The Lawyers of Houston by MYLO Media Group

In This Issue Ask the Expert

Publisher & President Miriam Lozano

How these law specialty experts can help answer your questions

Editorial EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Rene Flores

15 Charles Vethan: Business Law Corporate Law, Business litigation (trial law), Intellectual Property Protection and Estate Planning 36 Patrick and Murphy: Employment & Labor Law Employment litigation disputes involving discrimination based on race, age, disability, national origin, religion or sex. 48 Julie Ketterman (Ketterman and Amann): Child Protective Service (CPS) Law Assists families with allegations of child abuse and/or neglect 58 Imran Beg Mirza: Immigration and Nationality Law Represents people who need assistance with their Visa, Citizenship, Residency, Nationality…

Features 3 Publisher’s Note

68 David Altenbern: Accident and Injury Cases Aids victims in Personal Injury (i.e. automobile, 18 wheeler, medical malpractice…)

4 DWI: What to expect if you’re caught With a rise in drunk driving fatalities…has Texas laws gone too far?

70 Reginald McKamie Sr.: Maritime Represents merchant mariners in ports throughout the United States

5 Remembering John O’Quinn: Houston’s Legendary Trial Lawyer As much as the circumstance surrounding his death was tragic, the essence of his life neared heroic. Without a doubt, John proved to be more than just a great trial lawyer.

72 Walker & Crawford: Catastrophic Injury Represents victims of catastrophic injury, wrongful death, aircraft accidents, construction accidents…

21 Murder on T.C. Jester After 17 years, Jennifer Ertman and Elizabeth Pena’s family finally get justice for their senseless murders. 26 Beyond a Reasonable Doubt Houston’s Top Criminal Defense Attorney, Colin Amann speaks out about life, moral obligations and the presumption of innocence.

11 Bankruptcy Law 15 Business Law 25 Criminal Law 35 Employment & Labor Law 41 General Practice 47 Family Law

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Steve Lansdale Katherine Adams Lynn Thebeau Art & Production CREATIVE DIRECTION

Spindletop Design Denny Raspberry PHOTOGRAPHER

Debbie Porter VIDEOGRAPHER

Stephen Benavides Web WEB PROGRAMMER

Steven Ybarra Advertising & Marketing MARKETING COORDINATOR

Marcos Lozano MARKETING/SALES SPECIALIST

Lynn Thebeau Contact MYLO Media Group PO Box 777 Seabrook Texas 77586

thelawyersofhouston.com mylomediagroup.com publisher@mylomediagroup.com (281) 957-5302

The MYLO Media Group (MMG) is proud to introduce Houston’s first annual The Lawyers of Houston Directory and Resource Guide for 2011-2012. The comprehensive directory includes Houston and Greater Houston lawyers and law firms, conveniently arranged by specialty and location. Feature articles, personal profiles, Ask the Expert segment and informative pieces are some of the educational resources you will find in this publication. The Lawyers of Houston serves as a helpful and insightful resource guide to businesses and/or individuals seeking legal advice. If you have any comments or questions regarding the publication, please email us at publisher@mylomediagroup.com

55 Immigration Law 61 Litigation 81 Real Estate/Construction Law 85 Wills Trusts, Estate and Probate Law 89 Glossary

Belinda Sanchez

Illustration courtesy istockphoto.com

63 Innocent Voices Why two of Houston’s most prominent attorneys battle to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Lawyer Profiles

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

Making a virtue of necessity Have you ever asked yourself, do I need a lawyer? If this is something that you have thought about, the likely answer to your question is “yes.” If you’re like me, the task of searching for a good lawyer that fits exactly what you’re looking for can be a daunting task. Where do I start? How much does it cost? Where do I look? It was not long ago that I found myself in a similar situation. I turned to the internet, talked with colleagues and friends for recommendations but still felt unprepared and lost at making an informed decision. I was seeking legal professionals with proven education credentials, individuals who are experts in their field or have extensive experience. The search was time consuming and frustrating. Something had to be done. Most of us tend to begin this process after problems have arisen. However, I learned lawyers can also be viewed as problem solvers that prevent additional issues from developing. Living in the fourth largest metropolitan city, provides access to one of the largest legal markets in the country. Finding the right lawyer can be as difficult, but no less important, than finding the right doctor. This particular scenario serves as one of primary reasons, an all-encompassing resource directory, The Lawyers of Houston Directory and Resource Guide was created. In this full color directory, you’ll discover sections including Houston area attorneys separated by specialty and location, making the process of selecting legal services an easy one for Houstonians. Also, you’ll find up to date information and feature stories surrounding the latest in legal issues concerning the Houston community. We will dive into important features like How to Choose an Attorney That is Right for You (p. 20) to understanding, whistle blowing and wrongful termination in the State of Texas (p. 25). Through individual profiles, lawyers have the opportunity to clearly tell you, specialized services they provide (ex. servicing Spanish speaking clients or being recognized in their field) Our hope is The Lawyers of Houston Directory will serve as your primary means of locating a lawyer you are comfortable with. The directory puts relevant information at your fingertips to make a time consuming process that much easier. Now how will you spend that additional free time…

Miriam Lozano, P U B L I S H E R publisher@mylomediagroup.com

DWI: What to expect if you’re caught Being accused of DWI is no trip to the park but how it affects your life after is what’s daunting by David R. Lee

{ E DIT ORIAL }

Did you know that Texas leads the nation in drunk driving crashes and fatalities? That's why thousands of state troopers and local law enforcement officers across Texas will be stepping up patrols and arresting drunk drivers. So if you’re thinking of getting behind the wheel after you’ve been drinking. Be Prepared!! What is the limit? When you think it can’t happen to you. Think again. Even one drink/glass of wine/beer (which all have very nearly the same amount of alcohol in them) can “impair” you in the eyes of the law enforcement officer who stops you. It is important to remember that the legal definition of intoxicated is any loss of your normal physical or mental faculties. Any loss, or if your Blood Alcohol Content registers over .08% (.0008 of your blood) = impairment = intoxication. Officers, who go out into the field on “DWI step” detail or DWI Task Force, expect to see people who are impaired. So guess what they see! If they smell it on you (or think they do because they actually smell it on your companions) they are going to set about conducting the “Standard Field Sobriety Tests” or SFSTs to confirm their suspicion that you are impaired. They will ask: Have you had anything to drink? If the answer to that question is [really] yes [without regard to how you answer], you are “in for it”. Most of them presume any answer you give about how many drinks/beers/glasses of wine you had will be a gross and intentional under-reporting.

holic beverage, had bloodshot eyes, and slurred speech”. I cannot tell you how many times I have viewed a “scene video” that contradicted that written characterization. The video can make or break their case, and often does. Some officers will intentionally conduct the HGN off camera, and some videos “come up missing”. The tests aren’t easy for anybody to do, especially late at night, in a highly stressful, embarrassing, and unfamiliar situation. If you have any existing problems with balance, or back or joint trouble, or muscle weakness (and who doesn’t as we age) those infirmities will be interpreted as unquestionable evidence of impairment. If you tell them about it first, they figure you are “just making excuses” for your later poor performance and are trying to hide the fact that you are intoxicated. If you tell them about it after the test, they figure you know how badly you did, and are clutching at straws to explain your poor performance. If you hear in all this that once they stop you for suspicion of DWI, you will probably be arrested on that charge, you are correct. The Consequences If you drink and drive and get arrested be prepared for what’s about to happen. For first offenders you’re likely to get up to a $2,000 fine, up to six months behind bars, Suspended driver's license for up to a year and $1,000 every year for three years to keep your driver's license. For second offenders -$4,000 maximum fine, up to one year in jail, suspended driver's license for up to two years and $1,500 every year for three years to keep your driver's license. Third offense -$10,000 maximum fine, two to ten years in prison, suspended driver's license for up to two years and $2,000 every year for three years to keep your driver's license. You get the picture. The best advice I can give you is to not drink and drive at all. It could save your life and someone else’s. However, if you are stopped and arrested the best thing to do is to call an experienced DWI attorney who can help you. I know how to fight for your rights. DAVID R. LEE, Attorney at Law

If their SFSTs, which include a non-test called Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (tiny lateral shaking of the eyeballs) or HGN for short, give them any indication that you may be intoxicated, they will almost certainly arrest you for being intoxicated. A whole host of conditions and root causes can lead to a manifestation of this shaking behavior. Yet the police (have convinced themselves) believe that it’s presence always and only means one thing: you are drunk. Their own statistics belie that conclusion. Often they break their own rules and procedures for administering that test, but cannot or will not acknowledge that these failures invalidate the results, often with grossly unfair consequences for you. The Process Their offense report will say that you (they all say these same words, verbatim:) “exhibited a strong odor of alco-

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{ F E AT URE }

John O’Quinn egendary, John Maurice O’Quinn led a fascinating and extraordinary life. As much as the circumstance surrounding his death was tragic, the essence of his life neared heroic. Without a doubt, John proved to be one of the greatest Houston lawyers and people of our time.

Prominent plaintiff’s attorney, John O’Quinn is renowned for his ruthless demeanor and charismatic disposition in and out of the court room. He took on cases that other attorneys were hesitant to even consider. It was his ambitious spirit that allowed O’Quinn and partner attorney Richard Laminack to gain favorable verdicts and multi-billion dollar settlements against corporate giants of tobacco, Fen-Phen and silicone implants. This was far more than any other Houston lawyer had accomplished at that time. While John was a multifaceted man who demanded perfection he was also a generous contributor. The enormity of his contributions to foundations helped to establish his legacy of which some now bear his name. Whatever John did he did big. An example of that characteristic is his collection of nearly 800 of the rarest and most extraordinary automobiles in the world, hoping to one day open up a museum that would exhibit each car and its history. His passion for law, compassion for people and his extravagant car col-

lection identified O’Quinn as one of the most memorable and remarkable people of our time. A true courtroom champion, that comes along once in a lifetime. Early Stages Born in Baton Rouge, La., on Sept. 4, 1941, to Leonard O’Quinn and Jean Wilkes O’Quinn, John’s family relocated to Houston when he was 4 years old. The move was not an easy one, soon after the couple separated leaving Leonard O’Quinn to raise their only son alone. John grew up working in his father’s auto repair shop and each year his fascination with cars grew. While he enjoyed working at the garage part-time, John was eager to establish his independence and working with his strict and overbearing father soon began to take its toll. According, to Jack Raines, former colleague, though John’s father was a man that did not praise, it was clear that John meant the world to him. He believed that John’s drive came because of a difficult upbringing in a home without a mother and with a stern and exacting father. “Hungry dogs hunt better,” Mr. Rains said.

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{ JOH N O 'QUIN N }

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Upon graduating high school, John enrolled as an engineering student at Rice University. A mediocre student who was often on academic probation, John dropped out after six semesters and enrolled in the newly established University of Houston Law School, which in the early 1960’s, was accepting students without a college degree. When asked about his motivation to study law, John would talk about his father’s drive to see him successful. How he pushed him to work hard whether it is in school or at the garage. He wouldn’t settle for anything less. My father was "tough and from the old school of discipline." He may have been tougher than most. Many say that John’s disposition began to change during his pre-law years. His pursuit to become a lawyer was the only thing he could think of. In 1998, John was quoted saying “From minute one of day one of class one, I felt like a duck who had gone to water. I knew this was where I should be.” Once John found what he loved, he was propelled to jump on a train of excellence that was set in motion. John was not only becoming more like his father but as a maverick. He was now coming into his owndemonstrating tough, arrogant and complex qualities that would pay off later in his career.

Through the years, John’s law firms metamorphosed numerous times starting with O’Quinn, Kerensky & McAninch in 2001. Later he partnered with Richard Laminack and Thomas Pirtle in 2004 making them the O’Quinn, Laminack & Pirtle Law Firm. In the end, John would accomplish starting his own solo practice, The O’Quinn Law Firm, staffing 27 attorneys by 2006. He was renowned for his undefeated streak of over 10 years. Defeats included the shocking lawsuit against corporate giant Wyeth for the diet drug, Fen-phen which awarded victims $1.01 billion which included $900 million in punitive damages in 2004. Subsequently, the firm won a $17.3 billion tobacco verdict for the state of Texas- an estimated paycheck of $1.7 billion while at O’Quinn Laminack & Pirtle. These are just a few compared to what has been noted. John also worked to promote public awareness on side effects in tobacco, pharmaceutical drugs and breast implants. The damages had been great and his mission was to prevent it before

it could happen to anyone again. After winning against Dow Corning silicone implant (alleging various injuries arising out of the use of silicone implants such as breakage and leaks) plaintiffs were awarded $100 million. Despite the win, breast implant victims would later argue that John overcharged them legal fees and improper expenses. John fought to say that he would never cheat or steal from anyone and that the arbitration panel would agree that he did a good job on the case. A few years later, John was ordered to pay back $37.5 million which he and so many others found unfair and unjustly. The standing and compilation of many high profile cases including the Howard K. Stern case involving Anna Nicole Smith are not available because of court rulings, pending actions and client request of anonymity. Therefore the cases were settled with terms deemed confidential and not to be disclosed by either party.

{ JOH N O 'QUIN N }

Career In 1967, John graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Law School. He was State Moot Court champion in 1966 and Editor-In-Chief of the Houston Law Review from 1966-1967. He served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Houston, South Texas College of Law. John first began his career in appellate then found his true calling in personal injury trial law. He has always said that he enjoyed working with the people. His polish and drive of personal injury trial law came about when Attorney Don Riddle, a trusted friend and schoolmate from the University of Houston, encouraged him to pursue something more in his realm. Following his advice he joined Riddle at Brown, Krozer, Abraham, Watkins and Stelly—the top plaintiff firm in Texas in 1969. After 6 years, he honed his skills and formed a new partnership with Riddle, Ernest Cannon and John Murphrey—all associates from the same law firm. This was the beginning of a new era for John.

Attorney John O'Quinn loved his vast car collection, including this 1938 Packard Super-Eight shown above.

Honors Despite the legal woes John continued to prove his worthiness and complexity. As a matter of fact, in the early 1990’s the National Law Journal named him one of the 100 most influential lawyers in America, and in 1994, he made the “Power List” for winning more than 50 verdicts and 200 settlements over $1 million. Of profound notice, Forbes magazine said he was the Number 2 trial lawyer for income, based on estimated earnings of $40 million in 1994, and that John O’Quinn was surpassed only by Attorney Joe Jamail for his verdict of $10.5 billion against Pennzoil. Contributions With all the impressive accomplishment in his law career, many believed that John most wanted to be remembered as a benefactor and automobile hobbyist. Over the years, he made numerous gifts, including significant donations to the University of Houston Library and to the Cougar Marching Band. A good deal of this school’s success can be credited to John’s unflagging commitment to making University of Houston a better institution. In fact, he was honored by the University of Houston when they named the university’s Law Library and football stadium after him. The University released the following statement, ‘he’s worked tirelessly in behalf of the university and was one of its most generous financial contributors.’

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Although these honors are the most prominent examples of his philanthropy work they are by no means the extent of it. John’s good deeds would not end with contributions to his alma mater. He continued to give generously to Baylor College of Medicine, the Children’s Assessment Center, the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and to St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital through the years. In 2005 he donated $26 million to St. Luke’s Hospital and in return, the hospital honored him for his gracious gift by adding his name to the medical center hospital- now called The O'Quinn Medical Tower at St. Luke’s. This was despite 100 doctor’s objections who take issue with naming a hospital for an attorney who made his money prosecuting medical malpractice suits. Still the Board remained grateful for his earnest and generous support and the improvements to science for his endeavors such as the development of safer silicone implants that did not burst or leak with risk.

{ JOH N O 'QUIN N }

Collection John’s excessive contributions and gifts were not the only thing in the news. The media and the people became obsessed with his “hobby” of car collecting. What the average person would consider a hobby – is far from John’s definition of it. His desire to collect antique and exotic automobiles was excessive as everything else in his life was. His dream to have a museum that includes artifacts surrounding the car’s era was in the works. With over 800 cars in the stable, many of which claimed notoriety such as Pope John Paul II’s 1975 Ford Escort for which he paid $690,000. The Duesenberg’s, which he loved as a boy, were his favorites. Perhaps the most noteworthy in his collections is John Kennedy’s 1969 Lincoln Town car bubble limousine. Unfortunately, many of his cars were embezzled by the caretaker, Zev Isgur. John discovered cars missing as well as fraudulent transactions where Isgur bought cars for sums less than his voucher with him. Though Isgur was convicted of embezzlement, matters only got worse when he received notice that the stolen monies needed to be replenished. John had to sell as many as 300 cars to cover the losses. A huge disappointment for him, but he continued on despite the travesty.

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Close to the end & rollercoaster reputation It’s not unusual that with so much success came repercussions. Twice divorced with no children of his own John would battle alcoholism, depression, lack of self-esteem and coping with a rough upbringing. “His life was about increase, it was about impress, it was about excessiveness,” said Young, a dear friend, who spoke of John facing his demons, getting help for his drinking and help from God. In fact early on, John found his own self on the other side of the law once. In court, he pled no contest to drunk driving and fought to rehabilitate - a topic that is seldom mentioned. It took years for O’Quinn to really accept and overcome this hurdle but after 13 years sober friends and colleagues claim that he finally came to peace with himself and with God. Like any other human being, he had his ups and downs. He was complex, controversial and most times misunderstood. The few that knew him well say John was a quiet, generous and a loving man with not one bad bone in his body. He worked tirelessly to prove that. He hated the fact that so many mis-understood his real persona. Sadly, on October 29, 2009, John and a fellow colleague Johnny Cutliff plunged into a tree while traveling down Allen Parkway in the early hours. They had just returned from a trip and were headed to the office. Investigators believe that slick roads and high speeds were the reason for the accident. Known for his fast driving, John lost control of his Chevrolet Suburban SUV. Both passengers were not wearing their seatbelts. How ironic since he spent most of his career in court suing corporations that created unsafe and hazardous products and knowing that his cars were his sanctuary. But again no one said John was perfect. His death was a shock to the Houston community. Fellow co-workers, colleagues, associates, friends’ family and the people of Houston gathered as they mourned his death. Despite his legal battles and ongoing propaganda the city would remember him most for his generosity, his passion for the law and his promise. John’s legacy continues to grow as the people of Houston hold him in a high regard. We remember a Houston legendary hero as we dedicate the book in his memory. ✹

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Profiles & Listings

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BANKRUPTCY LAW Bankruptcy law is the name given to the branch of civil law that covers federal bankruptcy and state insolvency laws and regulations as they apply to individuals, municipalities, and businesses.

WHAT IS BANKRUPTCY?

A federal judicial procedure by which most debts owed by a person or entity are extinguished or reduced or the payment of which are delayed. WHAT TYPES OF BANKRUPTCIES ARE THERE? Chapters 13, 7, 12, 9 and 15

Depending whether you’re a business or an individual filing, certain bankruptcy types are as follows: (Please contact one of our bankruptcy attorneys for more information pertaining to your situation.) Chapter 13 (Individual Debt Adjustment) - A bankruptcy proceeding whereby a person with a regular income is allowed to propose a plan to reduce his/her obligations or extend the period to pay those obligations and allow the indivdual future earnings to be collected by a trustee and paid to the debtor Â’s unsecured creditors. Also called rehabilitation. Chapter 11 (Reorganization) - A bankruptcy proceeding whereby a debtor, usually a business, is allowed to reorganize itself and restructure its finances under court supervision and to arrange and carry out a court-approved repayment plan with its creditors while continuing to operate its business. Also called reorganization

Chapter 7 (Liquidation) A bankruptcy proceeding whereby most of the debtor Â’s assets are collected and sold, the proceeds are distributed among the creditors, and the debtor Â’s liabilities are discharged. Also called a straight bankruptcy. Chapter 12 Designed for family farmers or fishermen with regular income. Debtors under Chapter 12 devise and propose a repayment plan to pay all or part of the debt over a three to five year period. Chapter 12 is more streamlined, less complicated and less expensive than Chapter 11. Chapter 9 (Municipality Bankruptcy) is designed to allow for municipality protection from creditors while developing and

negotiating a plan to reorganize the debts, extending debt, reducing principal and interest or refinancing the debt. Eligibility for Chapter 9 is limited to municipalities which, according to the Bankruptcy Code, are a political subdivision or public agency or instrumentality of a state. Chapter 15 (Ancillary and Other Cross the Border Cases) is the newest chapter added to the Bankruptcy Code in 2005 to deal with cases involving debtors, assets and claimants involving more than one country. Typically, a foreign representative files a petition for recognition against the debtors and allows the right for them to participate in U.S. bankruptcy cases.

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Cheung Wai Ping Carmen PLLC 5959 West Loop South Ste. 242 Bellaire Texas 77401 713-266-8856 Weston & Associates, PLLC 5001 Bissonnet Ste. 200 Bellaire, TX 77401 713-623-4242 westonlegal.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Jones Morris, LLP 2700 Post Oak Ste. 1120 Houston, Texas 77056 713-589-5061 jonesmorris.com Law Offices of Omonzusi Imobioh 6250 Westpark Dr Ste. 202 Houston, Texas 77057 832-566-2949 imobiohlawoffice.com

{ BAN{KRUP T C Y LAW IN}DE X } C RIMINAL LAW

Rick McGuire, Attorney at Law 730 N. Post Oak Rd Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77024 713-600-1000 elpasobankruptcylaw.com The Butler Firm 5100 Westheimer Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77056 281-973-2016 myhoustonbankruptcyattorney.com The Law Office of Sharon L. Michaels 3050 Post Oak Boulevard Ste. 1750 Houston, Texas 77056 713-623-6443 houstonbankruptcy-law.com The Mulvany Law Firm PLLC 1 Riverway Ste. 1700 Houston, Texas 77056 713-840-6489 mulvanylawfirm.com The Pope Law Firm 5100 Westheimer Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77056 713-292-2390 thepopelawfirm.com The Taylor Law Group 3 Riverway Ste. 1800 Houston, Texas 77056 713-759-9970 thetaylorfirm.com Williams, Birnberg & Andersen, L.L.P 2000 Bering Drive Ste. 909 Houston, Texas 77057 713-981-9595 wba-law.com IN THE LOOP Adair & Myers, PLLC 3120 Southwest Freeway Ste. 320 Houston, Texas 77098 713-568-1397 am-law.com Britt & Catrett, P.C 4615 Southwest Freeway Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77027 713-666-0807 brittandcatrett.com Christian M. Sternat Attorney at Law 2190 North Loop West Ste. 101 Houston, Texas 77018 713-686-6961 bankruptcylawyer-houston.com Fears Nachawati 3730 Kirby Drive Houston, Texas 77098 713-589-6958 houston-bankruptcy.us

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Kamal Law Firm, PLLC 2600 Southwest Freeway Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77098 713-524-4529 kamallawfirm.com

Minor & Bair PLLC 808 Travis Street Ste. 1418 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-8585 minorbairlaw.com

The Law Office of William E. Harrison 336 1/2 North Main Conroe, Texas 77301 936-647-3683 attorneywilliamharrison.com

Law Office of Michael J. Pledger 3120 Southwest Freeway Ste. 218 Houston, Texas 77098 713-526-1639 austinbankruptcylawyers.com

Nelson S. Ebaugh P.C 1001 McKinney Street Ste. 550 Houston, Texas 77002 713-752-0700 ebaughlaw.com

THE WOODLANDS

Michael L. Holland Attorney at Law 1210 West Clay Ste. 21 Houston, Texas 77019 713-581-8099 michaelhollandlawyer.net

Okin Adams & Kilmer LLP 1113 Vine Street Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-4100 oakllp.com

Pamela L. Stewart Attorney at Law 4635 Southwest Freeway Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77027 713-622-3893 plstewart.com

Porter & Hedges 1000 Main Street, 36th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-226-6000 porterhedges.com

Scheinthal & Kouts, LLP 4635 Southwest Freeway Ste. 720 Houston, Texas 77027 713-581-8393 sk-llp.com

The Law Office of Margaret M. McClure 909 Fannin Street, Ste. 3810 Houston, Texas 77010 713-574-5426 mmmcclurelaw.com

Starks & Gonzales, P.C. 4141 Southwest Freeway Ste. 380 Houston, Texas 77027 713-961-3555 starksgonzales.com

GREATER HEIGHTS

Swindell & Associates, P.C 2900 Weslayan Ste. 595 Houston, Texas 77027 281-823-8413 swindellandassociateshouston.com The Burger Law Firm 4151 Southwest Freeway Ste. 770 Houston, Texas 77027 713-960-9696 burgerlawfirm.com The Fealy Law Firm, P.C 1235 North Loop West Ste. 1005 Houston, Texas 77008 866-751-1087 houston-bankruptcy-attorney.com The Law Office of Nicholas R. Westbrook 3730 Kirby Drive Ste. 1200 Houston, Texas 77098 713-893-6204 houstonbankruptcyhelp.com Valdez & ParĂŠ LLP 3100 Richmond Ave. Ste. 480 Houston, Texas 77098 832-533-2603 valdezpare.com DOWNTOWN Bertolino LLP 723 Main Street Ste. 220 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-7474 belolaw.com Cokinos, Bosien & Young 1221 Lamar, 16th Floor Houston, Texas 77010 713-535-5500 cbylaw.com Doyle Restrepo Harvin & Robbins, LLP 600 Travis St. Houston Texas 77002 713-228-5100 drhrlaw.com Haynes and Boone, LLP 1221 McKinney Ste. 2100 Houston, Texas 77010 713-547-2000 haynesboone.com Hughes Watters & Askanase 333 Clay, 29th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-759-0818 hwa.com

Cannon Joseph 1103 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713- 960-0777 Christopher Todd Morrison, P.C 1306 Dorothy Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-539-3475 filebankruptcyhouston.com The Law Offices of R.J Atkinson L.L.P 3617 White Oak Drive Houston, Texas 77007 713-862-1700 rjabankruptcy.com MIDTOWN/MONTROSE AREA Edgar Goldberg 819 Lovett Blvd Houston, Texas 77006 713-629-5889 Holland, Michael L Attorney at Law 4545 Mount Vernon St Houston, Texas 77006 713- 522-4242 thehollandlawfirm.com Law Office of Pamela Foster Davis 1 Pinedale Houston, Texas 77006 713-522-1500 Terrance P Bagott Law Office 820 Richmond Ave. Houston, Texas 77006 713-529-2727 RIVER OAKS/ASTON OAKS Law Office of Matthew Hoffman, PC 2777 Allen Parkway, Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77019 713- 654-9990 lawofficesofmatthewhoffmanpc.com Fuqua & Kelm LLP 2777 Allen Pkwy, Ste 480 Houston, Texas 77019 713-522-0423 NORTH CONROE Simonsen Law Office 220 North Thompson Ste. 204 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-760-3299 thesoutheasttexasattorney.com The Law Office of Rick J Deal 409 North Loop 336 W Ste. 2 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-499-5780 rjdeal.com

Garg & Associates 25511 Budde Road Ste. 1002 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-0010 smithgarglaw.com Law Office of Jennifer Casey 9595 Six Pines Drive Ste. 8210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 832-735-6261 jcaseylawfirm.com The Burke Law Firm P.C 9595 Six Pines Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77393 832-752-0111 burkelawfirm.net The Shea Law Firm 2002 Timberloch Place Ste. 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77393 832-426-3913 shealawonline.com Tow & Koenig, PLLC 26219 Oak Ridge Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-9100 towkoenig.com Wyatt Legal Services, PLLC 26418 Oak Ridge Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-419-8733 wyattpllc.com SPRING Lawrence D. Tackett, P.L.L.C. 1400 Woodloch Forrest Dr. Ste 540, Spring, Texas 77380 281- 419-2626 lawpro4u.com Law Office of Neal Anderson 22557 Aldine-Westfield Ste. 104 Spring, Texas 77373 281-353-9146 lawoona.com Liberty Law Group 16422 Stuebner Airline Spring, Texas 77379 281-882-3928 abankruptcybymail.com The Tillman Law Firm 16422 Stuebner Airline Rd. Ste. 203 Spring, Texas 77379 281-882-3928 abankruptcybymail.com NORTHWEST David L. Venable Attorney at Law 12200 Northwest Fwy. Ste. 316 Houston, Texas 77092 713-956-1400 dlvenable.com Milledge Law Firm 10333 Northwest Fwy. Ste. 202 Houston, Texas 77092 713-487-5924 bkattorneyhouston.com The Law Office of J Thomas Smith, J.D 11500 Northwest Fwy. Ste. 280 Houston, Texas 77092 713-529-9372 CHAMPIONS / CYPRESS Jonathan D. Sykes Attorney at Law 11210 Steeplecrest Drive Houston, Texas 77065 281-894-6598 attorneysykes.com

Harlan Guettermann, Attorney 4422 FM 1960 West, Ste. 410 Houston, Texas 77068 281-587-1040 taxlawhouston.com

The Law Office of J. Thomas Black, P.C 2600 South Gessner Ste. 110 Houston, Texas 77063 713-772-8037 jthomasblack.com

Broussard, McLaughlin & Segura 14015 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 5 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-7070 bmslawtx.com

Patrick T. Williams, Attorney at Law 4422 FM 1960 Road W. Ste. 412 Houston, Texas 77068 281-587-2823 williamslawcpa.com

The Law Offices of Jack N. Fuerst, P.C 8955 Katy Fwy. Ste. 205 Houston, Texas 77024 713-234-1737 jfuerstlawtx.com

Wauson & Probus One Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-0303 texbusinesslaw.com

The Fleming Bruce Law Firm, P.L.L.C 12777 Jones Road Ste. 10 Houston, Texas 77070 281-469-9090 flemingbrucelaw.com

The Law Office of Russell Van Beustring, P.C 9525 Katy Fwy. Ste. 415 Houston, Texas 77024 281-653-7825 beustring.com

RICHMOND / ROSENBERG

The Law Offices of O. Miller White 4606 FM 1960 Road W. Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77069 281-315-8810 thehoustonbankruptcylawyer.com TOMBALL Bolton & Bolton P.C 724 West Main Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7897 boltonlegal.com Gallagher & Stull 312 High Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7181 gallagherandstull.com NORTHEAST KINGWOOD/HUMBLE

Hoyt & Kahn 116 South Avenue C Humble, TX 77338-4503 281-446-2123 The Law Offices of William W. Bivin 1422 Stonehollow Drive Ste. A Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-2223 bivinlaw.com EAST Kritzer Law Firm 13301 East Fwy. Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77015 713-455-8851 ehkritzer.com Ryland Jr. Charles H 12601 Mcnair Street Houston, Texas 77015 713-451-6916 BAYTOWN Law Office of Dane Listi 1001 West Baker Road Ste. 201 Baytown, Texas 77521 281-422-2220 Marshall Williams & Associates 111 Cedar Bayou Road Baytown Texas 77520 281-837-1977 marshall-law.com WEST Beustring, Russell Van Attorney 9525 Katy Fwy. Ste. 415 Houston, Texas 77024 713-997-3665 beustring.com Carrabba & Associate 9219 Katy Fwy. Ste 220 Houston, Texas 77024 713-682-4200

The Law Office of P.J. Franklin 7322 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77074 713-414-3066 pjfranklin.com The Pullis Law Firm 6666 Harwin Drive Ste. 220 Houston, Texas 77036 832-485-1100 pullislawfirm.com The Weber Law Firm 6666 Harwin Drive Ste. 220 Houston, Texas 77036 713-789-3300 weberlaw.com MEMORIAL / TOWN & COUNTRY Helene Bergman Attorney at Law 15119 Memorial Dr. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77079 832-379-4400 bergmanlawfirm.net Law Office Of Mark A. Sanders 11511 Katy Fwy. Houston, Texas 77079 281-715-7781 KATY Busby & Associates 1804 Snake River Rd. Ste. C Katy, Texas 77449 713-974-1151 busby-lee.com Helene Bergman PC 15119 Memorial Dr. Ste 200 Houston, Texas 77079 832-379-4400 bergmanlawfirm.net Richard F Burgess Law Office 4654 Highway 6 N Ste 101E Houston, Texas 77084 281-550-1061 The Law Office of Robert Hohenberger 2500 Wilcrest Ste. 107 Houston, Texas 77042 713-680-9454 law-tex.com WEST/SOUTHWEST

Law Office of Larry McDougal 809 Houston Street Richmond, TX 77469 281-238-8500 larrymcdougal.com Mitchell & Duff 210 Main Street Richmond, TX 77469-3534 281-341-1718 Showalter Law 1117 FM 359 Rd Richmond, Texas 77406-9801 281-341-5577 showalterlaw.com Tate Moerer & King 206 South 2nd Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-0077 tate-law.com The Law Office of Love & Associates PC 3423 FM 762 Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-2980 kenlove.com SOUTH/SOUTHEAST Eloise A. Guzman & Associates 8225 Gulf Freeway Houston, Texas 77017 713-378-9900 guzmanbankruptcy.com James Patrick Brady, Attorney 11550 Fuqua Ste. 340 Houston, Texas 77034 866-607-7551 houston-bankruptcylawyer.com BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE AREA Bailey & Galyen 18333 Egret Bay Blvd Ste. 444 Houston, Texas 77058 281-335-7744 galyen.com

SUGAR LAND/STAFFORD

Shelly A. Merchant, Attorney 2703 Center Street Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9929 shellymerchant.com PASADENA Carol Wyatt Myers 4710 Vista Rd, Ste. 200 Pasadena, Texas 77505 281-487-9990 onsmartpages.com/carolwyattmyers/ services/ Larry Wilson Attorney at Law 4620 Fairmont Pkwy. Ste. 202 Pasadena, Texas 77504 281-998-8880 PEARLAND Gibson, Gruenert & Zaunbrecher, P.L.L.C. 9330 Broadway Ste. 324 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-997-2740 ggzlawfirm.com Guzman, Eloise A. Attorney 8225 Gulf Freeway Houston, Texas 77017 713-378-9900 guzmanbankruptcy.com Jesse R Funchess, Attorney at Law 6203 Del Rio St Houston, Texas 77021 713-747-2991 FRIENDSWOOD Botting, Melissa A. Attorney 1414 South Friendswood Dr. Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-992-7600 melissabotting.com Mills & Henshaw, PLLC 1560 West Bay Area Blvd. Ste. 260 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-497-2650 millshenshaw.com The Law Office of Michael Sharp 1100 South Friendswood Dr. Ste. B Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-996-8997 michaelsharplawfirm.com LEAGUE CITY Rainosek R R & Associates 909 W Main St League City, Texas 77573 281-557-2323 rainoseklaw.com

Gipson & Norman 450 N Texas Ave Webster, Texas 77598 281-332-4800 gipsonandnorman.com

DICKINSON

Mr. James Sean Healey 17000 El Camino Real Ste. 204A Houston, Texas 77058 281-486-6634 healeylawfirm.com

GALVESTON

RICHMOND/ROSENBERG Grace N Nwanguma 211 Houston St. Ste. A Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-1771

Dennis M. Slate Attorney at Law P.C 112 East Forrest Lane Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9447 slatelaw.com

Keeling Law Firm 12603 Southwest Fwy. Houston, Texas 77477 713-579-3030 keelinglaw.com

Waldron & Schneider, L.L.P Attorneys at Law 15150 Middlebrook Dr. Ste. A - B Houston, TX 77058 281-488-4438 ws-law.com

The Linnenbank Law Office 101 Southwestern Blvd Ste. 111 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-494-6000 texasbankruptcy.leadcounsel.com

Gipson & Norman 450 N Texas Ave Webster, Texas 77598 281-332-4800 gipsonandnorman.com

{ BAN{KRUP T C Y LAW IN} DE X } C RIMINAL LAW

C Jeanne Demuth 4321 Kingwood Dr Ste. 152 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-4829 cjdemuth.com

SHARPSTOWN

Karen Meinardus 800 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469-3420 281-342-5689 kmeinarduslaw.com

DEER PARK

Graham & Meier. L.L.P. 314 RM Rd 517 W Dickinson Texas 77539 281-337-2537

Gerson D Bloom 1023 21st St. Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-6334 Greer, Herz & Adams, L.L.P. One Moody Plaza 18th Floor Galveston, Texas 77550 409-797-3200 greerherz.com McFatridge, Baker & Schmidt, P.C. 2228 Ship South Mechanic Row Ste. 220 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-766-7966

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

s ' a t i p u L LL

Professional Cleaning Co.

are you ready to shine? www.lupitas-cleaning.com 281-957-5302 **Serving custom homes to professional offices: we help simplify personal & professional lives

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

BUSINESS LAW Business (commercial or corporate) Law is the body of law that governs business and commercial transactions. It is often considered to be a branch of civil law and deals with issues of both private law and public law. It provides a legal framework within which businesses are created and organized as well as how business is conducted. Business law covers a wide variety of topics relating to the law of agency, corporations, partnerships, limited partnerships, franchises, and limited liability companies.

WHAT IS A BUSINESS?

A business (also known as enterprise or firm) is an organization designed to provide goods, services, or both to consumers. WHY NEED AN ATTORNEY?

All companies require contracts to conduct business with customers, suppliers, vendors, landlords, etc. Making sure these are drawn up correctly right from the beginning can save time and money later on, and help reduce the chance of the entrepreneur and his company being involved in litigation. On the other side of the coin, you need an attorney to review contracts you are being asked to sign, to make sure your interests are protected. Furthermore, whether your business has less than 5 employees or more than 100, obtaining an attorney to represent your business interest will protect you, your employees and your company.

PRACTICE AREAS Business Enterprises Business Formation Business Litigation Business Planning Buying Selling Businesses Closely Held Business Law

Computers and Software Litigation Copyright Financial Services and Security Franchises Franchising Government Intellectual Property Joint Ventures

Limited Liability Company Law Patent Litigation Partnership Law Small Business Law Tax Litigation Trademark Litigation Trade Secret

Ask the Experts: Charles M.R. Vethan

Business & Corporate cases

THE VETHAN LAW FIRM, P.C.

{ B USIN E SS LAW }

2909 Baldwin | Houston, TX 77006 | t (713) 526-2222 | vwtexlaw.com

an AV rated law firm by Martindale Hubbell, provides corporate law, business litigation (trial law), intellectually property protection, and estate planning representation to our clients throughout Texas and the United States. Mr. Vethan is Board Certified in Consumer Law and Commercial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. THE VETHAN LAW FIRM, P.C.,

What does Complex Business Litigation mean?

Q. What are some of the most prominent

reasons that midsized businesses and startups find themselves in litigation?

A. Complex business litigation involves

business disputes with multiple parties having multiple issues. Typically, complex business litigation involves both Plaintiffs and Defendants, with each side comprised of one or more parties, suing each other, each claiming rights in the transaction. These cases tend to be larger business cases, and may involve both commercial and intellectual property matters, as well as confidential information a business claims has been illegally taken.

A. Simply stated, most growing businesses

have not taken the time to adequately plan the various aspects of the company, such as ensuring that executive employees are under contract, confidential information and trade secret information are secured, and larger transactions are reviewed by counsel. Issues may arise from matters as basic as non-conforming deliverables, product liability, or breach of contract. Every significant transaction a business undertakes must involve competent legal review. The failure to do so may result in quick and harsh consequences if performance goals are not satisfied for any reason.

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Q. What can a business do to safeguard its

confidential information? A. A business that does not treat its con-

fidential information as confidential, cannot expect a Court to, either. Also, a business owner’s belief that the business has confidential information or trade secrets does not make it so. Factors a court considers in determining whether the businesses claim of confidential information is valid include (but are not limited to) the nature of the information, limits on access to the information, and whether the storage of confidential information confers a certain degree of exclusivity and secrecy. Of course, in litigation, one of the easiest attacks against confidential information is to show that the company did not respect the information as confidential, or the information itself is not confidential in nature.

tising and brand recognition. A trademark protects and identifies a product, identifying the origins of that product (e.g. the Nike swoosh, the apple for Apple) whereas a service mark protects and identifies a service (Meryll Lynch, AXA, Continental Airlines, ect.). A copyright protects a composition or other work that has been reduced to a tangible medium. For example, when an author pens a novel, a painter paints a picture, or a movie studio creates an animated film, a copyright is created. That work, however, must be filed with the United States Copyright office if the owner of that work seeks protection of that work under federal law.

mation, which gives the business a competitive advantage in the marketplace, are justifications for a non-compete. Courts will also require non-compete covenants to have a reasonable geographic scope and time frame in order to be enforceable. However, this area of law is in flux and is reviewed on a case-bycase analysis by the courts. Employers and employees facing this issue should speak to a qualified business lawyer such as those of the Vethan Law Firm P.C., regarding the potential consequences of their proposed actions. ✹

Q. Does a US trademark apply interna-

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Business &

tionally, or do you have to register it in every country in which you do business?

Corporate Law | Education: University of Alberta, B.S., Southern Methodist University School of Law, J.D. | Certification: Texas

Q. How does a company determine what

A. Trademarks and service marks in the

Board of Legal Specialization in Consumer

information comprises confidential information, or even if it has confidential information?

United States are granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). To obtain international trademark protection, registration is required under WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization). WIPO offices are located in Geneva, Switzerland. Businesses wishing international registration should consult with an experienced and knowledgeable trademark attorney.

and Commercial Law | Affiliations: Texas

persons must speak with a qualified attorney regarding whether certain information may be considered confidential or a trade secret within the meaning of the law. A business owner’s belief that certain information is confidential does not necessarily make it so. The law requires a fact-based analysis as to (a) how generally known the alleged confidential information is in the marketplace (b) how the information was treated by the business (c) accessibility to that information within the company. When such information provides the business with a competitive edge in the marketplace, businesses may also treat that confidential information as a trade secret. Information that is a trade secret is confidential. Information that is confidential, however, may not be a trade secret. Q. What is the difference between a trade-

mark, a service mark, and a copyright? A. Trademarks and service marks are

designations on a product or service that conveys to the consumer, confidence in what they are purchasing. Companies spend millions of dollars a year on adver-

Q. Are Non-Compete Agreements valid in Texas? A. It depends. Texas law requires that a non-

compete agreement be part of or ancillary to an otherwise enforceable agreement. Problems arise when no new consideration is given to an employee to agree to a covenant not to compete. A covenant not to compete is a creature of contract law, and something of value must be given in exchange for a promise not to compete.

University of Houston Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

☛ CONTACT Firm: Vethan Law Firm, P.C. Address: 2909 Baldwin Houston, Texas 77006 | Phone: (713) 526-2222 | Web: vwtexlaw.com

{ B USIN E SS LAW }

A. Company executives and governing

Bar Association, First United Methodist,

Our Experts have more than 15 years of law experience in their specialty and are highly recognized among their peers. They are carefully selected by our panel and must meet all background requirements to qualify as Houston's exclusive expert in their field.

In cases of “at will” employment, involving highly placed employees with access to a business’s confidential information and/or trade secrets, courts presently look at whether confidential information is provided to the employee after the non compete is signed. The employer must also show that there is a business justification to seek enforcement of the covenant not to compete. For example, protecting businesses goodwill on confidential infor-

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Brown Brown & Reynolds 6565 West Loop S Ste. 115 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-334-2667 brownreynolds.com Danuta Villarreal Law 6750 West Loop S Ste. 920 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-314-5853 Monks Law 4615 Southwest Freeway Ste. 520 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-666-7788 monkslaw.com Wagoner Burgert Law 5202 Spruce Street Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-668-5680

{ B USIN E SS LAW IN DE X }

NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN

Lapin & Landa 500 Jefferson St. Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-4400 lapinlanda.com

Spencer Law Firm 4635 Southwest Fwy Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77027 713-961-7770 spencer-law.com

Law Offices of Elyssa M. Schnurr 4545 Mt. Vernon Houston, Texas 77006 713-662-2889 schnurrlaw.com

Terry & Thweatt 1 Greenway Plaza Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77046 713-600-4710 terrythweatt.com

Minor & Bair 808 Travis Street Ste. 1418 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-8585 minorbairlaw.com

The Dietrich Law Firm 2211 Norfolk Street Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77098 713-830-7687 dietrich-law.com

Sedgwick Detert Moran & Arnold 1111 Bagby St. Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-658-9111 sdma.com

DOWNTOWN

The Cruz Law Firm 800 Commerce St. Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-627-2789 thecruzlawfirm.com

Arnold & Knobloch 4900 Woodway Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77056 713-972-1150 usptclaw.com

The Collings Law Firm 440 Louisiana Street Ste. 1450 Houston, Texas 77002 713-337-1180 colliings-law.com

Baker Botts 910 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 713.229.1234 bakerbotts.com

Befort Law Firm 2603 Augusta Ste. 810 Houston, Texas 77057 713-785-5888 befortlaw.com

Barnes & Turner 440 Louisiana St. Ste. 1880 Houston, Texas 77002 713-650-3688 barnesturner.com

CK Brown 510 Bering Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77057 888-589-2220 ckbrownlaw.com

Benton Massey 1001 Texas Ave Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-1550 bentonmassey.com

Douglas M. McIntyre & Associates 720 North Post Oak Road Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77024 713-681-2611 houstonbusinesslaw.com

Burford & Maney 700 Louisiana St. Ste. 4600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-237-1111 burfordmaney.com

Durrett Law 2401 Fountain View Dr. Ste.450 Houston, Texas 77057 713-623-6881 durrettlaw.com

Collmer Law Group 1221 Lamar Ste. 1302 Houston, Texas 77010 713-337-4040 collmerlaw.com

Frank V. Ghiselli Jr. 1177 West Loop South Ste. 1650 Houston, Texas 77027 713-568-5845 ghisellilaw.com

Clausell Parrish 723 Main Street Ste. 902 Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-2255 clausellparrish.com

Dobrowski LLP 4601 Washington Avenue Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77007 713-659-2900 dobrowskillp.com

Taylor Law Group 3 Riverway Ste. 1800 Houston, Texas 77056 713-759-9970 thetaylorfirm.com

De Leon Law Firm 800 Commerce Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-7300 dl-lawfirm.com

Fealy Law Firm 1235 North Loop W Ste. 1005 Houston, Texas 77008 713-526-5220

IN THE LOOP

Del Valle Law Firm 2211 Norfolk Street Ste. 517 Houston, Texas 77098 713-797-0694 delvallelawfirm.com

Bond & Smyser 5505 Jackson Street Houston, Texas 77004 713-524-4200 bondsmyser.com Ngwolo & Banks 3308 La Brance 2nd Floor Houston, Texas 77004 832-582-8289 olaidebanks.com The Galik Law Firm 3315 Marquart Street Houston, Texas 77027 713-984-4550 galiklaw.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

The Cortes Law Office 1425 N. Durham Houston, Texas 77008 713-677-0765 The Dube Law Firm 4707 Eigel Street Houston, Texas 77007 713-305-2674 thedubelawfirm.com Triantaphyllis Law Firm 112 East 4th Street Houston, Texas 77007 713-861-2095 triantaphyllis.com MIDTOWN / MONTROSE

A. Lewis Ward & Associates 5177 Richmond, Ave. St. 1250 Houston, Texas 77056 713-961-5555 alw-law.com

Ballard & Littlefield 3700 Buffalo Speedway Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77098 713-403-6400 ballardlawfirm.com

Crowder Law Firm 2211 Norfolk Street Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77027 713-523-1200 thecrowderlawfirm.com

Eggleston & Briscoe 333 Clay St. Ste. 4800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-659-5100 egglestonbriscoe.com Farrar & Ball 1010 Lamar St. Ste. 1600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-221-8300 fbtrial.com Jones Day 717 Texas St. Ste. 3300 Houston, Texas 77002 832-239-3939 jonesday.com

The Driscoll Law Firm 808 Travis Street Ste. 912 Houston, Texas 77002 713-951-9000 driscoll-lawfirm.com The Wyly Law Firm 3401 Louisiana Street Ste. 280 Houston, Texas 77002 713-236-8330 wylylawfirm.com Troy Locklear 917 Franklin Street 6th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-8769 troylocklear.com Yetter Coleman 909 Fannin St. Ste.3600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-632-8000 yettercoleman.com GREATER HEIGHTS

Monshaugen & Van Huff 1225 North Loop W Ste. 640 Houston, Texas 77008 713-880-2992 mvhoustonlaw.com Nima Taherian Law Office 401 Studewood St. Ste. 205 Houston, Texas 77007 713-862-6400 Riddle Butts & Akien 747 N Shepherd Dr. Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77007 713-426-0709 rbafirm.com Roth Law Firm 1415 North Loop W Ste. 1205 Houston, Texas 77008 713-222-7898 The Williard Law Firm 1920 N. Memorial Way Ste. 207 Houston, Texas 77007 713-529-6300 williardlaw.com

Hanszen LaPort 4309 Yoakum Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-522-9444 hanszenlaporte.com Lubel Voyles 5020 Montrose Blvd. Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77006 713-284-5200 lubelvoyles.com Patterson PC 4309 Yoakum Blvd.. Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77006 713-874-6444 peterpattersonlaw.com Robert Pearson 4314 Yoakum Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-581-4404 pearsonlegal.com Sprain Law Firm 3700 Montrose Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-592-6300 sprainlawfirm.com The Beers Law Firm 5020 Montrose Boulevard Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77006 713-654-0700 beerslaw.net The Holland Law Firm 4545 Mt. Vernon St. Houston, Texas 77006 713-522-4242 The Kim Law Firm 4309 Yoakum Blvd. Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77006 713-522-1177 thekimlawfirm.com Business Law Expert p. 16 Vethan Law Firm 2909 Baldwin Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-526-2222 businesslawyertx.com RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS Leslie Adams 3900 Essex Ln. Houston, Texas 77027 713-728-6360 lesliewmadams.com Dan Barton Law Offices 2929 Allen Parkway Houston, Texas 77019 713-227-4747 Emmons & Jackson 3900 Essex Lane Ste.1116 Houston, Texas 77027 713-522-4435 emmonsjackson.com Vaughn Law Firm 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77019 713-868-3505

NORTH CONROE Darden Fowler and Creighton 414 West Phillips Ste. 100 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-3337 dfcllp.com Peterson Law Group 100 West Nugent Conroe, Texas 77301 979-314-1126 brazoslawyers.com The Owen Law Firm 401 West David Conroe, Texas 77301 935-539-5800 theowenlawfirm.net THE WOODLANDS Annelin and Gaskin 2170 Buckthorne Pl. Ste. 220 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-9121 Bailey & Galyen 2203 Timberloch Place Ste. 100 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-335-7744 thetexasbusinessattorney.com Boltz Law 1400 Woodloch Forest Drive Ste. 575 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-6555 boltzlaw.com

Drew & McCallum 25231 Groganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mill Ste. 350 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 832-585-0070 drewmccallum.com Law Office of Susan A. Turney 1400 Woodloch Forest Drive Ste. 575 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-645-6749 turney-law.com Kalish Law Office 25907 Oak Ridge Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-3700 kalishlawtexas.com Law Firm of Speary & Associates 14 Ginger Bay Place Ste. 100 The Woodlands, Texas 77382 832-646-0290 spearylaw.com

NORTHWEST Law Office of Keith Peterson 12345 Jones Road Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-7001 kdplaw.com Law Office of Troy M. Moore 12850 Jones Road Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-8039 troymmoore.com The Solomon Law Firm 10900 Northwest Freeway Ste. 221 Houston, Texas 77092 713-957-2030 thesolomonlawfirm.com CHAMPIONS / CYPRESS Davenport Law Offices 4606 FM 1960 Rd. W Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77069 281-586-2208 davenportlegal.com Derek Obialo 13050 Champions Park Dr. Ste. 601 Houston, Texas 77069 713-894-0136 obialo.com Donna Everson 15219 Stuebner Airline Rd. Ste. 8 Houston, Texas 77069 281-580-4664 Randall S. Perrier 4606 FM 1960 Rd. W Ste. 101 Houston, Texas 77069 281-440-8066 perrierlaw.com Sharon J. Hemphill 14202 Champion Forest Drive Houston, Texas 77069 713-203-9065 W. Mark Lanier 6810 FM 1960 Rd. W Houston, Texas 77069 713-659-5200 lanierlawfirm.com Wong Cabello Lutsch Rutherford & Brucculeri 20333 SH 249 Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77070 832-446-2400 counselip.com TOMBALL

Sharon E. Conway 2441 High Timbers Ste. 410 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-2230 sconwaylaw.com

Gallagher & Stull 312 High Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7181 gallagherandstull.com

The Strong Firm 10003 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-1222 thestrongfirm.com

Shepherd Law Firm 990 Village Square Dr. Ste. G900 Tomball, Texas 77375 281-357-8900

Voss Law Firm 25511 Budde Road Ste. 202 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 713-861-0015 vosslawfirm.com SPRING Brian D Williams Law Office 5519 Louetta Road Ste. B Spring, Texas 77379 281-440-0098 Madison Jones Law Offices 3627 Coltwood Drive Spring, Texas 77388 713-522-4949 madisonjoneslaw.com

Merritt E. Spencer 14011 Park Drive Ste. 200 Tomball, Texas 7737 281-351-4994 Troup & Bruce 211 Florence Tomball, Texas 77375 281-516-1100 troupbruce.com NORTHEAST KINGWOOD / HUMBLE Currin Wuest Mielke Paul & Knapp 1214A Stonehollow Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-359-0100 cwmpk.com

Law Office of William W. Bivin 1422 Stonehollow Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-2223 bivinlaw.com

Mattingly Law Firm 8774 Katy Freeway Ste. 327 Houston, Texas 77024 713-467-4400 mattinglylawfirm.com

Mark Achilles Law Firm 20202 Highway 59 Ste. 190 Humble, Texas 77338 281-358-8700

Robert Hohenberger 2500 Wilcrest Drive Ste. 107 Houston, Texas 77042 713-680-9454 law-tex.com

Michael R. Carr 902 E. Main Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-1220 mrcarr-atty.com Patrick G. Hubbard 1306 Kingwood, Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 28-358-7035 patrickhubbardlaw.com Shipp Tom 9810 FM 1960 Bypass Rd. W Ste. 170 Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-8989 Sonny Phillips 717 1st Street Humble, Texas 77338 281-446-6886 The Power Law Firm 20202 Highway 59 Ste. 170 Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-3330 thepowerlawfirm.com EAST Antonio Benavides Law Office 855 Uvalde Rd. Ste. 2 Houston, Texas 77015 713-899-9488 BAYTOWN Don Smith & Associates 4721 Garth Road Baytown, Texas 77521 281-427-0448 Frank A. Knight III 4500 North Main Street Baytown, Texas 77521 281-422-9931 Klinger Law 15141 Lakeview Drive Beach City, Texas 77523 281-383-3533 klingerlaw.com Larry L. Bailey 621 Schilling Street Baytown, Texas 77520 281-428-1055 Stephen J. Mescall 200 Park Street Baytown, Texas 77520 281-420-1711 WEST Joanne Cassidy 1001 West Loop South Ste.100 Houston, Texas 77027 713-974-1766 thecompanylawyer.com Law Office of Cuong M. Le 10827 Bellaire Boulevard Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77072 281-495-2510 houstontxlawfirm.com Law Office of Neal H. Paster 14911 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, Texas 77083 713-527-9549 nealpasterassociates.com Makris Law Firm 9898 Bissonnet St. Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77036 713-526-9966 makrislaw.com

Schlanger Silver Barg & Payne 109 North Post Oak Lane Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77024 713-785-1700 ssbplaw.com The Cunningham Law Firm 7500 San Felipe Ste. 1010 Houston, Texas 77063 713-568-3327 thecunninghamlawfirm.com SHARPSTOWN Ramji & Momin 8191 Southwest Freeway Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77074 713-777-2654 ramjimomin.com Roger G. Jain & Associates 7322 Southwest Freeway Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77074 866-471-6269 rogergjain.com Solomon Musyimi 8300 Bissonnet Ste. 634 Houston, Texas 77074 713-541-4444 solomonmusyimi.com The Wadhawan Law Firm 7324 Southwest Freeway Ste. 545 Houston, Texas 77074 713-777-5891 attorneytonywadhawan.com MEMORIAL/TOWN COUNTRY Bae Law Firm 800 W. Sam Houston Parkway N. Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77024 713-850-0800 stevebaelaw.com

{ B USIN E SS LAW IN DE X }

C.L. Crawley Jr. 10077 Grogans Mill Road Ste. 550 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-362-8181 clcrawleylaw.com

The Tillman Law Firm 16422 Stuebner Airline Road Spring, Texas 77379 281-882-3928 abankruptcybymail.com

Brian Womac 820 Gessner Rd. Ste. 1540 Houston, Texas 77024 713-751-9200 Law Office of David B. Willis 11152 Westheimer Ste.862 Houston, Texas 77042 713-782-7878 davidwillislaw.com Robert M. Mendell 908 Town & Country Blvd. Ste. 120 Houston, Texas 77024 713-888-0700 mendellgroup.com KATY Brashear Law Firm 16350 Park Ten Place Ste. 218 Houston, Texas 77084 281-994-4034 jbrashearlaw.com Goodrum C. Greg 1400 Broadfield Blvd. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77084 281-994-4111 Jeffrey J. Messock Law 17171 Park Row Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77084-4928 281-579-1784

Law Offices of Kimberly Soard 3722 Bristleleaf Drive Katy, Texas 77449 281-647-0899 soardlaw.com

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

Levin & Atwood 20501 Katy Freeway Ste. 217 Katy, Texas 77450 281-579-6044 levinandatwood.com

Showalter Law 1117 FM 359 Rd. Richmond, Texas 77406 281-341-5577 showalterlaw.com

Waldron & Schneider 15150 Middlebrook Drive Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-4439 ws-law.com

Mingledorff Law Firm 430 Highway 6 S Ste. 215 Houston, Texas 77079 281-497-7180

Tate Moerer & King 206 South 2nd Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-0077 tate-law.com

PASADENA

Ronald Max Raydon Law Offices 1718 Fry Rd. Ste. 450 Houston, Texas 77084 281-398-6402 The Law Offices of Mark A. Cianciosi 1614 Durfey Lane Katy, Texas 77449 281-347-1231 macpclaw.com WEST/SOUTHWEST

The Law Office of Love & Associates 3423 FM 762 Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-2980 kenlove.com

SUGAR LAND / STAFFORD Angelo Sherry B 10707 Corporate Drive Ste 135 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-313-2767

{ B USIN E SS LAW IN DE X }

Bogdan Law 4910 Wright Rd. Ste. 190 Stafford Texas 77477 713-378-9378 bogdanlawfirm.com Esani & Momin 4800 Sugar Grove Boulevard Ste. 140 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-313-6100 emattorney.com Garcia-Martin & Martin 1 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Ste. 1065 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-277-3066 mgmartinlaw.com

Eloise A. Guzman 8866 Gulf Freeway Ste. 130 Houston, Texas 77017 713-378-9900

Rendon & Associates 7015 Gulf Freeway Ste. 101 Houston, Texas 77087 713-645-0170 rrendon.com

Larry Wilson 4620 Fairmont Pkwy Ste. 202 Pasadena, Texas 77504 281-998-8880

W. Ray Howard Law Offices 6526 Mykawa Road Houston, Texas 77033 713-733-3030

Tylka Law Firm 305 21st St.Ste. 140 Galveston, Texas 77550 281-648-7800 tylkalawfirm.com

BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE AREA Bill De La Garza & Associates 17050 El Camino Real Houston, Texas 77058 281-486-7007 billdelagarzapc.com Badeaux & Associates 16055 Space Center Boulevard Ste. 260 Houston, Texas 77062 281-486-4737 dedicatedlaw.com

The Leon Law Firm 1 Sugar Creek Center Ste. 980 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-980-4529 theleonlawfirm.com

Keith Gross 601 Cien Road Ste. 215 Kemah, Texas 77565 281-535-0022

RICHMOND, / ROSENBERG Karen Meinardus 800 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-5689 kmeinarduslaw.com Law Office of Larry McDougal 809 Houston, Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-238-8500 larrymcdougal.com Mitchell & Duff 210 Main Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-1718

Law Offices of Michael Gonzalez 7930 Broadway St. Ste 122 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-4626 gonzalezattorney.com

The Bale Law Firm 1600 Highway 6 South Ste. 200 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-295-6000

Wright Firm 12603 Southwest Fwy Ste. 571 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-980-2040

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HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Law Office of Albert Lee Giddens 3009 Strawberry Road Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-947-0001 albertleegiddens.com

Gino M. Mesa Law Office 2028 Dismuke Street Houston, Texas 77023 713-266-0009

Gary Lee 1335 Space Park Drive Ste. B Houston, Texas 77058 281-335-0015 garyleeattorney.com

Wauson Probus 1 Sugar Creek Center Ste. 880 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-0303 texbusinesslaw.com

Jayd Piercy 4702 West Walnut Street Pearland, Texas 77581 281-606-1778 lawpearland.com

SOUTH/SOUTHEAST

MISSOURI CITY The Hurd Law Firm 5680 Highway 6 Ste. 188 Missouri City, Texas 77459 832-771-9356 hurdlawfirm.com

Frank A. Hale 3668 Burke Road Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-941-4100 frankhale-law.com

Law Offices of Leonard E. Cox 2600 NASA Road 1 Ste. 203 Seabrook, Texas 77586 281-532-0801 lawyercox.com Lewis & Lewis 16055 Space Center Boulevard Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77062 281-286-9898 lewis-lawyers.com Richard Morrison 1100 Highway 146 Ste. A Kemah, Texas 77565 281-535-0455 Treece Law Firm 1020 Bay Area Blvd.. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77058 281-667-3100 Vascoe Valdes Law Firm 2525 Bay Area Boulevard Ste.350 Houston, Texas 77058 281-486-7700 vascoevaldes.com

The Powell Law Firm 2734 Sunrise Boulevard Ste. 406 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-2021 powellfirm.com TEXAS CITY Mabry Herbeck & Roberts 711 6th Street North Texas City, Texas 77590 409-948-4466 Rasco Law Firm 2709 Texas Avenue Texas City, Texas 77590 409-750-0436 rascolawfirm.com LEAGUE CITY Rocha Law Firm 2600 South Shore Blvd. #300 League City, Texas 77573 281-668-9171 rochalawfirm.com The Fuhr Law 612 W. Main St. Ste. 102 League City, Texas 77573 281-332-1400 fuhrlaw.com GALVESTON Billy Williams Law Offices 1018 23rd Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-1400

FRIENDSWOOD

Eiland A Craig 2211 Strand Rear Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-3260

Kevin A. Sunn Law Office 1560 W Bay Area Blvd. Ste. 260 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-956-1065

Martin Garza & Fisher 1100 25th Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-765-5705

Law Office of James T. Fletcher 1414 South Friendswood Drive Ste. 216 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-7780 friendswoodlawyer.com

Mc Fatridge Baker & Schmidt 2228 Ships Mechanic Row Ste. 220 Galveston, Texas 77550 713-629-7966 mbslawyer.com

The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd 312 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-922-8633 altontodd.com

Mills Shirley 2228 Mechanic Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2341 millsshirley.com

Law Offices of David L. Thorton 1560 West Bay Area Boulevard Ste. 353 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-282-9100 davidlthornton.com

Mostyn Law Firm 2116 Church Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-762-7600 mostynlaw.com

Melissa Botting Law 1414 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-992-7600 Riveron Law Firm 699 S Friendswood Dr. Ste. 106 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-9700 PEARLAND Kevin M. Murphy 11200 West Broadway Street Ste. 2743 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-997-5460 kevinmurphylaw.com Larkin Law Firm 6302 Broadway Street Ste. 230 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-667-4048 larkinlawtx.com Law Office of James Zier 9330 Broadway Street Ste. 304 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-3377 jameszierlaw.com

{ F E AT URE }

MURDER ON T.C. JESTER

by MIRIAM LOZANO, publisher

ince their deaths in 1993, the murders of Jennifer Ertman and Elizabeth Pena have stayed with me. Maybe it was because I lived my entire adolescent life in Houston before moving to San Antonio.

My family lived fairly close to the Galleria area—a quirky and upscale hot spot for tourist, shopping and dining—and crime was practically nonexistent at that time. T.C. Jester, a neighboring community—also known for their small family community—was less than 5 miles from where we lived, so crime was not really something our parents contemplated. So when two unconnected stories shocked our community, my initial thought was could have this been prevented? It’s a sunny Saturday morning in 1983, when I decide to go ride my bike outside as I usually do. I was 7 years old. All the kids in the neighborhood usually played together and enjoyed the outdoorsa recreation that was a huge part of our culture at that time. Little did I know that on this morning I would be confronted with every parent’s nightmare. While riding my bike, I was approached by a middle-aged man in a beaten up old white car. I was frightened at first but soon felt at ease when he began to tell me a little about himself. He persuaded me to get in the car (‘til this day I

can’t remember what he said to get me to trust him) I believed that he was going to take me where I needed to go. I got in the car and left my bike near the street curb in my neighborhood. I really started to get scared once in the car and my emotions ran high. By God’s good grace, a light tan family van had begun to follow the car we were in about 10 minutes into the ride. My kidnapper panicked and pushed me out of the vehicle going about 30 mph. I was shaken up and weeping as any 7 year old would be. What had just happened? The young women driving the van pulled up next to me and asked me if I was okay. She took me home and my parents called the police. I never got a chance to thank her or her two sons who were with her but I want to tell them now, how grateful I am for the courage it took to quickly come to my aide. It took 20 years for my family to speak of the incident again. . We never found out who the stranger was, but since then, I have become fascinated with crime and punishment—criminal investigations, cold case files, unsolved murders etc. Hence, when the

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

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At about 10:45pm, a gang initiation was taking place in a park near T.C. Jester. Four members of a local gang called Black and Whites were initiating a new gang member, Raul Villarreal. Each member was to fist fight the new recruit one by one until he could no longer stand and consequently pass out. After regaining consciousness, Raul would officially become the newest member of the B&W gang. Embracing their new recruit, they celebrated by bingeing on drugs and alcohol. It wasn’t long before two of the members had spotted the girls walking down the train tracks heading home. This was not the typical route the girls took, but because they were running a little late they decided to take a short cut home. Their chosen alternate route would haunt us until today.

Pena Ertman

{ MURDE R ON T.C . JE ST E R }

story broke about Jennifer and Elizabeth, I was reminded of that feeling I had when I was 7 years old and the helplessness, anger, anguish my own family experienced. I felt as if only I could have done something to prevent it. I mean in 1993, I was Elizabeth’s age. I wonder at the sheer fortune that I had in not becoming another victim of crime due to the courageous act of another citizen. There is not a day that goes by, that I don’t ask myself, what if the circumstances and the outcome of my experience were different? I decided to share this story with my readers because even though there is never closure after losing a child, at the very least we can work toward preventing another child and family from having to go through this. August, 17, 2010, seventeen agonizing years since their convictions, Houston finally got justice for the slaying of two young and innocent teenage girls¸ Jennifer Ertman and Elizabeth Pena. Peter Cantu, a former gang member and leader of the clan, was the last of three gang members who received the death penalty, was scheduled to be executed at 9:57 pm for the girls’ murders. The three youngest killers are currently serving a life and 40 year prison term sentence for their part in the murders. Close friends, Jennifer Ertman and Elizabeth Pena were like any other teenage girls who loved shopping, school, boys, friends and their families. So it’s no surprise that on a typical summer evening, they would be going out with friends and having fun. On the evening of June 24, 1993, Jennifer and Elizabeth attended a pool party at a friend’s house around 7pm. Both parents allowed their daughter to go with the condition that they’d be home by curfew time of 11:30 pm. Neither would make it home on time. With no word from the girls, the parents grew worried and decided to call around and look for them until the early hours of the morning. They hoped that maybe the girls had stayed with a friend and only being irresponsible in not calling, but after no call and so much time had passed they knew that something was not right. No one could have prepared them for the evil that they learned was lurking the streets that night.

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Jennifer and Elizabeth only 14 and 16 couldn’t have been prepared for what was about to happen. As they tried to run from their assailants, they were captured and dragged back to the gangs den. Both were subsequently raped, tortured and sodomized for more than an hour by all 6 gang members. Never having less than 2 attackers at a time, the girls never had a chance. At one point Jennifer freed herself and could have escaped but didn’t, many believe it was because she wouldn’t have left Elizabeth behind. Afterwards, the gang dragged the girls into the woods and strangled them with a belt and their own shoe laces. The girls would die here together. To this day, details of this story haunt me; I prefer to not give the killers any satisfaction by going into greater detail. The police and the parents of both girls recovered their bodies four days after the vicious attacks. An anonymous caller called 911 to let them know where they could possibly find the bodies. The caller was later traced to his own girlfriend’s home and identified as the brother of one of the killers. After being taken into custody, he described to police how his brother and fellow gang members bragged about the killings and how they took a few of the girl’s possessions and kept them as souvenirs. It was his girlfriend who convinced him to call 911 and to lead authorities to the bodies so that the families could have some closure.

Elizabeth Pena's father Adolfo Pena embraces Christina Almaraz after the execution of Peter Anthony Cantu.

With a solid confession in hand, authorities arrested all 6 gang members. Peter Cantu, Efrain Perez, Derrick Sean O'Brien, Joe Medellin, Joe's 14 year old brother Venancio Medellin, and Raul Villareal. It would take 17 long years for the families of Jennifer and Elizabeth to get justice. After their convictions, three received the death penalty, two received life sentences and the youngest received 40 years. Those who were spared their lives because of their young age according to Texas death penalty laws, left us with so many unanswered questions. How is it that their young lives are more valuable than the young lives of the girls? Did the three young killers ever consider sparing the lives of Jennifer and Elizabeth knowing they were only 14 and 16? As time would tell, Texas death penalty laws would change due to the nature of the crime. You have to ask yourself what good could have possibly come out of all this. At the end of the day, two innocent lives have been cut short, two families were devastated by loss and grief, and a once carefree and peaceful community was rocked to the core by the malicious acts of a gang of careless, reprehensible boys. How can any true justice be found? How can these wrongs ever be made right? And yet, from this tragedy there came a silver lining—three silver linings in fact… First, the city of Houston and the State of Texas took extreme measures to make sure that anyone who committed a heinous crime like this one would face the harshest of punishment— no matter the perpetrator’s age. All of these boys (more like monsters) were younger than 18 years old, one as young as 14.

So in-kind, their lives were also cut short. Second, Texas passed the law that families of victims are now able to address the perpetrators. A law that was passed after Cantu was convicted.

{ MURDE R ON T.C . JE ST E R }

Rose Rogers takes a moment of silence at the memorial for Jennifer Ertman and Elizabeth Pena along T.C. Jester as the community gathers at the same time of Peter Cantu's execution Tuesday, August 17, 2010.

Third, families of victims are now aloud to witness the execution of the convicted killer—a law also passed after their convictions. But for some this is still not a happy ending. For me personally, I do find solace in knowing that these boys are no longer out among society and cannot hurt anyone else. I also admire the families of both girls very much. I am inspired by their faith and the strength it must have taken them to see things through to the very end. Today, a plaque in memory of the Jennifer and Elizabeth is placed at S.P. Waltrip High School where they both attended and at T.C. Jester Park a bench for each of them sits where they were murdered. I think to myself everyday what if this stranger who followed my kidnapper’s car, never stopped? Would I have had a similar fate as Jennifer and Elizabeth? I’m sure that at one point or another we’ve all turned away when something didn’t seem right. But because of this one act, from this perfect stranger saved my life. I know now that it’s my duty to look out for another as I hope someone else would for my child. Perhaps, this could finally be the answer on how to avert callous misdeeds from happening again. ✹

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

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21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS 21,000 FELONS ARRESTED 890 MURDERS SOLVED · 72 GUNS FROM SCHOOLS

· 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED · 29,000 CRIMES SOLVED · $65 MILLION IN PROPERTY RECOVERED · $8 MILLION IN CASH REWARDS 2,100 BURGLARIES SOLVED · 3,800 ROBBERIES SOLVED · $129 MILLION IN NARCOTICS RECOVERED · 1,500 SCHOOL CRIMES SOLVED · 230 WEAPONS FROM SCHOOLS · 1,000 SCHOOL DRUG CASES SOLVED

LEARN SAFE WE PROTECT YOUR SCHOOLS.

PLAY SAFE

WE PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN.

WORK SAFE

DD,,,, ARRESTS S,,,, ROBBERIES SOLVED D,,,, BURGLARIES SOLVED DDD MURDERS SOLVED DD GUNS FROM SCHOOLS

WE PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS.

BE SAFE

WE PROTECT YOUR NEIGHBORHOODS.

GIVE NOW. LIVE SAFE. WWW.CRIME-STOPPERS.ORG

Crime Stoppers is a P.O. Box 24

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HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

(c)(() nonprofit corporaaon and your contribuuon is tax-deduccble. , Houston, TX

----- |

--------- | info@crime-stoppers.org

CRIMINAL LAW Criminal law involves government prosecution of an individual for an act that is classified as a crime. Criminal cases are tried through a state prosecutor who initiates the criminal law cases. Individuals who are convicted of a crime may be incarcerated, fined, or a combination of both.

WHAT IS A CRIME?

A crime is defined as any act or omission (of an act) in violation of a public law forbidding or commanding it.

TYPES OF CRIMES Felonies and Misdemeanors

Felonies are more serious criminal offenses such as murder or rape. Misdemeanors are less serious criminal offenses such as petty theft or jaywalking. Punishments can result in probation, deferred adjudication, community service, imprisonment or death depending on the severity of the crime. If you or someone you love has been accused of a crime, you may want to contact a criminal law attorney for more information specific to your case. A criminal law lawyer may be able to get your case dismissed, or reduce your sentence.

PRACTICE AREAS Violent Crimes Drug & Alcohol Related Crimes DWI/DUI Defense Sex Crimes White Collar Crimes Appeals Post-conviction relief Other Crimes

{ C RIMINAL LAW }

Ketterman and Amann, PLLC The Kirby Mansion | 2000 Smith Street | Houston, TX 77002 | t (866) 258-0499 | kettermanamann.com

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HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt houston ’ s top criminal defense attorney colin amann speaks out about life, moral obligations and the presumption of innocence.

olin Amann didn’t choose the law; it chose him. He much preferred driving racecars. But after racing all across the U.S. and Europe (and after wrecking a very expensive racecar), he decided that it might be time to get a “real” job. He had an undergraduate degree in chemistry and contemplated a career in science. So he went to law school and decided to bide his time until he figured out what he really wanted to do.

Ramsey and Tyson, who are among Houston’s highest-profile criminal defense lawyers, became Amann’s role models. That’s when he realized that defending the principles of the Constitution was more important than working to further the interests of a big energy company. “I loved the idea of being in court every day, and not being trapped behind a desk,” explained Amann. “Criminal law is a lot riskier and there isn’t the guaranteed money that I would have received as a corporate lawyer. But Ramsey & Tyson taught me how important it was to protect our constitutional rights. So instead of becoming a rich corporate lawyer, I chose to be a criminal defense lawyer, which I think is much more rewarding. It’s also a lot more fun.” Amann clerked for Ramsey & Tyson all through law school, and when he graduated, they hired him as an associate. He stayed with them for seven years, during which time he also served as an adjunct law professor at the University of Houston. Then he decided to strike out on his own. “I still officed with them, but I wanted to be my own boss. I had $500 in my account when I opened my practice,” he continued. “They referred cases to me, and I was still in their family, but I was on my own.”

From this ‘family’ Amann formulated his own personal philosophy about how best to practice criminal defense. “I quickly learned that this is not just a day job. This job is like calling 911 for an ambulance. People are scared; they’re in trouble; they need help; and they need it now,” he said. “People are on the verge of losing their family, their liberty, their job, maybe even their life. It’s traumatic. They don’t feel like that from nine-to-five on Monday through Friday: they feel like that all the time. It’s very emotional. And it’s definitely not just business.”

{ C RIMINAL LAW }

While Amann (a native of Virginia) was attending law school at the University of Houston, he had an epiphany. “I was in law school when I realized that ‘law’ was the thing that I absolutely had to do,” he said. “That’s why I say that I didn’t choose the law, I think it chose me.” At first, he believed that with his chemistry background, he might become a corporate lawyer for an energy company. The law, however, continued to lead him in its own direction. “I needed to earn some money while I was in school, so I began clerking for Mike Ramsey and George Tyson. That clerkship seduced me into the bowels of criminal law,” he said.

When Colin Amann gets involved with a client, it’s more than just representing that one person. He becomes involved with the client’s entire family. “If I’m not successful, it’s not just that client who’ll be affected. They’ll lose their whole family. The pressure of that is certainly much more than anything I felt getting into a racecar.” He added that despite the pressures, the rewards are

“We believe that knowledge is what keeps you safe.” amazing. “The more there is at risk, the better you feel when you win; and the worse you feel when you lose,” he said. “The bottom line is, when we get into court, the government has to prove guilt beyond all reasonable doubt. There are always moral questions, of course; but moral questions rarely get resolved in court. Those are between the person accused and his conscience. Morally, I don’t care if someone committed the crime. I only care if it’s provable legally. You can’t deprive someone of their liberty if their guilt is not legally proved beyond all reasonable doubt.”

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{ C RIMINAL LAW }

Colin Amann and Julie Ketterman

Defendants are not the only ones who often get a “bad rap.” The lawyers who defend them are frequently blamed for getting the alleged criminals “off the hook” and putting them back on the street. Then, when they hurt someone else, the public points its finger at the defense lawyer who got him acquitted. “I don’t understand why people think this way,” said Amann. “Why focus on the defense lawyer instead of the prosecutor, who failed to prove her case; or perhaps the jury, who did not return a guilty verdict? Defense lawyers are not responsible for putting bad people back out on the streets. It’s the state that is held to the burden of proof. Both the state and the defense work the case, and then the jury decides. That’s called justice. It’s not called fairness.” In 2002, Colin Amann partnered with his wife — CPS and family lawyer, Julie Ketterman— and has been with her in the offices of Ketterman and Amann, PLLC ever since. “We have a great marriage that works in and out of the office,” he said. “We work together on a lot of cases, because nine-times-out-of-ten, someone charged with child neglect also faces a criminal investigation.” It’s a good thing that Colin and Julie work well together because in this profession, teamwork is extremely important. “I’m a team-oriented person,” said Amann. “When it comes to the law, it’s got to be a team effort because no one person can handle this alone.” He and his wife brainstorm continuously, and because they’re together after work, the discussions about cases continue long after 5 p.m. “We don’t fight over who left the cap off the toothpaste. We fight over how to handle certain cases,” he said. “Ultimately, this benefits the client greatly. If you hire us as your lawyers, you automatically become part of our family. You will be at our house at some point. You’ll probably even meet our kids. There is no line drawn; no fence or wall. This is not about any one individual. Everyone works together for the client.”

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All of Amann’s clients begin by providing as much information as they possibly can about themselves and their case. “We believe that knowledge is what keeps you safe,” he said. “People are scared of the dark, and that’s why we shed light on everything. We want to give people some sense of control. As long as you

“But what really sets me apart from the others is my wife. The combination of us together is unique, elusive, and unstoppable” have that, you feel secure.” Amann gives his cell phone number and e-mail address to all of his clients. “We want our clients to know that we’ll be with them through the entire process, and that they’re our number-one concern.” He added that his business is completely people-oriented; to reassure clients that someone will always be there. “If you don’t serve your clients, word will spread that you don’t care about them,” he said. Ketterman and Amann have one clear purpose that sets them apart from other criminal defense lawyers. “We don’t expect to get rich doing this; at least not financially. We reap many emotional rewards simply from helping others. Doing this helps me feel good about myself, and the business itself is rewarding enough.” He feels that all of their actions define who they are as

lawyers and that he wants to be remembered as someone who benefitted the community. “There are a lot of lawyers out there. So why should someone chose me? All those other lawyers are talented, and bright. In fact, I always suggest that my potential clients meet with several lawyers before making a decision. And they invariably come back to me because we are such a diverse group that always pushes the outer reaches of the envelope for our clients. But what really sets me apart from the others is my wife. The combination of us together is unique, exclusive, and unstoppable. You won’t find that anywhere else.” Colin Amann has another unique perspective that perhaps not every lawyer might have. “I have a lot of empathy for clients who are dealing with illness,” he said. “People are accused of crimes regardless of their health. I have an incurable bile-duct disorder that sometimes saps my energy. So I know what it’s like to not feel 100% all of the time. I can connect with those clients who have persistent health-related problems. The pressures that those clients endure must certainly be addressed.” Amann, who is also the President of the American Liver Foundation in Houston, does charitable work for those in the community who suffer from similar health problems. “It’s hard enough being accused of a crime without having medical issues, so I have a lot of sympathy for people in that unfortunate situation.”

Amann belongs to the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, is routinely named by “H Texas Magazine” as one of Houston’s top lawyers, has been honored as a lifetime member of Strathmore’s “Who’s Who,” and Lexus-Nexus Peer Review Organization gave him its maximum rating for legal ability and professional ethics.

{ C RIMINAL LAW }

Ketterman & Amann in front of their offices at the Kirby Mansion

Although he’s been an attorney for nearly 25 years, Colin Amann’s youthful experiences behind the wheel of a racecar continue to affect his philosophy of how to practice law. “Not everyone has the team approach as I do,” he said. “It’s a humbling experience, working together in the defense of the citizen accused. It’s also humbling to go from zero to 160 miles per hour in a moment’s time. In both cases, you are keenly aware of how important it is to be precise and consistent. Not just one time, but every time. That’s how you win. ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Criminal Law | Education: Chemistry,

Virginia Tech, B.A.; University of Houston, Bates School of Law, J.D. Affiliations: U.S. Supreme Court; U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit; U.S. District Court, Southern, Northern and Eastern Districts of Texas; Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.

☛ CONTACT Firm: Ketterman & Amann PLLC | Address: The Kirby Mansion, 2000 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77002 | Web: kettermanamann.com

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Philip Hilder HILDER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 819 Lovett Blvd. | Houston, Texas 77006 t (713) 655-9111 | hilderlaw.com

{ C RIMINAL LAW }

Philip H. Hilder was formerly the attorney-in-charge of the United States Department of Justice, Organized Crime Strike Force in Houston. In that capacity, he coordinated investigative efforts with federal agents from the inception of target identification through grand jury proceedings, and on to the ultimate prosecution. Mr. Hilder also served as an assistant United States attorney in the Southern District of Texas with the Presidential Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force where he coordinated interagency, inter-jurisdictional and international efforts against international organized crime targets. Since leaving government service, Mr. Hilder specializes in white collar criminal defense matters, related parallel administrative and complex civil litigation, grand jury investigations, internal investigations, corporate compliance programs, False Claims Act (Qui-Tam ) cases, whistleblower representation, trials, and appeals Mr. Hilder has been involved in high profile matters such as representing clients in the Enron and BP. Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill cases. Mr. Hilder has consistently received the highest rating from the Martindale-Hubbell legal network (AV) and is listed in the Bar Registry of Preeminent Lawyers. He is also a frequent legal commentator on criminal cases for television, print, and radio. Focus: White Collar Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation | Education: University of Iowa, B.A.; Boston College Law School, J.D.

Nicole DeBorde DEBORDE LAW FIRM 808 Travis St. 24th Fl | Houston, Texas 77002 t (713) 526-6300 | debordelawfirm.com Acclaimed Houston criminal defense lawyer Nicole DeBorde has more than 15 years of experience handling high-profile charges in the state and federal criminal justice systems. She is a dedicated, responsive, results driven legal representative whose ONLY focus is Criminal Defense. Her work is esteemed by judges, prosecutors and other defense attorneys, and she knows how to connect with juries to achieve favorable results for her clients. Attorney DeBorde is passionate about the law and every defendant's right to due process, and that passion shows in the courtroom. Attorney DeBorde served as a Harris County Prosecutor for eight years. She also served with distinction on the Public Integrity Division, which investigates and prosecutes police officers, public officials, and politicians. This unique experience gives her firsthand knowledge of how the prosecutions build their cases, which make her more than qualified to foil a prosecution's strategy. Attorney DeBorde is aggressive and thorough when analyzing, strategizing, and preparing a case. She has an extensive network of specialists who will help build you a strong legal defense. She also consults a team of private investigators, forensic experts, criminal pathologists and psychologistsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all of whom can contribute critical insight to your case. | Focus: Criminal Law | Education: University of Houston, B.A., J.D. | Licenses: Licensed to Practice State and Federal Law

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Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Boenig & Teir 6750 West Loop South Ste. 460 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-669-0520 boeniglaw.com

Half Page Feature Article, p. 30 Deborde Law Firm 808 Travis Street 24th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-526-6300 debordelawfirm.com Flood & Flood 914 Preston St. Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-8877 floodandflood.com

Catherine T. Samaan 6575 West Loop South Ste. 600 Bellaire, Texas 77401 281-509-9236

Fred Dahr 1014 McKinney Street Ste. 1625 Houston, Texas 77010 713-487-7575 texasdefenselaw.com

Terry W. Yates & Associates 6750 West Loop S Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-861-3100 yateslawoffices.com

Jan Woodward Fox 440 Louisiana St. 900 Houston, Texas 77002 713-623-8600 janfoxlaw.com

NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN

Johnson Johnson & Baer 1018 Preston Street Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-0400 dwiattorneyhouston.com

Brenda D. Keen 1800 Bering Drive Ste. 690 Houston, Texas 77057 713-972-1320 brendakeen.com Charles J. Argento & Associates 5629 Southwest Freeway Houston, Texas 77057 713-225-5050 houstonaccidentattorneyargento.com Law Office of Andrew Pike Piekalkiewicz 1811 Bering Drive Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77057 832-677-3221

The Downing Law Firm 1330 Post Oak Boulevard Ste. 1600 Houston, Texas 77056 713-400-5333 thedowninglawfirm.com Unger & Hershkowitz 510 Bering Drive Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77057 713-917-6878 texaslegalproblems.com

John M. Petruzzi 1314 Texas Avenue Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-581-1789 johnmpetruzziattorney.com Exclusive Criminal Law Article, p.27 Ketterman and Amann (Colin Amann) Kirby Mansion 2000 Smith St. Houston, Texas 77002 713-522-9777 kettermanamann.com Law Offices of David A. Breston 405 Main Street Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-4040 davidbreston.com Law Offices of Steven Rocket Rosen 440 Louisiana Street Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-227-2900 rocketrosen.com

IN THE LOOP Bennett & Bennett 735 Oxford Street Houston, Texas 77007 713-224-1747 bennettandbennett.com Essmyer Tritico & Rainey 5111 Center Street Houston, Texas 77007 713-581-8203 etlawfirm.com Law Office of Nicholas R. Westbrook 3730 Kirby Drive Ste. 1200 Houston, Texas 77098 713-893-6204 houstoncriminaldefensefirm.com Scheiner Law Group 211 Norfolk Ste. 735 Houston, Texas 77098 713-783-8998 scheinerlaw.com DOWNTOWN Anderson & Thomas 1401 McKinney Street Ste. 1625 Houston, Texas 77010 832-460-6918 andersonthomaslaw.com Clausell Parish 723 Main Street Ste. 902 Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-2255 clausellparrish.com

Monica E. Williams 723 Main Street Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77002 713-400-5700 mwilliamslegal.com Medley & Cammack 1208 Edwards Street Houston, Texas 77007 713-779-5004 medleycammack.com Neal Davis Law Firm 917 Franklin Street Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-227-4444 houstoncriminalattorney.com Stafford Keyser Bromberg 515 Caroline St. Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-3600\ staffordkeyserbromberg.com Stradley Chernoff & Alford 917 Franklin Street Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-9141 houstoncriminallaw.com The Cochran Firm 1001 Texas Avenue Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-572-9999 cochranfirm.com

Mark A. Morasch 811 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77007 713-880-1118 moraschlaw.com

The Peebles Firm 515 Caroline Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-237-9700 peeblesfirm.com

Todd Overstreet Law Office 1214 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-222-0600 houstondwiattorneysatlaw.com

Troy Locklear 917 Franklin Street 6th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-8769 troylocklear.com

The Law Offices of Billy Skinner 1017 Heights Blvd. Houston, Texas 77008 713-600-7777 billyskinnerlaw.com

GREATER HEIGHTS

MIDTOWN/MONTROSE AREA

Jonathan Munier 1244 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-880-9965 heightscriminallaw.com

Half Page Feature Article, p. 30 Hilder & Associates 819 Lovett Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-234-1416 hilderlaw.com

Law Offices of Casey Garrett & Kirk Oncken 1214 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-228-3800 gocriminallaw.com Law Offices of Jed Silverman 1017 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-226-8800 jedsilverman.com Lisa Jones 1406 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-694-6060 ljones-law.com

Law Office of Dan Kirby 2015 Crocker Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-681-1300 houstondefenselawfirm.com RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS Chip B. Lewis 2120 Welch Street Houston, Texas 77019 713-574-7508 chiplewislaw.com Law Office of Joseph Salhab 2028 Buffalo Terrace Houston, Texas 77019 713-574-7386 houstoncrimlaw.com

{ C RIMINAL { C RIMINAL LAWLAW IN DE } X }

Madrid Martinez & Associates 2800 Post Oak Boulevard Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77056 713-225-1038 houstoncriminallawjournal.com

Jonathan J. Paull 917 Franklin Street Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77002 713-227-1525 dwi-attorney.net

The Fertitta Law Firm 1004 Congress Street 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-5900 fertittalaw.com

David R. Lee THE LAW OFFICE OF DAVID R. LEE & ASSOCIATES 3920 FM 1960 West, Suite 335 Houston, Texas 77068 t (888) 320-7992  drleecrimdefense.com

With over 20 years experience in criminal law defense, Attorney David R. Lee is here to protect you, your rights, your freedom, your wallet, and possibly, your life. His private practice provides full-service adult criminal defense services, including DWI/DUI, Assault, Drug Possession, Felonies and even Sealing of Records. It is his goal to not only win your case but to help you protect and seal your record. His dedication and passion for the law have made him an advocate for those who cannot fend for themselves. If you’ve been arrested for DWI/DUI, possession or any other criminal act, please contact the Law Offices of David R. Lee for a free consultation. If you have seen me in action, you already know that what you see is what you get. I am direct, aggressive, determined, persistent, and fully intend to prevail over the State. – DAVID R. LEE

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Scott Rothenberg Law Office 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77019 713-667-5300 rothenberglaw.com NORTH Quarter Page Feature Article, p.31 The Law Office of David R. Lee & Associates 3920 FM 1960 W. Ste. 335 Houston, Texas 77068 888-320-7992 drleecrimdefensetx.com Musick & Musick 397 N Sam Houston, Parkway E Ste. 325 Houston, Texas 77060 281-443-7747 musicklawoffice.com

{ C RIMINAL LAWLAW IN DE { C RIMINAL } X }

The Law Offices of Johnny P. Papantonakis 1201 South Shepherd Drive Houston, Texas 77019 713-574-7507 johnnyplaw.com

The Law Office of Andrew J. Williams 1521 Green Oak Place Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-973-7953 txcriminallaw.net

Solomon Musyimi 8300 Bissonnet Ste. 634 Houston, Texas 77074 713-541-4444 solomonmusyimi.com

Lawrence D. Tackett 1400 Woodloch Forest Drive Ste. 540 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-419-2626 lawpro4u.com

The Law Offices of Dustin Neyland 900 Rockmead Ste. 132 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-312-0155 neylandlegal.com

MEMORIAL / TOWN & COUNTRY

Matt Horak 2203 Timberloch Place Ste. 100 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 713-225-8000 matthoraklaw.com

The Law Office of John S. Cossum 1412 Stonehollow Drive Ste. 900 Kingwood, Texas 77339 866-821-7294 houston-criminal-attorney.com

Whisenant & Associates 25211 Groganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mills Road Ste. 240 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-8889 texasdivorceinfo.com

The Law Office of C. Mark Porter 1102 Kingwood Drive Ste. 105 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-359-1788 mporterlawyer.com

SPRING

The Power Law Firm 20202 Highway 59 Ste. 170 Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-3330 thepowerlawfirm.com

CONROE

C. L. Crawley Jr. 10077 Grogan S Mill Rd. Ste. 550 Spring, Texas 77380 281-922-7500 clcrawleylaw.com

Darden Fowler & Creighton 414 West Phillips Ste. 100 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-3337 dfcllp.com

Steinmann Law Firm 24800 North Interstate 45 Ste. 220 Spring, Texas 77380 281-367-4870 steinmannlawfirm.com

Earl L. Pryor 220 West Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-4600 earllpryor.com

Whisenant & Associates 25211 Grogan S Mill Rd. Ste. 240 Spring, Texas 77380 281-681-8889 jtwlawoffice.com

Gilbert G. Garcia Law Firm 220 North Thompson Ste. 202 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-3333 ggglawfirm.com John T. Floyd Law Firm 207 West Phillip 2nd Floor Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-7800 johntfloyd.com Price & Price 101 Simonton Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-5511 priceandprice-law.com Simonsen Law Office 220 North Thompson Ste. 204 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-760-3299 thesoutheasttexasattorney.com The Law Offices of William A. Adair 404 West Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 281-849-1941 montgomerycountyfamilylawyer.cm The Law Office of William E. Harrison 336 North Main Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-647-3683 attorneywilliamharrison.com The Turner Law Firm 336 North Main Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-0461 theturnerlawfirm.net

NORTHWEST CHAMPIONS / CYPRESS Buskirk & Associates 4606 FM 1960 West Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77069 281-583-7553 buskirkatlaw.com Culp & Little 12345 Jones Road Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77070 713-599-1000 culpandlittle.com J. Reid Perry 12850 Jones Road Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-4175 jreidperrylaw.com Jim Sullivan 12345 Jones Rd. Ste. 288 Houston, Texas 77070 281-546-6428 juveniledefenselaw.com Law Office of Janice P. Oviatt 14614 Falling Creek Drive Ste. 131 Houston, Texas 77068 281-580-7692 jpoviatt.com Sharon J. Hemphill 14202 Champion Forest Drive Houston, Texas 77069 713-203-9065 NORTHEAST

THE WOODLANDS,

HUMBLE / KINGWOOD

Bailey & Galyen 2203 Timberloch Place Ste. 100 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-335-7744 baileygalyencriminallaw.com

Law Office of P. Wayne Garrison II 1306 Kingwood Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-3565

Gerald E. Bourque 24 Waterway Avenue Ste. 660 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 713-862-7766 thehometownlawyer.com

Judith Shields 21 Waterway Avenue Ste. 300 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-362-7571 woodlandscrimlaw.com

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Lindeman Alvarado & Frye 4401 Town Center Place Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-359-3946 lindemanfrye.com

EAST BAYTOWN Daniel R. Jackson 6232 N. Hwy. 146 Ste. 600 Baytown, Texas 77523 danielrjackson.com Don Smith & Associates 4721 Garth Road Ste. D50 Baytown, Texas 77521 281-427-0448

Law Office of Richard H. Cobb 1035 Dairy Ashford Ste. 315 Houston, Texas 77079 281-617-0921 richardcobb.com Stornello & Correro 16000 Barkers Point Lane Ste. 203 Houston, Texas 77079 281-920-5600 thetexascriminallawattorneys.com KATY Bauchand & Associates 22136 Westheimer Pkwy Ste. 341 Katy, Texas 77450 281-578-5559 WEST/SOUTHWEST MISSOURI CITY Harrington Morin 5777 Sienna Parkway Ste. 400 Missouri City, Texas 77459 281-598-0313 lawhmp.com The Hurd Law Firm 5680 Highway 6 Ste. 188 Missouri City, Texas 77459 832-771-9356 hurdlawfirm.com SUGAR LAND /STAFFORD

Larry L. Bailey 621 Schilling St Baytown, Texas 77520 281-428-1055 larrybaileylaw.com

Broussard McLaughlin & Segura 14015 Southwest Freeway Ste. 5 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-7070 bmslawtx.com

The Turner Law Office 1300 Rollingbrook Ste. 160 Baytown, Texas 77521 281-422-3481 turnerlawoffice.com

Law Office of John L. Venza Jr. 19901 Southwest Freeway Ste. 217 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-971-5660 venzalaw.com

WEST Ilionsky Law Group 1080 W Sam Houston, Parkway Ste. 230 Houston, Texas 77043 832-444-6334 ilionsky.com Law Offices of Jennifer J.L. Carpenter 12645 Memorial Drive Ste. 169 Houston, Texas 77024 713-201-6767 houstoncrimdefense.com Law Office of Cynthia Henley 7627 E Jordan Cove Houston, Texas 77055 713-222-1220 henleylaw.com The Law Office of Deborah D. Summers 800 W Sam Houston, Parkway Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77024 281-897-9600 deborahsummers.com SHARPSTOWN Punjwani Law 7324 Southwest Freeway Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77074 832-255-8393 punjwanilaw.com Ramji & Momin 8191 Southwest Freeway Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77074 713-777-2654 ramjimomin.com

Teana V. Watson 1 Sugar Creek Center Boulevard Ste. 1045 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-491-4838 teanawatson.com The David Hunter Law Firm 1600 Highway 6 Ste. 450 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-265-1515 davidhunterlawfirm.com RICHMOND / ROSENBERG Greco & Associates 1110 Front Street Ste. C Richmond, Texas 77469 281-232-0777 fortbendcriminaldefenselawfirm.com Joyce M. Phoenix 208 S Third Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-0980 joycephoenixlaw.com Law Office of Larry P. McDougal 809 Houston, Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-725-6025 larrymcdougal The Law Office of Lester Van Slyke 500 Morton Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-6148 vanslyke-law.com

SOUTH/SOUTHEAST Law Offices of Ned Barnett 8441 Gulf Freeway Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77017 713-222-6767 nedbarnettlaw.com

Jayd A. Piercy 4702 West Walnut Street Pearland, Texas 77581 281-606-1778 lawpearland.com

CLEAR LAKE AREA

Law Office of James Zier 9330 Broadway Street Ste. 304 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-3377 jameszierlaw.com

Christian C. Samuelson 955 Gemini Houston, Texas 77058 281-332.5600 texas-dwi-defense.com

Law Offices of Keith G. Allen 2360 Country Road 94 Ste. 106 Pearland, Texas 77584 832-230-0075 kgallenlaw.com

Dale Pashcall 2045 Space Park Drive Ste. 225 Houston, Texas 77058 281-336-0964 dalepaschallattorney.com

Scott M. Brown 9330 Broadway Street Ste. 324 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-412-3131 sbrownlawyer.com

Laird Valdez 17629 El Camino Real Ste. 407 Houston, Texas 77058 281-218-0900 laird-valdez.com

The Law Office of Robert D. Miller 1346 Broadway Street Pearland, Texas 77581 832-315-6367 attorneyrobertdmiller.com

Sepolio Law 18201 Gulf Freeway Ste. 140 Webster, Texas 5598 832-489-1008 sepoliolaw.com

LEAGUE CITY

BAY AREA

Sondra Kaighen & Associates 71210 Mercury Drive Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-1918 kaighenlaw.com PASADENA

Law Office of George D. Reyes 514 Pasadena Boulevard Pasadena, Texas 77506 713-920-2888 georgedreyes.com

Tylka Law Firm 1104 E Main Street League City, Texas 77573 281-557-1500 tylkalawfirm.com DICKINSON/TEXAS CITY AREA Greg Russell 845 FM 517 Road W Ste. 200 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-614-5229 gnrlaw.com

LA PORTE/DEER PARK

LeGrand Law Office 2206 Palmer Highway Texas City, Texas 77590 409-965-8500 legrand-law-office.com

Law Office of R.T. Willis 114 Dixie Drive Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-542-9555 deerparklawyer.com

Torres & Faus 619 8th Avenue N Texas City, Texas 77590 409-763-2978 torresandfaus.com

Dennis M. Slate 112 East Forrest Lane Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9447 slatelaw.com

The Law Office of Mark J. Kelly 1501 Amburn Road Ste. 9 Texas City, Texas 77591 409-938-1000 markjkelly.com

FRIENDSWOOD

GALVESTON

Bradshaw & Bradshaw 203 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-816-5276 bradshawlawyers.com

Jones Law Firm 1100 Rosenberg, Galveston, Texas 77550 713-224-9700 joneslawfirm.com

Bret Griffin 306 S Friendswood Drive Ste. C Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-816-5806 clearlakedwiattorney.com

The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates 1919 Sealy Galveston, Texas 77550 281-667-4579 houstongalvestonlawyer.com

Kingsbury Law Firm 316 E Edgewood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-816-5513 texas-dwi-king.com

{ C RIMINAL { C RIMINAL LAWLAW IN DE } X }

Frank A. Hale 3668 Burke Road Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-941-4100 frankhale-law.com

Krieger Law Firm 215 E Galveston, Street League City, Texas 77573 281-601-1436 kriegerlawfirm.com

The Law Offices of Susan M. Edmonson 2501 65th Street Ste. B Galveston, Texas 77551 409-774-0816 susanedmonson.com

PEARLAND Brown & Landra 7930 Broadway Street Ste. 122 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-0700 brownandlandry.com

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EMPLOYMENT & LABOR LAW Employment and Labor law is the body of laws, administrative rulings, and precedents which address the legal rights of, and restrictions on, working people and their organizations. As such, it mediates many aspects of the relationship between trade unions, employers and employees.

WHAT DOES EMPLOYMENT AND LABOR MEAN?

Labor is when [a] person(s) completes a job or task done or to be done through employment. Employment is a contract between two parties, one being the employer and the other being the employee. An employee may be defined as: "A person in the service of another under any contract of hire, express or implied, oral or written, where the employer has the power or right to control and direct the employee in the material details of how the work is to be performed. WHEN TO HIRE A EMPLOYMENT AND LABOR ATTORNEY?

If you are involved in an employment dispute, or need advice about an employment-related matter, you may need to hire an employment lawyer. An effective employment lawyer can help educate you on state and federal laws concerning wrongful termination, wage disputes, defamation, whistleblower protections, and other employment-related matters. Knowing when to contact or hire an employment lawyer can make the difference between satisfactory recovery of lost time, money, and damages, and never getting compensated for your loss.

AREAS OF PRACTICE Anti-discrimination Child labour Co-determination Collective labour law Contract of employment Employment Discrimination

Health and safety Minimum wage (Wages) Pickets Premise Liability Sexual Assaults or harassments Strikes

Trade unions Unfair dismissal Whistle blowing Working time Workplace involvement Wrongful death

Ask the Experts: Patrick and Murphy AT TORNEYS

Employment & Labor Law

AT LAW

{ E MP LOYME N T & LAB OR LAW }

530 Lovett Blvd. | Houston, Texas 77006 | t (713) 796-8218 | patrickandmurphylaw.com

Attorneys K AT R I N A

PAT R I C K &

handle various employment litigation disputes involving discrimination based on race, age, disability, national origin, religion or sex (including pregnancy and sexual harassment) matters throughout the country. Their combined experience and breadth of expertise make them the ideal legal team when representing a party in a labor and employment dispute. MARJORIE MURPHY

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

I have been emotionally harassed and bullied in my workplace by my supervisor who is constantly singling me out for anything I do. Now I have been terminated by her and am wondering if I have any recourse in the judicial system? A: Generally, the law protects workers from discrimination and harassment based on certain limited protected classes including but not limited to race/color, religion, gender, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, and national origin, among other things. If your supervisor harassed you based on your protected status, you may have a claim but if the harassment is because of personality differences or typical work disputes, you may not.

Q: What should I do if I feel I have been discriminated against based on an issue such as race, religion, age, gender, etc.? A: The first thing you should do is to consider whether it may be a simple misunderstanding that you can easily clear up yourself, or something more serious. Get a copy of your employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personnel handbook, if one is available. You want to find out to whom and in what manner you should make your concerns known. Then, make your concerns known, preferably in writing, accordingly. Keep notes documenting what was said and by whom. |If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from either the person you feel is discriminating against you, or the appro-

priate person responsible for receiving such complaints, please seek legal advice. We would love to consult with you. Get sound legal advice as quickly as possible, as antidiscrimination laws generally have strict time limits for seeking relief. Q: The Human Resources department at my company has a seminar set up about sexual harassment. Should everyone have to go? Can men be sexually harassed?

Q: I have thought about complaining formally about the way my supervisor treats women, but how do I make sure I don’t end up losing my job. Do I have any recourse? A: Absolutely you have legal recourse. It is illegal to discriminate against an employee because he or she makes a charge of discrimination (including gender), testifies, or assists or participates in any manner in an investigation or hearing concerning discrimination. If you feel you are being retaliated against including being terminated (where applicable) because you reported gender-based maltreatment, you should consult with an attorney.

not be subjected to retaliatory actions e.g., demotions, disciplinary action, threats and termination, among other things. Q: On several occasions, I was touched inappropriately by my manager. I’m extremely afraid and ashamed to report it. I would leave my job if I could but I really need it. What should I do? A: Your concerns are not unusual. First, you should tell the harasser that you do not welcome the conduct. If the touching does not stop or if this manager becomes angry and vengeful, you should find out if your employer has a grievance or complaint procedure and complain accordingly. In fact, if you do not use the employer's complaint process (even when you believe it would be futile to do so) before going to court, you may be prevented from recovering damages. Finally, consider involving law enforcement at any time you believe it is necessary and always keep proper documentation (dates, times, etc.) for your protection in a safe place (outside of work). ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Employment and

Q: My boss said that we—her employees —should not share our mobile phone numbers with each other “for liability reasons.” How can employees’ mobile phones present a liability issue for employers? A: One form of harassment that is happening with increased frequency is called “textual harassment.” It’s a fairly new phenomenon because of all of the advanced ways we use our cell phones, and it is a very real issue. People are using their cell phones now to send nude images and other graphic content. Textual harassment is particularly bothersome to recipients because the harassment can occur at all hours of the day and night. If you are receiving text messages like this, we encourage you to preserve those texts as evidence and consult with an attorney. Q: I am the only minority working at my office. I have not lost my job, but my race seems to be an item of regular conversation, including by my boss, and I sometimes feel singled out. Am I overreacting?

Q: Due to pregnancy, I have been given a lower paying job. I work in a warehouse, and now am in the office. Is this lawful?

Labor Law | Education: Katrina Patrick: Howard University, B.B.A, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, J.D. / Marjorie Murphy: Georgia State University, B.A. Political Science, Thurgood

A: Discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions is unlawful. If the change in your position was premised, in whole or part, on the employer’s negative views of your pregnancy, you may have a claim for your lost wages and other work-related benefits, mental anguish, punitive damages (if applicable) and attorney’s fees. At this point, you should consult with an attorney.

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A: The best legal advice for both employers and employees is to require and attend some form of annual training and education about harassment of all kinds. Ideally, harassment should not exist in the workplace and the best way to protect against it is to educate all staff about what constitutes harassment, how to make claims if harassment occurs, and how the employer will address harassment and retaliation of those who report harassment. Some people assume that men cannot be victims of sexual harassment because men are often physically larger and stronger than women. But men can just as well be subjected to sexual harassment as women.

A: Not necessarily. Just because you still have your job does not mean you are not the victim of discrimination. If you believe you are being repeatedly exposed to racially-offensive remarks, or you were not promoted, or you are paid lower wages, or your supervisor treats you differently, or you were denied training that might lead to a promotion and/or raise because of your race, age, disability, religion, sex or national origin, you should call a qualified employment discrimination attorney.

Marshall School of Law, J.D. (Valedictorian) | Affiliations: Voted Houston’s Top Lawyer 2007-10 by H Texas Magazine; Member of the National Employment Lawyers Association; Texas Pattern Jury Charges Committee for Employment Law (2005-06); Nominated, Houston Rising Star; and speaker at various employment law seminars.

☛ CONTACT Firm: Patrick & Murphy Address: 530 Lovett Blvd., Houston,

Q: Can my employer retaliate against me for filing a charge with the EEOC?

Texas 77006 | Phone: (713) 796-8218

A: Not legally. It is unlawful for an employer to retaliate against someone who files a charge of discrimination with the EEOC, participates in an investigation, or opposes discriminatory practices including but not limited to making complaints within the company. For example, if you were harassed or you witnessed the harassment of someone else and reported it, you should

Our Experts have more than 24 years of combined law experience in their specialty and are highly recognized among their peers. They are carefully selected by our panel and must meet all background requirements to qualify as Houston's exclusive expert in their field.

Web: patrickandmurphylaw.com

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

Listings CENTRAL NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Befort Law Firm 2603 Augusta Ste. 810 Houston, Texas 77057 713-785-5888 befortlaw.com Campbell & Riggs 1980 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77056 713-621-6721 campbellriggs.com Goforth Lewis 4900 Woodway Ste. 750 Houston, Texas 77056 713-650-0022 goforthlewis.com Kerr Hendershot & Cannon 1800 Bering Drive Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77057 866-398-1856 k-hpc.com

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Law Office of Frank L. Carrabba 800 Bering Drive Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77057 713-621-8363 fcarrabbalaw.com Looper Reed & McGraw 1300 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77056 713-986-7000 lrmlaw.com Peckham 800 Bering Drive Ste. 220 Houston, Texas 77057 713-574-9044 peckhampllc.com Ross Law Group 1 Riverway Ste. 1150 Houston, Texas 77056 713-482-6910 employmentlawyeroftexas.com IN THE LOOP Bond & Smyser 5505 Jackson Street Houston, Texas 77004 713-524-4200 bondsmyser.com Browns Sims 1177 West Loop S 10th Floor Houston, Texas 77027 713-629-1580 brownsims.com Coane & Associates 1900 West Loop S Ste. 820 Houston, Texas 77027 713-850-0066 coane.com Dow Golub Remels & Beverly 8 Greenway Plaza 14th Floor Houston, Texas 77046 713-526-3700 dowgolub.com Dupree Law Firm 11 Greenway Plaza Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77046 832-220-8108 dupreelawfirm.com Emmons & Jackson 3900 Essex Lane Ste. 1116 Houston, Texas 77027 713-574-5181 emmonsjackson.com Gordon & Rees 1900 West Loop S Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77027 713-961-3366 gordonrees.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Rosenberg & Sprovach 3555 Timmons Lane Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77027 713-960-8300 rosenberglaw.com

The Lore Law Firm 1415 Louisiana St. Ste. 2125 Houston, Texas 77002 713-782-5291 lorefirm.com

Garg & Associates 21 Waterway Avenue Ste. 300 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-362-2865 smithgarglaw.com

Shellist Lazarz Slobin 1900 West Loop S Ste. 1910 Houston, Texas 77027 832-539-4690 eeoc.net

The Womack Law Firm 1200 Louisiana St. Ste. 1600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-238-6740 markwomacklaw.com

Gauntt Earl & Binney 1400 Woodloch Forest Ste. 575 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-6555 geblawyers.com

The Pursley Law Firm 4615 Southwest Fwy Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77027 713-893-0022 employmentattorney.org

THE GREATER HEIGHTS

O’Donnell Ferebee Medley & Keiser 1525 Lake Front Circle The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-3111 ofmklaw.com

The Scharfman Law Firm 3120 Southwest Fwy. Ste.450 Houston, Texas 77098 713-225-2267 scharfmanlawfirm.com Zukowski Bresehan & Sinex 1177 West Loop S Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77027 713-965-7597 zbsllp.com DOWNTOWN Ahmad Zavitsanos & Anaipakos 1221 McKinney Street Ste. 3460 Houston, Texas 77010 713-665-1101 azalaw.com

Goranson King 550 Westcott Ste. 415 Houston, Texas 77007 281-506-0064 goransonking.com Katine & Nechman 1111 North Loop West Houston, Texas 77008 713-568-3323 lawkn.com Law Offices of Filteau & Sullivan 1634 Columbia Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-236-1400 The Law Offices of James R. Davis 1447 Yale Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-721-0500 employmentlawyers.com MIDTOWN/MONTROSE

Ajamie 717 Louisiana St. Ste. 2150 Houston, Texas 77002 713-860-1600 ajamie.com Chamberlain Hrdlicka 1200 Smith Street 14th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-658-2523 chamberlainlaw.com Fisher & Phillips 1200 Smith Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-292-0150 laborlawyers.com McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore 1111 Louisiana St. Ste. 4500 Houston, Texas 77002 713-615-8500 mcginnislaw.com Moore & Associates 440 Louisiana St. Ste. 675 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-6775 mooreandassociates.com

Bohreer & Zucker 1601Westheimer Road Houston, Texas 77006 713-526-8100 bohreerzucker.com Labor & Employment Expert, p. 36 Patrick & Murphy 530 Lovett Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-796-8218 patrickandmurphylaw.com Patterson 4309 Yoakum Blvd. Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77006 713-874-6444 petepattersonlaw.com NORTH Monty Partners 150 West Parker Road 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77076 281-493-5529 montypartners.com CONROE

Orgain Bell & Tucker 10077 Grogan’s Mill Rd Ste. 500 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-8877 obt.com Rathwell Deford & Wallison 25511 Budde Road Ste. 601 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-8900 woodlandslaw.com The McCollor Law Firm 2002 Timberloch Place Ste. 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-5887 mccollorlaw.com The Powell Law Firm 25211 Grogan’s Mill Rd Ste. 210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-298-2916 The Voss Law Firm 25511 Budde Road Ste. 202 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-842-8679 vosslawfirm.com SPRING Stibbs & Co. 819 Crossbridge Drive Spring, Texas 77373 281-367-2222 stibbsco.com NORTHWEST Lorance & Thompson 2900 North Loop W Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77092 713-868-5560 lorancethompson.com The Solomon Law Firm 10900 Northwest Fwy Ste. 221 Houston, Texas 77092 713-957-2030 thesolomonlawfirm.com

Oberti Sullivan 723 Main Street Ste. 340 Houston, Texas 77002 713-401-3555 osattorneys.com

The Owen Law Firm 401 West Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 935-539-5800 theowenlawfirm.net

Schwartz Junell Greenberg & Oath 909 Fannin Street Ste. 2700 Houston, Texas 77010 713-750-0017 schwartz-junelllawoffice.com

Tucker Law Firm 333 Simonton Street Ste. 220 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-441-5292 jtuckerlawfirm.com

Seyfarth Shaw 700 Louisiana St. Ste. 3700 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-2300 seyfarth.com

Waldman Smallwood Law Firm 404 West Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 713-552-9111 waldmansmallwood.com

Steele Sturm 1000 Louisiana St. Ste. 3780 Houston, Texas 77002 713-659-2600 steelesturm.com

THE WOODLANDS

KINGWOOD/HUMBLE

Andrews Kurth 10001 Woodloch Forest Ste. 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 713-220-4800 andrewskurth.com

Lindeman Alvarado & Frye 4401 Town Center Place Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-359-3946 lindemanfrye.com

Bush Law Firm 21 Waterway Avenue Ste. 205 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-3883 bush-law.com

Schoettler Law Firm 23970 Loop 494 Suite C Houston, TX 77365 281-354-7529 schoettlerlaw.com

The Hughes Law Firm 1001 Fannin Street Ste. 1925 Houston, Texas 77002 713-492-0366 hugheslawfirm.net

CHAMPIONS / CYPRESS Law office of G. Scott Fiddler 9601 Jones Road Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77065 281-897-0070 fiddlerlaw.com Law Office of Steve Petrou 11107 McCracken Ln. Houston, Texas 77429 281-970-8555 houstonsexualdiscrimination.com NORTHEAST

WEST SHARPSTOWN Law Office of Cara L. Wilkins 9894 Bissonnet Street Houston, Texas 77036 713-541-3222 carawilkinslaw.com MEMORIAL/ TOWN & COUNTRY

SUGAR LAND/STAFFORD

GALVESTON

Alvarez Law 14090 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 713-661-7171 alvarez-law.com

Mills Shirley 2228 Mechanic Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2341 millsshirley.com

Garcia-Martin & Martin 19901 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 131 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 888-353-4650 mgmartinlaw.com

Coats Rose 2600 South Shore Blvd. Ste. 200 League City Texas 77573 713-651-0111 coatsrose.com

Mattingly Law Firm 8774 Katy Freeway Ste. 327 Houston, Texas 77024 713-467-4400 mattinglylawfirm.com

CLEAR LAKE AREA

Schlanger Silver Barg & Payne 109 North Post Oak Lane Ste 300 Houston, Texas 77024 713-785-1700 ssbplaw.com

Bailey & Galyen 18333 Egret Bay Blvd. Ste. 444 Houston, Texas 77058 281-335-7744 galyen.com

KATY

Visnoski Law Offices 16868 Royal Crest Dr. Houston, TX 77058 281-280-8950 Visnoskilaw.com

Jacqueline Armstrong 11111 Katy Freeway Ste. 910 Houston, Texas 77079 713-973-5711 armstrongatlaw.com Law Office of Mark A. Sanders 11511 Katy Freeway Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77079 713-568-5834 msanderslaw.com WEST/SOUTHWEST

The Hurd Law Firm 5680 Highway 6 Ste. 188 Missouri City Texas 77459 832-771-9356 hurdlawfirm.com

PASADENA Omar K. Mason 1221 Lamar Drive Ste. 1000 Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-652-2525 FRIENDSWOOD Carter & Bachynsky 314 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 713-225-9600 cblitigation.com

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MISSOURI CITY

SOUTH/SOUTHEAST

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

GENERAL PRACTICE General Practice Law is when people and companies hire general practice attorneys to tell them what they can and cannot do under the law. Sometimes, they hire general practice attorneys to take their side in court against other people or companies, or against the government.

WHAT DOES GENERAL PRACTICE MEAN?

A General Practice usually offers a variety of legal specialties. Most general practice attorneys work for themselves or in companies with other attorneys that allow them to help individuals or businesses in many aspects of the law. Full service law firms usually fall under General Practice. IS IT PRACTICAL TO HIRE A GENERAL PRACTICE ATTORNEY OR A LAW SPECIALIZED ATTORNEY FOR YOUR CASE?

It depends on your specific situation. Many small towns only offer general practice attorneys. Because of the small demand in a small community it is wise to utilize your home town attorney if your case is minor such as a traffic ticket, small claims suit or public citation. However, if your case is more challenging, we recommend turning to a more specialized law firm or attorney. Many larger law firms offer various fields of legal assistance. Once you utilize their services they are more likely to recommend you to another attorney in their firm for something else. (Ex: My family law attorney also specializes in minor criminal, business and personal injury cases. So 2 years after my divorce I called my lawyer to assist me with the purchase of my first home. He was able to handle most of the legal transactions by reviewing all my real estate contracts and negotiations for me. During the final stages of closing, he referred me to his partner who specifically specialized in commercial and real estate insurance and closings. By utilizing my only attorney, I feel safe and it also prevented me from having to work with two separate law firms which could have ended up costly.)

PRACTICE AREAS Violent Crimes Drug & Alcohol Related Crimes DWI/DUI Defense

Sex Crimes White Collar Crimes Appeals Post-conviction relief Other Crimes

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Gill Revack Samaan & Muller 6575 West Loop South Ste. 600 Bellaire, Texas 77401 281-509-9236 grslegal.com Law Office of Lisa M. VanAuken 6750 West Loop South Ste. 920. Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-662-5155 Morgan & Weisbrod 6800 West Loop South Freeway Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-838-0003 morganweisbrod.com Polasek Quisenberr & Errington 6750 West Loop Ste. 920 Bellaire, Texas 77401 832-778-6000 pqelaw.com Pulaski & Middleman Law Office 6800 West Loop S Ste. 200 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-664-4555 zacjohnson.com

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Robert S. Pickelner 6750 West Loop Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-665-7000 Stern Miller & Higdon 4909 Bissonnet Street Ste.100 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-661-9900 stern-law.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Axelrod Smith & Kirshbaum 5300 Memorial Drive Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77007 713-581-8192 Brown Sims 1177 West Loop South Houston, Texas 77027 713-629-1580 brownsims.com Duane Morris 1330 Post Oak Boulevard Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77056 713-402-3900 duanemorris.com Gordon Arata McCollam Duplantis & Eagan 777 South Post Oak Lane Ste. 1300 Houston, Texas 77056 713-333-5500 gordonarata.com Gordon Rees 1900 West Loop South Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77027 713-961-3366 gordonrees.com Hoover Slavacek 5847 San Felipe Ste. 2200 Houston, Texas 77057 713-977-8686 hooverslovacek.com James A. Carmody 6363 Woodway Ste. 820 Houston, Texas 77057 713-333-2002 carmodylex.com Kerr Hendershot & Cannon 1800 Bering Drive Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77057 866-398-1856 k-hpc.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Law Offices of Craig Seldin 5599 San Felipe Ste. 580 Houston, Texas 77056 713-574-7727 cseldinlaw.com

Ajamie 711 Louisiana Ste. 2150 Houston, Texas 77002 713-860-1600 ajamie.com

Kelly Hart & Hallman 1000 Louisiana St. Ste. 4700 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-4600 khh.com

M.D. Gibson & Associates 5120 Woodway Drive Ste. 8002 Houston, Texas 77056 713-965-9800 mdgibson.com

Baker Botts 910 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-229-1234 bakerbotts.com

Lugenbuhl Wheaton Peck Rankin & Hubbard 815 Walker Street Ste. 1447 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-1990 lawla.com

Neel Hooper & Banes 1700 West Loop South Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77027 888-812-6807 neelhooper.com

Bertolino 806 Commerce Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-7474 belolaw.com

McEvily & Flowers 1415 Louisiana St.# 3200 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-1415

Racusin & Wagner 4900 Woodway Houston, Texas 77056 713-626-1450 racusinwagnerllp.com

Bracewell & Giuliani 711 Louisiana Street Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-2300 bgllp.com

McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore 1111 Louisiana Street Ste. 4500 Houston, Texas 77002 713-615-8500 mcginnislaw.com

Singleton & Cooksey 6363 Woodway Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77057 713-568-7607 singletoncooksey.com

Chamberlain Hrdlicka White Williams & Martin 1200 Smith Street Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-658-1818 chamberlainlaw.com

McGlinchey Stafford 1001 McKinney Ste. 1500 Houston, Texas 77002 713-520-1900 mcglinchey.com

The Pope Law Firm 4801 Woodway Drive Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77056 713-292-2390 info@thepopelawfirm.com Wells Peyton Greenberg & Hunt 5075 Westheimer Ste. 1190 Houston, Texas 77056 713-871-9560 wellspeyton.com

Conner & Winters 440 Louisiana Ste. 1150 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-5711 cwlaw.com Cooper & Scully 700 Louisiana Ste. 3850 Houston, Texas 77002 713-236-6800 cooperscully.com

IN THE LOOP Crowder Law Firm 2211 Norfolk Street Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77098 713-574-8610 thecrowderlawfirm.com DeHay & Elliston 12 Greenway Plaza Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77046 214-210-2400 dehay.com

Eastham Watson Dale & Forney 808 Travis Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-0905 easthamlaw.com Fowler Rodriguez Valdes-Fauli 1331 Lamar Street Ste. 1560 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-1560 frvf-law.com

Dupree Law Firm 11 Greenway Plaza Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77046 832-497-4231 dupreelawfirm.com

Galloway Johnson Tompkins Burr & Smith 1301 McKinney Street Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77010 713-599-0700 gjtbs.com

Henke Law Firm 3200 Southwest Freeway 34th Floor Houston, Texas 77027 713-940-4500 henkelawfirm.com

Greene Law Firm 1415 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-547-0500 greene-law-firm.com

Law Office of Stevens M. Goins 2206 Dowling Street Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77003 713-574-7501

Greenberg Traurig 1000 Louisiana Street Ste.1700 Houston, Texas 77002 713-374-3500 gtlaw.com

Law Office of Gillian Richards 3401 Houston, Avenue Houston, Texas 77009 877-816-7790 grichardslaw.com Rendon Peterson Law Firm 2 Greenway Plaza Ste. 225 Houston, Texas 77046 713-493-7544 rendonpeterson.com Weycer Kaplan Pulaski & Zuber 11 Greenway Plaza Ste.1400 Houston, Texas 77046 713-965-6803 wkpz.com DOWNTOWN Adams and Reese 1221 McKinney Ste. 4400 Houston, Texas 77010 713-652-5151 adamsandreese.com

Griffin & Griffin 1314 Texas Avenue Ste. 1305 Houston, Texas 77002 281-940-8381 griffinandgriffin.us Hays McConn Rice & Pickering 1233 West Loop South Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77027 713-654-1111 haysmcconn.com Jackson Walker 1401 McKinney Ste. 1900 Houston, Texas 77010 713-752-4200 jw.com See Special Advertisement Jones Walker 600 Travis Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-437-1800 joneswalker.com

McLeod Alexander Powel & Apffel 1415 Louisiana Ste. 3600 Houston, Texas 713-651-0881 mapalaw.com Mehaffy & Weber 500 Dallas St. Houston, Texas 77002 713-210-8900 mehaffyweber.com Patterson Boyd & Lowery 2101 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-0351 pattersonboyd.com Porter Hedges 1000 Main Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-226-6667 porterhedges.com Robert J. Kruckemeyer 800 Commerce Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-226-5175 kruckemeyerlaw.com Shannon Gracey Ratliff & Miller 1301 McKinney Ste. 2920 Houston, Texas 77010 713-255-4700 shannongracey.com Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom 1000 Louisiana Ste. 6800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-655-5100 skadden.com Stepp & Sullivan 1010 Lamar St. Ste. 810 Houston, Texas 77002 713-336-7200 ss-pc.com Stradley Chernoff & Alford 917 Franklin Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-581-8430 houstoncriminallaw.com Sutherland Asbill & Brennan 1001 Fannin Ste. 3700 Houston, Texas 77002 713-470-6100 sutherland.com Thompson & Knight 333 Clay St. Ste. 3300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-8111 tklaw.com Vorys Sater Seymour and Pease 700 Louisiana Street, Ste. 4100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-588-7000 vorys.com

GREATER HEIGHTS Butler & Harris 1007 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-526-5677 Carrigan McCloskey & Roberson 945 Heights Blvd. Houston, Texas 77008 713-868-5581 cmrllp.com James R. Davis 1447 Yale Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-721-0500 jamesdavis.org Katine & Nechman 1111 North Loop West Ste. 180 Houston, Texas 77008 713-808-1000 lawkn.com Krause Earwood & Ward 1235 North Loop W Ste. 701 Houston, Texas 77008 713-660-8887 kewlaw.com

Earl L. Pryor 220 West Davis Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-4600 earllpryor.com

Currier & Martin 12777 Jones Road Ste. 165 Houston, Texas 77070 281-890-7090 curriermartin.com

Price & Price 101 Simonton Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-5511 priceandprice-law.com

Howard G. Skolnick 13211 Jones Road Houston, Texas 77070 281-894-5308 attorneyskolnick.com

Stephen D Jackson Law Offices 215 Simonton Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-5744 stevejacksonlaw.com

Law Office of Keith Peterson 12345 Jones Road Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-7001 kdplaw.com

THE WOODLANDS

Law Office of Troy M. Moore 2850 Jones Road Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-8039 troymmoore.com

Andrews Kurth 10001 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-419-6364 andrewskurth.com Bolton & Bolton 21 Waterway Avenue Ste. 300 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-205-4043 lawyers.com/boltonlegal

MIDTOWN / MONTROSE Beers Law Firm 5020 Montrose Blvd. Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77006 713-654-0700 beerslaw.net

Law Offices of David J. Van Susteren 4000 Washington Avenue Ste. 203 Houston, Texas 77007 713-470-7000 vansuslaw.com Patrick J. Moran 2803 Sackett Street Houston, Texas 77098 713-759-1555 Sprain Law Firm 3700 Montrose Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-592-6300 sprainlawfirm.com RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS Fisher Boyd Brown & Huguenard 2777 Allen Parkway 14th Floor Houston, Texas 77019 713-400-4000 fisherboyd.com Shepherd Scott Clawater & Houston 2777 Allen Parkway 7th Floor Houston, Texas 77019 713-650-6600 sschlaw.com NORTH Doug Moran Law Office 5402 FM 1488 Magnolia, Texas 77354 281-444-8202 lawyermagnoliatx.com CONROE Baker & Beck 202 Avenue A Conroe, Texas 77301 936-494-2444 bakerbeck.com Corley Duane T 208 West Davis Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-3391 duanecorley.com

Gauntt Earl & Binney 1400 Woodloch Forest Drive, Ste. 575 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-6555 Law Office of Matthew J. Mussalli 9595 6 Pines Drive Ste. 8210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 832-631-6021 mussallilaw.com Lawrence D. Tackett 1400 Woodloch Forrest Dr Ste. 540 Woodlands Texas 77380 281-419-2626 lawpro4u.com Orgain Bell & Tucker 10077 Grogans Mill Rd Ste. 500 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-8877 obt.com Smith & Garg 1095 Evergreen Circle Ste.300 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-0010 smithgarglaw.com Stewart & Wiley 2203 Timberloch Place Ste.126 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-8007 stewartwileylaw.com The Shea Law Firm 2002 Timberloch Place The Woodlands, Texas 77393 832-426-3913 shealawonline.com SPRING Drew & McCallum 25231 Grogan's Mill Ste. 350 Spring, Texas 77380 832-585-0070 drewmccallum.com Law Office of Neal Anderson 22557 Aldine Westfield Road Ste.104 Spring, Texas 77373 281-353-9146 lawoona.com NORTHWEST

The Deaton Law Firm 11119 McCracken Lane Ste. C Houston, Texas 77070 281-894-4448 ruthdeaton.com The Fleming-Bruce Law Firm 12777 Jones Rd. Ste. 110 Houston, Texas 77070 281-469-9090 flemingbrucelaw.com TOMBALL Bolton & Bolton 724 W Main St Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7897 boltonlegal.com Clifton Dodson Sortino 500 W Main St. Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-4040 cdstexas.com Gallagher & Stull 312 High Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7181 gallagherandstull.com Korduba Law Firm 211 Florence Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-8877 kordubalaw.com Troup & Bruce 211 Florence Tomball, Texas 77375 281-516-1100 troupbruce.com NORTHEAST KINGWOOD / HUMBLE Law Offices of Dustan Neyland 900 Rockmead Dr. Ste. 132 Humble, Texas 77339 281-312-0155 neylandlegal.com Linderman Alvarado & Frye 4401 Town Center Place Houston, Texas 77339 281-359-3946 lindemanfrye.com Patrick G. Hubbard 1306 Kingwood, Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-7035 patrickhubbardlaw.com

CHAMPIONS / CYPRESS Culp & Little Attorneys at Law 12345 Jones Road Ste.190 Houston, Texas 77070 713-599-1000 culpandlittle.com

Walter Fortenberry & Associates 1521 Green Oak Place Ste. 212 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-446-4774 fortenberrylaw.net

BAYTOWN Alfred Flores Jr. & Associates Law 3017 North Main Street Baytown, Texas 77521 281-422-4299 Don Smith & Associates 4721 Garth Rd Ste. D50 Baytown, Texas 77521 281-427-0448 Marshall Williams 111 Cedar Bayou Road Baytown, Texas 77520 888-529-0062 marshall-law.com Vaughn Davidson 5223 Garth Road Baytown, Texas 77521 281-421-5999 vaughndavidson.com WEST Boston & Hughes 1616 S. Voss Road Ste. 550 Houston, Texas 77057 713-961-1122 bostonhughes.com Buche & Associates 6363 Woodway Ste. 820 Houston, Texas 77057 713-589-2214 buchelaw.com Gammell & Associates 950 Echo Lane Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77024 832-539-2959 gammellandassociates.com

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Law Office of David Knight 217 Avondale Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-521-9150 dknight-law.net

Drew & McCallum 25231 Grogan's Mill Ste. 350 Spring, Texas 77380 832-585-0070 drewmccallum.com

Nobles & Murphy 12850 Jones Rd. Ste 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-807-4400 noblesmurphy.com

EAST

Heard & Medack 9494 Southwest Freeway Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77074 713-772-6400 heardmedackpc.com McGehee Chang Barnes 1250 Wood Branch Park Dr. Ste. 625 Houston, Texas 77079 713-864-4000 lawtx.com Ramsey & Murray 1500 City West Boulevard Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77042 713-581-8405 ramseyandmurray.com SHARPSTOWN Law Office of Dedra Davis 7322 Southwest Freeway Ste.1100 Houston, Texas 77074 713-981-3861 musiclw.com Roger G. Jain & Associates 7322 Southwest Fwy. Ste.1100 Houston, Texas 77074 713-981-0600 rogergjain.com The Law Firm of Solomon M. Musyimi 8300 Bissonnet Street Ste.634 Houston, Texas 77074 713-541-4444 solomonthelawyer.com The Middleton Law Firm 7322 Southwest Freeway Ste.1980 Houston, Texas 77074 713-680-3296 middletonlawfirm.com MEMORIAL/TOWN COUNTRY D. Miller & Associates 10565 Katy Freeway Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77024 713-779-3476

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Dean G Pappas & Associates 818 Town and Country Blvd. Ste.400 Houston, Texas 77024 713-914-6200 Herren Law Office 9601 Katy Freeway Ste.480 Houston, Texas 77024 713-682-8194 herrenlaw.com Jeske & Associates 12407 Barryknoll Lane Houston, Texas 77024 713-464-3648 KATY Helene Bergman 15119 Memorial Dr. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77079 832-379-4400 bergmanlawfirm.net Holladay Mullins & Bray 12012 Wickchester Lane Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77079 281-531-9977 Lamba & Associates 11211 Katy Freeway Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77079 713-932-7844 Mills & Henshaw 11767 Katy Freeway Ste. 820 Houston, Texas 77079 281-497-2650 millshenshaw.com

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WEST/SOUTHWEST MISSOURI CITY Debra Champagen & Associates 3335 Cartwright Road Missouri City, Texas 77459 281-208-3444 Timothy P. Alcorn 3806 Bellinger Way Missouri City, Texas 77459 281-509-9238 O'Neal Law Firm 24440 Texas Ste. 345 Missouri City, Texas 77489 281-969-8580 SUGAR LAND / STAFFORD Broussard McLaughlin & Segura 14015 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-7070 bmslawtx.com Douglas E. Koger 14090 Southwest Freeway Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-340-2050 The Holoway Jones Law Firm 407 Julie Rivers Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-8100 jonesattorneys.com Joseph R. Hammond 14090 Southwest Freeway Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-437-4200 jhammondlaw.com Law Office of William Engelhaupt 14090 SW Freeway Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-340-2070 engelhauptlaw.com RICHMOND / ROSENBERG Estes Law Firm P C 314 Morton Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-238-5400 estespc.com

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Law Office of Joyce Phoenix 208 South 3rd Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-0198 joycephoenixlaw.com

Law Office of Thomas M. Root 17045 El Camino Real Blvd. Ste.214 Houston, Texas 77058 281-282-9991 rootlaw.net

Love & Associates Inc. 3423 FM 762 Road Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-2980 kenlove.com

Murray & Lobb 700 Gemini Ste. 220 Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-0630 murray-lobb.com

Mitchell & Duff LLC 210 Main Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-1718 mitchellandduff.com

Nolan and Nolan Attorneys at Law 18333 Egret Bay Blvd. Ste. 301 Houston, Texas 77058 281-333-4811 nolanandnolanattorneys.com

SOUTH/SOUTHEAST BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE AREA Bailey & Galyen 18333 Egret Bay Boulevard Ste. 120 Houston, Texas 77058 281-335-7744 baileygalyenlaw.com Barlow Todd Jones & Brust 17225 El Camino Real Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-8440 Charles J. Michael Law Offices 16874 Royal Crest Dr. Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-5500 charlesjmichael.com Crinion Davis and Richardson 17040 El Camino Real Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77058 281-990-8300 cdrlegal.com Daughtry & Jordan 17044 El Camino Real Houston, Texas 77058 281-480-6888 daughtryjordan.com De Luna Law Offices 1020 Bay Area Boulevard Ste. 107 Houston, Texas 77058 713-589-5269 delunafirm.com Enos Law Firm 17207 Feathercraft Lane Webster, Texas 77598 281-333-3030 Gay & Reitz 1331 Gemini St. Ste 290 Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-7001 gayreitz.com James Andersen Attorney At Law 16826 Titan Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-2800 Law Offices of Judy Meeh Harris 1345 Space Park Drive Ste. A Houston, Texas 77058 281-333-8338 Laird Valdez 17629 El Camino Real Ste. 407 Houston, Texas 77058 281-218-0900 laird-valdez.com Law Firm of Badeaux and Badeaux 16055 Space Center Boulevard Ste. 260 Houston, Texas 77062 281-486-4737 dedicatedlaw.com Law Office of Leonard E. Cox 2600 NASA Rd. 1 Ste. 203 Seabrook Texas 77586 281-532-0801 lawyercox.com

Norma Venso 830 Apollo Lane Houston, Texas 77058 409-789-8661 x281 clearlakearbitration.com Romero Law Firm 17041 El Camino Real Ste. 209 Houston, Texas 77058 281-940-7426 Sheri Y Dean & Associates 18333 Egret Bay Blvd. Ste. 580 Houston, Texas 77058 281-333-8456 Salinsky Law Office 16826 Titan Drive Houston, Texas 77058 281-480-1100 salinskylaw.com Susan M. Edmonson 2833 Nasa Parkway Ste. A Seabrook Texas 77586 281-326-2587 susanedmonson.com

Roy D Mease & Associates 4008 Vista Rd Ste. A101 Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-947-8301 Hale Law Offices 3668 Burke Road Pasadena, Texas 77504 281-991-4253 Walters & Abbitt 500 Harris Avenue Pasadena, Texas 77506 713-473-4343 Wyatt Myers Carol 4710 Vista Road Pasadena, Texas 77505 281-487-9990 LA PORTE/DEER PARK Askins & Askins 702 West Fairmont Parkway La Porte, Texas 77571 281-471-1886 askinslaw.com Fowler Eileen M 1000 South Broadway Street La Porte, Texas 77571 281-471-8856 Law Office Of Clinton W Raney 319 West Main Street La Porte, Texas 77571 281-471-9191 FRIENDSWOOD Brown & Landry 7930 Broadway St. Ste. 122 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-0070 brownandlandry.com

Visnoski Law Offices 16868 Royal Crest Dr. Houston, Texas 77058 281-280-8950

Elaine S. Michael 316 East Edgewood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-993-0700 thefriendswoodlawyer.com

Waldron & Schneider 15150 Middlebrook Dr. Ste. A Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-4438 ws-law.com

James T. Fletcher Law 1414 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-7780 friendswoodlawyer.com

PASADENA

Joseph R. Gutheinz 205 Woodcombe Drive Houston, Texas 77062 281-488-1280 gutheinz.com

Albert Lee Giddens 3009 Strawberry Road Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-947-0001 albertleegiddens.com D P Law 6206 Spencer Highway Pasadena, Texas 77505 281-998-3030 dp-law.us Dennis M. Slate 112 East Forrest Lane Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9447 slatelaw.com

Kerri Foley 211 East Parkwood Avenue Ste. 107 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-996-8400 PEARLAND Harrington Morin 2225 County Road 90 Ste.115 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-598-0313 lawhmp.com

Frank Alvarez 1100 Pasadena, Boulevard Ste. C2 Pasadena, Texas 77506 713-472-9492

Jayd Piercy 4702 West Walnut Street Pearland, Texas 77581 281-606-1778 lawpearland.com

Frank Hale 3668 Burke Road Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-941-4100 frankhale-law.com

Law Office of James Zier 9330 Broadway Ste. 304 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-3377 jameszierlaw.com

Jones & Crane 2225 Southmore Ave Ste. A Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-920-0032

Law Offices of Michael Gonzalez 7930 Broadway St. Ste. 122 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-4626 gonzalezattorney.com

Richard Garza Law Firm 1710 Strawberry Road Ste. 100 Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-472-7166

Sturm Law Firm 2420 South Grand Blvd. Pearland, Texas 77581 281-485-2011 sturmlawfirm.com

LEAGUE CITY Kieschnick & Du Cote 3027 Marina Bay Dr Ste. 204 League City, Texas 77573-2888 281-538-9200 leaguecitylawyers.com Law Office of Phil Griffis 2600 South Shore Blvd. Ste.300 League City, Texas 77573 281-245-3320 griffislawfirm.com Sanes Matthews & Forester 3027 Marina Bay Dr. Ste. 320 League City, Texas 77573 281-535-3000 sanesmatthews.com The Fuhr Law Firm 612 W. Main St. Ste. 102 League City Texas 77573 281-332-1400 fuhrlaw.com The Fulton Law Firm 3027 Marina Bay Drive Ste. 110 League City, Texas 77573 281-316-0166 fultonlawfirm.com The Law Offices of J. Michael Hughes 502 Highway 3 N Ste. C League City, Texas 77573 281-724-9752 Tylka Law Center 1104 E Main Street League City, Texas 77573 281-557-1500 tylkalawfirm.com

Benson & Anderson 845 FM 517 West Ste. 200 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-488-6535 bensonanderson.com

Jaworski Law Firm 305 21st St. Ste. 222 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-0700 jaworskilawfirm.com

Helen S Truscott Law Office 314 FM Road 517 West Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-4652

Kilgore Mediation Center 2020 Broadway St Galveston, Texas 77550 409-762-758 kilgoremediation.com

Kerry Neves Law Offices 225 FM 517 Rd W Ste. 100 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-5414 Law Office of Greg Russell 845 FM 517 West Ste. 200 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-614-5229 gnrlaw.com Legrand Law Office 2206 Palmer Highway Texas City, Texas 77590 409-965-8500 legrand-law-office.com Mabry Herbeck & Roberts 711 6th Street North Texas City Texas 77590 409-948-4466 Neil Baron Law Offices 914 FM 517 Rd. W Ste. 242 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-534-2748 GALVESTON

Ard Law Firm 1907 FM 517 E Ste. B Dickinson, Texas 77539 713-429-0218 ardlawfirm.com

Bettison Doyle Apffel Gaurino 6710 Stewart Road Ste. 300 Galveston, Texas 77551 409-744-9783 bdaglaw.com

Simpson & Beeton 2200 Market Street Ste. 801 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-766-1661

McFatridge Baker & Schmidt 2228 Ships Mechanic Row Ste. 220 Galveston, Texas 77550 713-629-7966 mbslawyer.com McLeod Alexander Powel Apffel 802 25th Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2481 mapalaw.com Mills Shirley 2228 Mechanic Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2341 millsshirley.mm Robert Moore & Associates 7511 Broadway Street Galveston, Texas 77554 409-737-5125 bobmoorelaw.com Torres & Faus 1009 44th Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2978 torresandfaus.com Mills Shirley 2228 Mechanic Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2341 millsshirley.com

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DICKINSON/ TEXAS CITY

A Craig Eiland 2211 Strand St. Ste. 201 Galveston, Texas 77550-1599 409-763-3260

Phillips Pat W 1707 23rd Street Galveston, Texas 77550 281-316-1480

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

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FAMILY LAW Family law is an area of the law that deals with family-related issues and domestic relations. Family law rules of procedure, case law and family law statutes provide regulation to divorce and other family law matters so that each party knows what to expect. Rulings differ based on different circumstances, but each type of ruling (e.g., custody ruling, child support ruling, alimony ruling) has rules the court must follow in order to provide for a fair and reasonable distribution of marital assets, liabilities and custody arrangements.

HIRING A FAMILY LAWYER VERSUS HANDLING IT YOURSELF?

People going through the family law courts can avoid many hearings if they can agree on matters such as division of marital assets, liabilities and child custody. A settlement agreement can be drawn up by the parties or through their attorneys. However, if one party disagrees with the slightest stipulation, court proceedings can become lengthy, costly and stressful. Hiring the right family lawyer for your case can save you time, heartache and money.

PRACTICE AREAS Adoption Changing Your Name Child Abuse Child Custody Child Support Divorce Domestic Violence Fertility Issues and Surrogacy Laws Foster Care

Grandparent Rights Guardianship Juvenile Crime Living Together Marriage (i.e. property Division, spousal support) Minor Emancipation Parental Rights & Liability Paternity Same-Sex Couples

Ask the Experts: Julie Ketterman KET TERMAN

Child Protective Services (CPS) Law Expert

AND AMANN PLLC

2000 Main Street | Houston, Texas 77002 | t (713) 522-9777 | ka-lawyers.com

{ FAMILY LAW }

Defending false allegations in Family Law challenges the hearts of everyone involved. Early in her practice J U L I E K E T T E R M A N found instances of duress by the Children’s Protective Services Division (CPS). With compassion and conviction, Julie Ketterman asserts that “someone needs to advocate for families if they are to remain together.” A native of Fort Stockton, Texas, Julie attended community college and completed undergraduate studies at the University of Texas San Antonio. In 1999 she graduated from South Texas College of Law in Houston, worked as a solo practitioner for 7 years, and eventually formed a law firm with Colin Amann, whom she is now married to.

It’s difficult to contemplate taking a child from his family and home, and to understand the extent of pain and disruption. When a child is removed from the home an entire family can be devastated. It doesn’t just terminate the parental relationship; it undermines the child’s identity. Children lose parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and siblings. Ketterman asserts that CPS disposes of such cases quickly and carelessly. There should be respect when deciding to separate and destroy a family.

Through her work, Julie found a passion for CPS defense and transitioned to Family Practice Law.

The Supreme Court has ruled that parents have a fundamental right to parent their children, regardless of finances or education. Julie agrees that CPS should protect children whose environments are unsafe, but they cannot forget that our Constitution holds that parents have a fundamental right to parent their children. That personal right should never be compromised.

CPS is governed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), and is responsible for investigating charges of abuse, neglect or exploitation of children. DFPS was created effective February 1, 2004 by House Bill 2292 of the 78th Texas Legislature (2003) as the first new agency in a major reorganization of the Texas health and human services system.

Few attorneys understand CPS law. It is a hybrid of Family and Criminal Law. With CPS, there is often a parallel criminal investigation or case. Again, few attorneys know the intricacies and how each (the criminal and the CPS case) can affect the other. Few attorneys have the knowledge and ability to protect the parents on both sides.

The CPS mission is to investigate abuse and neglect of children by providing in-home services to children and families, placing children in foster care and adoptive homes, and supporting youth in foster care.

“Based on an injury allegation, CPS may remove a child from the home. A family attorney may advise the parent to admit abuse in order to place the child with family members. Naively, the parent may agree, for fear of having their child placed in a foster home; that parent has just admitted to a criminal offense. On the flip side, a criminal defense attorney may advise the parent to admit to abuse and get some sort of light probation or deferred adjudication. For fear of facing a jury, the parent may agree; that parent has just admitted to a ground for terminating his or her parental rights.”

Julie supports the CPS mission, cognizant of its weaknesses and penalties. Undoubtedly the need for a CPS attorney arises from difficult and painful circumstances for children as well as a myriad of reasons for taking a child from his home. Some problems are a basic function of poverty or lack of education, while others are more serious. For problem resolution, families may be directed to court-ordered services. As the problem is resolved there are obstacles to re-placing the child and restoring the family. Obstacles to reestablishing families include failure to attend parenting courses because they are held during work hours. Another obstacle can be CPS reliance on incomplete psychological reports. Failure to meet any court48

ordered requirement can be grounds to terminate parental rights. Ketterman is emphatic that when CPS imposes such punitive obstacles, that’s when she gets inspired. When the original good purpose of CPS is lost she fights for families.

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Julie’s background is both Family Law and Criminal Law. She is a Certified CPS Mediator, trained for CPS negotiations. Parents need a Criminal Defense and Family Law attorney like Ketterman who will address prosecutable issues, will protect the parent’s criminal and civil rights while working to help sustain the family. ✹

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“I believe that most of my clients are good people...my passion is to fight for their rights.” 49

Law Office of Nancy H. Boler 1177 West Loop South Suite 400 | Houston, Texas 77027 | t (713) 569-5303 | bolerlaw.com

he Law Office of Nancy H. Boler is a Houston-based family law firm located in the heart of Houston, Texas. For more than 20 years, Nancy Howe Boler has represented clients in family law matters involving divorce, property division, child custody and visitation, spousal support, modification, paternity and guardianships. Boler and her associate attorney, Katie Tarlton Hamilton, provide professional representation, dedication and personal support to each of their clients.

{ FAMILY LAW }

Boler and Hamilton understand that the entire legal process can be overwhelming and emotionally charged, particularly for those facing the prospect of divorce. A family relationship, once a source of stability and support, may become a battle over child custody or the division of marital assets and debts. The attorneys in the Law Office of Nancy H. Boler handle each case professionally and personally. “Our clients can expect personal attention throughout our representation. We thoroughly explain the relevant laws in the State of Texas, and how the law affects their specific family law situation. We believe that it’s important to prepare our clients for life after divorce as well.” —Boler As seasoned family law attorneys, Boler and Hamilton know that clients want their attorneys to assume the responsibility for dealing with the myriad of legal procedures involved in the divorce process. Nancy Boler’s extensive experience gained in more than twenty years gives her invaluable insight into the Texas Family Courts, primarily in Harris County and surrounding counties of Fort Bend, Galveston, Brazoria and Montgomery Counties. Both Boler and Hamilton believe that the way to best represent their client’s interest is by thoroughly understanding the relevant law and the facts of each client’s individual situation. The Law Office of Nancy H. Boler believes that open communication is an essential component in achieving a swift, satisfactory resolution and the best possible result for all of their clients. “Unlike many other law firms, we maintain an open line of communication with our clients, encouraging them to contact us at any time via phone or e-mail.” —Boler Many times children of divorcing parents have seen and heard their parents fighting and saying very hurtful things to each other. All parents want their children to feel safe and secure even though the family as they perceive it is falling apart. Nancy Boler and Katie Hamilton encourage clients to put personal feelings

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aside for the sake of their children. This applies to children of all ages, and in some cases, to grandchildren as well. Most family law matters are resolved without going to court, saving their clients a substantial amount of time, money and heartache. However, a successful resolution for their clients often depends on the amount of time and effort expended to discover and review the personal and financial records of the other party. Because Texas is a community property state, the law provides a system for obtaining this information, even if their client’s spouse has been secretive and controlling during the marriage.

"Establishing a close attorney-client relationship is important, no matter what the particular legal issue is.” The family law courts generally require the parties to attempt to resolve all disputed matters by attending mediation before a hearing on temporary orders or final trial. However, the attorneys at The Law Office of Nancy H. Boler will diligently and passionately argue their client’s case in court if the parties fail to settle at mediation. Twenty years after Nancy Boler first established her law office, her niece Katie Hamilton joined her in the practice of family law. For these two attorneys, practicing family law is truly a family affair. Both are native Houstonians and former teachers. Boler taught primarily eighth grade students for twelve years before she went to law school, and Hamilton taught preschoolers at a Montessori school for two years before deciding that she too wanted to become a lawyer. Nancy Boler is an original member of the Burta Rhodes Raborn Family Law Inn of Court and has been recognized as one of the “Best Family Lawyers in Houston” by H-Texas Magazine. Both Nancy Boler and Katie Hamilton are members of the Family Law Sections of the State Bar of Texas and the Houston Bar Association. ✹

{ FAMILY LAW }

Boler and her associate attorney, Katie Tarlton Hamilton

{ FAMILY LAW }

“Helping clients best understand the issues and impacts of divorce, as well as how to best heal and recover is what I strive to achieve in every case.”

David T. Altenbern One Riverway, Ste. 2300 | Houston, Texas 77056 | t (713) 961-8012 | altenbernattorney.com

avid T. Altenbern has been a highly-regarded Houston attorney/mediator for over 25 years. He has developed an impressive practice with concentrations on family law (divorce, child custody and property disputes), personal injury, environmental and business law. His small practice philosophy is built on core principles of honesty, dedication, loyalty, compassion and passion for the law. His duty to the law and solid reputation has earned him a Top Lawyer award by H Texas magazine since 2004. While divorce can be an emotional process, David believes that understanding the issues and detailed knowledge about the key legal principles and procedures makes it easier for clients to handle the difficult situation. David firmly believes in allowing the client to be a part of the step by step process by giving personal attention and communicating with clients on a regular basis. He takes his time to delve deeply into the issues of the case, and to fully understand his client's goals and concerns, whether trial related, financial, and/or a more emotional/psychological level. He then works to develop a legal strategy designed to best achieve those objectives.

tive law processes. While no two cases are alike, he recognizes that going to trial is not always the answer. At the same time, if settlement efforts fail, David carefully prepares for trial should litigation prove necessary. His high-energy, no-nonsense demeanor and dynamic presence make him a client champion in the courtroom. Whether your case involves children and/or property division issues only, David is equipped to take your case. He makes every effort to avoid the anguish and expense of going to court by first addressing your facts and claims in detail to determine fair settlement possibilities. David firmly believes that with proper advice and counsel, most family law resolution can be affordable and relatively efficient. So if you are in need of a trusted attorney and confidant and champion for your rights, please give David a call. Like many attorneys, Mr. Altenbern will provide an initial free consultation to help diagnose your divorce issues. ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Family Law/Divorce Matters, Personal

Injury, Environmental and Toxic Tort Litigation and Business Consulting and Litigation | Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; University

As a certified mediator, David makes every effort to resolve disputes first by pursuing dispute resolution mediation or collabora52

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Texas School of Law, J.D. | Certification: Certified Mediator (since 1997)

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2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

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Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE

Daniel Gray 2920 Virginia Street Houston, Texas 77098 713-521-2051

Allison Jones & Associates 1526 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-861-7777 familylawoffices.com

The Waldrop Law Firm 815 Hawthorne Houston, Texas 77006 713- 522-9595 waldroplawfirm.com RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS Anna E. Stool 2777 Allen Parkway Houston, Texas 77019 713-522-9975

Gregory & Gregory 1225 North Loop West Ste. 1108 Houston, Texas 77008 713-861-1293 thegregorylawoffice.com

Burgower & Rainwater 3355 W. Alabama St. Ste. 825 Houston, Texas 77098 713-529-3982 brfamilylaw.com

Hayes & Wilson 2525 North Loop W. Ste. 125 Houston, Texas 77008 713-880-3939 hayeswilsonlaw.com

Holmes Diggs Eames & Puhl 5300 Memorial Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77007 713-802-1777 houstondivorceoffice.com

Jonathan Munier 1244 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-228-2121

John Gordon Bock 1305 Waugh Drive Houston, Texas 77019 713-739-0902

Joseph Indelicato Jr. 3355 W Alabama Ste. 950 Houston, Texas 77098 866-902-3358 indelicato.com

Joseph Cannon 1103 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-960-0777

DOWNTOWN

Kathleen A. Gasner 3100 Timmons Lane Ste. 390 Houston, Texas 77027 713-581-8198 gasnerfamilylaw.com

Marlene Dancer Adams 1846 Arlington Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-529-2501 houston-child-support.com

Law Offices of Melissa E. Palmer 3720 Kirby Drive Ste. 1200 Houston, Texas 77098 713-218-6900 fasthoustondivorce.com

MONTROSE/MIDTOWN AREA

Fullenweider Wilhite 4265 San Felipe Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77027 713-624-4100 fullenweider.com

Two Page Spread Feature, p. 50 Law Office of Nancy H. Boler 1177 West Loop South Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77027 832-539-4689 bolerlaw.com

Haenchen Law Firm 1601 Westheimer Road Houston, Texas 77006 713-439-1616 haenchenlaw.com

Joel A. Grandstaff 1717 Saint James Place Ste. 450 Houston, Texas 77056 713-622-5859 joelgrandstaff.com

Leonard M. Roth 4615 Southwest Freeway Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77027 713-965-7608 leonardmrothfamilylaw.com

Law Office of Kristi Barnhill 1177 West Loop South Ste. 650 Houston, Texas 77027 713-961-7710 lawbarnhill.com

Martha Bourne 1177 West Loop South Ste. 650 Houston, Texas 77027 713-581-8260 marthabourne.com

Law Offices of Omonzusi Imobioh 6250 Westpark Drive Ste. 202 Houston, Texas 77057 832-566-2949 imobiohlawoffice.com

Michael S. O'Connor 3730 Kirby Dr. Ste. 777 Houston, Texas 77098 713-528-1818 lawyeroconnor.com

Schwab & Radcliffe 1770 St. James Place Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77056 281-286-3300 schwab-radcliffe.com

Nicholas Abaza 2444 Times Boulevard Ste. 270 Houston, Texas 77005 713-965-3400 nickabaza.com

The Pope Law Firm 4801 Woodway Drive Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77056 713-292-2390 thepopelawfirm.com

Scott Morgan 24 Greenway Plaza Ste. 1115 Houston, Texas 77046 713-840-9669 houstondivorce.com

IN THE LOOP

The Law Office of Donald E. Robinowitz 4151 Southwest Freeway Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77027 713-893-1886 therobinowitzlawfirm.com

Law Office of Lisa M. VanAuken 6750 West Loop South Ste. 920 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-662-5155 divorce-houston.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Full Page Feature Article, p. 52 Altenbern & Associates One Riverway 777 Post Oak Lane Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77056 713-961-8012 attorneyaltenbern.com Brenda Denniston Keen 1800 Bering Drive Ste. 690 Houston, Texas 77057 713-972-1320 brendakeen.com Cindy K. Hide 1177 West Loop South Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77027 713-623-4433 cindyhidelaw.com Donna Detamore 5151 San Felipe Street Ste. 1950 Houston, Texas 77056 713-572-3390 donnadetamore.com

Barbara K. Runge 5615 Kirby Drive Ste. 920 Houston, Texas 77005 713-523-5363 Carolyn Robertson 5225 Katy Freeway Ste. 460 Houston, Texas 77007 713-715-5060 carolynrobertson.com

Jeannine C. Flynn 5615 Kirby Drive Ste. 925 Houston, Texas 77005 713-521-3303 jeannineflynnlaw.com Jenkins & Kamin 2 Greenway Plaza Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77046 713-600-5500 jenkinskamin.com John K. Grubb & Associates 4600 Post Oak Place Ste. 301 Houston, Texas 77027 713-877-8800 johnkgrubb.com

Law Offices of Barbara Lynch Schnack 2719 Colquitt Street Houston, Texas 77098 713-581-1779 barbaralynchschnack.com The Waddell Law Firm 1720 Bissonnet Houston, Texas 77005 832-239-8590 waddell-lawfirm.com

GREATER HEIGHTS

Barbara Ramirez 1148 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77008 713-956-6565

Frank E. Mann 6750 West Loop South Ste. 120 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-338-2549 mannfamilylaw.com

{ FAMILY LAW IN DE X }

Chris A. Spofford 2930 Revere Ste. 301 Houston, Texas 77098 713-526-2400 spoffordlaw.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Frock & Broussard 2015 Crocker Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-688-2300

James P. Smith 3006 Brazos Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-654-4990 Jeanne Caldwell McDowell 511 Lovett Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-655-9595 jcmlegal.com Law Office of Dan Kirby 2015 Crocker Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-681-1300 houstondivorcefirm.com Law Office of Shannon Weldon 3212 Smith Street Ste. 202 Houston, Texas 77006 832-314-8204 shannonweldonlaw.com Manginello Law Firm 1635 Dunlavy Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-528-9070 Marsha Reed 3303 Louisiana Street Ste 140 Houston, Texas 7706 713-869-3295 Nichols Law 5020 Montrose Boulevard Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77006 713-654-0708 nicholslaw.com Pusch Lowery & Gilcrease 2701 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-524-6300

Carol M. King 1314 Texas Street Ste. 415 Houston, Texas 77002 713-481-0459 carolkinglaw.com Clausell Parrish 723 Main Street Ste. 902 Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-2255 clausellparrish.com Conner & Lindamood 1221 Lamar St. Ste. 1010 Houston, Texas 77010 713-654-2112 lawcl.com Delaney Law Firm 929 Preston Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-2767 divorce-attorneys-houston.com Golda R. Jacob & Associates 440 Louisiana Street Ste. 1300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-227-7383 goldajacob.com Henry Law Firm 1314 Texas St. Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 7700 713-236-1818 thehenrylawfirm.com Jedediah Moffett 1010 Lamar Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-333-5800 moffettpc.com CPS (Child Proftective Service) Expert, p. 48 Ketterman & Amann (Julie Ketterman) Kirby Mansion 2000 Smith St. Houston, Texas 77002 713-522-9777 kettermanamann.com Law Office of Monica Rawlins 1001 Texas Avenue Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 866-462-0343 mrawlinslaw.com Mary K. Quinn 1314 Texas Ste. 1515 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-0094 maryquinnlaw.com Monica E. Williams 723 Main Street Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77002 713-400-5700 mwilliamslegal.com

Pamela A. Calhoun 440 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-236-7793 Ramos Law Firm 917 Franklin Street Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-6200 ramosfamilylaw.com The Tholstrup Law Firm 440 Louisiana Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-1280 tholstruplaw.com Tilton Law Firm 412 Main Street Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77002 713-774-8600 divorcelawyerhoustononline.com Troy Locklear 917 Franklin Street 6th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-8769 troylocklear.com NORTH Musick & Musick 397 N Sam Houston, Parkway E. Ste. 325 Houston, Texas 77060 281-443-7747 musicklwoffice.com CONROE Earl L. Pryor 220 West Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-4600 earllpryor.com

Price & Price Attorneys at Law 101 Simonton Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-5511 priceandprice-law.com Simonsen Law Office 220 North Thompson Ste. 204 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-760-3299 thesoutheasttexasattorney.com The Law Offices of William A. Adair 404 West Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 281-849-1941 montgomerycountyfamilylawyer.com The Law Office of William E. Harrison 336 North Main Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-647-3683 attorneywilliamharrison.com The Turner Law Firm 336 North Main Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-0461 theturnerlawfirm.net THE WOODLANDS Bailey & Galyen 2203 Timberloch Place Ste. 100 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-335-7744 baileygalyencriminallaw.com

Shriver & McLean 10655 Six Pines Dr. Ste. 220 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-9191 shrivermclean.com The Law Office of Eric Fredrickson 9595 Six Pines Drive Ste. 8210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 800-823-0536 houstondivorcelawfirm.com Whisenant & Associates 25211 Grogan’s Mills Road Ste. 240 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-8889 texasdivorceinfo.com SPRING Steinmann Law Firm 24800 North Interstate 45 Ste. 220 Spring, Texas 77380 281-367-4870 steinmannlawfirm.com The Law Office of Lynn E. Esposito 26000 Budde Road Spring, Texas 77380 281-362-1191 woodlandsfamilylaw.com NORTHWEST CHAMPIONS / FM 1960 Armstrong & Bedell 12777 Jones Rd. Ste. 245 Houston, Texas 77070 281-894-1590 armstrongbedell.com Buskirk & Associates 4606 FM 1960 West Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77069 281-583-7553 buskirkatlaw.com J. Reid Perry 12850 Jones Road Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-4175 jreidperrylaw.com

Law Office of Jerry Porter 10003 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-3131 woodlandsdivorcelawyer.com

HUMBLE/KINGWOOD Celia A. Brown 1521 Green Oak Place Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-540-4820 H. Steven Byers 1521 Green Oak Place Ste. 140 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-4420 hsbyerslawfirm.com Lester R. Buzbee III 116 South Avenue C Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-8060 buzbeelaw.com Richard A. Mintz 315 East Main Street Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-3434 mintz-law.com The Law Office of C. Mark Porter 1102 Kingwood, Drive Ste. 105 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-359-1788 mporterlawyer.com The Law Offices of Dustin Neyland 900 Rockmead Ste. 132 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-312-0155 neylandlegal.com The Martin Law Firm 4429 Town Center Place Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-360-0175 martinlilly.com The Power Law Firm 20202 Highway 59 Ste. 170 Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-3330 thepowerlawfirm.com EAST BAYTOWN John C. Lefeber 1209 Decker Drive Ste. 214 Baytown, Texas 77520 281-427-9476

Law Offices of Holli M. Palmer 13231 Champion Forest Drive Ste. 114 Houston, Texas 77069 281-377-1107 hollipalmerattorney.com

Myrna J. Dunnam 503 Ward Road Baytown, Texas 77520 281-422-8777

Law Office of Janice P. Oviatt 14614 Falling Creek Drive Ste. 131 Houston, Texas 77068 281-580-7692 jpoviatt.com

Vaughn Davidson 5223 Garth Road Baytown, Texas 77521 281-421-5999 vaughndavidson.com

Sharon J. Hemphill 14202 Champion Forest Drive Houston, Texas 77069 713-203-9065 The Lincoln Law Firm 12777 Jones Road Ste. 475 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-9005 thelincolnlawfirm.com Wilhite & Lea 17101 Kuykendahl Road Houston, Texas 77068 281-537-2171 TOMBALL

Kemp Law Firm 26314 Oak Ridge Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-2600 kemplawfirm.com

NORTHEAST

Troup & Bruce 211 Florence Tomball, Texas 77375 281-516-110 troupbruce.com Gallagher & Stull 312 High Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7181 gallagherandstull.com

WEST Ilionsky Law Group 1080 W Sam Houston, Parkway Ste. 230 Houston, Texas 77043 832-444-6334 ilionsky.com James T. Mahan 11111 Katy Freeway Ste. 910 Houston, Texas 77079 713-973-5742 houstonfamilylawpc.com McCarty & McCarty 1400 Broadfield Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77084 713-469-3429 texasfamilyattorney.com Michael Von Blon & Associates 1231 Antoine Drive Houston, Texas 77055 713-681-5288 michaelvonblon.com

Midence & Skillern 701 N. Post Oak Rd. Ste. 207 Houston, Texas 77024 713-469-3053 Mytexasdivorceattorneys.com The Rudisel Law Firm 8989 Westheimer Road Ste. 120 Houston, Texas 77063 713-781-7775 divorcesource.com SHARPSTOWN Burkett & Associates 10333 Harwin Drive Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77036 713-581-1090 burkettlegal.com Law Offices of Chen & Associates 2909 Hillcroft Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77057 713-974-1151 busby-lee.com Law Office of L. Garth White 6666 Harwin Drive Houston, Texas 77036 713-988-9922 garthwhite.com Ramji & Momin 8191 Southwest Freeway Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77074 713-777-2654 ramjimomin.com Solomon Musyimi 8300 Bissonnet Ste. 634 Houston, Texas 77074 713-541-4444 solomonmusyimi.com MEMORIAL / TOWN & COUNTRY { FAMILY LAW IN DE X }

Darden Fowler & Creighton 414 West Phillips Ste. 100 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-3337 dfcllp.com

Short Carter Morris 9595 Six Pines Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 713-626-3345 shortcartermorris.com

Marilyn Gale Vilyus & Associates 14811 St. Mary’s Lane Ste. 260 Houston, Texas 77079 281-550-6650 westhoustonattorney.com The Bergman Law Firm 15119 Memorial Dr. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77079 832-379-4400 attorneyhelenebergman.com KATY Law Offices of C.E. Schmidt 19822 Gulfwind Court Houston, Texas 77044 866-929-7601 katytxdivorce.com The Law Offices of Kathy Black 802 Dominion Drive Ste. 500 Katy Texas 77450 281-398-5546 familymatterslawfirm.com Travers & Travers 20501 Katy Freeway Ste. 124 Katy Texas 77450 281-492-2166 katylawyer.com WEST/SOUTHWEST RICHMOND / ROSENBERG Joyce M. Phoenix 208 S Third Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-0980 joycephoenixlaw.com Law Office of Larry P. McDougal 809 Houston, Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-725-6025 larrymcdougal The Law Office of Lester Van Slyke 500 Morton Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-6148 vanslyke-law.com

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

MISSOURI CITY

LA PORTE/DEER PARK

DICKINSON/TEXAS CITY

Harrington Morin Attorneys at Law 5777 Sienna Parkway Ste. 400 Missouri City Texas 77459 281-598-0313 lawhmp.com

Dale Paschall 205 East 8th Street Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-479-7177

Anthony D. Gunn 225 FM 517 Road W Ste. 100 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-4130

Dennis M. Slate 112 East Forrest Lane Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9447 slatelaw.com

Helen S Truscott Law Office 314 FM Road 517 West Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-4652

SUGAR LAND / STAFFORD Broussard McLaughlin & Segura 14015 Southwest Freeway Ste. 5 Sugarland Texas 77478 281-242-7070 bmslawtx.com Karen Meinardus 14100 Southwest Freeway Ste. 360 Sugarland Texas 77478 281-342-5689 kmeinarduslaw.com Richard T. Bell Associates 206 Brooks Street Sugarland Texas 77478 281-494-8000 rtbell-law.com RICHMOND/ROSENBERG Ellis & Irwin 302 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469 832-595-1242 ei-law.com

{ FAMILY LAW IN DE X }

Joyce M Phoenix Law Office 208 South 3rd Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-0980 joycephoenixlaw.com Law Firm of Lester Van Slyke Jr. 500 Morton Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-6148 vanslyke-law.com Robert L. Thomas 807 Houston Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-238-4366 robertlthomasattorneyatlaw.com SOUTH/SOUTHEAST BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE AREA Dale Pashcall 2045 Space Park Drive Ste. 225 Houston, Texas 77058 281-336-0964 dalepaschallattorney.com Foster Law Firm 18096 Kings Row Houston, Texas 77058 281-335-5550 Laird Valdez 17629 El Camino Real Ste. 407 Houston, Texas 77058 281-218-0900 laird-valdez.com Sondra Kaighen & Associates 71210 Mercury Drive Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-1918 kaighenlaw.com Wilfried P. Schmitz & Associates 17040 El Camino Real Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77058 281-486-5066 schmitzlaw.com PASADENA Frank A. Hale 3668 Burke Road Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-941-4100 frankhale-law.com Law Offices of George D. Reyes 514 Pasadena, Boulevard Pasadena, Texas 77506 713-920-2888 georgedreyes.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Shelly A. Merchant 2703 Center Street Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9929 shellymerchant.com FRIENDSWOOD Bradshaw & Bradshaw 203 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-816-5276 bradshawlawyers.com Kingsbury Law Firm 316 E Edgewood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-816-5513 texas-dwi-king.com Law Office of James T. Fletcher 1414 South Friendswood Drive Ste. 216 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-7780 friendswoodlawyer.com PEARLAND Brown & Landra 7930 Broadway Street Ste. 122 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-0700 brownandlandry.com Law Office of James Zier 9330 Broadway Street Ste. 304 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-3377 jameszierlaw.com Scott M. Brown 9330 Broadway Street Ste. 324 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-412-3131 sbrownlawyer.com LEAGUE CITY Beason Law Firm 2600 South Shore Boulevard Ste. 300 League City Texas 77573 281-968-0032 Conner & Lindamood 2600 South Shore Boulevard Ste. 300 League City, Texas 77573 281-486-6116 lawcl.com Krieger Law Firm 215 E Galveston, Street League City, Texas 77573 281-601-1436 kriegerlawfirm.com Law Office of Anne B. Darring 3207 Marina Bay Drive League City Texas 77573 281-816-3831 darringlaw.com Law Office of James T. Fletcher 1414 South Friendswood Dr. Ste. 216 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-7780 friendswoodlawyer.com The Fulton Law Firm 3027 Marina Bay Drive Ste. 110 League City, Texas 77573 281-316-0166 fultonlawfirm.com Tylka Law Firm 1104 E Main Street FM 518 League City, Texas 77573 281-557-1500 tylkalawfirm.com

LeGrand Law Office 2206 Palmer Highway Texas City, Texas 77590 409-965-8500 legrand-law-office.com Torres & Faus Law Firm 619 8th Avenue N Texas City, Texas 77590 409-763-2978 torresandfaus.com GALVESTON Bettison Doyle Apffel & Guarino 6710 Stewart Road Ste. 300 Galveston, Texas 77551 409-744-9783 bdaglaw.com The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates 1919 Sealy Galveston, Texas 77550 281-667-4579 houstongalvestonlawyer.com The Law Offices of Susan M. Edmonson 2501 65th Street Ste. B Galveston, Texas 77551 409-774-0816 susanedmonson.com

IMMIGRATION LAW Immigration law refers to national government policies which control the phenomenon of immigration to their country. Immigration law regarding foreign citizens is related to nationality law which governs the legal status of people in matters such as citizenship. Immigration laws vary from country to country as well as according to the political climate of the times as sentiments may sway from the widely inclusive to the deeply exclusive of new immigrants.

WHAT IS IMMIGRATION?

Immigration is the introduction of new people into a habitat or population. It is a biological concept and is important in population ecology differentiated from emigration and migration. Immigration deals with the sometimes very complicated and ever changing laws controlling entry to the United States. HOW AND WHEN TO CHOOSE AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER?

Immigration lawyers help people deal with the laws and processes that permit persons who are not citizens of the United States to come to the United States for purposes of: (1) visiting as tourists; (2) working in the U.S.; (3) studying in the U.S.; and (4) becoming a citizen of the U.S. Because of ever changing laws obtaining an immigration lawyer is quite important and beneficial to your citizenship status. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to enter or fighting to stay in the country, Immigration lawyers can assist persons with little or no knowledge of the immigration procedure. If you or someone you know is facing immigration concerns, please contact our Immigration Expert or one of our Immigration lawyers in this section. PRACTICE AREAS Visitor visas (B-1/B-2) Investor Visas (E-1/E-2) Student Visas (F-1/M-1) Professional Worker Visas (H-1B) Fiance Visas (K-1) International Executives/ Managers (L-1A)

Family Visas Priority Worker Visas Labor Certification National Interest Waivers Adjustment Of Status Deportation Defense Consular Processing Citizenship

Naturalization Asylum Removal Hearings Appeals and Federal Court Litigation

Ask the Experts: Imran Beg Mirza

Immigration & Nationality Law

AT TORNEY AT LAW

2425 W. Loop South, Ste. 200 | Houston, TX 77027 | t (713) 297-8860 | immigration-imranmirza.com

has been board certified in Immigration & Nationality Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1995. He has more than 20 years of experience litigating cases in immigration, federal and appellate courts throughout the United States.

{ IMMIG R AT ION LAW }

IMRAN MIRZA

Litigation Litigation handled by Mr. Mirza includes Matter of Rose, 25 I & N Dec. 181 (BIA 2010), which held in an issue of first impression that when the spouse of a conditional resident dies during the conditional residence period, the surviving spouse does not need a separate hardship waiver in order to have the conditions on their permanent residence removed. This landmark case effectively put widows and widowers on the same legal footing as those whose spouses survive the conditional residence period and file their petitions together. Mr. Mirza also successfully litigated Walji v. Gonzales, 500 F.3d 432 (5th Cir. 2007), a pivotal and closely watched case affecting many thousands of naturalization cases languishing in multiyear “name check” delays. Following Mr. Mirza’s request for a rehearing en banc, a panel of the Fifth Circuit ruled that if USCIS fails to adjudicate a naturalization application within 120 days of the interview, an immigrant may seek redress in the federal courts. This landmark decision is widely considered to have been instrumental in reducing and later eliminating most of these “name-check” delays. As a result, Mr. Mirza was awarded the Chapter Litigation Award for outstanding contribution to the area of U.S. Immigration & Nationality Law by the Texas Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Another case successfully litigated by Mr. Mirza was Maknojiya v. Gonzales, 432 F.3d 588 (5th Cir. 2005), which challenged the often-insurmountable hurdle faced by immigrants trying to reopen their cases due to lack of proper notice of their deportation hearings. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the existing higher burden should not apply where notice of the deportation hearing was sent by regular mail rather than certified mail. The Maknojiya case has since been cited with approval by several other Circuit Courts of Appeal, and as a result, this litigation has made it easier for immigrants around the country to reopen their deportation cases if they did not receive proper notice of their hearings.

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Other litigation handled by Mr. Mirza includes Sabino v. Reno, 8 F.Supp.2d 622 (S.D. Tex. 1998) which upheld the continuing availability of habeas corpus relief for immigrants despite repeated Congressional attempts in the 1990s to dramatically limit judicial review and oversight of deportation orders. Mr. Mirza also successfully litigated Matter of E & C Precision Fabricating, 89-INA-249 (BALCA 1990) aff'd, rehearing en banc (1991), which overturned the improper denial of an immigrant labor certification. Positions Mr. Mirza currently serves on both the Advisory Commission and the Examination Committee of the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS). The Advisory Commission assists the TBLS in determining the appropriate criteria for Board Certification in Immigration & Nationality Law in Texas, and for reviewing the qualifications of applicants wishing to take the board certification exam. The Examination Committee assists the TBLS in writing, administering and grading the examinations of attorneys seeking such board certification Mr. Mirza is also an Adjunct Professor of Law at Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston, Texas. For a list of all Mr. Mirza’s positions, please visit his web and video profile online. Awards, Publications and Memberships In addition to being awarded the AILA Chapter Litigation Award for successfully litigating Walji v. Gonzales, Mr. Mirza also has been selected multiple times for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America, Texas Super Lawyers, and H Texas' Top Lawyers in recognition of excellence in the practice of immigration law. ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Immigration & Nationality Law | Education:

South Texas College of Law (J.D.); University of Houston (B.S.) | Certification: Texas Legal Board of Specialization in Immigration & Nationality Law | Affiliations: Member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the State Bar of Texas, the U.S District Court for Southern District of Texas, and the Courts of Appeal for the Fifth and Ninth Circuits. Our Experts have more than 15 years of law experience in their specialty and are highly recognized among their peers. They are carefully selected by our panel and must meet all background requirements to qualify as Houston's exclusive expert in their field.

{ IMMIG R AT ION LAW }

“It is the spirit and not the form of law that keeps justice alive.” Earl Warren P H O T O O F I M R A N B E G M I R Z A , AT T O R N E Y AT L AW

Shakira Cruz THE CRUZ LAW FIRM, PLLC

{ IMMIG R AT ION LAW IN DE X }

800 Commerce Street | Houston, Texas 77002 t (713) 627-2789 | f (866) 434-2398  thecruzlawfirm.com Shakira Cruz founded The Cruz Law Firm, PLLC in 2006, where she is currently Managing Attorney. A Texas A&M graduate, she earned her J.D from South Texas College of Law in 2002 and has been practicing law in a wide range of legal areas including immigration law, personal injury and business law. The Cruz Law Firm, PLLC has established a strong reputation for providing friendly, professional, and cost effective legal services. Primarily focused in immigration law, The Cruz Law Firm represents companies with immigration issues, provides I-9 training and education, and conducts I-9 internal audits to reduce companies’ liabilities. The Firm also provides legal advice and representation for issues related to employment and investor visas, as well as, familybased visas such as: marriage visas, fiancée visas, and naturalization & citizenship. A proud small business owner herself, Attorney Cruz has a particular keenness for representing small businesses from the start up to general business needs. This representation includes corporate documents and contract preparation, dealing with employment issues, and when necessary, litigation representation. Attorney Cruz, a native of Puerto Rico, is a fully bilingual attorney. | Focus: Immigration & Nationality Law | Education: Texas A&M University, B.A., South Texas of College, J.D.

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE The Rushton Law Firm 5909 West Loop South Ste. 150 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-838-8500 rushtonlaw.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Ayoub & Associates 2323 South Voss Rd Ste. 290 Houston, Texas 77057 713-532-0110 ayoublaw.com Dunbar Harder One Riverway Ste. 1850 Houston, Texas 77056 713-965-7611 dunbarharder.com Immigration Expert, p. 58 Imran Beg Mirza Immigration Solutionns 2425 West Loop South Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77027 713-297-8860 immigration-imranmirza.com Ilagan & Associates 1776 Yorktown Ste. 570 Houston, Texas 77056 866-664-2603 ilaganlaw.com Judith G. Cooper 3040 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 1450 Houston, Texas 77056 713-622-7778 immigration-visas.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Law Offices of Omonzusi Imobioh 6250 Westpark Dr Ste. 202 Houston, Texas 77057 832-566-2949 imobiohlawoffice.com

The Nossa Law Office 1 Greenway Plaza Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77046 713-599-1633 nossalaw.com

Law Offices of Jose W. Vega 440 Louisiana St. Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-3332 jvegalaw.com

Nguyen Jazrawi & Chen 6150 Richmond, Avenue Ste. 227 Houston, Texas 77057 713-780-4982 njclaw.com

Timothy K. Seo 3211 Edloe Street Houston, Texas 77027 713-623-0600

Law Office of Matthew Paul Nickson 1300 McGowen Houston, Texas 77004 713-234-1374 matthewnickson.com

DOWNTOWN The Fasidi Legal Group 6250 Westpark Dr. Ste. 134 Houston, Texas 77057 281-903-4473 fasidilegal.com The Law Office of Velia E. Rosas 1776 Yorktown St. Ste. 610 Houston, Texas 77056 713-623-4002 rosaslawusa.com The Talabi Law Firm 6420 Richmond, Avenue Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77057 713-266-0529 talabilawfirm.com IN THE LOOP Adams & Associates 2616 S. Loop West 6th Floor Ste. 635 Houston, Texas 77054 713-566-1990 aalawoffice.com Kamal Law Firm 2600 Southwest Freeway Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77098 713-524-4529 kamallawfirm.com Robert E. Kahn 4151 Southwest Freeway Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77027 713-961-9977 robertekahn.net

Bertolino 723 Main Street Ste. 220 Houston, Texas 77002 713-225-7474 belolaw.com Coane & Associates 1900 West Loop South Ste. 820 Houston, Texas 77027 713-850-0066 coane.com Coddou & Coddou 50 Briar Hollow Lane Ste. 575 Houston, Texas 77027 713-993-0208 thetexasimmigrationlawyer.com Donald E. Robinowitz 4151 Southwest Freeway Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77027 713-893-1886 donlawfirm.com Foster Quan 600 Travis Street Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-229-8733 fosterquan.com Law Offices of David A. Breston 405 Main Street Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-4040 davidbreston.com

Monica E. Williams 723 Main Street Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77002 713-400-5700 mwilliamslegal.com Richard Prinze 500 Jefferson Street Ste. 2040 Houston, Texas 77002 713-651-9111 Half Page Feature article, above The Cruz Law Firm 800 Commerce St. Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-627-2789 thecruzlawfirm.com The Rice Law Firm 1001 Texas Avenue Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-855-3060 ww.ricelawhouston.com GREATER HEIGHTS Anne E. Kennedy 539 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77007 713-862-8110 aek-law.com JD Myers & Associates 1415 Yale St Houston, Texas 77008 713-518-1399 jdmeyerslaw.com

Katine & Nechman 1111 North Loop West Ste. 180 Houston, Texas 77008 713-568-3323 lawkn.com

Garg & Associates 25511 Budde Road Ste. 1002 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-0010 smithgarglaw.com

The Law Office of Ruby L. Powers 5535 Memorial Drive Ste. F130 Houston, Texas 77007 713-589-2085 rubypowerslaw.com

The Law Office of Kelly Chaves 9595 Six Pines Ste. 8210 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 832-631-6148 chaveslaw.com

The Law Office of Anuj A. Shah 4601 Washington Ave. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77007 713-975-1128 shah-law.com

SPRING

SHARPSTOWN Burkett & Associates 10333 Harwin Drive Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77036 713-581-1090 burkettlegal.com

iVisa Law Group 5826 New Territory Blvd. Ste. 514 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-972-2114 ivisalawgroup.com RICHMOND/ROSENBERG

Law Firm of Solomon Musyimi 8300 Bissonnet Street Ste. 634 Houston, Texas 77074 713-541-4444 solomonthelawyer.com

Grace N. Nwanguma 211 Houston Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-1771

Law Offices of Tina H. Nguyen 6910 Bellaire, Blvd. Ste. 14 Houston, Texas 77074 713-278-2100 immigrationhouston.com

SOUTH/SOUTHEAST

MIDTOWN/MONTROSE AREA

Bailiff and Herbig 11811 North Freeway Ste. 500 Houston, Texas 77060 281-436-7370 bailiff-herbiglaw.com

Maria M. Cordon 4545 Mount Vernon Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-528-2643 cordonlaw.com

Monty Partners 8845 Longpoint Rd. Ste. A Houston, Texas 77055 281-493-5529 montypartners.com

Law Offices of Zaheer Zaidi 9100 Southwest Freeway Ste. 235 Houston, Texas 77074 281-235-3369 immigrationsavior.com

The Law Offices of Adan G. Vega 122 Tuam Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-527-9606 immigrationglobalsolutions.com

Thomas Law Services 16630 Imperial Valley Dr. Ste. 137 Houston, Texas 77060 281-591-0017

Pham & Cloves 10333 Harwin Drive Ste. 155 Houston, Texas 77036 713-492-0337 houston-immigration-attorneys.com

RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS AREA

NORTHWEST Murthy Law Firm 8211 Long Point Rd. Ste. C Houston, Texas 77055 713-722-7127

The Law Offices of Yvette Mastin 2777 Allen Parkway Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77019 866-715-2345 immigrationlawyerhouston.com

Law Office of Janice P. Oviatt 14614 Falling Creek Dr. Ste. 131 Houston, Texas 77068 281-580-7692 jpoviattlaw.com

Vann Law Firm 1501 Crocker Ste. 2 Houston, Texas 77019 713-520-5858

The Law Office of J. Thomas Smith 11500 Northwest Freeway Ste. 280 Houston, Texas 77092 713-529-9372 attorneyjthomassmith.com

NORTH Frances E. Valdez 150 West Parker Road 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77076 713-581-8228 fvaldezlaw.com Okoh-Brown Law Group 440 Benmar Drive Ste. 2015 Houston, Texas 77060 281-447-1235 theimmigrationlawgroup.us Reina & Bates 123 Northpoint Dr. Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77060 281-820-6100 reinalaw.com CONROE Boyd Munoz & Piper 804 West Dallas St. Ste. 7 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-1175 Joan Bennett 1300 South Frazier Ste. 315 Conroe, Texas 77031 936-539-6882 immigrationlawbennett.com The Owen Law Firm 401 W. Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-5800 theowenlawfirm.net THE WOODLANDS Kalish Law Firm 25907 Oak Ridge Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-3700 kalishlawtexas.com

CHAMPIONS / FM 1960

The Solomon Law Firm 10900 Northwest Freeway Ste. 221 Houston, Texas 77092 713-957-2030 thesolomonlawfirm.com EAST BAYTOWN John C. Lefeber 1209 Decker Drive Ste. 214 Baytown, Texas 77520 281-427-9476 Larry L. Bailey 621 Schilling St. Baytown, Texas 77520 281-428-1055 larrybaileylaw.com WEST Law Offices of Reddy & Neumann 1250 West Sam Houston, Parkway S Ste. 180 Houston, Texas 77042 713-953-7787 rvreddy.com The Law Office of J.R. “Ray” Cantu 10777 Westheimer Road Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77042 713-260-9660 attorneycantu.com The Law Office of Rosa Han 10700 Richmond, Ave. Ste. 224 Houston, Texas 77042 713-278-2078 rosahan.net Timothy "Machete" Hart Law Office 10085 Westpark Ste. B Houston, Texas 77042 713-977-6097 abogadotimoteo.com

Zhang & Associates 9999 Bellaire, Blvd. Ste. 920 Houston, Texas 77036 713-771-8433 hooyou.com MEMORIAL/TOWN AND COUNTRY Dugger & Associates 1177 Enclave Parkway Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77077 281-497-1770 KATY Busby & Associates 1804 Snake River Road Ste. C Katy Texas 77449 713-974-1151 busby-lee.com Christiansen Law Firm 11757 Katy Freeway Ste. 1070 Houston, Texas 77079 281-870-9002 christiansenfirm.com WEST/SOUTHWEST Kwok & Associates 6588 Corporate Drive Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77036 713.773.3380 kwoklaw.com Law Firm of Sunita Kapoor 2825 Wilcrest Drive Ste. 615 Houston, Texas 77042 713-782-3332 sunitakapoor.com The Torres Law Firm 5900 Bellaire, Blvd. Ste. 17 Houston, Texas 77081 713-662-0400 thetorreslawfirm.com

BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE AREA Bailey & Galyen 18333 Egret Bay Boulevard Ste. 120 Houston, Texas 77058 866-715-1529 galyen.com De Luna Law Offices 1020 Bay Area Blvd. Ste. 218 Houston, Texas 77058 713-589-5269 delunafirm.com Lemond & Lemond 16815 Royal Crest Ste. 270 Houston, Texas 77058 281-286-2500 lemond-law.com Ortiz-Taing Law Offices Egret Bay Blvd. # 270 Houston, Texas 77058 281-486-7002 The Romero Law Firm 17041 El Camino Real Ste. 209 Houston, Texas 77058 281-220-1067 attorneyromero.com PASADENA Altagracia Cañedo McDonald Law Office 139 West Southmore Avenue Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-943-8066 acmlaw-immigration.com

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The Law Offices of Johnny P. Papantonakis 1201 South Shepherd Drive Houston, Texas 77019 713-574-7507 johnnyplaw.com

Punjwani Law 7324 Southwest Freeway Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77074 832-255-8393 punjwanilaw.com

Torres Law Firm 1522 West Sealy Street Alvin, Texas 77511 281-585-6684

Sunita Kapoor 6060 Fairmont Parkway Ste. 12207 Pasadena, Texas 77505 713-255-5593 sunitakapoor.com The Law Office of Jason Castaneda 2202 Strawberry Road Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-473-5575 immigrationattorneypasadena.com FRIENDSWOOD The Law Office of Michael Sharp 1100 South Friendswood Dr. Ste. B Friendswood Texas 77546 281-996-8997 michaelsharplawfirm.com PEARLAND

SUGAR LAND/STAFFORD

Law Office of Gregory Rincon 6302 Broadway St 1 Ste. 120 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-485-9911

Esani & Momin 4800 Sugar Grove Boulevard Ste. 140 Stafford Texas 77477 281-313-6100 emattorney.com

Law Offices of Sergio Reyes Jr. 3528 1/2 Broadway St Pearland, Texas 77581 281-756-8400 lawofficeofsergioreyes.com

Law Offices of Annie Banerjee 131 Brooks Street Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 713-793-6339 visatous.com

LEAGUE CITY Cagle & McCumber 215 East Galveston Street League City, Texas 77573 281-332-7630

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Caldwell Law Firm 16852 Royal Crest Dr. Houston, Texas 77058 281-461-9595 DICKINSON/TEXAS CITY Dr. Walid H. Hamoudi 2434 Cedar Drive La Marque, Texas 77568 409- 933-4414

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Michael S Cho 1032 FM arket Road 646 West Bacliff, Texas 77518 281-339-3120

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LITIGATION Litigation Law covers the process of bringing and pursuing a lawsuit, and encompasses the entire procedure. Litigation is one way that people and corporate entities resolve disputes. The parties rely on a judge or jury to determine a legal question or matter. The term litigation is sometimes used to be distinguishable from alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation or arbitration.

WHAT IS LITIGATION?

Litigation is the process of taking a case through court. The litigation or legal process is most common in civil lawsuits. In litigation, there is a plaintiff (one who brings the charge) and a defendant (one against whom the charge is brought). HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TYPE OF LITIGATOR (TRIAL LAWYER) TO HIRE?

This is a very tricky question. Depending on the nature of your case, it is important to research and read about specialty litigators. Many law firms specifically focus on the complex business end of litigation while others work defending individuals. For an attorney who suits your specific need, please take a glance at our exclusive articles and expert stories. This will give you some insight on which attorney fits your situation. PRACTICE AREAS Appellate Business Torts Complex and Multi-District Litigation areas include Antitrust and Trade Regulation, Aviation, Catastrophic Injury, Class Action, Complex Commercial Litigation, Environmental, Excess Claims, High Exposure Litigation, Mass Torts and Toxic Torts Class Actions, and Pharmaceutical claims Constitutional Tort Litigation areas include Freedom of Information, Media and First and Amendment

Environmental Issues Federal Civil Litigation Insurance areas include Legal Malpractice Defense, Legal Profes sional Liability, Libel, Slander and Defamation and Repetitive Stress Injury Maritime Mass Torts Oil and Gas Personal Injury (Motor vehicle accidents, 18 wheeler, Work injury, etc.)

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THE GALLAGHER LAW FIRM 2905 Sackett St. | Houston, Texas 77098 | t (713) 222-8080 | gallagher-law-firm.com

Innocent Voices

why two of houston’s most prominent attorneys battle to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

hose who know Michael Gallagher and Russell Serafin are quite familiar with their commitment, desire and success in seeing justice prevail. Their upstanding reputations and outstanding accomplishments speak volumes. However, it wasn’t always this way. Both having worked on the other side of the law, their individual life journeys took them places they never could have expected. One day, their paths crossed and they formed the law firm that would become one of the most successful litigation law firms in the nation. Petroleum oil rig explosion. Michael states, “[BP is] entitled to a defense, […] I don’t want to be the one to give it to them. I’d […] rather represent the victims. Environmental and worker safety are extremely important.”

Michael Gallagher and partner, Russell Serafin, at The Gallagher Law Firm may be the right lawyers for you. The firm has a decadelong, proven track record in speaking for those who do not have a voice. When it comes to legal issues involving aviation, burn injuries, defective products, drug and pharmaceutical litigation, environment, explosions, and workplace injuries, the Gallagher Law Firm is among the most successful in Houston.

The firm has handled a considerable amount of litigation in the areas of aviation and product liability and has also had significant achievements and results against pharmaceutical companies. In fact, the Gallagher Law Firm is considered the

After 45 years in law, Michael Gallagher credits his speech teacher at Spring Branch High School with getting him on the path toward becoming a lawyer. Because she recognized his talent for talking to people, she recommended he join the debate team. Michael’s experience with the debate team was invaluable. It taught him skills he continues to use today as one of the toprated personal injury trial lawyers in the nation. “I learned to organize my thoughts and understand the issues from both sides back in high school,” Michael says. Michael graduated from the University of Texas in Austin School of Law in 1965 and began practicing with Fulbright and Jaworski where he met others who mentored him and instilled a discipline in him that has served him well for many years. Gallagher wanted to represent people who had been injured. He first represented insurance companies, but later decided to switch to the plaintiff’s side of the docket. “I wanted to try cases in court, and personal injuries are the best place to do that,” he said. “No one in my family went to college, so I identified with the working man. I still do. I was raised in a home where all people, regardless of their situation in life, were treated with respect. […] I also firmly believe the courtroom is for everyone.” The majority of Michael’s practice centers around victims of circumstance including Gulf Coast victims of the April 2010 British

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Have you suffered an injury and are you at wits end regarding what to do? Have you considered finding an attorney who can understand your situation but are unsure who to trust? If so, let’s begin by doing a little cross-examination.

Many of the best lawyers don’t always represent highprofile clients; should not have a reputation for being ruthless, and; should have high moral standards. leading pharmaceutical litigation firm in the country, representing clients including Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana and West Virginia and individuals who need a strong legal team to work on their cases. “Pharmaceutical litigation is very complex and time consuming. It requires a tremendous amount of dedication, commitment, and personal resources,” Michael says. The Gallagher Law Firm was the only firm in the country which obtained a verdict against the drug companies who produced Phen-Phen, the diet pill that caused heart problems, and Rezulin, which was prescribed for Type 2 diabetes and caused terrible side effects. Where other law firms obtained verdicts against one or the other, the Gallagher Law Firm was the only firm in the country to get verdicts in both.

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in the state for victims. Each year since 1975, the legislature has introduced laws to do away with, or severely limit, victims’ rights. The Texas Trial Lawyers Association has done more than any other organization to prevent the complete abolition of victims’ rights, which is why Michael volunteers so much of his time to them. Michael volunteers his time to speak to the legislature to advocate for fairness in the courtroom and to oppose corporate interests whose objective is the destruction of individuals’ rights. “We have to be politically involved. Victims have far too few people talking for them in the political arena.” —MICHAEL GALLAGHER Michael has also served on numerous House, Senate and Supreme Court state and national committees involving selection, compensation and tenure of judges; disciplinary procedures; workers compensation; oversight; and higher education. Partner, Russell Serafin was raised in Galena Park and has been with The Gallagher Law Firm since 2001. He graduated from Baylor University School of Law in 1972, and, like Michael, also began his career on the defense side at prior law firms. He became disenchanted with the people he was defending and felt it was time for a change. Russell did not approve of what some defendants were doing, and now gets personal satisfaction from being on the victim’s side of the docket.

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“Every day, people are hurt as a result of others’ conduct, and under the law, if you do that, you are responsible when you harm someone. I chose to be a personal injury lawyer because it can help and even restore the life of someone who’s been hurt. I like walking out the door knowing I have done something to help someone.” —R U S S E L L S E R A F I N

“We like litigating these cases because they’re challenging and they bring out the best in us. We respect our adversaries. We may differ greatly in what we think is right, but we respect that they represent a position. But it’s definitely a fight we’re prepared for every time.”—M I C H A E L G A L L A G H E R Both Gallagher and partner, Russell Serafin, believe they have a moral imperative to protect their clients’ rights in the courtroom. The Gallagher Law Firm functions in the political arena as well. Corporations have lobbyists, but victims do not. Michael has spent more time in Austin speaking on behalf of victims in front of the State legislature than almost any other lawyer. His dedication has not gone unnoticed as Michael has been recognized by numerous high ranking national, regional and local publications, honor societies and academies since 1984. Some of his recognitions include being nominated as one of the Best Lawyers in America and a Texas Super Lawyer. His peers nominated him to prestigious organizations such as the International Society of Barristers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Despite these accolades and recognitions, Gallagher considers his membership in the Texas Trial Lawyers Association to be his most significant as it is one of the most important organizations

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So what is it like being a client at The Gallagher Law Firm? The Gallagher Law Firm’s philosophy is to focus on compassion and

"We'll do whatever we need to show our client how hard we're willing to work on his or her behalf. We don't just talk it, we do it." sensitivity, which are the keys to success in both the courtroom and with clients. Clients can immediately feel the difference upon beginning their relationship with the firm. The attorneys work with each client to understand his or her unique situation and consult with a group of dedicated attorneys, medical consultants and support staff to ensure that nothing is left to chance. “[M]eet our staff [,] see the way we’re set up, you’ll see why we are so successful. We’ll answer all your questions because we encourage the face-to-face meetings. We’ll go anywhere in the

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Michael Gallagher and Russell Serafin

country to meet a client. We want them to look us in the eye, meet the outstanding people we work with, and see that our collective experience will make the difference. They’ll get the answers they need.” —R U S S E L L S E R A F I N

It’s the most gratifying and the most humbling profession in the world.”—M I C H A E L G A L L A G H E R ✹

The Gallagher Law Firm understands that a client’s experience does not stop with the attorney. The firm is proud of its entire staff and realizes that client relationships are sustained by the development of trust and the dedication each staff member has to each client. “Our staff is one of the reasons we stand above the others,” says Russell.

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Civil & Commercial Litigation (Personal

Injury and Products Liability) | Certifications: Texas Legal Board of Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law (Gallagher) | Education: Michael T. Gallagher – University of Houston, B.A.; University of Texas, J.D. / Russell B. Serafin – Baylor University, B.B.A.; Baylor University, J.D. | Affiliations: Michael T. Gallagher: Houston and American Bar Associations; State Bar of Texas; Texas Trial Lawyers Association (Chairman, Lawyers Involved For Texas, 1975-1976; Board of Dir-

Both Russell and Michael agree that although it’s nice to be recognized for excelling at what they do, the most important thing is to be known for honesty. “Being good is a function of the commitment we have,” says Michael. “We’ll do whatever we need to do to show our client how hard we’re willing to work on his or her behalf. We don’t just talk it, we do it. Winning or losing is beyond our control;it’s the degree of preparation that matters. This is a thinking person’s game. It’s serious business.” The firm believes that at the end of the day, it’s about helping those who have been hurt and cannot speak for themselves.

ectors, 1975; President-Elect, 1977; President, 1978); New York Trial Lawyers Association; The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (Chairman: Task Force Committee, 1972-1974; Coordinating Committee, 1974-1975; Board of Governors, 1979-1982; Secretary, 1987). / Russell B. Serafin: State Bar of Texas (Member, Administration of Justice Committee and Grievance Committee); American Bar Association; Texas Association of Defense Counsel (Past President, 1995-1996); American Board of Trial Advocates | Honors/Awards: Texas Super Lawyer since 2004; Best Lawyers in America since 1983; H Texas Magazine since 2005; Received “AV” High Peer Rating by Martindale Hubbell

☛ CONTACT Firm: The Gallagher Law Firm | 2905 Sackett St., Houston, “The satisfaction and enjoyment of this job comes from knowing that you’ve been able to help another human being after a tragedy, and in some instances, prevent another tragedy from occurring.

TX 77098 | Phone: (713) 222-8080 | Web: gallagher-law-firm.com

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Ask the Experts:

Accident & Injury Cases

David T. Altenbern

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One Riverway, Suite 2300 | Houston, Texas 77056 | t (713) 961-8012 | altenbernattorney.com

has been litigating accident and injury cases for over 24 years. His passion and dedication in representing personal injury victims has earned him a spot as one of Houston’s “Top Lawyers” by H Texas magazine since 2003. As David likes to say, “we work hard for the justice our clients deserve’ and ‘with an eagle eye toward justice and protection under the law’ for each and every client matter we are entrusted to handle." DAVID T. ALTENB E R N

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If you or someone you care about has just been involved in a motor vehicle collision, what are the best first steps/actions and/or communications that you should take to best preserve relevant evidence and for the protection of your rights?

applicable insurance data (carrier name, policy number and name of insured if different as the driver).

In summary, the injuries and property damages should be fully addressed and documented and to the extent possible, photographed (including property damage, estimates, repair bills and/or total loss determinations, narrative medical reports and lost earnings letters and/or economist reports in serious injury cases). "Finally, adverse driver at fault for the collision data should be obtained at the scene or as soon thereafter as possible, along with all

A. We see many types of injuries such as brain, disc/nerve, spinal, shoulder, knee and other surgical and nonsurgical injuries from our injury cases which include motor vehicle collision and dangerous premises situation, nonsubscriber workplace injury cases (where there is no worker's compensation coverage) as well as and/ or third party liability claims from workplace injury situations.

What types of injuries do you tend to mostly see from motor vehicle collision cases and other injury incident situations?

Q. From beginning to end, what is a summary of the legal claim process for accident/ injury cases? A. a) The Attorney/Client Contingency Fee Agreement and various authorizations are signed; b) Representation Letter is sent; c) An Acknowledgment Letter is received; d) Interim Status Reports/Medical Updates are sent; e) Medical Records/ Bill Requests are sent; f) Client counseling and client education is ongoing; g) Client Medical Treatments are ongoing; h) Our Client Completes Treatment and/or medical providers render opinions about any permanent injuries; i) A Settlement Demand Package is sent with pertinent medical records, bills, expert reports, photos, and other relevant documents and information. k) Settlement negotiations are undertaken; and l) Either a settlement is reached or a lawsuit is filed.

A. For injury matters, the typical arrangement is on a "contingency fee agreement" (whereas by contrast, business and divorce matters, are usually handled on an hourly basis, such as my current rate of $250.00/ hour). Under a contingency arrangement the attorney receives a percentage of the total recovery if and only if (and only when) a successful result and actual recovery is obtained. Q. What types of medical professionals do you most often deal with for these injury and accident matters? Are there any other types of expert witnesses with whom you regularly consult? A. We regularly consult and interact with medical doctors of virtually every field of medicine, but most notably we deal with neurologists for disk/nerve/spinal evaluations and orthopaedic surgeons and/or neurosurgeons for neck and low back, shoulder, knee and/or other surgical situations. In addition, we deal with physical therapy and chiropractic groups as well as other types of experts who are common

Q. What information and documents are relevant and most critical to the success of any prosecution or defense of a personal injury/accident claim? A. The client's medical bills, records and, if applicable, lost earnings documentation is most relevant and important to resolving claims fairly about a given injury situation underlying the claim. Photographs of our client's injuries, the scene of the accident and/or property damage can also be very helpful or critical to success, along with witness statements and expert reports, if applicable. Q. What elements of actual/compensatory damages are available for potential recovery against those who are negligent/legally responsible for an injury case? A. a) Medical Care Expenses (reasonable and necessary standard); b) Physical impairment (loss of strength, motion, and/ or function); c) Physical pain and mental anguish/suffering; d) Loss earnings and/or Lost Earnings Capacity (for serious injury cases), if applicable; and e) Disfigurement (a legal term for scarring), if applicable. Q. What is "Mediation" and how does mediation come into play in helping resolve legal disputes?

Q. What percentage of cases or personal injury claims require the actual filing of a lawsuit to resolve? A. Significantly less than 50% of the matters that our law firm has handled over the years has required a lawsuit for resolution. Although we do not settle matters quickly or inexpensively just to settle cases, we like to think that our skill, experience, and careful selection standards for our cases result in this relatively high prelawsuit success rate. Q. What percentage of claims and lawsuits tend to resolve by way of settlement instead of by way of a trial? A. We like to think that for the same reasons mentioned above, more than 95% of matters that our law firm handles resolve by settlement short of trial. Q. In the context of a motor vehicle collision, what does "negligence" mean? A. Simply put, "negligence" means the failure of an individual to act as one should reasonably act under the same or similar circumstances that the subject individual was facing at the time of the injury situation (from an objective point of view). ✹

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Q. What is the typical compensation arrangement between an Attorney and Client on accident injury matters, and how does that arrangement differ from how an attorney is compensated on business and divorce cases?

to personal injury litigation such as accountants, economists, accident reconstruction engineers and various other business experts.

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Personal Injury,

Environmental/Toxic Tort Litigation; Business Consulting & Litigation; Family Law/Divorce

A. "Mediation" is a structured settlement process, usually undertaken after commencement of a lawsuit, and usually by agreement of the parties and their attorneys. A mediator is selected by agreement of the parties or order of the court, and is usually a very experienced and credentialed local attorney. It is noteworthy that mediation is successful in resolving well in excess of 50% of cases as a result of its process which is a confidential and direct process of settlement negotiations. Mediation is best conducted after all concerned have undertaken sufficient discovery, investigation, and research to pretty fully know the strength and weaknesses of their case.

Matters | Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; University of Texas School of Law, J.D. Certification: Certified Mediator (since 1997) | Affiliations: Director of Joe Joe Bear Foundation; Member of Christian Fellowship Business Association (CFBA); Business Network International(BNI); and Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

☛ CONTACT Firm: David T. Altenbern, Attorney/Mediator | Address: One Riverway, Ste 2300 Houston, Texas 77056 | Phone: (713) 961-8012 | Web: altenbernattorney.com Our Experts have more than 15 years of law experience in their specialty and are highly recognized among their peers. They are carefully selected by our panel and must meet all background requirements to qualify as Houston's exclusive expert in their field.

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Ask the Experts:

Maritime Law

Reginald E. McKamie, Sr. PC 1210 Antoine Drive, Suite 100 | Houston, Texas 77055 | t (713) 465-2889 | mckamie.com

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Captain R E G I N A L D M C K A M I E has been serving the Houston area for over 20 years litigating maritime, personal injury, malpractice and business law cases. Experienced in representation of merchant seamen before the U. S. Coast Guard and Administrative Law Judges in license revocation proceedings, Captain McKamie proudly represents merchant mariners in ports throughout the United States.

What is the “Jones Act”? How do I know if I am protected by the Jones Act?

A. Enacted in 1920 (46 U.S.C.A. § 688) the Jones Act provides a remedy to sailors for injuries or death resulting from the Negligence of an owner, a master, or a fellow sailor of a vessel. The federal Jones Act defines the legal rights of seamen who are injured or killed in the course of maritime service. It entitles them, or their survivors, to sue their employer in the event that their fellow workers or shipmasters are negligent (unreasonably careless), and to receive a trial by jury.

A. In 2009 Attorney McKamie was part of the legal team that was cited in Texas Lawyer Monthly and Verdict Search for the largest maritime injury verdict in Texas for 2009. The verdict for the injured worker was $4.5 million Attorney McKamie also represented the Port of Houston in a case of first impression successfully arguing for losses as the result of an oil spill in Galveston Bay. Q. What is the process for seeking legal counsel and representation? A. Litigation is a document-intensive process; clients should maintain and present all relevant documents upon initial consultation. This may include contracts, pay vouchers, medical reports, accident reports, charging documents, invoices for repairs, insurance agreements, wills, and power of attorneys. This will assist in evaluating and pursuing your case. Q. What are Attorney McKamie’s costs for services? A. For serious personal injuries or seriously injured workers eligible for worker's compensation benefits, the initial consultation fee is waived. Otherwise, The Law Office of Reginald McKamie requires a payment of $350 for the initial 1-hour consultation. All fees are due and payable when services are rendered. This fee is deductible from the total fee should we decide to accept your case.

Q. Does state or federal law apply in maritime cases? A. Admiralty Law prevails in a state court even if it conflicts with the law of the state, under a doctrine known as the "reverse-Erie doctrine". The Erie doctrine requires that federal courts hearing state actions must apply substantive state law. However, state courts are allowed to apply state procedural law. This change can be significant.

Credit may be extended when requested under certain circumstances. If you need credit, please discuss your needs with our staff. ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Maritime (personal injury) Law

Education: U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; Kings Point, New York,

Q. What are a shipowners duties to passengers on a ship?

B.S., University of Southern California, M.B.A, University of Houston Law School, J.D. | Certification: Board Certified by the Texas Board

A. Shipowners owe 'a duty of reasonable care' to passengers. Passengers who are injured aboard ship should immediately see a maritime attorney because while most maritime cases allow three years to bring a law suit, passenger claims are governed by the passenger ticket and usually require claims be filed within one year of the accident.

of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial Law | Affiliations: Served two terms as Member of the U.S. Navigation Safety Advisory Council, appointed to the Council by two U. S. Secretaries of Transportation, Served two terms as Board member of the National Academy of Science Transportation Research Board in Washington, D.C., Member of the Texas Trial Lawyer Association and Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. Licensed in Texas, Washington, D.C.,

Q. What are some of the significant cases that Attorney McKamie has been involved with during his practice?

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U. S. Southern District of Texas, U.S. Northern District of Texas, U. S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, Supreme Court of the United States.

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“We don't just practice law, we make law.” REGINALD E. MCKAMIE

Ask the Experts:

Catastrophic Injuries

Walker & Crawford, PC

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1924 Portsmouth | Houston, Texas 77098 | t (713) 552-1117 | walkertexaslawyer.com

The Houston personal injury law firm of WALK ER & CRAWFORD, P.C . is located in the heart of Houston, Texas. With a combined experienced of over 30 years fighting personal injury law, their attorneys specialize in personal injury cases including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, maritime injury, aircraft accidents, auto accidents, plant explosions, medical malpractice, construction accidents, unsafe products, chemical

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exposure, industrial accidents, brain Injuries, and 18-wheeler accidents. Walker & Crawford’s success is attributed to their tenacity, commitment and desire to be acquainted with each client on a personal level.

James “Jim” Walker is one of Houston’s most successful and best-known personal injury lawyers as rated by Inside Houston presently known as H Texas magazine. Attorney Walker has been practicing law for 26 years. He received his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and

his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan. Walker practices with partner Jeff Crawford of the Walker & Crawford, P.C.. Together they are dedicated in seeking justice for the people injured. Walker memberships have included the American Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Trial Lawyers Association and the United States Federal Bar. Mr. Walker has defended thousands and thousands of personal injury cases and insurance claims resulting in favorable verdicts and settlements. His outstanding valor and reputation have earned him Personal Injury Law Firm of the year for three years by the Houston Bar Association.

Walker & Crawford focus on catastrophic injury claims but have counseled and litigated corporate and business law cases such as those affected by Hurricane Ike. In catastrophic injury claims, Walker delivers personalized service. In injury and in legal matters Walker understands how devastating an accident can be for the injured person and their family. No case is too big or too small. Each client is treated equally with dignity, respect and compassion. We will fight in court to the end if necessary. With a primary focus on cases of catastrophic injury claims, Walker understands that a catastrophic injury can be physically traumatic as well as financially overwhelming. Often the family wage earner is the injured party who is unable to work. Walker understands the importance and approaches to keep the family together while the injured recuperates.

Honesty and justice for the client are cornerstones by which Walker & Crawford is based. Telling the client the truth, even if at times it is bad news, is far better than ignoring the problem or avoiding the client. Walker’s philosophy on personal financial compensation is to "do a good job, and the money will take care of itself. Helping people who have been injured in an accident is the highest gratification in my work.” Often clients refer friends and family who need an attorney. It is a great compliment to a lawyer to have a former client refer a friend or loved one. It says you have done a good job, and made a friend. My practice approach is to allocate time and justice to new clients as needed to pursue their legal matters, while sustaining priorities to continue responsibility for current clients. Walker has produced two 30 minute infomercials entitled “Law Sun Abuse Fact or Fiction,” and “Lawyer Friend or Foe.” These infomercials were produced to inform the public on Tort Reform Insurance Law

In addition to representing injured Houstonians, Walker & Crawford, P.C., are dedicated to representing the rights of people injured as a result of the massive Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The environmental disaster, which has surpassed the 1989 Exxon Valdez tragedy to become the worst such accident in United States history, has resulted in millions of gallons of crude oil being spewed directly into the delicate ocean ecosystem off the coast and along the beaches of Louisiana, Mississippi, and other Gulf Coast states. The toxic oil from the spill is an extremely hazardous and toxic substance, threatening not only the wildlife, beaches, and the environment of the Gulf Coast, but also individual landowners, commercial fishermen, restaurant and hotel operators, and other shipping and tourism businesses in the region. Injured parties may have legal rights against the owners and operators of the oil rig, BP and Transocean, for financial damages intended to compensate them for their lost wages, personal injuries, and other expenses resulting from the accident.

In addition to his legal representation of victims, Walker supports other victims with his activism and contributions for Houston charitable initiatives. He participates in time and contributions to the Outlaw Dave Show, Toy Drives for Kids, Children with AIDS Project, Stevens and Pruitt Ranch, Outlaw Dave’s Ranch Ride (motorcycle) and the Animal Humane Society. Jim Walker helps Santa Claus each year to hand-out presents to children at this various events. In addition Walker contributes and participates in various fund drives, sponsorships and events throughout the year. Walker & Crawford, P.C. value their clients and will continue to fight and help victims of serious injury. Walker offers a free initial legal consultation to evaluate a claimant’s injuries and determine possible legal rights to financial compensation. ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST Focus: Personal injury,

catastrophic injury, wrongful death, maritime injury, aircraft accidents, auto accidents, plant explosions, medical malpractice, construction accidents, unsafe products, chemical exposure, industrial accidents, brain Injuries and 18-wheeler accidents. | Education: (Walker)

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The personal approach to handling the personal injury claims has been a longstanding practice with Walker & Crawford. Walker feels that taking phone calls and returning phone calls from the client is paramount to support each client’s legal and personal needs.

and to improve the image of Lawyers. The infomercials also provide valuable information on rights of innocent people and legislation affecting them.

Michigan State University, B.A., Thomas M. Cooley Law School, J.D.; (Crawford) Sam Houston State University, B.A., South Texas College of Law, J.D. | Certification: (Walker)

The Walker & Crawford Law Firm has handled several claims against BP in the past and has experience dealing with large corporations.

American Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, United States Bar; (Crawford): Association of Trial Lawyers, Houston Trial Lawyers Association and Houston Bar Association

The following may have legal rights to compensation for damages caused by the Gulf of Mexico oil spill disaster:

Affiliations: (Walker) American Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, United States Bar; (Crawford): Association of Trial

• Commercial Fishermen • Shrimpers • Oyster farmers • Marinas • Charter boat operators • Resort management businesses • Restaurants in the coastal areas • Coastal property owners • Employees of affected businesses • Deepwater Horizon workers or family members of workers injured or killed

Lawyers, Houston Trial Lawyers Association and Houston Bar Association

☛ CONTACT Firm: Walker & Crawford, PC Address: 1924 Portsmouth, Houston, Texas 77098 | Phone: (713) 552-1117 Web: walkertexaslawyer.com Our Experts have more than 15 years of law experience in their specialty and are highly recognized among their peers. They are carefully selected by our panel and must meet all background requirements to qualify as Houston's exclusive expert in their field.

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

David P. Matthews

MAT THEWS & ASSOCIATES

2905 Sackett Street | Houston, Texas 77098 | t (713) 522-5250 | dpmlawfirm.com

ometimes winning isn’t enough. That was the conclusion drawn by Houston-based attorney David P. Matthews a few years after he graduated from law school in 1988.

David Matthews began his legal career like a lot of law school graduates. He went to work for a local law firm defending insurance companies and other corporations. He won virtually every case he tried, but his perspective changed along the way. “Some of the plaintiffs had real injuries,” he said, “and it was my job to keep them from winning anything.” An epiphany of sorts came after he defended a corporation against a working man’s widow whom, he said, “deserved a lot more than she ended up with.”

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Fortunately, Matthews was given a chance to shift his legal focus when he got a call from one of the oldest plaintiffs firms in Texas – Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Kronzer, Ballard, & Friend. Matthews worked for 17 years on a wide variety of personal injury cases before opening his own law firm four years ago. Today, Matthews and Associates Law Firm has offices in Houston and New York City, and Matthews is licensed in Texas, New York, Pennsylvania and Mississippi. The firm has helped thousands of injured people recover civil damages in nearly all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Matthews and his legal team have recovered more than a billion dollars (excluding attorneys’ fees and expenses) in compensation for cases involving dangerous drugs, truck and auto accidents, house explosions, construction accidents, petrochemical accidents, birth injury, product liability, electrocutions, nursing home abuse and abuse by clergy. “Tragedy” does not discriminate and that is why one of the most important aspects of The Matthews & Associates Law Firm is its multi-cultural background. Having studied in Monterrey, Mexico and having learned a lot about the Latin language and culture, Matthews truly appreciates being able to communicate with his Spanish-speaking clients. He recognizes the significance of having a bilingual legal team. Today, many of the people working in harm’s way – building roads, toiling in the chemical industry, putting up skyscrapers – are often Hispanic, so it’s no accident that the firm has at least a dozen staff members who speak Spanish.

"Because of the hours that go into preparing for (pharmaceutical) cases, I’ve become well-versed in anatomy and physiology, and the effects of drugs on the human body. You had better know something about that class of drug, as well as that specific drug’s impact on the human liver and other medical information when you approach the drug company’s experts.” Matthews & Associates investigates, hires experts, takes depositions, orders medical records and spends its own money to battle behemoths from Big Pharma, Big Oil and other corporate giants that most citizens don’t have the resources to battle themselves. Matthews & Associates suit up and hit the courts for people who may have gotten a raw deal or had bad luck with some dubious corporate product. They are there to help, and they work strictly on a contingency fee basis, which means a client pays absolutely nothing unless the firm wins the client’s case. Matthews’ practice is not, however, limited to battles with pharmaceutical firms. Long licensed in personal injury law, he recently won a $3.64 million jury verdict in a rape and kidnapping case against the largest shopping mall in Texas and one of the country’s largest security companies. Years ago he also won a multi-million-dollar verdict for a mother in a defective baby cradle case that one of the country’s oldest and most respected news magazines, Mother Jones, dubbed “The Hand that Rocks the Cradle.” Matthews’ abilities in the courtroom have earned him a place among the Texas Super Lawyers since 2003, the first year the designation was awarded. He was also voted one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Texas by The American Trial Lawyer Association. But while Matthews is understandably proud of his accolades, it is the appreciation of his clients that drives him to put in the long hours needed to prepare for each and every case he litigates. A letter from a client, a snapshot of clients who are happy, a thank-you note, maybe tears at the close of a trial is what’s most satisfying about this profession. ✹

ƒ CREDENTIAL LIST

Matthews and his associates know that representing personal injury victims requires much more than preparing for trial. It requires extensive preparation, research, knowledge and experience. As a result, Matthews has developed a base of scientific and medical knowledge that is rare in the legal profession, especially in regard to pharmaceutical litigation.

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Focus: Personal Injury Claims & Litigation

Education: South Texas College of Law (J.D.); University of Wisconsin at Madison (B.A.) | Certification: Texas Legal Board of Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law | Affiliations: Member of the Texas Bar Foundation, Houston Bar Association, American Bar Association, Texas Trial Lawyer Association and more.

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D AV I D P. M AT T E W S ,

Matthews & Associates

William E. Ryan

LAW OFFICE OF WILLIAM E. RYAN

3801 Kirby Drive, Suite 654 | Houston, Texas 77098 | t (713) 520-0073 | ryanattorney.com

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illiam E. (Bill) Ryan is a distinguished Houston lawyer who understands going the distance and succeeding. Bill Ryan grew up in the Montrose area of Houston and competed in junior high and high school track. As a teammate and individual competitor Ryan competed in many track events. In particular, he succeeded in the half-mile run – often considered the most difficult running event in track competition. The half-mile is too short for distance runners who rely on stamina, and too long for sprint runners who dash for speed. The half-mile run requires an athlete with both stamina and speed. As an athlete and student, Ryan focused on these qualities of endurance and quickness, which today translate into success for his Houston law firm. Ryan reflects that, “You cannot pace yourself, in the half-mile, you go as hard as you can then sustain for the distance.” The half-mile run is in a special class – like attorney Bill Ryan, a 5th generation Houston attorney. Even with his ambitious and tenacious spirit, a conversation with Ryan reveals that he is approachable, patient and a good listener. He practices civil appellate litigation and represents consumers in personal injury, professional malpractice, business and commercial litigation, real estate and general civil litigation. Ryan accepts cases in a number of areas of specialty, but the area he finds most rewarding is appellate litigation. In civil appellate litigation Ryan engages in appeals, representing both appellant and appellee, based on summary judgments, bench trials and jury verdicts. In particular, Ryan provides appellate services to other trial attorneys who do not concentrate in this critical aspect of litigation. His work includes: • Drafting and arguing summary judgment motions and responses. • Reviewing and revising expert reports in medical malpractice cases. • Responding to Motions to Dismiss in medical malpractice cases. • Representation in appeals from a granting or a denial of a Motion to Dismiss in medical malpractice cases. Ryan notes that “appellate work requires a specific skillset and application that is very rewarding for the attorney.” Ryan reflects that appellate work is lengthy and requires significant research and writing; whereas, trial law requires more work in court appearance and argument. With these distinctions Ryan notes the importance of understanding an attorney’s attributes and practice focus when choosing a trial or appellate attorney. Ryan has the capacity and expertise for both trial and appellate work, as

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

evidenced by his education, training and skillset. In Ryan’s civil litigation practice he tries cases in state courts in areas of business and commercial law, real estate law, personal injury, and professional malpractice. His business and commercial litigation practice encompass disputes arising in every aspect of business and commercial relations. In his personal injury practice Ryan represents plaintiffs who have been injured in accidents due to the negligence or wrongful acts of another party. Ryan’s educational journey includes a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Texas, a Master’s in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin and a law degree from the South Texas College of Law, where he graduated first in his class in 1982. In July of 1982 Ryan scored 2nd highest (tied) on the Texas Bar Association Exam with a score of 93 out of a possible 100 points; note that the required score to pass is 75. During law school, Ryan embarked on a legal career with a clerk position in his father’s firm, Kelley & Ryan. In 1981 he clerked for a year at Vinson & Elkins; then was hired as an attorney at Vinson & Elkins when he graduated from law school. Ryan left V&E and was employed by Dobson, Babcock & Scofield where he worked until opening his practice - The Law Offices of William E. Ryan. Ryan compliments these firms for his experience as “the foundation of his career.” However, the substantive credit is Ryan’s who today enjoys his successful practice since 1986. Bill Ryan is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law since 1996, and Civil Appellate Law since 1992. From 2 generations of 14 children, 10 were attorneys. Ryan, like his father is a brilliant and accomplished trial and appellate litigator; Ryan’s father practiced law for over 50 years. Ryan says he learned some of the fundamental lessons of how to practice law as a child while listening to conversation around the dining room table. Upon graduation from high school, Ryan received best student awards for both science and history. One of Ryan’s most memorable impressions is of a legal case he read while in law school. Although, names were not mentioned in the book, the ingenuity of this one particular lawyer who had lost his case at the Court of Appeals but won at the Texas Supreme Court stood out to him. After a conversation with his Dad Ryan realized that the case was his father’s. ✹ “For me this was a life changing moment. A time when I knew this was my destiny.” – WILLIAM RYAN

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“Appellate work requires a specific skillset and application that is very rewarding.” W I L L I A M E . R YA N

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Brown Brown & Reynolds 6565 West Loop S Ste. 115 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-334-2667 brownreynolds.com Law Office of Artiquewa Warren 5555 W Loop S Houston, Texas 77002 713 993-9990 Law Office of Brian Jensen 6750 West Loop S Ste. 800 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-224-5500 bjensenlaw.com Law Office of Laura Rodriguez 5909 West Loop South Ste. 630 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713 378-0229 attorneyrodriguez.com Waldman & Smallwood 4545 Bissonnet St.Ste.294 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-552-9111 waldmansmallwood.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN

Beirne Maynard & Parsons 1300 Post Oak Boulevard Ste. 2500 Houston, Texas 77056 713-623-0887 bmpllp.com Goforth Geren Easterling 4900 Woodway Ste. 750 Houston, Texas 77056 713-650-0022 goforthlewis.com Houssiere Durant & Houssiere Ste. 800 1990 Post Oak Boulevard Houston, Texas 77056 713-626-3700 hdhtex.com Fitts Zehl Law Firm 2700 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 1120 Houston, Texas 77056 713-491-6064 fittszehl.com Fleming & Associates 1330 Post Oak Boulevard Houston, Texas 77056 713-621-7944 fleming-law.com Exclusive Back Cover Feature, backcover The Freeman Law Firm, P.C. 1770 St. James Place, Suite 120, Houston, TX 77056 713-973-1000 thefreemanlawfirm.com

Neese Law Firm 1717 St. James Place Ste. 680 Houston, Texas 77056 713 355-1200 johnneeselaw.com Shepherd Scott Clawater & Houston 2777 Allen Parkway 7th Floor Houston, Texas 77019 713-650-6600 sschlaw.com Tekell Book Allen & Morris 1221 McKinney Houston, Texas 77010 713-222-9542 tekellbook.com The Buchanan Law Office 2020 Southwest Freeway Ste. 222 Houston, Texas 77098 713 936-0783 thebuchananlawoffice.com The Doan Law Firm 1 Riverway Ste. 2055 Houston, Texas 77056 713-869-4747 houston-injury.com IN THE LOOP Coats Rose Yale Ryman & Lee 3 Greenway Plaza Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77046 713-651-0111 coatsrose.com Pearson and Pearson 2900 Weslayan Ste. 580 Houston, Texas 77027 713 739-8600 pearsonandpearson-law.com Stevenson & Murray 24 East Greenway Plaza Ste. 750 Houston, Texas 77046 713-622-3223 johnstevensonlaw.com Terry & Thweatt 1 Greenway Plaza Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77046 713-600-4710 terrythweatt.com Two Page Appellate Feature Article, p. 76 William E. Ryan Law Office 3801 Kirby Dr. Ste. 654 Houston, Texas 77098 713-520-0073 attorneyryan.com

Catastrophic Injury Expert, p. 72 Walker & Crawford 1924 Portsmouth Street Houston, Texas 77098 713-552-1117 walkertexaslawyer.com DOWNTOWN Abraham Watkins Nichols Sorrels Agosto & Friend 800 Commerce St Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-7211 abrahamwatkins.com Arnold & Itkin 1401 McKinney Street Houston, Texas 77010 866-222-2606 lawyerforyou.com Berg & Androphy 3704 Travis Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-529-5622 bafirm.com Blizzard McCarthy & Nabers 440 Louisiana Ste. 1710 Houston, Texas 77002 713-844-3750 blizzardlaw.com Branch Law Firm 808 Travis St.Ste. 1553 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-1500 branchlawfirm.com Brian White & Associates 405 Main Street Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-4878 attorneybrianwhite.com

Clark Burnett Love and Lee 440 Louisiana Ste.1600 Houston, Texas 77002 888-529-5222 triallawfirm.com Cohen Gorman & Putnam 1010 Lamar St. Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-0628 cgp-law.com Connelly Baker Wotring 600 Travis Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-980-1717 connellybaker.com Cooper & Scully 700 Louisiana Ste. 3850 Houston, Texas 713-236-6800 cooperscully.com Ebanks Taylor Horne 1301 McKinney Street Ste. 2700 Houston, Texas 77010 281-617-1377 ethlaw.com Farrar & Ball 1010 Lamar St. Ste. 1600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-221-8300 fbtrial.com Friend & Associates 1001 Fannin St. Ste. 725 Houston, Texas 77002 713-650-0024 friendassoclaw.com Gibbs & Bruns 1100 Louisiana St. Ste. 5300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-650-8805 gibbsbruns.com

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Personal Injury Expert, p. 68 Altenbern & Associates One Riverway 777 Post Oak Lane Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77056 713-961-8012 attorneyaltenbern.com

Mostyn Law Firm 3810 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77027 713 861-6616 mostynlaw.com

Robert Woods WOODS LAW FIRM, P.C. 2016 Main, Suite 111 Houston, Texas 77002 t (713) 651-1115  attorneyrobertwoods.com

Donato Minx & Brown 3200 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 2310 Houston, Texas 77027 713-877-1112 donatominxbrown.com Exclusive Personal Injury article, p. 65 Gallagher Law Firm 2905 Sackett Street Houston, Texas 77098 713-222-8080 gallagher-law-firm.com

Hicks Thomas 700 Louisiana Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77002 713 547-9100 hicks-thomas.com

Two Page Appellate Feature Article, p. 74 Matthews & Associates 2905 Sackett Street Houston, Texas 77098 713-522-5250 thematthewslawfirm.com dpmlawfirm.com

Jim S. Adler and Associates 3D/International Tower Houston, Texas 77027 800-505-1414 jimadler.com

McKinney & McKinney 550 Westcott St. Ste. 590 Houston, Texas 77007 713-869-1500 piattorney.com

Maadani Law Firm 6430 Richmond, Ave Ste. 480-1 Houston, Texas 77057 713 782-5353 attorneymaadani.com

Miller Scamardi & Carrabba 6525 Washington Avenue Houston, Texas 77007 713-861-3595 millerscamardi.com

Attorney Robert L. Woods understands how to build and defend cases. He spent over 20 years in the field of law enforcement with the Houston Police Department, developing first-hand knowledge and skills in determining liability and pursuing justice. He founded The Woods Law Firm in 2005, and now uses those skills in the courtroom to protect and defend the rights of his clients. He works quickly to establish liability and aggressively pursues justice for his clients. Through the Woods Law Firm, Robert Woods represents individuals and families encountering personal injury crisis or facing criminal charges. He has dedicated his life to serve Texans and uphold the law. Featured in the June 2008 issue of H Texas Magazine, Attorney Robert L. Woods has earned the respect of the Houston community. | Education: Graduate of FBI National Academy; Sam Houston University, B.A.; South College of Texas, J.D. | Affiliations: Member of the Texas Bar Association and Houston Bar Association

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

Harrison Bettis Staff McFarland & Weems 1415 Louisiana Street 37th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-965-7622 harrisonbettis.com

Sedgwick Detert Moran & Arnold 1111 Bagby St. Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-658-9111 sdma.com

Heard Robins Cloud & Lubel 500 Dallas Ste. 3100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-650-1200 texas-mesothelioma-lawyers.com

Shipley Snell Montgomery 1001 Fannin St. Ste. 4600 Houston, Texas 77002 713 -652-5920 ssmllp.com

Holm Bambace 1010 Lamar St. Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-652-9700 lawhbm.com

Steinberg Law Firm 3200 Travis Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-529-0025 thesteinberglawfirm.com

Irelan Hargis 440 Louisiana St. Ste. 1800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-7666 irelanhargis.com

The Bilek Law Firm 808 Travis St. Ste. 802 Houston, Texas 77002 713-227-7720 bileklaw.com

Jamail & Kolius 500 Dallas St. Ste. 3434 Houston, Texas 77002 713-651-3000

The Buzbee Law Firm 600 Travis St. Ste. 7300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-5393 txattorneys.com

Jedediah Moffett 1010 Lamar Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-333-5800 moffettpc.com

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Kingsmill Riess 801 Travis St. Ste. 2175 Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-6950 kingsmillriess.com Lagarde Law Firm 1004 Congress St. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77002 713-993-0660 lagardelaw.com Lapin & Landa 500 Jefferson St. Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-4400 lapinlanda.com Law Offices of Alexander M. Gurevich 3401 Houston, Avenue Houston, Texas 77009 713-224-9600 houstonattorney.net Law Offices of Christopher J. Lowman 500 Dallas Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-752-0777 lowmanlaw.com Law Office of Walker W. Beavers 3030 Two Houston, Center Ste. 909 Houston, Texas 77010 713-669-1499 Martin Disiere Jefferson & Wisdom 808 Travis Street Ste. 1800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-632-1700 mdjwlaw.com McKool Smith 600 Travis St. Ste. 7000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-485-7300 mckoolsmith.com Michael P. Fleming and Associates 440 Louisiana Ste. 1920 Houston, Texas 77002 713-221-6800 flemingattorneys.com Royston Rayzor & Vickery 1001 McKinney St. Ste. 1100 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-8380 roystonlaw.com Schirrmeister Diaz-Arrastia Brem 700 Milam St. Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77002 281-940-2311 sdablaw.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

The Callahan Law Firm 440 Louisiana Street Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-9000 thecallahanlawfirm.com The Cochran Firm 1001 Texas Avenue Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-572-9999 cochranfirm.com The Kahn Law Firm 1314 Texas Ste. 1012 Houston, Texas77002 713-226-9900 kahnlawyers.com Tracey Law Firm 440 Louisiana St. Ste. 901 Houston, Texas 77002 713-495-2333 traceylawfirm.com Tyler Flood & Associates 405 Main Street Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-4394 tylerflood.com Vinson & Elkins 1001 Fannin St. Ste. 2300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-758-2222 velaw.com Vujasinovic & Beckcom 1001 Texas Ave Ste. 1020 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-7800 maritimeaccidentattorney.com Waldman Law Firm 1415 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-400-4966 houstonpersonalinjurylawyerstevewaldman.com Willingham Fultz & Cougill 808 Travis St. Ste. 1608 Houston, Texas 77002 713-333-7600 willingham-law.com Willis & Associates 1221 Mckinney St. Ste. 3333 Houston, Texas 77010 713-227-9732 texastriallawyer.com Personal Injury/Criminal article, p. 79 Woods Law Firm 2016 Main St.Ste. 111 Houston, Texas 77002 713-651-1115 attorneyrobertwoods.com

GREATER HEIGHTS

RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS

Grossman Law Firm 811 Heights Blvd. Houston, Texas 77007 855-257-1111 personalinjurylawyersofhouston.com

Brown & Kornegay 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 997 Houston, Texas 77019 713-528-3700 bkllp.com

Law Office of Waverly R. Nolley 540 Heights Boulevard Ste.200 Houston, Texas 77007 713-880-2255 hurricaneinsurancelawyer.com

Funderburk & Funderburk 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77019 713-526-1801 ffllp.com

Norris & Cantu 516 Heights Boulevard Houston, Texas 77007 713 222-2007 norriscantulaw.com

Shepherd Scott Clawater & Houston 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 7th Houston, Texas 77019 713-650-6600 sschlaw.com

Ogden Gibson Broocks Longoria & Hall 711 Louisiana Houston, Texas 77002 713-844-3000 ogwbl.com

The Shelton Law Firm 2777 Allen Parkway Houston, Texas 77019 713-807-0700 msheltonlaw.com

Patterson 4309 Yoakum Boulevard Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77006 713-874-6444 petepattersonlaw.com

Tramonte Law Firm 2727 Allen Pkwy Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77019 713-529-0600 tramontelaw.com

Smith and Hassler 1445 N. Loop West Ste.700 Houston, Texas 77008 713-739-1250 smithandhassler.com

Ware Jackson Lee & Chambers 2929 Allen Pkwy Ste. 42 Houston, Texas 77019 713-659-6400 warejackson.com

MIDTOWN/MONTROSE Ammons Law Firm 3700 Montrose Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-523-1606 ammonslaw.com Antonelli Harrington & Thompson 4200 Montrose Blvd. Ste. 430 Houston, Texas 77006 713-581-3000 ahtlawfirm.com Hagans Burdine Montgomery & Rustay 3200 Travis 4th Floor Houston, Texas 77006 713-222-2700 hagans-law.com Kennedy Hodges & Solomon 3701 Kirby Drive Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77098 713-523-0001 kennedyhodges.com Laminack Pirtle & Martines 5020 Montrose Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-292-2750 lpm-triallaw.com The Law Offices of Howard L. Nations 4515 Yoakum Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-807-8400 howardnations.com Matthiesen & Associates 511 Lovett Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-877-8522 matthiesenlaw.com McDowell Wells 511 Lovett Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006 713-655-9595 houstontrialattorneys.com Schechter McElwee Shaffer & Harris 3200 Travis Street 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77006 713-524-3500 smslegal.com Thomas & Wan 1710 Sunset Boulevard Houston, Texas 77005 713-529-1177 thomasandwan.com

NORTH Doyen Sebesta 450 Gears Road Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77067 713-580-8900 ds-lawyers.com Gary S. Tucker & Associates 650 N Sam Houston Pkwy E Houston, Texas 77060 281-445-5777 garystucker.com Richard J. Presutti Law Office 525 N Sam Houston Pkwy E Ste. 255 Houston, Texas 77060 281-260-6825 presuttilaw.com CONROE Stephen D. Jackson Law Offices 215 Simonton Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-5744 stevejacksonlaw.com Simonsen & Associates 220 N. Thompson Street Ste. 204 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-760-3299 thesoutheasttexasattorney.com The Owen Law Firm 401 W. Davis Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-5800 theowenlawfirm.net THE WOODLANDS Drucker Rutledge & Smith 10003 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 225 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-3515 drs-llp.com Law Office of Gerald E. Bourqe and Morgan Bourque 24 Waterway Avenue Ste. 660 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 832-813-0999 thehometownlawyer.com The Shea Law Firm 2002 Timberloch Place The Woodlands, Texas 77393 832-426-3913 shealawonline.com

SPRING Grossman & Waldman 25211 Grogans Mill Road Ste. 120 Spring, Texas 77380 281-367-3330 Kemp Law Firm 26314 Oak Ridge Drive Spring, Texas 77380 281-681-2600 kemplawfirm.com The Pettus Law Firm 5523 Louetta Road Spring, Texas 77379 281-257-8300 pettus18wheelerattorney.com NORTHWEST CHAMPIONS/CYPRESS Derek Obialo 13050 Champions Park Drive Ste.601 Houston, Texas 77069 713-894-0136 obialo.com Dennis R. Mundy Lawyer 311 Holderrieth Boulevard Tomball, Texas 77375 281-357-5297 omtexaslaw.com Doyen Sebesta 450 Gears Road Ste. 350 Houston, Texas 77067 713-580-8900 houston-attorney.biz

Gregory P. Lee & Associates 3934 FM Road 1960 West Ste.300 Houston, Texas 77068 281-820-5050 leeinjurylaw.com O'Donnell Ferebee Medley Keise 450 Gears Road Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77067 281-875-8200 ofmklaw.com Riddle Butts & Akiens 4201 FM 1960 Rd W Ste. 550 Houston, Texas 77068 281-537-7110 rbafirm.com The Baumgartner Law Firm 6711 FM 1960 W Houston, Texas 77069 281-587-1111 texastriallawyers.com The Lanier Law Firm 6810 FM 1960 Rd. W Houston, Texas 77069 713-659-5200 lanierlawfirm.com

KINGWOOD/HUMBLE Grossman & Waldman 19747 Highway 59 N Ste. 400 Humble, Texas 77338 281-446-1124 Power Law Firm 20202 Highway 59 N Ste. 170 Humble, Texas 77338 281-540-3330 thepowerlawfirm.com EAST BAYTOWN Alfred Flores Jr. & Associates Law 3017 North Main Street Baytown, Texas 77521 281-422-4299

Wilhite & Lea 17101 Kuykendahl Road Houston, Texas 77068 281-537-2171 civilattorneyhouston.com TOMBALL Olivier & Mundy 311 Holderrieth Blvd. Tomball, Texas 77375 281-357-5297 omtexaslaw.com Troup & Bruce 211 Florence Tomball, Texas 77375 281-516-1100 troupbruce.com

The Duke Firm 4706 Sunny Trail Court Sugar Land, Texas 77479 888 314-5720 localzoomlawyer.com

MEMORIAL/TOWN AND COUNTRY

The Leon Law Firm 1 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Ste. 980 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-980-4529 theleonlawfirm.com

Brothers Sepulveda & Alvarado 820 Gessner Ste. 1075 Houston, Texas 77024 713-337-0750 brothers-law.com Boswell & Hallmark 908 Town and Country Blvd. Ste.200 Houston, Texas 77024 713-650-1600 Fitzhugh Elliott & Ammerman 12727 Kimberley Lane Houston, Texas 77024 713-465-7395 fitzhugh.net

Craig Muessig Law Offices 3500 North Main Street Baytown, Texas 77521 281-427-1111

Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec 800 Town & Country Blvd. 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77024 281-643-2000 injurylawyerhouston.com

Linebaugh Law Firm 1300 Rollingbrook St. Ste. 601 Baytown, Texas 77521 281-422-0505 linebaughlaw.com

Lorenz & Carter 10575 Katy Fwy. Ste. 425 Houston, Texas 77024 713-464-2550

WEST Marc Whitehead & Associates 5300 Memorial Dr. Ste. 725 Houston, Texas 77007 713-228-8888 personal-injurylawyer.com Maritime Expert, p. 70 The Law Office of Reginald McKamie Sr. 1210 Antoine Drive Houston, Texas 77055 713-263-9253 mckamie.com Simmons & Fletcher 9821 Katy Fwy. Ste. 925 Houston, Texas 77024 713-932-0777 simmonsandfletcher.com Terry Bryant 8584 Katy Freeway Ste.100 Houston, Texas 77024 713-973-8888 terrybryant.com The Law Offices of Hugh J. Howerton 13030 Rummel Creek Houston, Texas 77079 713-984-9848 hughhowerton.com The Law Offices off Sergio A. Trevino 4901 Irvington Boulevard Houston, Texas 77009 713-694-8818 houstontexasattorney.com SHARPSTOWN

Thompson Law Firm 14405 Walters Rd. Ste. 520 Houston, Texas 77014 281-893-8841 lawthompson.com

Sanchez Law Firm 7324 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 1088 Houston, Texas 77074 713 780-7745 sanchezlawfirm.com

Blaine A. Tucker 8303 Southwest Freeway Ste. 810 Houston, Texas 77074 713-771-5453 tuckerinjurylawyer.com Heard & Medack 9494 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77074 713-772-6400 heardmedackpc.com Phillip Brantley & Associates 7324 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 1020 Houston, Texas 77074 713-270-4053 phillipbrantley.com Roger G. Jain & Associates 7322 Southwest Fwy. Ste.1100 Houston, Texas 77074 713-981-0600 rogergjain.com

Midani Hinkle & Cole 10497 Town and Country Way Ste. 530 Houston, Texas 77024 281-474-4055 mhclaw.net Pappas & Suchma 818 Town & Country Blvd. Ste.400 Houston, Texas 77024 713-914-6200 pappas-suchma.com KATY Carpenter & Carpenter 322 Brooks Street Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-565-5900 carpentercarpenter.com Ivey Law Firm 11111 Katy Freeway Ste. 580 Houston, Texas 77079 713-225-0015 iveylawfirmpc.com Lovett & Thompson 11211 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77079 713 463-5038 The Law Offices of Hugh J. Howerton 13030 Rummel Creek Houston, Texas 77079 713-984-9848 hughhowerton.com WEST/SOUTHWEST Filteau & Sullivan 2616 South Loop West Ste. 655 Houston, Texas 77054 713-236-1400 litigation-houston.com SUGAR LAND/STAFFORD Larry W. Harrison 1 Sugar Creek Ctr. Blvd. Ste. 1020 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-491-1300 larryharrison.com Reed and Terry 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-491-5000 reedterry.com The Bogdan Law Firm 4910 Wright Road Ste. 190 Stafford Texas 77477 281 903-7495 bogdanlawfirm.com

ROSENBERG/RICHMOND Karen H. Meinardus 800 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-5689 kmeinarduslaw.com The Kelly Law Firm 305 FM 359 Ste. A Richmond, Texas 77406 713-255-2055 kellylawfirm.org SOUTH/SOUTHEAST Ardoin Law Firm 12727 Featherwood Dr. Ste.108 Houston, Texas 77034 281-922-7500 lawfirminhouston-carwrecks.com Brian Loncar & Associates 12600 Featherwood Dr. Ste. 450 Houston, Texas 77034 713-957-4878 brianloncar.com Ogletree Abbott Law Firm 12600 N. Featherwood Dr. Ste.200 Houston, Texas 77034 713-223-1234 ogletreeabbott.com The Kirklin Law Firm 12600 North Featherwood Dr. Ste. 225 Houston, Texas 77034 713-571-8300 kirklinlawfirm.com Williams Kherker 8441 Gulf Freeway Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77017 713-230-2200 williamsbailey.com

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Gregory A. Martin Attorney 3934 FM 1960 West Ste.345 Houston, Texas 77068 281-893-0777 gmartinlawfirm.com

NORTHEAST

BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE Alexander Law Firm 711 W Bay Area Blvd. Ste. 400 Webster, Texas 77598 713-237-0707 injuryattorney.com Camberg Law Firm 17225 El Camino Real Ste. 444 Houston, Texas 77058 281-486-6900 camberglawfirm.com Gary Lee 1335 Space Park Drive Houston, Texas 77058 281 335-0015 garyleeattorney.com Gay & Reitz 1331 Gemini St. Ste. 290 Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-7001 gayreitz.com Greg Hill 1110 Nasa Parkway Ste. 601 Houston, Texas 77058 281 335-4780 greghill.biz Ibrahim & Elliott 1120 Nasa Parkway Ste.110 Houston, Texas 77058 281-333-3060 ielaw.cc

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

John K. Zaid & Associates 1350 Nasa Parkway Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77058 281-333-8959 zaidlaw.com Pinkerton Law Firm 711 W Bay Area Blvd. Ste. 410 Webster, Texas 77598 281-332-2002 chadpinkerton.com PASADENA Charles D. Adams 7930 Broadway Ste.106 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-4151 cdadamslaw.com Law Office of George D Reyes 514 Pasadena, Boulevard Pasadena, Texas 77506 713-920-2888 georgedreyes.com Law Office of James Zier 9330 Broadway Ste. 304 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-3377 jameszierlaw.com Sturm Law Firm 2420 South Grand Blvd. Pearland, Texas 77581 281-485-2011 sturmlawfirm.com

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Terence J. Anderson 1405 Palm Street Houston, Texas 77004 713 522-6886

The J.D. Wilson Law Firm 9307 Broadway Ste. 328 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-557-6406 jdwilsonlaw.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

FRIENDSWOOD

DICKINSON

Daly Hill 1506 Winding Way Drive Ste.203 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-482-8500 thedalylawfirm.com

Kerry Neves Law Offices 225 FM 517 Rd W Ste. 100 Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-5414

The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd 312 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-992-8633 altontodd.com LEAGUE CITY Apffel Law Firm 1406 W Main St. Ste. C League City, Texas 77573 28-332-7800 apffellaw.com Dupuy & Associates 2600 South Shore Boulevard Ste.300 League City, Texas 77573 281-668-9121 southshorelegal.com The Krist Law Firm 2600 South Shore Blvd. Ste. 120 League City, Texas 77573 281-283-8500 kristlaw.com

M. Bruce Fort 314 FM Road 517 West Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-2539 TEXAS CITY Aldous Law Firm 11959 FM 1764 Santa Fe, Texas 77510 409-392-1394 autoaccidenttx.com Burwell Nebout 1501 North Amburn Road Texas City, Texas 77591 409-945-0660 burwell-nebout.com Hagood Neumann & Huckeba 622 5th Ave Texas City, Texas 77590 409-945-5757 hagoodneumannandhuckeba.com GALVESTON

Tylka Law Firm 1104 E Main Street League City, Texas 77573 281 557-15002 tylkalawfirm.com

Arguello Hope & Associates 2313 Strand Galveston, Texas 77550 409-497-4574 simplyjustice.com

Worrich Law Firm 2600 South Shore Blvd. Ste.300 League City, Texas 77573 281-245-3368 worrichlaw.com

Doyle Raizner 2417 Market St. Ste. 106 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-765-1750 doyleraizner.com

Midani & Associates 1707 23rd Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-1627 mhclaw.net Robert Moore & Associates 7511 Broadway Street Galveston, Texas 77554 409-737-5125 bobmoorelaw.com Torres & Faus 1009 44th Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2978 torresandfaus.com

REAL ESTATE/ CONSTRUCTION LAW Real Estate/Construction Law is a broad legal area covering federal statutes and a combination of state statutes and common law dealing with real estate, real property, property rights and interests, buying and selling real property, homeowner’s rights, landlords and rental property, renters’ and tenants’ rights, and much more. It governs personal interests in property, such as rights of ownership, establishing property title, requirements in sales and transfers of property, and settlement of claims against property. Real estate law also covers property development, agricultural concerns, zoning and property land use, real estate lending, and foreclosures.

WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF HIRING A REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY?

Having an attorney represent your interests isn't a legal requirement. But without one, you increase your chances of being sued by the opposing party for failure to disclose certain information. That is because an attorney's job is to review the home and/or property inspection and make certain that all relevant facts about the property (as well as any judgments or defects) are made known to the other party. PRACTICE AREAS Contracts Addressing Liens Property Transfers Filings Development and New construction Foreclosures

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Jay S. Ginsburg 4545 Bissonnet Street Ste. 291 Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-665-2181 jayginsburglaw.com Melamed Richard 6750 West Loop S Ste. 615 Bellaire, Texas77401 713-839-8800 richardmelamed.com Wagoner Burgert 5202 Spruce Street Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-668-8266 wagonerlaw.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Cohen & Small 2700 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 950 Houston, Texas 77056 713-961-5274 cohensmall.com

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Frank V. Ghiselli Jr. 1177 West Loop S. Ste. 1650 Houston, Texas 77027 713-623-4220 ghisellilaw.com Jones Gillaspia and Loyd 1300 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 830 Houston, Texas 77056 713-225-9000 jgl-law.com Katine & Nechman 1111 North Loop West Ste. 180 Houston, Texas 77008 713-568-3323 lawkn.com M D Gibson & Associates 5120 Woodway Dr. Ste. 8002 Houston, Texas 77056 713-965-9800 mdgibson.com Nathan Sommers Jacobs 2800 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 6100 Houston, Texas 77056 713-960-0303 nathansommers.com Rhem Golvach 2700 Post Oak Blvd. Ste. 950 Houston, Texas 77056 713-652-2144 rhemgolvach.co m Roberts Markel 2800 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, Texas 77056 713-840-1666 robertsmarkel.com Ross Banks May Cron & Cavin 2 Riverway Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77056 713-626-1200 rossbanks.com Stephenson Snokhous & Fournier 4544 Post Oak Place Ste. 378 Houston, Texas 77027 713-629-9494 stephensonlaw.com The Weaver Law Firm 1800 Bering Dr. Ste. 305 Houston, Texas 77057 713-572-4900 weaverlawyers.com IN THE LOOP Adair & Myers 3120 Southwest Freeway Ste. 320 Houston, Texas 77098 713-568-1397 am-law.com

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

Del Valle Law Firm 2211 Norfolk Street Ste. 517 Houston, Texas 77098 713-797-0694 delvallelawfirm.com

Thompson & Knight 333 Clay St. Ste. 3300 Houston, Texas 77002 713-654-8111 tklaw.com

Frazier & Frazier 2339 University 4th Floor Houston, Texas 77005 713-655-7100 frazierlawhouston.com

Wilson Cribbs & Goren 2500 Fannin Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-222-9000 wcglaw.com

Havins & Associates 2211 Norfolk Ste. 525 Houston, Texas 77098 (713) 650-3600

GREATER HEIGHTS

Hlavinka & Associates 2044 Bissonnet Street Houston, Texas 77005 713-521-1335 houstonwillslawyers.com Porter Powers 50 Briar Hollow Ln. Ste. 105W Houston, Texas 77027 713-533-1499 porterpowers.com DOWNTOWN Andrews Kurth 600 Travis Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-220-4200 andrewskurth.com Baker Hostetler 1000 Louisiana Ste. 2000 Houston, Texas 77002 713-751-1600 bakerlaw.com Frank Elmore Lievens Chesney & Turret 808 Travis St. Ste. 2600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-224-9400 Godwin Pappas Ronquillo 5 Houston Center 1401 McKinney Ste. 2700 Houston, Texas 77010 713-425-7400 gwglaw.wld.com Hughes Watters Askanase 333 Clay 29th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-759-0818 hwa.com See Special Advertisment, p. 8 Jones Walker JPMorgan Chase Tower 600 Travis Ste. 6601 Houston, Texas 77002 713.437.1800 joneswalker.com Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell 600 Travis Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-226-1200 lockelord.com Liskow & Lewis 1001 Fannin Street Ste. 1800 Houston, Texas 77002 713-651-2900 liskow.com Minor & Bair 808 Travis St Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-8585 minorbairlaw.com Prine Law Firm 4606 FM 1960 Rd W Houston, Texas 77069 281-397-0000 lawprine.com Smith Murdaugh Little & Bonham 1100 Louisiana St. Ste. 400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-652-6500

CONROE B.D. Griffin 2040 N Loop 336W Ste. 314 Conroe, Texas 77304 936-539-6936 griffinrealestatelaw.com Bays & Bays 1503 Hailey Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-760-7670 baysandbays.com

Muller Matthew 5225 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77007 713-227-1888 litigationlawyerhouston.com

Darden Fowler and Creighton 414 West Phillips St. Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-3337 dfcllp.com

Sarah Grimm 632 West 20th Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-880-8445 grimmlawfirm.com

Foster Madeley 300 W Davis St. Ste. 403 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-8851

MONTROSE/MIDTOWN AREA Evans & Fair 2103 Commonwealth Avenue Houston, Texas 77006 713-523-7191 evanslawoffice.com Kim G. Yelton 1714 California St Houston, Texas 77006 713-942-8575 kimyeltonlawfirm.com Terrance P. Bagott Law Office 820 Richmond, Ave Houston, Texas 77006 713-529-2727 Business Law Expert, p. 16 Vethan Law Firm 3501 Allen Parkway Houston, Texas 77019 713-526-2222 vwtexlaw.com RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS Andrews Myers 3900 Essex Lane Ste. 800 Houston, Texas 77027 713-581-8289 andrewsmeyer.com Brian Scott Carr 2425 West Loop S. Ste. 745 Houston, Texas 77027 713-521-4422 carrlegal.com Crady Jewett & McCulley 2727 Allen Parkway Ste. 1700 Houston, Texas 77019 713-739-7007 cjmlaw.com Michael S. Burg 2008 West McKinney Houston, Texas 77019 713-627-8885 Siegmyer Oshman & Bissinger 2777 Allen Parkway 10th Floor Houston, Texas 77019 713-524-8811 bizlawhouston.com NORTH Evans Kosut Davidson 616 FM 1960 West Ste. 530 Houston, Texas 77090 281-876-6000 ekklaw.com Green & Mathews 14550 Torrey Chase Blvd. Ste. 245 Houston, Texas 77014 281-469-9645 Thompson Law Firm 14405 Walters Road 520 Houston, Texas 77014 281-893-8841 lawthompson.com

Green & Green 104 West Davis Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-4545 Rice Rice & Rice 3003 W Davis St Conroe, Texas 77304 936-539-9600 Stewart & Stewart 402 W Phillips St. Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-1196 THE WOODLANDS Drucker Rutledge & Smith Waterway Plaza One 10003 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 225 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-3515 drs-llp.com Goodwin & Harrison 327 Rayford Rd Ste. 110 Spring, Texas 77386 281-363-3136 goodwin-harrison.com Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell Fereby Medley & Keiser 1525 Lake Front Circle The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-681-3111 ofmklaw.com Orgain Bell & Tucker 10077 Grogan's Mill Road Ste. 500 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-296-8877 obt.com SPRING Boltz Law 1400 Woodloch Forest Dr. Spring, Texas 77380 832-381-3070 boltzlaw.com Cheryl Crandall Tangen 25511 Budde Rd. Ste. 201 Spring, Texas 77380 281-296-2881 tangenlaw.com Daniel J. Hoffman & Associate 719 Sawdust Rd Spring, Texas 77380 281-367-9550 G. P. Matherne 602 Magic Oaks Dr. Spring, Texas 77388 713-827-1702 James B. Wesley 25025 Interstate 45 Ste. 410 Spring, Texas 77380 281-367-8930 See Special Advertisement, p. 8 Jones Walker 10001 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 350 Spring, Texas 77380 281-296-4428 joneswalker.com

Kemp Law Firm 26314 Oak Ridge Drive Spring, Texas 77380 281-681-2600 kemplawfirm.com NORTHWEST CHAMPIONS / FM 1960 Law Office of Keith 12345 Jones Road Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-7001 kdplaw.com Law Office of Troy M. Moore 12850 Jones Road Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-970-8039 troymmoore.com Lee Carroll 5222 FM 1960 W. Ste. 112 Houston, Texas 77069 281-440-1162 leecarrolllaw.com

Ronald D. Haddox 1215 N Pruett St Baytown, Texas 77520 281-422-0555

The David Hunter Law Firm 1600 Highway 6 Ste. 450 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-265-1515

Mary Ann Ryemon 2800 East Broadway C-330 Pearland, Texas 77581 713-851-5112

Vaughn Davidson 5223 Garth Road Baytown, Texas 77521 281-421-5999 vaughndavidson.com

William Engelhaupt 12926 Dairy Ashford Rd Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-277-9872

LEAGUE CITY

RICHMOND / ROSENBERG WEST MEMORIAL / TOWN & COUNTRY Hanszen LaPorte 11767 Katy Freeway Ste. 1000 Houston, Texas 77079 713-522-9444 hanszenlaporte.com Holladay Mullens & Bray 12012 Wickchester Ln. Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77079 281-531-9977 KATY

Michael G. Tapp 12611 Jones Road Houston, Texas 77070 281-890-8277

Crane Donald M 810 S Mason Rd Ste. 350 Katy, Texas 77450 281-392-6611

Nobles & Murphy 12850 Jones Rd Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-807-4400 noblesmurphy.com

Herzog & Carp 427 Mason Park Blvd. Katy, Texas 77450 713-781-7500

Clifton Dodson Sortino 500 W Main St. Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-4040 cdsTexas.com Rick Holloway 720 W Main St. Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-0700 NORTHEAST Elliott Heinlein & Jones 5010 FM 2100 Rd Ste. 201 Crosby, Texas 77532 281-328-6583

Levin & Atwood 20501 Katy Freeway Ste. 217 Katy, Texas 77450 281-579-6044 levinandatwood.com SHARPSTOWN P.J. Franklin 7322 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 700 Houston, Texas 77074 888-304-7303

HUMBLE/KINGWOOD

Schroeder Walthall 9999 Bellaire, Blvd. Ste. 3D Houston, Texas 77036 713-654-9100 shroederwalthall.com

Currin Wuest Mielke Paul & Knapp 1214-A Stonehollow Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-359-0100 cwmpk.com

The Wadhawan Law Firm 7324 Southwest Freeway Ste. 545 Houston, Texas 77074 713-777-5891 attorneytonywadhawan.com

Hubbard & Garrison Law Office 1306 Kingwood, Dr. Ste. B Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-7035 EAST BAYTOWN J. Milton Stewart 234 Cedar Bayou Rd Baytown, Texas 77520 281-427-5621 John C. Lefeber 1209 Decker Drive Ste. 214 Baytown, Texas 77520 281-427-9476 Larry L. Bailey 621 Schilling St. Baytown, Texas 77520 281-428-1055 larrybaileylaw.com Richard W. Park 1011 Polly St Baytown, Texas 77520 281-427-9494

WEST/SOUTHWEST SUGAR LAND / STAFFORD Ezeoke and Ezeoke 1810 Cravens Road Ste. C Stafford Texas 77477 281-499-0505 Ferrer & Tu 14019 Southwest Fwy. Ste 301 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 28-397-4600 ferrertulaw.com Law Office of Chikeersha Puvvada 14090 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-340-2077 puvvadalaw.com Law Office of Derick R. Smith. 4800 Sugar Grove Blvd. Ste. 101 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-579-8099 attorneydrsmith.com Nancy Arnt Law Offices 4800 Sugar Grove Blvd. Ste. 101 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-242-6199

Schwartz & Kalinowski 1821 Mons Ave Rosenberg, Texas 77471 281-342-2806 Tate Moerer & King 206 South 2nd Street Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-0077 tate-law.com SOUTH/SOUTHEAST BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE Bill De La Garza & Associates. 17050 El Camino Real Houston, Texas 77058 281-823-8377 billdelagarzapc.com Juist Fabio & Ward 17629 El Camino Real Ste. 405 Houston, Texas 77058 281-461-0300 juistpc.com Law Firm of Badeaux & Associates 16055 Space Center Blvd. Ste. 260 Houston, Texas 77062 281-486-4737 dedicatedlaw.net Waldron & Schneider 15150 Middlebrook Dr. Houston, Texas 77058 281-488-4438 ws-law.com PASADENA George D Reyes Law Office 514 Pasadena Boulevard Pasadena, Texas 77506 713-920-2888 georgedreyes.com Lester Rorick 4008 Vista Rd. Ste. A101 Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-947-8301 LA PORTE/DEER PARK Cindi L. Robison 444 W Pasadena, Blvd. Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-478-5297

Greer Herz & Adams 2525 South Shore Blvd. Ste. 203 League City, Texas 77573 281-480-5278 greerherz.com Marvin L. Rader & Associates 622 West Main Street League City, Texas 77573 281-332-1400 R. R. Rainosek 909 West Main St. Ste. 909a League City, Texas 77573 281-557-2323 rainoseklaw.com Steven Troy Parker 3027 Marina Bay Dr. Ste. 201 League City, Texas 77573 281-538-0500 DICKINSON/TEXAS CITY Carmen A. Graham 314 FM Road 517 West Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-4739

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TOMBALL

Justin D. Perryman 21720 Kingsland Blvd. Ste. 301 Katy, Texas 77450 281-589-2900

Law Offices of Craig J. Magenheim 2512 First Street Rosenberg, Texas 77471 281-344-2512

Fulton Law Firm 3027 Marina Bay Dr. League City, Texas 77573 281-316-0166 fultonlawfirm.com

Garth Wood 403 West Sealy Street Alvin, Texas 7751 281-331-5215 GALVESTON Gerson D. Bloom 1023 21st Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-6334 J. Michael Fieglein Law Offices 3305 75th Street Galveston, Texas 77551 409-765-7741 James Schweitzer Law Office 222 22nd St. Ste. 205 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-765-9632 Mc Fatridge Baker & Schmidt 2228 Ships Mechanic Row Ste. 220 Galveston, Texas 77550 713-629-7966 mbslawyer.com Mills Shirley 2228 Mechanic Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2341 millsshirley.com

R.T. Willis 114 Dixie Drive Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-542-9555 deerparklawyer.com FRIENDSWOOD James T. Fletcher Law Office 1414 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood Texas 77546-4831 281-648-7780 friendswoodlawyer.com PEARLAND Law Offices of Michael W. Gonzales 7930 Broadway St. Ste. 106 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-816-3777 gonzalesattorney.com

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES AND PROBATE LAW Wills & Probate Law In a will, a person or "testator" expresses, in writing, what he (or she) wants done with his property after he dies. Most states require wills to be signed by the testator and witnessed by two people. "Probate" is a court proceeding in which final debts are settled and legal title to property is formally passed from the deceased person or "decedent" to his heirs. Probate proceedings take place in the probate court or surrogate court in the county of the decedent's legal residence at the time of his death. If a person dies "intestate," meaning "without a will," state law determines how to distribute his property. Trusts and Estate Planning Law The law of trusts and estates is generally considered the body of law which governs the management of personal affairs and the disposition of property of an individual in anticipation of the event of such person's incapacity or death, also known as the law of successions in civil law. Its techniques are also used to fulfill the wishes of philanthropic bequests or gifts through the creation, maintenance and supervision of charitable trusts.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO HIRE AN ATTORNEY FOR YOUR ESTATE PLANNING, WILL, TRUSTS AND PROBATE MATTERS?

It is very important and quite a serious business matter. Three main reasons why you should obtain a Wills, Trust and Estate Lawyer: first, family estate lawyers are necessary since state laws rule estate plans, second without an Estate Lawyer, the Buyer must beware (ex: do it your-self forms donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always hold valid and often families are left with disappointment) and the final reason is estate lawyers can help sort out complex family or financial situations. PRACTICE AREAS Business Succession Planning Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Safeguard Plan

Estate Planning (Advanced or Special) Foundational Document Living Trusts

Power of Attorney Probate Trust Administration Wills

Listings CENTRAL BELLAIRE Wagoner Burgert 5202 Spruce St Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-668-8266 wagonerlaw.com Wright Abshire 4949 Bissonnet Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-660-9595 wrightabshire.com NEAR THE GALLERIA/UPTOWN Ford & Mathiason 5151 San Felipe Ste. 1950 Houston, Texas 77056 713-260-3926 fordmath.com

{ W ILLS, T RUST S, E STAT E , AN D P ROBAT E LAW IN DE X }

Jones Morris 2700 Post Oak N. Blvd. Ste. 1120 Houston, Texas 77056 713-589-5061 jonesmorris.com Law Offices of Charles A. Crocker 1770 St. James Place Ste. 601 Houston, Texas 77056 713-524-2181 charlesacrocker.com Law Offices of Omonzusi Imobioh 6250 Westpark Dr. Ste. 202 Houston, Texas 77057 832-566-2949 imobiohlawoffice.com McCulloch & Associates 5599 San Felipe Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77056 713-961-1099 elderlawhousing.com Nguyen Jazrawi & Chen 6150 Richmond, Avenue Ste. 227 Houston, Texas 77057 713-780-4982 njclaw.com Stephanie Mudgett Boates 5100 Westheimer Ste. 131 Houston, Texas 77056 281-584-0034 houstonprobatecounsel.com The Law Offices of Kennedy & Associates 5851 San Felipe St. Ste. 925 Houston, Texas 77057 713-893-1656 houstonestateplanning.com W. Timothy Weaver Attorney 1300 Post Oak Boulevard Ste. 777 Houston, Texas 77056 866-721-7036 houston-probatelawyer.com

Fabio & Merrill 12 East Greenway Plaza Ste. 101 Houston, Texas 77046 713-568-3341 fabioandmerrill.com Gina Bono Andrews 2323 South Shepherd 14th Floor Houston, Texas 77019 713-979-5566 Katine & Nechman 1111 N. Loop West Ste. 180 Houston, Texas 77008 713-568-3323 lawkn.com Law Office of Hayes & Wilson 2525 N. Loop West Ste. 125 Houston, Texas 77008 713-880-3939 hayeswilsonlaw.com Law Office of Jeffrey S. Wyman 1631 Dunlavy Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-599-1929 houstonestate.com Law Offices of Zainab K. Rizvi 2425 West Loop South Ste. 200 Houston, Texas 77027 713-297-9131 zkrlaw.com Mitchel R. Nelson 111 W 15th St Houston, Texas 77008 713-869-0036 mitchelnelson.com Nicholas Abaza 2444 Times Blvd. Ste. 270 Houston, Texas 77005 713-965-3400 nickabaza.com DOWNTOWN Clausell Parrish 723 Main Street Ste. 902 Houston, Texas 77002 713-228-2255 clausellparrish.com Hughes Watters & Askanase 333 Clay 29th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-759-0818 hwa.com Michael P. Fleming & Associates 440 Louisiana Ste. 1920 Houston, Texas 77002 713-221-6800 flemingattorneys.com

GREATER HEIGHTS

THE WOODLANDS

John R. Bartos 1235 North Loop West Ste. 208 Houston, Texas 77008 713-861-1255 htownlaw.com

C. L. Crawley Jr. 10077 Grogan's Mill Road Ste. 550 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-882-3236 clcrawleylaw.com

Keith Morris 1238 Manville Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-589-5061 texas-probate-attorney.net

Garg & Associates 25511 Budde Road Ste.1002 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-0010 smithgarglaw.com

Mitchel Nelson Law 111 West 15th Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-869-0036

Susan A. Turney 1400 Woodloch Forest Dr. Ste. 575 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-645-6749 turney-law.com

MIDTOWN/MONTROSE AREA Evans & Fair 2103 Commonwealth Avenue Houston, Texas 77006 713-523-7191 evanslawoffice.info Galligan & Manning 802 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-522-9220 galliganmanning.com Law Offices of Elyssa M. Schnurr 4545 Mt. Vernon Houston, Texas 77006 713-662-2889 schnurrlaw.com

Crocker Charles 2001 Kirby Drive Houston, Texas 77019 713-524-2181 charlesacrocker.com Stephenson Snokhous & Fourrnier 4544 Post Oak Place Ste. 378 Houston, Texas 77027 713-629-6961 stephensonlaw.com NORTH CONROE Darden Fowler and Creighton 414 West Phillips Ste. 100 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-3337 dfcllp.com

Earl L. Pryor 300 West Davis Ste. 400 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-4600 earllpryor.com

Adair & Myers 3120 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 320 Houston, Texas 77098 713-568-1397 am-law.com

Porter & Hedges 1000 Main Street 36th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-226-6000 porterhedges.com

Adams & Associates 2616 S. Loop West Ste. 635 Houston, Texas 77054 713-566-1990 aalawoffice.com

The Law Office of Mitsy Barajas 2000 Smith St. 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-229-0224 my-estateplan.com

Steele Page & Madeley 2040 N Loop 336 Conroe, Texas 77304 936-441-8224

Barbara Ramirez 1148 Heights Blvd. Houston, Texas 77008 713-956-6565

The Rice Law Firm 1001 Texas Avenue Ste. 1400 Houston, Texas 77002 713-855-3060 ricelawhouston.com

The Turner Law Firm 336 North Main Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-0461 theturnerlawfirm.net

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

The Shea Law Firm 2002 Timberloch Place Ste. 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77393 832-426-3913 shealawonline.com SPRING Boltz Law 1400 Woodloch Forest Dr. Spring, Texas 77380 832-381-3070 boltzlaw.com Law Office of Neal Anderson 22557 Aldine-Westfield Ste. 104 Spring, Texas 77373 281-353-9146 lawoona.com Michael C. Beller Law Office 2441 High Timbers Drive Spring, Texas 77380 281-362-0220 Morgan Law Offices 17 Twelve Pines Ct Spring, Texas 77381 281-367-9200 Vernier Law Firm 2441 High Timbers Dr. Spring, Texas 77380 281-364-1187 vernierlawfirm.com NORTHWEST

Don Stocking 2040 North Loop 336 West Conroe, Texas 77304 936-539-3171 donstocking.com

IN THE LOOP

the L AWYERS

The Burke Law Firm 9595 Six Pines Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77393 832-752-0111 burkelawfirm.net

RIVER OAKS/ASHTON OAKS

Minor & Bair 808 Travis Street Ste. 1418 Houston, Texas 77002 713-223-8585 minorbairlaw.com

Burger Law Firm 4151 Southwest Fwy. Ste. 770 Houston, Texas 77027 713-960-9696 burgerlawfirm.com

Dunham F. Jewett 2727 Allen Parkway Ste. 1700 Houston, Texas 77019 713-739-7007 cjmlaw.com

Peterson Law Group 100 West Nugent Conroe, Texas 77301 979-314-1126 Price & Price Attorneys at Law 101 Simonton Conroe, Texas 77301 936-756-5511 priceandprice-law.com

CHAMPIONS / CYPRESS Jonathan D. Sykes 11210 Steeplecrest Drive Houston, Texas 77065 281-894-6598 attorneysykes.com Law Office of Lori A. Kohnen 12850 Jones Road Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-955-0131 kohnenlawoffice.com Patrick T. Williams 4422 FM 1960 Road W Ste. 412 Houston, Texas 77068 281-587-2823 williamslawcpa.com The Fleming-Bruce Law Firm 12777 Jones Road Ste. 110 Houston, Texas 77070 281-469-9090 flemingbrucelaw.com TOMBALL Bolton & Bolton 724 West Main Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7897 boltonlegal.com Clifton Dodson Sortino 500 W Main St Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-4040 cdstexas.com

Gallagher & Stull 312 High Street Tomball, Texas 77375 281-351-7181 gallagherandstull.com

Marilyn G Vilyus Law Office 14811 Saint Marys Ln. Ste. 260 Houston, Texas 77079 281-550-6650 westhoustonattorney.com

Hoover Slovacek One Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-242-0303 hooverslovacek.com

Nobles & Murphy 12850 Jones Rd Ste. 201 Houston, Texas 77070 281-807-4400 noblesmurphy.com

Randle Law Office 820 Gessner Ste. 1570 Houston, Texas 77024 281-657-2000 jgradyrandlepc.com

Hrbacek & Associate 130 Industrial Blvd. Ste. 110 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-240-2424 hrbacek.com

Daly Brendan M. 1506 Winding Way Dr. Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-482-8500

Richard E. Sympson 720 North Post Oak Rd. Ste. 650 Houston, Texas 77024 713-681-3159 resympsonlaw.com

Sherry B. Angelo 10707 Corporate Dr. Ste. 135 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-313-2767

Kimberly R. Dawson 112 W Parkwood Ave. Ste. 219 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-1888

NORTHEAST KINGWOOD/HUMBLE Celia A. Brown 1521 Green Oak Pl. Ste. 212 Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-540-4820 Currin Wuest Mielke Paul & Knapp 1214 Stonehollow Dr. Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-973-7238 cwmpk.com H. Steven Byers Law Offices 1420 Stonehollow Dr. Ste. C Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-446-5252 hsbyerslawfirm.com

EAST John C. Lefeber 1209 Decker Drive Ste. 214 Baytown, Texas 77520 281-427-9476 Vernon D. Rippy 12601 Mcnair St. Houston, Texas 77015 713-451-6916 BAYTOWN/ CHANNELVIEW Gillespie & Gillespie 226 Sheldon Rd Channelview, Texas 77530 281-457-9999 Daniel Jackson 6232 N. Hwy. 146 Ste. 600 Baytown, Texas 77523 danielrjackson.com Larry L. Bailey 621 Schilling St Baytown, Texas 77520 281-428-1055 larrybaileylaw.com Vaughn Davidson 5223 Garth Rd Baytown, Texas 77521 281-421-5999 vaughndavidson.com WEST William G. Bailey 952 Echo Lane Ste. 480 Houston, Texas 77024 713-461-7193 lawbailey.com

SHARPSTOWN Jessica Burkett 10333 Harwin Drive Ste. 620 Houston, Texas 77036 713-581-1090 burkettlegal.com The Law Office of Jana Fay Bacarisse 2603 Augusta Drive Ste. 100 Houston, Texas 77057 888-893-1447 bacarisse.com MEMORIAL/TOWN & COUNTRY Albert E. Vacek 14800 St. Mary's Lane Ste. 230 Houston, Texas 77079 281-531-5800 vacek.com Bae Law Firm 800 W. Sam Houston Pkwy N. Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77024 713-850-0800 stevebaelaw.com Robert M. Mendell 908 Town & Country Blvd. Ste. 120 Houston, Texas 77024 713-888-0700 mendellgroup.com Stephen A. Mendel 1155 Dairy Ashford Ste. 104 Houston, Texas 77079 281-759-3213 mendellawfirm.com

Donald Crane 810 S Mason Rd Ste. 350 Katy, Texas 77450 281-392-6611 Levin & Atwood 20501 Katy Fwy. Ste. 217 Katy, Texas 77450 281-391-5577 levinandatwood.com Mingledorff Law Firm 430 Highway 6 S Ste. 215 Houston, Texas 77079 281-497-7180 mingledorfflaw.com WEST/SOUTHWEST Timothy P. Alcorn 3806 Bellinger Way Missouri City, Texas 77459 281-705-0453

J.R "Ray" Cantu 10777 Westheimer Road Ste.100 Houston, Texas 77042 713-260-9660 attorneycantu.com

SUGAR LAND/STAFFORD Engelhaupt William 12926 Dairy Ashford Rd Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-277-9872

Law Office of James T. Fletcher 1414 South Friendswood Dr. Ste. 216 Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-648-7780 Friendswoodlawyer.com PEARLAND

The Love Offices of Love & Associates 3423 FM 762 Richmond, Texas 77469 281-633-2980 kenalove.com Van Slyke Law 500 Morton St Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-6148 vanslyke-law.com SOUTH/SOUTHEAST Israel Santana 1421 Telephone Rd. Houston, Texas 77023 713 923-6404 BAY AREA CLEAR LAKE AREA Badeaux & Associates 16055 Space Center Blvd. Ste. 260 Houston, Texas 77062 281-486-4737 dedicatedlaw.com Bailey & Galyen 18333 Egret Bay Blvd. Ste. 444 Houston, Texas 77058 281-335-7744 galyen.com Hegwood & Associates 950 Gemini Street Houston, Texas 77058 281-218-0880 hegwoodlaw.com

KATY

Doehring & Doehring 2000 S Dairy Ashford St. Ste. 298 Houston, Texas 77077 281-497-0093

Law Office of Mary Ann Harris 2500 Wilcrest Ste. 300 Houston, Texas 77042 281-571-8059

Dora F. Olivo Law Offices 515 S 5th St. Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-0880

Bradshaw & Bradshaw 203 S Friendswood Dr. Friendswood, Texas 77546 713-946-0700

Lewis & Lewis 16055 Space Center Blvd. Ste. 190 Houston, Texas 77062 281-286-9898 lewis-lawyers.com PASADENA Carol Wyatt Myers 4710 Vista Rd Ste. 200 Pasadena, Texas 77505 281-487-9990 Don J. Sixta 2225 CR 90 Ste. 121 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-4366 Roy D. Mease & Associate 4008 Vista Rd Ste. A101 Pasadena, Texas 77504 713-947-8301

Brown & Landry 7930 Broadway St. Ste. 122 Pearland, Texas 77581 281-412-0070 Monica M. Lawrence 2225 CR 90 Ste. 121 Pearland, Texas 77584 281-485-4366 LEAGUE CITY Elizabeth A. Vereen 3027 Marina Bay Dr. League City Texas 77573 281-335-9135 eavereen-law.com

{ W ILLS, T RUST S, E{ STAT C RIMINAL E , AN DLAW P ROBAT } E LAW IN DE X }

P. Wayne Garrison II 1306 Kingwood, Dr. Kingwood, Texas 77339 281-358-3565 pwg-law.com

ROSENBERG/RICHMOND Sharon Stodghill 952 Echo Ln. Ste. 330 Houston, Texas 77024 713-464-6412 scslawyer.com

FRIENDSWOOD

Fulton Law Firm 3027 Marina Bay Dr. League City, Texas 77573 281-316-0166 fultonlawfirm.com R. R. Rainosek & Associates 909 W. Main Street Ste. 909A League City Texas 77573 281-557-2323 bankruptcyattorneygalveston.com DICKINSON/TEXAS CITY Benson and Anderson 845 FM 517 Rd W Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-614-5200 Wilbur H. Dunten (Pete) 3515 Gulf Freeway Dickinson, Texas 77539 281-337-2571 petedunton.com GALVESTON James Schweitzer Law Office 222 22nd St. Ste. 205 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-765-9632 McFatridge Baker & Schmidt 2228 Ship South Mechanic Row Ste. 220 Galveston, Texas 77550 409 766-7966 mbslaawyer.om McLeod Alexander Powell Apffel 802 Rosenberg Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-2481 mapalaw.com

Smyrl & Giddens 3009 Strawberry Rd. Pasadena, Texas 77502 713-947-0001 mikesmyrl.com LA PORTE/DEER PARK Dennis M. Slate 112 East Forrest Lane Deer Park, Texas 77536 281-476-9447 slatelaw.com 2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON

Glossary

{ G LO SSARY }

A abandonment of spouse: When one spouse has left the other spouse with the intention of abandonment and has remained away for at least one year acknowledgment: the act of going before a qualified officer (e.g., Clerk) and declaring the validity of the document acquit: the act of freeing a person from the charge of an offense by means of a decision, verdict or other legal process; to discharge action: a civil judicial proceeding whereby one party prosecutes another for a wrong done or for protection of a right or prevention of a wrong; requires service of process on adversary party or potentially adversary party adjudicate: to hear or try and determine judicially affidavit: a sworn or affirmed statement made in writing and signed; if sworn, it is notarized affinity: Related by marriage; family relation from one's spouse's family. affirmation: an act of declaring something to be true under the penalty of perjury by a person who conscientiously declines to take an oath for religious or other pertinent reasons allegation: the assertion, declaration, or statement of a party to an action, made in a pleading, setting out what the party expects to prove allege: To assert a fact in a pleading alimony Money a court requires one spouse to pay the other spouse for support before and/or after the divorce is granted. If you do not ask for alimony at the final hearing, you can never get it in the future. amicus curiae: A Friend of the Court. A non-party to a proceeding that the Court permits to present its views. annul: to make void, as to dissolve the bonds of marriage appeal: a proceeding to have a case examined by an appropriate higher court to see if a lower court's decision was made correctly according to law appearance: the participation in the proceedings by a party summoned in an action, either in person or through an attorney appellate: Having the power to hear court appeals and to review court decisions. appellant: the party who takes an appeal to a higher court appellee: the party against whom an appeal is taken arbitration: the submission voluntarily or involuntarily of a disputed matter to selected persons and the substitution of their award or decision for the judgment of a court or its confirmation by the court as a judgment of the court argument: a reason given in proof or rebuttal arraignment: A proceeding in which an individual who is accused of committing a crime is brought into court, told of the charges, and asked to plead guilty or not guilty arrest: When a person is taken into custody by a police officer and charged with a crime. attachment: The taking of property into legal custody by an enforcement officer attestation: the act of witnessing an instrument in writing at the request of the party making the same, and subscribing it as a witness attorney of record: attorney whose name appears in the permanent records or files of a case award: A decision of an Arbitrator. B bail: also called bond. The security given (or posted) to ensure the future appearance of a defendant

the L AWYERS

HOUSTON | 2011 - 2012

bankruptcy: Refers to statutes and judicial proceedings involving persons or businesses that cannot pay their debts and seek the assistance of the court in getting a fresh start. Under the protection of the bankruptcy court, debtors may discharge their debts, perhaps by paying a portion of each debt. Bankruptcy judges preside over these proceedings. bench trial: Trial without a jury in which a judge decides the facts best interest of the child: The legal standard or doctrine for making child-related decisions bifurcated trial: a case in which the trial of the liability issue in a personal injury or wrongful death case is heard separate from and prior to trial of the damages in question bill of costs: A written statement of the itemized taxable costs and disbursements brief: a written or printed document prepared by the lawyers on each side of a dispute and submitted to the court in support of their arguments - a brief includes the points of law which the lawyer wished to establish, the arguments the lawyer uses, and the legal authorities on which the lawyer rests his/ her conclusions. C caption: in a pleading, deposition or other paper connected with a case in court, it is the heading or introductory clause which shows the names of the parties, name capital offense: A crime punishable by death of the court, number of the case on the docket or calendar, etc. case file: the court file containing papers submitted in a case cause of action: grounds on which a legal action may be brought (e.g., property damage, personal injury, goods sold and delivered, work labor and services). certiorari: a proceeding in the state Supreme Court under Art. 78 of the CPLR to review the decisions or actions of a public official or body, as in a tax certiorari matter, a review of the tax assessed challenge an exception taken to a juror before he/she is sworn challenge for a challenge based on a legally specified reason charge to jury: in trial practice, an address delivered by the court to the jury at the close of the case instructing the jury as to what principles of law they are to apply in reaching a decision chattel: article of personal property citation: 1) summons to appear; 2) reference to authorities in support of an argument collaborative law: is a legal process enabling couples who have decided to separate or end their marriage to work with their lawyers and, on occasion, other family professionals in order to avoid the uncertain outcome of court and to achieve a settlement that best meets the specific needs of both parties and their children without the underlying threat of contested litigation. commitment: an order to commit a person to the custody of a sheriff, commissioner of corrections, or mental health facility common law: Laws that develop through case decisions by judges, not enacted by legislative bodies compensatory damages: reimbursement for actual loss or injury, as distinguished from exemplary or punitive damages complaint: the initial pleading in an action formally setting forth the facts and reasons on which the demand for relief is based consanguinity: Related by blood. conservator: one who is appointed by a court to manage the affairs of a protected person consolidated action: two or more actions involving a common question of law or fact may be consolidated by the court; the actions then are merged, becoming one action with one title, and they result in one verdict and one judgment

contempt of court: an act or omission tending to obstruct or interfere with the orderly administration of justice or to impair the dignity of the court or respect for its authority consolidate: A joining of two or more actions to be tried together. contested action: an action which involves disputed issue(s) of fact or law contract: a legally enforceable agreement between two or more persons or parties (oral or written) corroborate: to strengthen; to add weight by additional evidence costs: The statutory sum awarded to the successful party when a judgment is entered counsel: Lawyer or attorney. counterclaim: 1. In civil actions, a claim brought by a defendant against the plaintiff for an unlimited amount of money. 2. In small claims/commercial claims, a claim brought by a defendant against the plaintiff for an amount not to exceed the maximum monetary jurisdiction allowed in the small claims/commercial claims court. court of limited jurisdiction: A City Court, District Court or other court that has jurisdiction only over actions authorized by law. crossclaim: claim litigated by co-defendants or co-plaintiffs against each other and not against a party on the opposite side of the litigation cross- examination: questioning by a party or his attorney of an adverse party or a witness called by an adverse party D damages: Money a party receives as compensation for a legal wrong decision: the determination reached by a court in any judicial proceeding, which is the basis of the judgment declaratory judgment: one fixing rights of parties without ordering anything to be done decree: a decision or order of the court - a final decree is one which fully and finally disposes of the litigation; an interlocutory decree is a provisional or preliminary decree which is not final default: a "default" in an action of law occurs when a defendant omits to plead or otherwise defend within the time allowed, or fails to appear at the trial defendant: the party being sued or the party accused of committing the offense charged deliberation: the process by which a panel of jurors comes to a decision on a verdict deponent: One who testifies under oath to the truth of facts. deposition: sworn testimony of a witness direct examination: the first interrogation of a witness by the party on whose behalf the witness is called directed verdict: an instruction by the judge to the jury to return a specific verdict discovery (or disclosure): a proceeding whereby one party to an action may be informed as to facts known by other parties or witnesses dismissal: termination of a proceeding for a procedurally prescribed reason dismissal with prejudice: Action dismissed on the merits which prevents renewal of the same claim or cause of action. dismissal without prejudice: Action dismissed, not on the merits, which may be re-instituted. dispose: the act of terminating a judicial proceeding disposition: the result of a judicial proceeding by withdrawal, settlement, order, judgment or sentence dissolution of marriage: the effect of a judgment of dissolution of marriage is to restore the parties to the state of unmarried persons docket: a document which summarizes a case domicile: that place where a person has a true and permanent home - a person may have several residences, but only one domicile

D.U.I.: short for driving under the influence of alcohol. D.W.I.: 1) short for driving while intoxicated. 2) abbreviation for dying without issue (children). E easement: right held by one person to use the land of another for a special purpose eminent domain: the power to take private property for public use by condemnation, i.e., the legal process by which real estate of a private owner is taken for public use without the owner's consent, but upon the award and payment of just compensation enjoin: to require a person, by writ of injunction from a court of equity, to perform or to abstain or desist from some act equitable action (equity matter): an action which may be brought for the purpose of restraining the threatened infliction of wrongs or injuries, and the prevention of threatened illegal action; case in which payment of money damages will not be adequate compensation equitable distribution: the power to distribute equitably upon divorce all property legally and beneficially acquired during marriage by husband and wife or either of them, whether legal title lies in their joint or individual names estoppel: a rule of law which prevents a person from alleging or denying a fact, because of his/her own previous act evidence: a form of proof or probative matter legally presented at the trial of an issue by the acts of the parties and through witnesses, records, documents, concrete objects, etc., for the purpose of inducing belief in the minds of the court or the jury eviction, warrant of: Legal mandate authorizing an enforcement officer to remove persons and their personal property from their premises. examination before trial (EBT): a formal interrogation of parties and witnesses before trial execution: (1) the performance of all acts necessary to render a written instrument complete, such as signing, sealing, acknowledging, and delivering the instruments (2) supplementary proceedings to enforce a judgment, which, if monetary, involves a direction to the sheriff to take the necessary steps to collect the judgment exemplification: An official transcript of a document from public records, made in a form to be used as evidence and authenticated or certified as a true copy, (e.g. exemplification of a judgment). exhibit: a paper, document or other article produced and exhibited to a court during a trial or hearing and, on being accepted, is marked for identification or admitted in evidence ex parte: a proceeding, order, motion, application, request, submission etc., made by or granted for the benefit of one party only; done for, in behalf of, or on application of one party only expunge: the authorized act of physically destroying information, in files, computers or other depositories F fair preponderance: Level of proof in a civil action; more than half; more convincing family with service needs: Also called FWSN. A family that includes a child, who (a) runs away without just cause, (b) is beyond the control of his/her parents/ guardian, (c) has engaged in indecent or immoral conduct, and/or (d) is a truant or continuously defiant of school rules and regulation felony: A crime carrying a penalty of more than a year in prison fiduciary: a person or institution who manages money or property for another, and who must exercise a standard of care in such management activity imposed by law or contract foreclosure: A court order ending the legal ownership of property.

full faith and credit: A requirement of the U.S. Constitution that the records and judicial proceedings of one state shall have the same effect in courts of other states with the same jurisdiction. G garnish: to attach a portion of the wages or other property of a debtor to secure repayment of the debt garnishee: A person who owes a debt to a judgment debtor, or a person other than the judgment debtor who has property in his/her possession or custody in which a judgment debtor has an interest guardian ad litem: person appointed by a court to represent a minor or incompetent for purpose of some litigation H habeas corpus: "You have the body." - the name given a variety of writs whose object is to bring a person before a court or judge - in most common usage, it is directed to the official or person detaining another, commanding him/her to produce the body of a person detained so the court may determine if such person has been denied his/her liberty without due process of law hearing: a preliminary examination where evidence is taken for the purpose of determining an issue of fact and reaching a decision on the basis of that evidence hearsay: a type of testimony given by a witness who relates not what he/she knows personally, but what others have told the witness, or what the witness has heard said by others; may be admissible or inadmissible in court depending upon rules of evidence hung jury: a jury whose members cannot reconcile their differences of opinion and thus cannot reach a verdict

impleader: An addition of a third party to an action by the defendant. incompetency: lack of legal qualification or fitness (physical, intellectual or moral fitness) to discharge a legally required duty or to handle one's own affairs; also relates to matters not admissible in evidence income withholding order: A court order to deduct child support or alimony payments from someone's wages. All child support court orders must include an income withholding order unless both parents ask the judge not to indemnity: Security against loss or damages, exemption from penalty or liability, amount paid as compensation under an indemnity agreement. indorsed complaint: A statement of the nature and substance of the cause of action, for money only, which indicates the amount of the claim. It may be set forth upon the summons or attached to it. INFANT An individual who has not attained the age of eighteen (18). injunction: a court order for a party to stop doing or to start doing a specific act inquest: a proceeding which usually is a limited non-jury trial for the purpose of fixing the amount of damages where the plaintiff or defendant alone introduces testimony. interlocutory: provisional; temporary; not final - refers to orders and decrees of a court interpleader: action by which one having possession of an article or fund claimed by two parties may compel them to litigate the title between themselves, instead of with him/her interpreter: a person sworn at a judicial proceeding to translate oral or written language interrogatories: written questions propounded by one party and served on an adversary, who must provide written answers thereto under oath intestate: a person who dies without a will

joint trial: two or more actions involving a common question of law or fact may be joined by court order for trial - the actions are not merged but remain separate and distinct and may result in one or more verdicts and judgments judgment: A determination of the rights of the parties in an action or special proceeding. A judgment shall refer to and state the result of a verdict or decision, or recite the circumstances on which it is based judicial: pertaining to judgment in courts of justice or to the administration of justice jurisdiction: the geographical, subject matter, and monetary limitations of a court Personal jurisdiction- Directed to a specific person to impose a personal liability on him (usually the defendant). Subject matter jurisdiction- Topic of consideration, thing in dispute, right claimed by one party against another jury: a prescribed number of persons selected according to law and sworn to make findings of fact juvenile probation: Placement of an adjudicated delinquent under the supervision of a juvenile probation officer

motion: an oral or written request to the court made by a party for a ruling or order N natural person: Individual (does not include corporate entities) negligence: conduct which falls below the standard established by law for the protection of others against unreasonable risk of harm notice of entry: A notice with an affidavit of service stating that the attached copy of an entered order or judgment has been served by a party on another party. notice of petition: Written notice of a petitioner that a hearing will be held in a court to determine the relief requested in an annexed petition. O oath: a swearing to the truth of a statement which, if made by one who knows it to be false, may subject one to a prosecution for perjury or other legal proceedings oral proof: evidence given by word of mouth; the oral testimony of a witness order: an oral or written direction of a court or judge

laches: the failure to diligently assert a right, which results in a refusal to allow relief legal age: Eighteen (18) years of age legal aid: system by which legal services are rendered to those in financial need who cannot afford private counsel legal custody: Relationship with a child created by court order which gives a person legal responsibility for the physical possession of a minor and the duty to protect, care for and discipline the child liability: an obligation to do, to eventually do, or to refrain from doing something; money owed; or according to law one's responsibility for his/her conduct; or one's responsibility for causing an injury lien: a claim upon the property of another as security for some debt litigant: Party to a legal action litigate (litigation): to carry on a legal contest by judicial process

palimony: term has meaning similar to `alimony' except that award, settlement or agreement arises out of non-marital relationship of parties (i.e., non-marital partners) parcel: a tract or a plot of land party: Person having a direct interest in a legal matter, transaction or proceeding perjury: the act of lying or stating falsely under oath petition: a formal written request to a court, which initiates a special proceeding petitioner: In a special proceeding, one who commences a formal written application, requesting some action or relief, addressed to a court for determination. Also known as a plaintiff in a civil action plaintiff: the party bringing a civil action pleadings: complaint or petition, answer, and reply power of attorney: instrument authorizing one to act legally for another either generally or in a specified matter precedent: previously adjudged action or decision on same or similar point, serving as a rule or example for present guidance prenuptial agreement: a written, premarital contract dealing with death and divorce, setting forth the rights and responsibilities of the parties upon occurrence of these events probation: A sentencing alternative to imprisonment in which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision as long as certain conditions are observed proceeding: the succession of events constituting the process by which judicial action is invoked and utilized pursuant to procedure process: a legal means, such as a summons, used to subject a defendant in a lawsuit to the jurisdiction of the court; broadly, refers to all writs issued in the course of a legal proceeding prosecute: To charge someone with a crime. A prosecutor tries a criminal case on behalf of the government purge: To atone for an offense, to submit to a court's mandate (i.e., to purge oneself of contempt of court)

M maintenance: the furnishing by one person to another the means of living, or food, clothing, shelter, etc., particularly where the legal relations of the parties is such that one is bound to support the other, as between parent and child or between spouses maritime: is primarily an adjective that describes objects or activities related to the sea. material witness: person whose testimony on some issue has been judicially determined as relevant and substantial mediation: A dispute resolution process in which an impartial third party assists the parties to voluntarily reach a mutually acceptable settlement memorandum decision: a written opinion or decision of a court on a litigated question, giving the court's conclusion on factual and legal issues (this may constitute the order of the court if so stated) memorandum opinion: memorandum in writing, which is a very brief statement of the reasons for a decision, without detailed explanation misdemeanor: Usually a petty offense, a less serious crime than a felony, punishable by less than a year of confinement military calendar: To hold in suspense an action that cannot reasonably be tried because a party or witness is in the military service mistrial: a trial which has been terminated and declared void prior to the reaching of verdict due to extraordinary circumstance, serious prejudicial misconduct or hung jury - it does not result in a judgment for any party but merely indicates a failure of trial

R relief: Legal remedy remand: to send a case back from an appellate court to the lower court from which it came, for further proceedings replevin: an action brought for the owner of items to recover possession of those items when those items were wrongfully taken or are being wrongfully kept respondent: One who formally answers the allegations stated in a petition which has been filed with the court. Also known as a defendant in a civil action

S sanction: a penalty or punishment provided as a means of enforcing obedience to a law, rule or code; also, an authorization seal: to close a case file from public scrutiny - in instances of youthful offenders and acquittal, sealing orders are issued by the court to prevent the public from obtaining information on the cases separation: in matrimonial law, a cessation of cohabitation of husband and wife by mutual agreement, or in the case of "judicial separation," under the decree of a court show cause: an order, decree, execution, etc., to appear as directed, and present to the court such reasons and considerations as one has to offer why it should not be confirmed, take effect, be executed, or as the case may be small claims assessment review (SCAR): filing by any person aggrieved by an assessment of a one, two or three family, owner occupied residential structure used for residential purposes (including condominiums) (NYS) statute of limitations: a statute that declares that no actions of a specified kind be commenced after a specified period of time after the cause of action arose stipulation: an agreement by attorneys on opposite sides of a case as to any matter pertaining to the proceedings or trial most stipulations must be in writing subpoena: Legal process which commands a witness to appear and testify. suit: A legal action or proceeding. sum certain: Liquidated damages pursuant to contract, promissory note, law, etc. summary judgment: a determination in an action on the grounds that there is no genuine issue of fact summons: A form used to commence a civil action and acquire jurisdiction over a party surety: One who is legally liable for the debt, default, or failure to carry out a duty of another. T third-party action: A claim asserted by a defendant, styled a third-party plaintiff, against a person, styled a third-party defendant. testimony: an oral declaration made by a witness or party under oath tort: an injury or wrong committed, either with or without force, and either intentionally or negligently, to the person or property of another trial: the formal examination of a legal controversy in court so as to determine the issue

{ C{RIMINAL G LO SSARY LAW } }

U undertaking: Deposit of a sum of money or filing of a bond in court. under the influence: one of many phrases for being drunk on alcoholic beverages or high on drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs. Driving a vehicle when "under the influence" of alcohol or drugs is a crime, as is "public drunkenness." unlawful: referring to any action which is in violation of a statute, federal or state constitution, or established legal precedents W wage withholding order: a court order to a third party, usually an employer, requiring a non-custodial parent's child support payment to be automatically deducted from a paycheck and paid directly to a custodial parent waiver: an intentional and voluntary relinquishment of some known right warrant: a written order directing the arrest of a person issued by an authority - warrants are "issued," "executed" or "canceled" witness: one who testifies to what he/she has seen, heard, or otherwise observed

2011 - 2012 | the L AW Y E R S

HOUSTON