports professionals such as MLB manager Buck Showalter and Basketball Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown; and the CEOs/presidents of American Airlines, Texas Capital Bancshares, Crow Holdings, Kinkos, Beck Group, Dave & Busters, Gold’s Gym, Halliburton Energy Services, Benihana, Whataburger, and many others. Dunn is a professor in the SMU Executive MBA program. Dunn’s 20-plus years of teaching, including listening to and exchanging business solutions with successful entrepreneurs, enables him to reach business-smart solutions. Dunn was rated as a top 100 attorney in Texas in 2018 by Thomson Reuters service published in Texas Monthly, honored as a Texas Super Lawyer by Thomson Reuters service published in Texas Monthly every year the award has been given, and recognized 11 times as one of the Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine. Dunn has tried disputes to verdict in seven states and eight cites in Texas, and he has netted more than $2 billion in recoveries for his clients. He is one of approximately 25 attorneys Board Certified in both Civil Trial Law and Labor and Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
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B.A., cum laude, SMU J.D., with honors, University of Texas Law School ROGGE DUNN GROUP PC
500 North Akard Street, Suite 1900 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.888.5000 help@roggedunngroup.com
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Estes Thorne & Carr PLLC C O M M E R C I A L L I T I G AT I O N When the founding attorneys of Estes Thorne & Carr opened the doors more than a decade ago, they had the vision to provide an outstanding legal experience with boutique-level attention to a client’s needs. They wanted the creative freedom to offer unique solutions for commercial litigation and other areas of the law. The client relationships they cultivated grew the practice into one of the largest women-owned law firms in Texas. These accomplished attorneys have fused their Big Law and general counsel backgrounds to tailor litigation strategies for Fortune 500 companies, midsize businesses, and individuals. They have also ignited a reputation as formidable opponents in the courtroom and at the negotiating table. This successful blueprint has undoubtedly led to numerous accolades. This year, Dawn Estes and Carol Payne were both named two of Texas’ Top 50 Female Attorneys, as well as two of the Top 100 Super Lawyers in Dallas-Fort Worth by Thomson Reuters. The firm also expanded its construction litigation practice by hiring Tonya Johannsen, former general counsel of The Beck Group. The firm will continue its collaborative approach so that clients not only feel like they are a part of the team, but they feel like friends.
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Left to right: Tonya Johannsen, Carol Payne, Dawn Estes E D U C AT I O N
Dawn Estes: J.D., St. Mary’s University School of Law Carol Payne: J.D., Baylor University Law School Tonya Johannsen: J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law ESTES THORNE & CARR PLLC
3811 Turtle Creek Boulevard, Suite 2000 Dallas, Texas 75219 214.599.4000
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MATTHEW SHELLEY
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Fee, Smith, Sharp & Vitullo, L.L.P. C I V I L T R I A L L AW FEE SMITH congratulates Tom Fee, Jennifer Lee, and William Toles for being selected as D Magazine Best Lawyers. FEE SMITH is a Texas trial firm that provides legal representation for companies and individuals in high-exposure and high-profile cases in federal and state courts throughout the United States. The attorneys of FEE SMITH have served as litigation and lead trial counsel for clients in a broad range of matters, including personal injury torts involving catastrophic injury or death, professional liability, construction defect matters, and commercial business litigation. The firm litigates and arbitrates lawsuits involving major transportation accidents, construction accidents and defects, premise liability, products liability, and matters involving commercial and business disputes. FEE SMITH attorneys regularly serve as lead trial counsel for companies and individuals facing multimillion-dollar exposures. FEE SMITH maintains offices in Dallas, Austin, and Houston. The firm has extensive experience in litigating cases in Texas arising from major commercial transportation accidents involving allegations of Federal Motor Carriers Safety Regulations violations, construction accidents involving allegations of OSHA violations, highway construction accidents involving issues concerning the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, and accidents arising from the installation and operation of various private and public utilities, including electric, gas, and water. FEE SMITH has tried numerous large exposure cases across Texas involving products, professional and premise liability matters. FEE SMITH also is regularly retained as lead trial counsel for a number of the firm's corporate clientele to represent them in various commercial business and labor/employment matters. FEE SMITH’s practice and philosophy to assess the value of a case in the early stages of litigation and to implement an aggressive strategy in order to litigate the case at the time of trial or to force a reasonable settlement is appreciated by its clientele.
Left to right: Tom Fee, Jennifer Lee, William Toles E D U C AT I O N
Tom Fee: B.S., Louisiana State University; J.D., Paul M. Herbert Law Center, Louisiana State University Jennifer Lee: B.A., magna cum laude, Texas Tech University; J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law William Toles: B.A., Washington and Lee University; J.D., Washington and Lee University School of Law Dallas | Three Galleria Tower 13155 Noel Road, Suite 1000 | Dallas, Texas 75240 972.934.9100 Austin | 5301 Southwest Parkway, Suite 460 Austin, Texas 78735 | 512.479.8400 Houston | 2777 Allen Parkway, Suite 800 Houston, Texas 77019 | 713.362.8300
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Donald E. Godwin T R I A L & A P P E L L AT E L A W
Donald E. Godwin, chairman and CEO of Godwin Bowman PC, is considered one of the most respected and tenacious trial lawyers in Texas. For more than 40 years, Godwin has tried significant jury cases in courts throughout Texas and across the United States, which has earned him a stellar reputation of unquestioned commitment, thorough preparation, and courtroom success. Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, he has the ability to translate complex matters of law and fact into easily understandable language for courts and juries. Godwin’s practice covers a broad range of areas, with an emphasis on complex litigation, including oil and gas, environmental, fiduciary duties, will contests, major family law disputes, and business torts. Ranked by Chambers USA and honored among the 500 Leading Lawyers in America by Lawdragon Inc. for 2020, Godwin marks his 13th year among D Magazine's Best Lawyers in Dallas.
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B.S., University of North Carolina Wilmington M.S., University of Memphis J.D., Southern Methodist University
VANESSA GAVALYA
GODWIN BOWMAN PC
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1201 Elm Street, Suite 1700 Dallas, Texas 75270 214.939.4400
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Deandra Grant DWI DEFENSE Hamilton Grant partner Deandra Grant is an AV-rated attorney with a statewide DWI/criminal trial and consulting practice. She is a national instructor on DWI law and science and the co-author of The Texas DWI Manual (James Publishing). Grant is president emeritus of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association and has served on the board of the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association since 2007. She is a member of the American Chemical Society and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. In 2015 she received the ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation from the American Chemical Society. In 2016, Grant earned her master’s degree in pharmaceutical science and a graduate certificate in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She is an assistant chromatography instructor for the American Chemical Society at Axion Analytical Labs in Chicago. Grant has been named a SuperLawyer by Thomson Reuters. She runs five of Hamilton Grant’s nine office locations throughout Texas. Her team handles DWI, criminal, and family law cases throughout North, Central, and East Texas. In addition, she consults with civil and criminal attorneys on issues regarding allegations of intoxication. Grant is known as “The Lawyer Lawyers Call.” Outside of her legal practice, Grant is the vice president of Living the Doxie Dream Rescue & Sanctuary, located in Royse City, Texas. She also hosts the YouTube show “Wine’ing About the Law,” on which she reviews wine and discusses legal issues related to intoxication.
E D U C AT I O N
B.S., Trinity University J.D., Southern Methodist University School of Law M.S, G.C., University of Florida H A M I LT O N G R A N T
3300 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 700 Dallas, Texas 75219 972.943.8500 Deandra@HGTexas.com
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Nicole Knox Terry Bentley Hill CRIMINAL DEFENSE Very few women are lead counsel representing criminal defendants, but you will find two of Dallas’ best in the same office. Terry Bentley Hill and Nicole Knox succeed in a male-dominated practice because of their reputation for being fiercely committed to protecting their clients’ rights. Knox says, “We are respected because of the way we practice law and because we are good at what we do. We are passionate about cases where we see a great injustice.” Knox and Hill believe they have an advantage because, as career criminal defense attorneys, they were never trained to think like prosecutors. As a result, they have earned numerous “notguilty” verdicts, dismissals, and favorable outcomes. Knox and Hill are known for their high-quality criminal defense representation in state and federal court. “Our clients have a lot at stake,” Hill says. “We respect them and don’t take that lightly.” Knox focuses primarily on defending federal white-collar matters, with a current emphasis on healthcare fraud. In fact, in December of 2019, after a two-month federal healthcare fraud trial in Dallas, a jury found her client not guilty on all counts of the federal indictment. Hill has made it her mission to help people suffering from mental illness, including her clients. A nationally recognized mental health advocate, Hill was awarded a Presidential Citation by the State Bar of Texas for her work with struggling attorneys.
Left to right: Nicole Knox Terry Bentley Hill E D U C AT I O N
Terry Bentley Hill: B.A., University of Texas at Austin J.D., Texas A&M University School of Law, formerly Texas Wesleyan University Nicole Knox: B.A., University of Mississippi J.D., Texas A&M University School of Law, formerly Texas Wesleyan University L AW O FFICE O F TE RRY BE NTLE Y H ILL
3131 McKinney Avenue, Suite 800 | Dallas, Texas 75204 214.740.9955 L AW O FFICE O F N ICO LE KN OX , PLLC
3131 McKinney Avenue, Suite 800 | Dallas, Texas 75204 214.740.9955
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Chris Lewis CRIMINAL DEFENSE At Chris Lewis & Associates, P.C., the team has one mission—helping people navigate the uncharted waters of a criminal accusation. Chris Lewis has a long-standing reputation in the legal community as a sought-after criminal defense lawyer who achieves unparalleled results in both federal and state courthouses around the country. In trying nearly 300 jury trials throughout his career, Lewis has achieved many impressive courtroom victories while amassing one of the best acquittal rates in Texas. Even other highly acclaimed attorneys concede Lewis’ courtroom dominance. “I consider Chris Lewis to be one of the finest criminal defense lawyers America has ever produced,” says high-profile Los Angelesbased criminal defense attorney Tom Mesereau. “Chris’ strategies and tactics are creative and brilliant. He has an engaging style and careful, seasoned approach to direct and cross-examination that makes him very unpredictable and tremendously effective.” Clients also appreciate the intelligent, knowledgeable, strategic, and energetic approach Lewis applies to all his cases. As one former client noted, “Chris is truly gifted in simplifying the complex—without diluting the details necessary for effective communication to the jury.” Lewis’ firm represents individuals facing state and federal criminal charges, including whitecollar crimes, healthcare fraud, drug conspiracies, and traditional state crimes. “My objective has been to assemble a team that is best equipped to carry out the firm’s singular purpose,” Lewis says. “We’re here to help people who find themselves in a predicament that requires an unmatched level of experience and expertise. We want to leave our clients better than we found them; we want to help them get their lives back on track. That’s what we’re here for. Those are our core values.” Lewis is routinely recognized in state and national publications as one of the best in his field, including D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas, Texas Monthly’s Texas Super Lawyers, and Best Lawyers in America.
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B.A., magna cum laude, Evangel University J.D., Baylor University School of Law C H R I S L E W I S & A S S O C I AT E S , P. C .
Rosewood Court 2101 Cedar Springs Road, Suite 1900 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.665.6930
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Brian M. Lidji MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS
As a corporate lawyer, Brian Lidji has negotiated numerous significant mergers and other transactions for some of Dallas’ most successful businesses. His loyal clients seek his counsel on their most important business issues. Repeatedly named a D Magazine Best Lawyer in Dallas (2011-2020), Lidji is on the short list of attorneys who solve difficult issues with candid, practical counsel and creative solutions. For a list of representative transactions handled by Lidji, please visit LDHlaw.com.
E D U C AT I O N
B.A., magna cum laude, Hofstra University J.D., cum laude, Southern Methodist University School of Law
VANESSA GAVALYA
LIDJI DOREY & HOOPER
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500 North Akard Street, Suite 3500 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.774.1200
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Loewinsohn Flegle Deary Simon LLP B U S I N E S S L I T I G AT I O N Once again, all six founding partners with Loewinsohn Flegle Deary Simon LLP made D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas list. This honor speaks volumes about the lawyers’ level of expertise and their unrelenting drive for winning on behalf of their clients. The sought-after attorneys at Loewinsohn Flegle Deary Simon LLP are known for their sophisticated and results-oriented approach to business litigation and arbitration. LFDS’s lawyers handle high-profile and complex business disputes on both sides of the docket. The firm’s clientele includes Fortune 500 companies, privately owned businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. An example of their success; In one case alone, Loewinsohn Flegle Deary Simon obtained a jury verdict in excess of $2 billion—the largest in Texas probate court history and the ninth-largest verdict in U.S. history. In addition to earning a spot on this year’s Best Lawyers in Dallas list, all six partners were named Best Lawyers in America, and Loewinsohn Flegle Deary Simon has also been named Elite Trial Lawyers by The National Law Journal (2018, Business Torts) and recognized as a U.S. News Tier 1 Commercial Law Firm. Additionally, firm partner Alan Loewinsohn is currently ranked in Chambers USA 2019. “When it comes to hiring a trial lawyer, our clients hire us because they know that we won’t be outworked and that we love winning," says Alan Loewinsohn. “Although winning can mean different things for different clients, at the end of the day, we are passionate about achieving our clients’ objectives, no matter what.”
Left to right: David Deary | Business Litigation Jim Flegle | Business Litigation Alan Loewinsohn | Business Litigation Craig Simon | Business Litigation Dan Winikka | Business Restructuring & Bankruptcy Litigation Matt Ray | Employment Litigation 12377 Merit Drive, Suite 900 Dallas, Texas 75251 214.572.1700
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Martin Merritt H E A LT H L A W & H E A LT H C A R E L I T I G AT I O N
Martin Merritt is a founder and executive director of the Texas Health Lawyers Association, where he has served from 2013 to the present. He has been elected by his peers to serve as chairman of the Dallas Bar Association Health Law Section for 2021. He has served as special disciplinary counsel for the Texas Commission for Lawyer Discipline and serves as independent counsel and outside general counsel to physician groups, capital and private equity investors, CLIA labs, hospitals, pharmacies, home health agencies, DME companies, biological manufacturers and distributors, hospitals, dentists, medical doctors, chiropractors, nurses, medical spas, and management companies. His third book, “Please Tell Me You Didn’t… A Practice Guide for Keeping Healthcare Providers Out of the Jailhouse, Poorhouse (and Nuthouse)” is due in summer 2020. Healthcare Litigation • False Claims Act Investigations • Stark Law/AKS Investigations • Sale of Practice • Business Divorces • TROs and Injunctions • Employment Litigation • Insurance Clawback Litigation • Civil Deposition Subpoenas • Subpoenas for Documents • Criminal Prosecution • Federal AUSA Witness Statements • FBI/DEA/OIG Investigations • Non-Compete and Breach of Contract Litigation • Attorney General Investigations • Texas Medical Board Actions • Texas Pharmacy Board Actions • Texas Nursing Board Actions • CMS Appeal Litigation • Insurance Appeals Health Law • COVID-19 Regulations • Fed Grant Applications • Health Law Opinions • Sale of Practice Contracts • Partnership Agreements • Employment Contracts • Hospital Contracts • Real Estate Leases • SaaS Contracts • Management Agreements • Corporate Formation • Corporate Bylaws E D U C AT I O N
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J.D., University of Mississippi School of Law
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MARTIN MERRIT PLLC
4258 Renaissance Tower | 1201 Elm Street Dallas, Texas 75270 | 214.484.7709
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Jim Mitchell Andy Payne P E R S O N A L I N J U RY T R I A L L AW PayneMitchell Law Group is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for each client. They measure success by seeing that the client receives maximum compensation and that defendants implement positive safety changes or redesign defective products. This commitment to clients and community means the attorneys commit to taking only cases in which they truly believe they can make a positive difference. Clients count on PayneMitchell Law Group for an approach that combines passionate advocacy with compassionate support and understanding of a traumatic, life-changing event. Founding partners Andy Payne and Jim Mitchell are board certified in personal injury trial law and are members of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Payne is also board certified in civil trial and is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. They have been recognized among the Best Lawyers in Dallas by U.S. News & World Report and selected by Thomson Reuters as Texas Super Lawyers and as Top 100 Lawyers in Dallas-Fort Worth. Payne was listed by U.S. News & World Report as products liability lawyer of the year in Dallas, 2018 and 2019. PayneMitchell lawyers are leaders in the Bar. Mitchell and Payne are both members of the board of directors for the Texas and Dallas Trial Lawyers associations. Mitchell is a former president of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association and is currently serving as the president of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association. PayneMitchell Law Group has earned the highest peer review rating (AV) from Martindale-Hubbell. Every firm member has extensive experience with significant personal injury, aviation, product defect, and medical negligence cases. As a firm, PayneMitchell Law Group will work tirelessly to ensure you achieve the best result.
Left to right: Andy Payne | Partner Jim Mitchell | Partner P AY N E M I T C H E L L L A W G R O U P
3500 Maple Avenue, Suite 1250 Dallas, Texas 75219 214.252.1888
paynemitchell.com
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Jim Mueller F A M I LY L A W
Jim Mueller has honed his expertise in family law for more than a decade to offer the precise blend of what you need in a family lawyer—genuine compassion and understanding combined with a tenacious, unrelenting pursuit to protect your best interests. Some divorces are destined to become legal battles. When this happens, Mueller is the family lawyer you want on your side. Mueller’s reputation for honesty and integrity serves clients well in skillfully negotiating with opposing counsel to resolve cases. He specializes in all aspects of family law, particularly complex divorce, high-asset property division, and custody battles. He has successfully litigated complex property cases and child custody matters before juries and judges in Dallas, Collin, and surrounding counties, as well as throughout Texas. His extensive courtroom experience helps him lead clients through the litigation process while managing their expectations. “Whatever the case, my focus is always on the client,” Mueller says. “I love the courtroom but will help my clients resolve their case in the manner that is best for them.” Managing partner of Verner Brumley Mueller Parker PC, Mueller approaches all his divorce cases with the goal of helping clients divide their assets without unnecessarily dividing the family, especially where the interests of children are concerned. Even as the field of family law grows increasingly complex, he is well-versed in the wide range of issues involved and can simplify the facts. Verner Brumley, one of the largest family law firms in Texas, enjoys a reputation for excellence through preparation and innovation. Mueller and his team provide effective, results-oriented representation in contested and uncontested divorce, divorce mediation, and arbitration. The aim is to resolve all issues as efficiently and effectively as possible, allowing clients to preserve the emotional and financial well-being of their families throughout the process. Mueller is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has been inducted into the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers as one of its youngest members ever and is a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers. He has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America by Woodward White and as one of the Top 100 2020 Texas Super Lawyers by Thomson Reuters. The National Academy of Family Law Attorneys recognized Mueller as one of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in Texas Under 40, and he was named among the National Trial Lawyers’ Top 40 Under 40. He was also recognized as one of the Top 100 Lawyers in Texas by The National Advocates and 10 Best Under 40 by The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys.
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VANESSA GAVALYA
B.S., magna cum laude, Rhodes College; J.D., cum laude, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
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VE R N E R B RU M LE Y M U E LLE R PAR K E R P C
4311 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 450 | Dallas, Texas 75219 214.526.5234
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Majed Nachawati MASS TORTS
You can accomplish quite a lot when you surround yourself with a strong team. That’s the course Majed Nachawati has helped set for Fears Nachawati, the law firm he co-founded with partner Bryan Fears in 2006. While Nachawati always envisioned a firm capable of tackling some of the largest and most consequential mass torts the country has ever seen, he credits that vision’s success to the level of talent he works with. “The people here are so committed and so good at what they do. That has really allowed us to expand the services we offer and achieve the results we have,” Nachawati says. Over the past several years, Nachawati has seen major corporations take advantage of their customers and communities. He’s seen innocent victims who have been injured, lost loved ones, and had their livelihoods put in jeopardy. In these situations, regular people are often powerless to fight back. These are the people Fears Nachawati was founded to help. Whether the fight is against pharmaceutical companies that flooded local neighborhoods with dangerous opioids or corporations that pollute the air and local water supplies, Nachawati wants people to know the firm is on their side. Under Nachawati’s leadership, the firm has grown substantially since it was founded. It is currently representing state attorneys general and hundreds of other public entities in some of the most highly publicized “David vs. Goliath” cases across the country. The firm’s attorneys have become known for their subject-matter expertise and their willingness to fiercely advocate for their clients. When asked, Nachawati says that’s their job, and that he would expect nothing less. Nachawati was named among the Texas Rising Stars from 2010 to 2015 and a Texas Super Lawyer from 2015 to 2019 by Thomson Reuters. In 2020, he earned recognition as one of the Best Lawyers in America for his work in personal injury litigation by BL Rankings. He is a member of the Professionalism Committee of the State Bar of Texas and serves on the board of directors of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association.
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J.D., University of Houston Law Center F E A R S N A C H A W AT I L A W F I R M VANESSA GAVALYA
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5473 Blair Road Dallas, Texas 75231 214.890.0711
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Michelle May O’Neil F A M I LY L A W , A P P E L L AT E L A W
When fellow family law attorneys need expertise about special family law matters, they turn to Michelle O’Neil. A “lawyer’s lawyer,” O’Neil has developed a reputable niche in family law appeals. Her work extends further than appealing to a higher court about what may be deemed an unfair decision in family law courts. She is often called upon by lawyers to co-counsel cases to assist with complex family law matters. O’Neil has tried more than 26 family law jury trials and handled more than 85 cases in the Texas appellate courts, some of which involve questions of first impression family law cases. “My unique specialty combination of handling litigation and appellate family law matters gives me a depth of perception other lawyers don’t always have,” she says. “I can help work through the nuances of family law, whether it’s a divorce, complex property division case, or a same-sex custody matter.” Described by one lawyer as a “lethal combination of sweet and salty,” she exudes genuine compassion for her clients’ difficulties, yet she can be relentless when in pursuit of their goals. Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1997, O’Neil has been named to Texas Super Lawyers from 2011 to 2019 in family law and the Top 50 Women Lawyers in Texas from 2014 to 2019. Her latest passion is to move from success to significance by empowering and mentoring others. O’Neil co-founded an empowerment group for Texas women lawyers called #HellonHeels that now boasts over 750 members. “Tough. Confident. Feminine.” is the motto that embodies the group, as they share a love of shoes, an outlook of positivity, and a bond over issues that are common to women lawyers across the state. She also joined Edge Global Inc. and Ziglar International Inc. as a business trainer/coach and motivational speaker.
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B.B.A., Baylor University J.D., Baylor University School of Law
VANESSA GAVALYA
O ’ N E I L W Y S O C K I – F A M I LY L A W
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5323 Spring Valley Road, Suite 150 Dallas, Texas 75254 972.852.8000
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Scott H. Palmer CRIMINAL DEFENSE, PERSONAL I N J U R Y, C I V I L R I G H T S If there’s a will, there’s a way. This mission is what sets criminal defense attorney Scott Palmer apart from the rest. “Can’t” is not in his vocabulary, and he stops at nothing to ensure the best outcomes for his clients. Palmer and his team are known for excellent results in tough, high-risk criminal cases, particularly murder and sex crimes. Palmer has become known for defending the rights of his clients in high-profile personal injury, civil rights, and criminal cases that often generate media attention, such as the bartender assault case in Deep Ellum, the fallen officer case at the Home Depot, and the Atmos Energy explosion case. The firm Scott H. Palmer, P.C. has expanded recently to include four sections—family law, civil rights, personal injury, and criminal defense. Palmer works alongside eight notable award-winning attorneys (including two former prosecutors) who take a team approach in resolving complicated, serious matters. Their expertise and familiarity with the system has resulted in dismissals and no-bills on hefty charges such as sexual assault of a child. “Every day we stand up for people who are injured or accused of crimes,” Palmer says. “We continue to fight while others fold. Some call my style aggressive; I call it getting results.” Palmer, board certified in criminal defense law, has been fighting for clients for more than 23 years. His tenacity is unmatched, and he is willing to go the extra mile. He only stops when he is satisfied that everything has been done to get the best result possible. Palmer is proud of the five-star service he provides to clients. “Our clients repeatedly post reviews about our unparalleled ability to keep them informed,” he says. “Every client is important, whether the issue involves a misdemeanor DWI or a capital murder. Every case is unique; every client is assured we will do everything we can to see that their rights are protected.” In addition to being named among the Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine in 2002, 2006, and from 2011 to 2020, Palmer was also awarded the prestigious John Howie Award by the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association for his verdict on a federal civil rights case against two Dallas police officers. He is AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer, a Thomson Reuters, service from 2008 to 2019. His associates are often recognized for their achievements as well. Rebekah Perlstein, a former assistant district attorney, is a D Magazine Best Lawyer Under 40 in 2017 to 2020 for her outstanding work as a criminal defense attorney. David P. Housel is a board-certified family lawyer by The Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Grant Gerleman is board certified in personal injury law and was selected as a Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers in 2018 and 2019. James P. Roberts leads the civil rights division, and Niles Illich heads the appellate division. Sorsha Huff, Robert Crabtree, and Joshua Wright round out the team of exceptional lawyers. E D U C AT I O N
B.A., Tulane University; J.D., Texas Wesleyan University VANESSA GAVALYA
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S C O T T H . P A L M E R , P. C .
15455 North Dallas Parkway, Suite 540 Addison, Texas 75001 | 214.987.4100
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Jeffrey Rasansky T R I A L L AW Jeff Rasansky focuses on catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases, including vehicular accidents, medical malpractice, birth injuries, product liability, and complex business litigation across Texas and the United States. With nearly 30 years of trial experience, Rasansky has successfully represented clients against some of the largest insurance companies and businesses in the world. Rasansky’s passion is helping injured victims through some of the most difficult times in life. Every day, he tries to make a positive difference in the lives of his clients and utilizes his skills to effect change in corporate policies and procedures. Rasansky’s work has garnered regional and national media coverage, earning him the respect not only of clients but also of his legal colleagues. He has been recognized among the National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100 trial lawyers and has earned an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the organization’s highest rating for legal ability and ethical standards. In addition to repeatedly earning a place on D Magazine’s list of the Best Lawyers in Dallas (2008, 2012, 2014, 2016-2020), he has also been selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list each year since 2003 by Thomson Reuters, Best Lawyers in America in 2018-2020, and the prestigious Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers in 2019. In addition to personal injury cases, Rasansky also has made a name for himself in the world of complex business litigation, protecting the interests of individuals and companies victimized by illegal and unethical business practices. He is also an experienced mediator with a knack for resolving conflict. If you need an attorney with an unmatched level of personal attention and service who will stop at nothing to get you what you deserve, please contact the Rasansky Law Firm.
E D U C AT I O N
B.B.A., University of Texas at Austin J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
VANESSA GAVALYA
R A SANSK Y L AW FIRM
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2525 McKinnon Street, Suite 550 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.651.6100
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Dick Sayles B U S I N E S S L I T I G AT I O N
Wendi Campbell Rogaliner H E A LT H C A R E L A W
Shawn Long PROFESSIONAL NEGLIGENCE DEFENSE The powerhouse attorneys at Bradley in Dallas have seen and done it all. The national firm’s 150th anniversary in 2020 only proves the point. The lauded, experienced team of attorneys at Bradley (also known as Bradley Arant Boult Cummings) brings decades of experience to the fast-growing Dallas location, led by veteran partner Dick Sayles. Fellow Best Lawyers honorees, Wendi Campbell Rogaliner and Shawn Long, join Sayles, along with a strong bench of partners and associates, in representing their clients in a wide range of litigation and business matters of every size and scope. Sayles, whose long list of accolades includes being named Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Dallas Bar Association in 2018 and Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers in America/BL Rankings in 2016 and 2018, has taken more than 150 cases to trial and is widely regarded as one of the best trial lawyers for business practicing law in Texas. Rogaliner is a nationally recognized healthcare attorney who has been representing providers in the Dallas-Fort Worth community for more than 20 years. Her focus is on complex regulatory, compliance, and transactional work for institutional healthcare providers. Long, honored in The Best Lawyers in America in 2018-2020, is known for her successful defense of lawyers and law firms against professional negligence claims, breach of fiduciary duty claims, and fee disputes. An Am Law 200 firm, Bradley is national law firm with a reputation for skilled legal work, exceptional client service, and impeccable integrity.
Left to right: Shawn Long, Richard Sayles, Wendi Campbell Rogaliner E D U C AT I O N
Richard A. Sayles: J.D., magna cum laude, University of Houston Law Center Wendi Campbell Rogaliner: J.D., cum laude, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law Shawn C. Long: J.D., cum laude, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law BRADLEY
4400 Renaissance Tower 1201 Elm Street Dallas, Texas 75270 214.939.8700
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Steckler Gresham Cochran PLLC L I T I G AT I O N “Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” —Albert Einstein At Steckler Gresham Cochran, great minds think differently. For instance, the fact that its attorneys routinely litigate on both sides of the docket makes them dangerous to opposing cookiecutter law firms that practice only on one side of the docket. “Your credibility comes not only from your posture, but from the reputation of your lawyers for zealous advocacy. That is what we do best,” says Dean Gresham, partner.
Left to right: Kirstine Rogers, Dean Gresham, Bruce Steckler, Stuart Cochran 12720 Hillcrest Road, Suite 1045 Dallas, Texas 75230 972.387.4040
sgc.law
Steckler Gresham Cochran’s commitment to fairness, integrity, and justice—combined with a willingness to be innovative and aggressive—provides its clients with a legal edge in representation. The lawyers at Steckler Gresham Cochran combine nearly 100 years’ worth of experience trying cases to juries and arbitrators (and preparing hundreds more that settled) in every field of law on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants. Clients expect value and results, and Steckler Gresham Cochran delivers both. The attorneys at Steckler Gresham Cochran work on contingency fee, hourly fee, or alternative fee arrangements to provide the best and highest value for its clients. By sharing in the risk—and the rewards—there is a true partnership between the attorneys and clients.
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Karin Zaner H E A LT H C A R E L A W
Karin Zaner knows that as exceptionally well as Texas doctors are trained and prepared in the clinical practice of medicine, they can nevertheless be caught off guard with respect to the regulatory, business, and contractual aspects of their chosen profession. Her firm, Zaner Law PC, focuses entirely on the representation of Texas physicians and other healthcare professionals, helping them untangle corporate, administrative, and employment matters, and providing practical pathways to the resolution of the myriad business, legal, and ethical complexities that inevitably arise in the modern medical practice. Zaner is also a frequent speaker to physician groups on topics such as peer review, credentialing, and other pressing healthcare issues in the medical arena. “My aim is to help doctors be better prepared and to avoid problems altogether— but if complications do arise, it’s my job to make certain they’re well-informed and thoroughly represented,” she says. Zaner spent 18 years at large Dallas firm, where she often represented physicians in healthcare cases. Her passion for helping Texas doctors began in 1999, representing Dr. Lawrence Poliner in his noted federal court lawsuit against Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, resulting in a $366 million verdict, the ninthlargest jury verdict in the country in 2004. “I enjoyed all the cases I handled at my former firm, but I quickly discovered that I had a real passion for helping physicians—vindicating them from unjust circumstances and sometimes saving their careers,” she says. “Once I’d experienced being able to provide this specialized service, and realized just how few attorneys did so, I decided to pursue it full force.” Her cases often involve state and federal immunity and privilege, physician contracts, physician employment and noncompete agreements, income guaranties, recruitment, HIPAA adherence, patient privacy, data bank and self-reporting issues, privilege and credentialing matters, OPPE and FPPE guidance, and other complex state and federal healthcare regulations. Zaner regularly represents physicians in medical peer review hearings and frequently handles complaints before the Texas Medical Board and other administrative boards in Austin, where Zaner Law PC has a second location. “My goal is for my clients’ records and reputations to be as well-preserved as possible, so that nothing stands between them and the pursuit of their calling as healers,” she says. “I’m here to help physicians defend themselves when they’ve been wronged. I’m in awe of the amazing gifts they give others, each and every day. I’ve found so much meaning in being a small part of helping them do that.”
E D U C AT I O N
B.A., with honors in Plan II, University of Texas at Austin J.D., University of Texas School of Law Z AN E R L AW PC VANESSA GAVALYA
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8117 Preston Road, Suite 300 | Dallas, Texas 75225 1800 Lavaca Street, Suite 502 | Austin, Texas 78701 214.363.5036 | karin@zaner.law
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ByrdAdatto B U S I N E S S & H E A LT H C A R E L A W The story of ByrdAdatto began long before Michael Byrd and Brad Adatto became attorneys. As sons of doctors who owned private medical practices, they grew up around the influences of both medicine and business, which naturally led them to become business and healthcare attorneys. Today, ByrdAdatto is a growing practice with 13 attorneys and locations in Dallas and Chicago that serves business owners and entrepreneurs, doctors and dentists, and fellow attorneys in a variety of legal matters. The attorneys at ByrdAdatto share a common view of how business law should work—transparent, creative, and focused on the client’s best interests. The firm’s attorneys have become a national voice on healthcare law, having given more than 35 lectures in past year alone. ByrdAdatto eliminates inefficiencies often associated with law firms and, instead, offers creative solutions while striving to make business law accessible and easy to understand. ByrdAdatto’s attorneys are proactive, trusted advisors dedicated to making a profound difference their clients’ long-term financial and professional success.
E D U C AT I O N
Left to right: Michael Byrd, Brad Adatto
VANESSA GAVALYA
Bradford E. Adatto: B.A., Texas Christian University; J.D., Loyola University School of Law Michael S. Byrd: B.B.A., University of Texas at Austin; J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law 8150 North Central Expressway, Suite 930 Dallas, Texas 75206 214.291.3200
byrdadatto.com
David R. Clouston Leslye E. Moseley C O M M E R C I A L & S E C U R I T I E S L I T I G AT I O N ; E M P L O Y M E N T L A W The Sessions Firm realizes that an attorney-client relationship is not one size fits all and strives to provide high-level individualized services to meet their clients’ litigation needs efficiently and effectively—whether that is through a collaborative or aggressive approach. “We understand the need to balance zealous advocacy with real-world business needs to keep companies and individuals from being priced out of protecting their rights,” says partner Leslye Moseley. David Clouston was named a Texas Super Lawyer from 2009 to 2020 and Best Lawyers in America from 2012 to 2020. Moseley was named a Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars from 2011 to 2017, Top 50 Women, and Top 100 Rising Stars. Clouston and Moseley have also been named as America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators. The firm was named in BTI Power Rankings 2016 Law Firms With the Best Client Relationships and Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report in 2020.
E D U C AT I O N
Left to right: David R. Clouston, Leslye E. Moseley
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David R. Clouston: J.D., Baylor University Leslye E. Moseley: J.D., Southern Methodist University S E S S I O N S F I S H M A N N AT H A N & I S R A E L
900 Jackson Street, Suite 440 Dallas, Texas 75202 214.741.3001
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Bill Cox C R I M I N A L L AW For more than two decades, William “Bill” D. Cox III has exclusively practiced criminal law, defending clients so their reputations and freedoms can remain intact. He frequently handles criminal law matters for high-profile clients and executives accused of crimes ranging from assault and drug charges to murder. His 99 percent referral rate is indicative not only of his success but also because of his high level of discretion and confidentiality. From misdemeanors to felonies, he makes sure his clients are well-informed throughout the process. Also, he competently handles State and Federal appeals and writs. A former felony prosecutor, Cox realized he could help even more people by becoming a criminal defense lawyer. “I care about my clients and handle their cases personally,” he says. “My clients know they can count on me for responsiveness and results.” Board certified in criminal law and named among the Best Lawyers in Dallas numerous times, Cox is AV-Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for legal and ethical standards. He is a member of the Texas Bar Foundation, American Trial Lawyers Association, and National Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and has been named among the National Association of Trial Lawyers Top 100 Lawyers.
E D U C AT I O N
BRET REDMAN
B.A., University of Texas; J.D., Western Michigan University Cooley Law School L AW O FFICE S O F WILLIAM D. COX III
325 North Saint Paul Street, Suite 2100 | Dallas, Texas 75201 214.220.3111
billcoxlaw.com
Duffee + Eitzen F A M I LY L A W Lisa Duffee and Melinda Eitzen have practiced family law together in Dallas for 20 years, handling high-net-worth divorces, complex property, custody litigation, and collaborative matters. Duffee and Eitzen place a strong emphasis on their clients’ wellbeing, understanding the impact divorce can have on families. “We care about our clients and are ethical in all aspects of our practice,” Duffee says. “We want to make a positive impact on their lives and respect that this is a service industry.” Duffee + Eitzen offers 10 lawyers at various billing rates so every case can be assigned appropriately. The attorneys work together and pool their resources, with an on-site former family law judge, a certified collaborative master, special education and financial experts, so clients get the best outcome possible. “While we each practice family law, our areas of expertise vary, so we draw on our strengths and bring each other in on our cases so that our clients are fully covered,” Eitzen says. Duffee and Eitzen are regulars to D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas list, Super Lawyers, U.S. News & World Report, and Best Lawyers. They are involved in the legal community with SMU’s Dedman School of Law as well as the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program that provides legal services to those in need.
Left to right: Michael Byrd, Melinda Eitzen,Brad LisaAdatto Duffee
VANESSA GAVALYA
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4311 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 600 | Dallas, Texas 75219 | 214.416.9010 *6860 North Dallas Parkway, Suite 200 | Plano, Texas 75024 | 972.403.1200 *201 Main Street, Suite 600 | Fort Worth, Texas 76102 | 817.952.3155 *811 6th Street, Suite 207 | Wichita Falls, Texas 76301 | 972.598.0208 *By Appointment Only info@d-elaw.com
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Ron C. McCallum T R I A L L AW Ron McCallum is one of only 50 lawyers in the U.S. board certified in trucking and commercial motor vehicle trial law. He has secured five verdicts totaling more than $34 million in the past few years alone. McCallum is known for taking on aggressive, billion-dollar corporations and turning serious injury cases into large settlements and verdicts in his clients’ favor, including securing the largest verdict ever against Greyhound Inc. in a unanimous verdict that was the largest motor vehicle verdict in Texas and Dallas County at the time. McCallum and his team take a clients-first approach in everything they do. “My firm specializes in tough cases, and my team represent clients who have suffered significant injuries and need expert legal representation in the courtroom, in trial preparation, and obtaining expert witnesses,” McCallum says. “We are committed to the pursuit of justice and have built a tradition of being the strongest advocates in the courtroom.” McCallum studied sociology and professional aviation at the University of Oklahoma before beginning his career as a professional pilot, all while earning his law degree. His original practice consisted of representing aviation entities and pilots before expanding to include personal injury trial law. He is AV-Preeminent-rated by Martindale-Hubbell and is consistently named a Super Lawyer (a Thomson Reuters publication). McCallum was recently selected as one of the Top 10 Aviation and Trucking Trial Lawyers in the Nation. E D U C AT I O N VANESSA GAVALYA
B.A., University of Oklahoma; J.D., South Texas College of Law R O N C . M C C A L L U M & A S S O C I AT E S , P L L C
3110 Webb Avenue, Suite 150 | Dallas, Texas 75205 214.702.0555 | ron@mccallumfirm.com
mccallumfirm.com
Hunter Biederman
Robert J. Bogdanowicz III
DWI DEFENSE
B U S I N E S S L I T I G AT I O N
Hunter Biederman focuses his practice on DWI defense. A former assistant district attorney, he exclusively handles DWI and intoxicatedrelated offenses. Biederman was selected a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers, a Rising Star Super Lawyer, and voted 2012 Litigator of the Year by his colleagues in the Collin County Bench/Bar. Biederman is a frequent lecturer and best-selling author of A Cup of Coffee With 10 of the Top DUI Attorneys in the United States. In 2016, Biederman’s firm exposed major discrepancies in the testimony of a DPS lab expert, sending shock waves throughout the legal community by discrediting an estimated 20,000 DWI blood tests.
Rob Bogdanowicz is the go-to lawyer when a business dispute arises, regardless of complexity. He is a fierce and creative advocate, routinely employing outside-the-box strategies in bet-the-company cases across the United States. Though litigation is sometimes unavoidable, he recognizes that some circumstances call for an early resolution instead of full-blown war. Bogdanowicz often is hired to steer negotiations and resolve the seemingly unresolvable before they snowball into a courtroom battle. He also has been named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers the past nine years, earning further distinction as an Up-and-Coming Top 100 Rising Star from 2017 to 2020.
E D U C AT I O N B.S., University of Florida J.D., University of Florida L AW O FFICE S O F BIE DE RMAN & B U R L E S O N , P. L . L . C . 2591 Dallas Parkway, Suite 207 Frisco, Texas 75034 469.333.3333 friscolaw@gmail.com BiedermanAndBurleson.com
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E D U C AT I O N B.A., Rutgers University J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law C A L H O U N , B H E L L A & S E C H R E S T, L L P 325 North Saint Paul Street, Suite 2300 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.981.9200 rob@cbsattorneys.com cbsattorneys.com
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Jim Burnham
Jason K. Burress
F E D E R A L & S TAT E C R I M I N A L L AW
P E R S O N A L I N J U RY L AW
Jim Burnham, a highly regarded trial lawyer, has devoted his practice to citizens accused of crimes. For 16 years, he served as a top assistant to the legendary District Attorney Henry Wade, prosecuting more than 400 felony jury trials. He was named 2008 Dallas Bar Association Trial Lawyer of the Year; Best Lawyers in America 2001-2019 by Woodward White, Inc.; Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine 2001-2020; 2016 D CEO Dallas 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in Dallas-Fort Worth; Preeminent Lawyers by Martindale-Hubbell 2005-2020; and Texas Super Lawyers 2003-2019, a Thomson Reuters service. Burnham also served as president of the Dallas Bar Association, chairman of the District 6A Grievance Committee and is a member of the Salesmanship Club of Dallas and the American College of Trial Lawyers.
Jason K. Burress is the founder of Burress Law in McKinney. For 18 years, he has represented clients throughout Texas and the U.S. involving serious personal injuries and wrongful death. Burress has extensive experience representing traumatic brain injury (TBI) victims and their families. More than half of his cases involve a brain injury component. Burress earned a $3.65 million judgment in a minor traumatic brain injury case in 2015. He has also earned multiple Stowers verdicts. Burress regularly speaks on how to identify, work up, and try TBI cases. His honors and recognitions include Texas Super Lawyers (2017, 2018, 2019), D Magazine Best Lawyers (2016-2020), Texas Rising Stars (2012-2013), McKinney Magazine Best Law Firm (five consecutive years), and McKinney Courier Gazette Best Personal Injury Attorney (three consecutive years).
E D U C AT I O N B.A., University of Dallas J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law L AW O FFICE S O F JIM BU RN HAM 6116 North Central Expressway, Suite 515 Dallas, Texas 75206 214.750.6616 jburnhamlaw.com
E D U C AT I O N B.S., Texas State University J.D., Southern Methodist Dedman School of Law B U R R E SS L AW, PLLC 6617 Virginia Parkway McKinney, Texas 75071 214.726.0016 jason@mytexasfirm.com mytexasfirm.com
Greg Carr
Daniel Clancy
I N T E L L E C T U A L P R O P E R T Y L AW
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Greg Carr began practicing in 1982 at one of Dallas’ only two firms then specializing exclusively in IP. As a result, Carr gained valuable experience—rare today—in all IP disciplines of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, allowing him to be the go-to IP counsel for many companies. Carr has gotten patent clients millions in settlements, license fees, and judicial awards for technology ranging from the Stealth Bomber bomb-loader to internet access, defended against infringement claims exceeding $100 million, built multinational patent and trademark portfolios, handled numerous proceedings in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and helped design client products around competitors’ IP. Carr has been named to Best Lawyers in Dallas several times.
Daniel Clancy, a criminal defense attorney in North Texas, maintains a practice focused on federal criminal defense, as well as state-level felony and misdemeanor offenses. In 2018, Clancy established The Clancy Law Group, a cannabis business law firm. As a native Texan, Clancy holds licenses in Texas and in both the Northern and Eastern districts. Previously serving as a county prosecutor and criminal district judge, Clancy has seen the courtroom from every view possible and has tried or presided over hundreds of criminal cases. Please visit danielclancy. com, theclancylawgroup.com, or call 214.740.9955 for additional information.
E D U C AT I O N B.S., cum laude, Southern Methodist University; J.D., University of Houston CARR INTELLECTUAL PRO PER T Y L AW 6170 Research Road, Suite 111 Frisco, Texas 75033 214.760.3000 carrip.com
E D U C AT I O N B.A., Southwest Texas State University J.D., Mississippi College School of Law L AW O FFICE O F DAN I E L CL AN CY; TH E CL AN CY L AW G ROU P 3131 McKinney Avenue, Suite 800 Dallas, Texas 75204 214.740.9955 danielclancy.com theclancylawgroup.com
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Richard A. Cuccia, II
Gregg Gallian
F R A N C H I S E L AW
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Richard Cuccia has worked with all types of businesses in his 20-plus year legal career. While working on his law degree, he worked as a strategy consultant for KPMG. After earning his law license, he practiced in both small and large firms in Dallas. He has also served as in-house counsel for OTC, Nasdaq, and NYSE companies. In 2009, he founded Cuccia Legal, which expanded to become Cuccia Wilson. His clients are representative of numerous industries, and they include entrepreneurs who own franchises as well as numerous small businesses. No matter the industry, his goal is to provide unparalleled daily counsel for both the individual business owner and the client’s business.
Gregg Gallian is a trial lawyer with a reputation of being prepared for every challenge. While at the Dallas County DA’s office, he received the Misdemeanor Prosecutor of the Year award. Gallian eventually left the office to pursue his calling of fighting for people. His confident and compassionate demeanor is reassuring to all clients. He works tirelessly to communicate with his clients in their time of need. He opened Gallian Defense Firm in 2019 and represents clients in state and federal courts across North Texas. Gallian continues to receive local and national awards recognizing his fierce, aggressive, and passionate style of representation.
E D U C AT I O N B.S. Economics, Southern Methodist University J.D. Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law CUCCIA WILSON, PLLC 1910 Pacific Avenue, Suite 18850 Dallas, Texas 75201 469.577.0644 cucciawilson.com
E D U C AT I O N B.A., Texas A&M University J.D., St. Mary’s University School of Law GALLIAN DEFENSE FIRM 2001 Bryan Street, Suite 1905 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.433.6303 Gregg@GallianDefenseFirm.com GallianDefenseFirm.com
Charles N. Geilich
Andrew Gould
M E D I AT I O N
L A B O R & E M P LOY M E N T L AW
With a family law and business law background, attorney and mediator Charles Geilich has the knowledge and experience to bring cases to an efficient, successful resolution without the need for expensive and uncertain litigation. Geilich mediates family law and civil matters on a full-time basis. Having mediated exclusively since 2000, Geilich is often the go-to source for lawyers who want a fast and fair resolution for their clients. Although Geilich has mediated many types of cases, his focus is family law cases, from conservatorship and support matters to complex property issues. His legal and business background, as well as the experience gained from leadership roles for local and state bar associations, benefit his numerous clients.
Andrew Gould’s practice is devoted to the representation of employers, from local entrepreneurial businesses to multinational corporations. Gould specializes in handling a wide variety of employment litigation and in navigating complex contract negotiations, providing strategic employment advice, and protecting confidential company information. Gould also spends considerable time working with clients on preventive measures, including advising on compliance with wage and hour laws, counseling on disciplinary actions and investigations, and conducting employment practices reviews. He is Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers, a member of the Wage & Hour Defense Institute and the Litigation Counsel of America, and is admitted to practice law in New
E D U C AT I O N B.A., University of Texas J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law 214.207.5219 cngeilich@gmail.com dallasmediation.com
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E D U C AT I O N B.A., University of Michigan J.D., Hofstra University School of Law WICK PHILLIPS 3131 McKinney Avenue, Suite 100 Dallas, Texas 75204 214.692.6200 wickphillips.com
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Melissa S. Hayward
Heather A. Kemble
B A N K R U P TC Y & L I T I G AT I O N
O I L & G A S L AW
Melissa S. Hayward’s versatile practice guides individuals and businesses through the complexities of Chapter 11 restructuring and litigation. In addition to her extensive experience rehabilitating and reorganizing financially distressed businesses, both in proceedings under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code and in out-of-court workouts, Hayward also regularly represents national banks and lenders, Forbes 100 companies, Chapter 7 and 11 Trustees, commercial landlords, creditors’ committees, and other creditors and parties-in-interest in a wide range of bankruptcy and litigation matters and through all stages of state and federal court proceedings, including appeals, preference and fraudulent transfer avoidance actions, and fiduciary litigation.
The Law Office of Heather A. Kemble specializes in oil and gas and energy law, representing oil and gas companies and individuals in the transfer and purchase and sale of oil and gas interests and preparing of all types of oil and gas agreements, including farmout agreements, participation agreements, joint operating agreements, master service agreements, oil and gas leases, all types of deeds and assignments, and easement and right of way agreements. Her practice also includes general corporate work, financing, and probate and trusts, generally in connection with oil and gas interests. Kemble has been practicing law for 30 years.
E D U C AT I O N B.A., The University of Texas at Austin J.D., cum laude, Dedman School of Law, Southern Methodist University
E D U C AT I O N B.S., magna cum laude, Texas Christian University; J.D., with honors, University of Texas School of Law
H AY W A R D & A S S O C I AT E S P L L C 10501 N. Central Expressway, Suite 106 Dallas, Texas 75231 972.755.7104 MHayward@HaywardFirm.com HaywardFirm.com
TH E L AW OFFICE O F H E AT H E R A . K E M B L E 4320 University Boulevard Dallas, Texas 75205 214.564.3204 heather@kemblelaw.com
Camille Knight
Jacob B. Kring
C R I M I N A L & C I V I L L AW
B U S I N E S S L I T I G AT I O N
For 20 years, Camille Knight has concentrated on federal criminal and civil matters. She has represented people and companies in investigations, cases, and appeals involving all types of allegations of complex fraud, including healthcare, securities, tax, wire, and computer fraud. Fluent in Spanish, she is an experienced bilingual advocate. Knight places integrity and trustworthiness above all in fighting for her clients’ interests. In doing so, she has earned the respect of her clients, her colleagues—and her trial adversaries. For experienced representation by a straight-shooter with both empathy and integrity, there is no better choice than Camille Knight.
Jacob B. Kring is a business trial attorney known for facing off against the world’s largest law firms and best lawyers to protect his clients’ interests. Kring’s practice focuses on fighting for businesses in high-stakes, bet-the-company disputes. As co-founder of Hedrick Kring, PLLC, he established a client-focused litigation firm fueled by decisive and results-oriented representation. In 2019, Kring secured a jury verdict in Harris County and full award of attorneys’ fees, obtained a total dismissal of a putative class action, and obtained summary judgment for the alleged fraudulent transfer and conversion of oil and gas proceeds.
E D U C AT I O N B.A., cum laude, The University of New Mexico; J.D. magna cum laude, The John Marshall Law School B U R L E S O N , P AT E & G I B S O N L . L . P. (OF COUNSEL) Founders Square 900 Jackson Street, Suite 330 Dallas, Texas 75202 214.871.4900 cknight@bp-g.com bp-g.com
E D U C AT I O N B.B.A., University of Pittsburgh J.D., Baylor Law School HEDRICK KRING, PLLC 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 4650 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.880.9625 Jacob@HedrickKring.com HedrickKring.com
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Adam LeCrone
Laura Canada Lewis
C I V I L T R I A L L AW
C O M M E R C I A L & F R A N C H I S E L AW
Adam LeCrone leads a firm of 12 attorneys licensed in Texas and Oklahoma, that concentrates on complex personal injury and business litigation. His career began in 1993 as a prosecutor. Over the past 27 years, he has tried over 300 civil and criminal jury trials. LeCrone is a member of ABOTA, where he has attained the highest rank of Advocate. He is also a Super Lawyer and has an AV Preeminent Peer Review rating by Martindale-Hubbell. Since 2005, LeCrone has served as a mediator in over 1,500 cases with a success rate of approximately 90 percent.
Laura Canada Lewis is the founder of Canada Lewis & Associates, a commercial law firm with a legal team that has a reputation for providing a high level of personalized service and support to business owners and franchisors. As a full-service law firm, CLA advises clients in all legal aspects of forming, structuring, operating, growing, and protecting their brand. Lewis enjoys a reputation as a strong negotiator, a practical strategist, a creative problem solver, an accomplished state and federal litigator, and a tireless advocate for her clients’ personal and professional needs. In addition to being named Best Lawyer, Lewis has been recognized as a Franchise Times Legal Eagle and a Thomson Reuters Super Lawyer Rising Star this year.
E D U C AT I O N B.A., Baylor University J.D., Baylor University School of Law T H E L E C R O N E L A W F I R M , P. C . (Principle Location) 123 N. Crockett, Suite 200 Sherman, Texas 75090 903.813.1900 Dallas Office By Appointment Only: 12222 Merit Drive, Merit Tower Suite 1200 | Dallas, Texas 75251 469.754.0974 | lecronelaw.com
E D U C AT I O N B.S., magna cum laude, University of North Texas J.D., cum laude, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law C A N A D A L E W I S & A S S O C I AT E S , P L L C 8765 Stockard Drive, Suite 902 Frisco, Texas 75034 469.664.0120 LLewis@canadalewis.com CanadaLewis.com
Messina Madson
Ben C. Martin
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
P E R S O N A L I N J U RY
After more than a decade at the Dallas DA’s office and now as a partner at Madson Castello, PLLC, Messina Madson has dedicated her career to criminal litigation and criminal justice reform. Madson is an experienced litigator and negotiator. She understands the devastating impact criminal prosecution can have on one’s life and uses her extensive institutional knowledge of Dallas County to achieve fast results on behalf of her clients. Her clients know her for providing aggressive representation and always keeping their best interests at heart. Madson was named Prosecutor of the Year at the DA’s office in 2015. D Magazine has named her as one of the Best Lawyers in Dallas in the area of criminal defense, 2018-2020.
Ben C. Martin is a partner with the Martin Baughman law firm. With Laura Baughman and their associates, Martin has a national personal practice involving medical device and pharmaceutical litigation. He has served on many mass tort steering committees and has been appointed co-lead counsel against two of the manufacturers. He tries cases across the country involving defective medical devices and injuries from physician and hospital malpractice, and he represents people in virtually every aspect of personal injury both in Dallas and beyond. Martin has served as adjunct professor of trial advocacy at SMU Law School and is Board Certified in Personal Injury and Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
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E D U C AT I O N J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
E D U C AT I O N B.B.A., University of North Texas J.D., Baylor University School of Law
MADSON CASTELLO, PLLC 13747 Montfort Drive, Suite 315 Dallas, Texas 75240 214.301.4444 madsoncastello.com
MARTIN | BAUGHMAN 3141 Hood Street, Suite 600 Dallas, Texas 75219 214.761.6614 martinbaughman.com
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S
N
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
LAWYERS
BEST
P. Michael McCullough Jr.
Christie M. Merchant
A LT E R N AT I V E D I S P U T E R E S O LU T I O N
A P P E L L AT E
Mike McCullough’s path to becoming a full-time mediator accelerated quickly. His ability to discern causes of conflict facilitated a natural progression from a career in litigation to a thriving mediation practice. Known for his determination to create a personal and compassionate atmosphere, McCullough serves with balance and respect. A broad knowledge of legal matters assures efficiency in the mediation process, and his innovative approach to bring about a fair resolution for all parties involved is respected among his colleagues. McCullough is a member of the ADR sections of the Texas State Bar Association and Dallas Bar Association. In addition, he is a member of the Association of AttorneyMediators and a Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation.
Having served as a former prosecutor and an appellate court staff attorney, Christie Merchant uses her talents to represent individuals who have suffered the devastating reality of a criminal conviction on appeal, petitions for discretionary review, and applications for writs of habeas corpus. Merchant also practices criminal defense at the trial court level and serves as a consultant for fellow attorneys on more complex criminal cases. She has argued before the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Currently, Merchant is on the board of directors for the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and is the owner of Merchant Law Office, PLLC.
E D U C AT I O N B.A., University of Texas at Austin J.D., University of Tulsa College of Law M C C U L L O U G H M E D I AT I O N 12222 Merit Drive, Suite 1200 Dallas, Texas 75251 214.365.9000 mcculloughmediation.com
E D U C AT I O N BA, summa cum laude, Texas A&M University—Commerce J.D., with honors, University of Tulsa College of Law M E RCHANT L AW O FFICE , PLLC 17304 Preston Road, Suite 1250 Dallas, Texas 75252 214.538.7393 christie@merchlaw.com merchlaw.com
Robert Miklos
Adam L. Seidel
R E A L E S TAT E , A D M I N I S T R AT I V E L AW
FA M I LY L AW
Robert Miklos worked as an attorney for the City of Houston, the Harris County District Attorney, and the City of Dallas before founding Miklos Law, which became Miklos Cinclair, PLLC. With his law partner, Prabha Cinclair, the firm provides Texas businesses with a one-stop shop for land development needs. Miklos Cinclair has been instrumental in the development of thousands of residential, mixed-use, and vertical commercial projects, as well as the closing of a half-trillion dollars in financing for development utilizing complex public private financing and economic incentives, including public improvement districts. Says Miklos, “It’s important to represent our clients and obtain what is necessary to move forward with a development project, but also to be able to walk into a city hall on a different project and have a good reception.”
For more than 30 years, Adam L. Seidel has been passionate about advocating for his clients. Whether he is protecting their rights in the courtroom or during a negotiation, Seidel strives to obtain results that best serve his clients’ goals. He represents individuals in family law matters involving complex property division, business valuation, and child-related issues. “Most of my practice involves litigation,” he says. “I take a rational, practical approach to each case and strongly encourage my clients to do the same.” Seidel is a Dallas native who has been in private practice since 1996. He and his team work hard to ensure that each client receives the topquality legal representation they deserve.
E D U C AT I O N B.A., University of Texas at Austin; J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law E D U C AT I O N B.A., The University of Texas in Austin J.D., University of Houston
Principal Office: 8150 N. Central Expressway, Suite 1255 Dallas, Texas 75206 | 214.528.3344
MIKLOS CINCLAIR, PLLC 1800 Valley View Lane, Suite 360 Farmers Branch, Texas 75234 214.478.2046 robert@m-clegal.com
By Appointment in Plano: 5851 Legacy Circle, 6th Floor Plano, Texas 75024 972.312.1212 adamseidel.com
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BEST
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
LAWYERS
Toby Shook
Dani Smith
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
E S TAT E P L A N N I N G & P R O B AT E
Toby Shook has tried more than 300 jury trials during his career, which now spans three decades. After unprecedented work with the Dallas DA’s office, where he tried high-profile cases such as the Texas Seven escapees, serial killer Charles Albright, and Darlie Routier, Shook entered private practice to represent those accused of wrongdoing by state and federal authorities. His trial experience encompasses everything from DWI, theft, assault, murder, and sex crimes to drug offenses and organized crime. Shook is an aggressive trial lawyer known for relentless preparation, skillful cross-examination, and passionate arguments—a bonus for clients during police and grand jury investigations, plea negotiations, and trial.
Learning each client’s family and their story is Dani Smith’s favorite part of practicing law. She uses that knowledge to craft estate plans that meet the individual needs of her clients without losing sight of the overarching family dynamics. Smith is Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and draws on 25 years of experience handling all manners of estate planning and probate and trust administration matters and the family issues and disputes that often arise. Her practical experience helps her prepare plans that protect family members, promote family harmony, and preserve family wealth, all while carrying out her clients’ desires.
E D U C AT I O N B.A., Texas Tech University J.D., University of Florida Levin College of Law
E D U C AT I O N B.A., Texas Tech University J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law
LAN SMITH SOSOLIK, PLLC 12221 Merit Drive, Suite 825 Dallas, Texas 75251 469.375.4537 dsmith@lss.legal lss.legal
SHOOK & GUNTER 2001 Bryan Street, Suite 1905 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.850.9229 shookandgunter.com
Of all the decisions D readers make this year, hiring you as their attorney may be the most critical. Affluent North Texans seek the finest representation available. Our August “Leaders in Law” section draws their attention to lawyers worthy of consideration. Appear in this section to grow your brand and build trust with local legal consumers before their hour of need.
TO ADVERTISE ,
contact Kym Rock: kymr@dmagazine.com, 214.540.0107 (o) 214.532.2653 (c). Both print and digital options are available.
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