Michelle V. Alonzo is an attorney in the Cowles & Thompson Immigration Practice Group. She focuses on employment-based immigration matters, where her experience includes
handling H-1B professional worker visas,
O-1 extraordinary ability visas,
E-1/E-2 treaty investor,
L-1 transfer visas,
TN temporary work visas for citizens of Canada & Mexico,
E-3 professional worker visas for Australian nationals,
permanent residence applications based upon labor certification, and
extraordinary ability aliens, and multinational managers and executives.
Additionally, she has represented hundreds of individuals in obtaining legal permanent residence through family-based sponsorship.
Michelle has experience with deportation defense and appeals before the Board of Immigration Appeals, as well as preparing waivers for clients proceeding before the U.S. consulates abroad for their immigrant visas. She has also practiced immigration law in Houston, Texas, where she assisted clients with family-based immigration, deportation defense, and naturalization.
Education
J.D., Houston College of Law (formerly South Texas College of Law), 2007
- Hispanic Law Student Association
- Alternative Dispute Resolution Advocate, Regional Finalist, 2006
B.B.A., International Law, St. Mary's university in San Antonio, 2001
Court Admissions
State Bar of Texas, 2007
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
American Bar Association
American Immigration Lawyers Association
Publications and Speaking Engagements
“H-1B Visa Alternatives & Legislative Update,” co-presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, April 2017
“The State of US Immigration Under a Trump Administration,” co-presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, March 2017
“J-1 Waiver Options & Executive Order Impact,” co-presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, February 2017
Plano Citizenship Day, volunteer attorney, Plano, TX, February 2017
“The New Form I-9 and Compliance,” co-presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, January 2017
“What to Expect with the New Administration,” interviewee, NXA Radio, Dallas, TX, December 2016
“Inmigración Bajo la Administración Trump,” co-presenter, Cowles & Thompson seminar, Brookhaven College, Dallas, TX, December 2016
“The Upcoming USCIS Deadline and How to Prepare,” co-presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, December 2016
“Eighth Annual Labor Rights Week” at the Mexican Consulate in Dallas, TX, August 2016
“Immigration Law – The Nuts and Bolts,” CLE, Tarrant County Bar Association, Fort Worth, TX, August 12, 2016
“Non-Immigrant Investor/Trader Options (E-1/E-2),” CLE, Dallas Bar Association, Dallas, TX, April 11, 2016
Naturalization Clinic for LPRs, attorney participant, Mexican Consulate, Dallas, TX, February 6, 2016
“Business Immigration 101” Texas A&M University School of Law, Fort Worth, TX, September 22, 2015
“Seventh Annual Labor Rights Week,” Mexican Consulate in Dallas, TX, August 2015
"Know Your Rights - Domestic Violence," Celebration of International Woman's Day 2014 - Presented by The Women's Institute (Instituto de la Mujer), Irving, TX, March 8, 2014
"Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and U visas," Stop the Violence Campaign, Mexican Consulate, Dallas, TX, February 5, 2014.
Immigration Information Session/Update, Mexican Consulate, Dallas, TX,August 28, 2013
General Immigration Seminar, Mexican Consulate, Dallas, TX, August 17, 2013
"Martes de Inmigración," interviewee,Telefutura’s Viva La Mañana, Univisión, Dallas, TX, April 16, 2013
Immigration Presentation (General), panelist, Bryan Adams High School, DISD, Dallas, TX, February 21, 2013
"Deferred Action, Provisional Waiver, Immigration Reform," Es El Momento Forum with DISD, Fannin Elementary School, Dallas, TX, January 30, 2013
"Martes de Inmigración," interviewee, Telefutura’s Viva La Mañana, Univisión, Dallas, TX, January 29, 2013
“Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and U visas,” panelist, Fort Worth Police Department with Women's Institute (Instituto de la Mujer), Fort Worth, TX, November 17, 2012
"Las Llaves del Éxito" on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, University of North Texas - Dallas Campus, Dallas, TX, October 27, 2012
“Es el Momento,” co-presenter, Education Forum, Mountainview Community College, Dallas, TX, October 13, 2012
“Es el Momento” panelist, Education Forum, Fort Worth, TX, October 9, 2012
“Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA),” panelist, Mexican Consulate, Dallas, TX, September 8, 2012
Lishel Bautista, an Associate with Cowles and Thompson, has a broad litigation practice comprised of prosecuting and defending businesses and individuals in a variety of complex matters. Her clients include international and national businesses, regional retailers, real estate developers, business executives, and other individuals. Lishel’s practice encompasses both commercial and tort litigation, including claims for breach of contract, employment disputes, fraudulent transfers, and premises liability. She has also represented banks, mortgage servicers, property owners associations, and other creditors in consumer and real estate litigation and disputes.
Lishel has successfully represented clients in both federal and state courts throughout Texas. She also has experience providing general business counsel to executives and in-house counsel on corporate governance matters, best practices, and risk assessment.
J.D., St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2002
B.A., Political Science, Texas A&M University, 1997
State Bar of Texas, 2003
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas
Glenda O. Brewer is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Firm's Estate Planning, Wills and Probate Practice Group as well as a member of the Corporate and Business Law Practice Group. Her practice consists primarily of representation of a wide variety of clients in the areas of probate, trusts, wills, estate planning, and general corporate representation.
J.D., Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1983
B.A., History, summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, Southern Methodist University, 1979
State Bar of Texas, 1983
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
State Bar of Texas
American Bar Association
Dallas Bar Association
August 2005 - Glenda Brewer was recognized for her continued service to the Legal Studies Division of El Centro College in Dallas. She was presented with a longevity award for teaching 20 semesters of courses to prospective paralegals.
Ms. Brewer lectures and teaches on “Wills, Trusts, and Probate;” “Oil and Gas;” and “Physicians and the Law.” She has appeared on Good Morning Texas and several radio spots discussing medical directives and various other issues.
In April 2005, when looking for experts to discuss end-of-life medical decisions during coverage of the Terri Schiavo case, local radio and television stations and print publications, as well as Internet news sites and syndicated news services, all turned to Glenda Brewer. She provided the answers about living wills (known in Texas as a "Directives to Physicians") that were on the forefront of many American minds. Glenda's message was, "It is important to make your wishes known now to those who are closest to you now, when you are able, and then put those same wishes in writing. Having a prepared living will is not an ironclad guarantee your wishes will be followed, but it creates a clear line of authority on who will be asked to make the decisions for you."
As a shareholder in the Tort, Insurance and Commercial Litigation sections of Cowles & Thompson, Greg focuses his practice in the areas of product liability, commercial litigation and transportation. He has over 26 years of experience representing corporate clients in a broad array of matters, including aviation product liability defense, coordination of the national defense in product liability claims, defending wrongful death actions, prosecuting and defending contractual disputes, contract negotiations and federal civil/seizure and forfeiture cases. In doing so, he has successfully represented clients at trial in both state and federal courts throughout Texas. Greg also provides general business counsel to national product manufacturers and aviation-related enterprises, flight schools and FAA certificated on demand and commuter air carriers and repair stations.
Greg is a former Chair of the Aviation Specialized Litigation Group of the Defense Research Institute's Product Liability Committee and a former Chair of DRI's Aerospace Committee. He is also a panel attorney for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.
Mr. Carboy is a member of the State Bar of Texas, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the American Bar Association, the Dallas Bar Association, the Defense Research Institute (Chair, Aviation Specialized Litigation group, and Products Liability Committee). He received a B.A. degree in Economics in 1983 from Bucknell University and a J.D. degree in 1989 from Washington College of Law, American University. He was admitted to the State Bar of Pennsylvania in 1990 and the State Bar of Texas in 1992. He is admitted to practice in all of the United States District Courts of Texas.
Deerfield Academy, 1979
B.A. in Economics, Bucknell University, 1983
J.D., Washington College of Law, American University, 1989
State Bar of Texas, 1992
State Bar of Pennsylvania, 1990
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Representative Current Matters of Representation
Breach of Contract - represents life insurance company on breach of contract claim related to life insurance policy.
Negligence - represents regional interstate carrier in multiple negligence/accident claims.
General Counsel - provides general legal counsel to small/ medium sized aviation enterprises in the Dallas/Forth Worth region.
Federal Seizure/Forfeiture Civil Actions - represents air taxi operator in seizure/forfeiture action arising from an alleged improper use of aircraft.
Aviation Commercial Dispute - represents company allegedly failing to perform adequate aircraft maintenance.
Aviation Product Liability - represents aircraft engine manufacturer on multiple personal injury claims.
Trial Experience
Moghaddam v. Dallas Market Center, Ltd. (191st Dist. Ct., Dallas County, Texas) Defense Jury Verdict -- premises liability (alleged injury to head and neck)
Wheatfall v. Dallas Market Center Co., Ltd., et al. (CCL No. 4, Dallas County, Texas) Directed Defense Verdict -- premises liability (alleged injury to back/shoulder)
Nivens v. Alltel Corporate Services, Inc., et al. (18th Dist. Ct., Johnson County, Texas) (second chair) Favorable Settlement at Trial -- wrongful termination (alleged discrimination)
Profitt v. Serv-Air, Inc., et al. (131st Dist. Ct., Bexar County, Texas) (second chair) Plaintiff verdict -- wrongful death (minority % of liability assessed to client)
Walker v. Avco (U.S. Federal District Court, E.D. Texas, Beaumont) (co-chair) Favorable Settlement at Trial -- product liability (alleged post traumatic stress disorder)
Petty v. AVCO (73rd Dist. Ct., Bexar County, Texas) Defense Verdict --product liability (beach of warranty/aviation product)
Addison Express v. Medway (U.S. Federal District Court, N.D. Texas, Dallas) Bench Trial -- obtained $500,000 judgment in suit on contract related to lease and maintenance for Learjet aircraft.
Representative Successful Pre-Trial Results
Anderson v. Dallas Market Center Co., Ltd., et al. (116th Dallas County, Texas) Summary Judgment -- premises liability (alleged closed head injury causing partial disability)
Velazquez v. King of Texas Roofing Co., et al. (14th Dallas County, Texas) Summary Judgment -- construction accident (alleged wrongful death)
AVCO vs. Precision (U.S. Federal Court, Northern District of Texas) Successful resolution of action seeking statutory indemnity from manufacturer of allegedly defective fuel control system.
Haubrich v. AVCO, et al.(67th Tarrant County, Texas) Summary Judgment -- GARA affirmative defense despite allegations of withholding information from the FAA.
Coordinated Successful Settlement of National Claims -- coordinated defense and obtained favorable settlement for component vendor of U.S. automobile manufacturer for product liability claims nationwide.
Panel Speaker, “Aviation” American Conference Institute, 2012
Moderator: “Product Liability Concerns and Strategies From the Perspective of a Distributor/Repair Service, Its Underwriter and Agent,” Aviation Specialized Litigation Group, Defense Research Institute’s Product Liability Conference, 2008
“Hidden Cargo Brings Woes to Unsuspecting Companies,” Dallas Business Journal, August 3, 2007
Author and Presenter, “GARA: Summary Caselaw Update,” Aviation Specialized Litigation Group, Defense Research Institute’s Product Liability Conference, 2007
Auston Cherry is Senior Counsel in the Tort Litigation Section of Cowles and Thompson. Her practice primarily consists of representation of a wide variety of clients in the areas of aviation, products liability, and personal injury.
J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, 1985
B.A., Converse College, 1979
State Bar of Texas, 1985
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
Represented nationwide restaurant chain in personal injury and employee security cases.
Represented various therapists and psychologists in cases alleging professional malpractice.
Handled cases for major general aviation corporation in product liability cases involving both personal injury and property damage.
Represents lawyers and law firms in claims alleging legal malpractice.
State Bar of Texas
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Dallas Association of Defense Counsel
Dallas Bar Association
AV Peer Review (Pre-eminent), rated by Martindale Hubbell
Jim E. Cowles is a Shareholder in the Commercial / Business and Tort Litigation Sections of Cowles & Thompson. His experience of more than 550 jury trials has rendered him the senior trial attorney in the firm, with a practice consisting of representation of a wide variety of clients in the areas of commercial litigation, professional liability and construction law.
L.L.B., University of Texas at Austin, 1961
B.B.A., University of Texas at Austin, 1958
State Bar of Texas, 1961
United States Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Texas Supreme Court
All State Courts
Represents nationwide retail business in multiple class action lawsuits, involving wage and hour disputes, alleged violations of state laws regulating medical professionals, and claims of improper sales taxes on pharmaceuticals.
Representation of national retail business in various construction law matters, dealing with construction and product defect allegations against engineers and building product manufacturers.
General business and corporate representation of major nationwide retail corporation in litigation arising out of claims of property damage and environmental issues on commercial property.
Extensive representation of lawyers and law firms in lawsuits alleging legal malpractice and professional negligence.
State Bar of Texas
Defense Research Institute
American Bar Association
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
International Association of Defense Counsel
American Board of Trial Advocates, former member
College of the State Bar of Texas, former member
Committee for a Qualified Judiciary (1992-2009)
Patrick E. Higgenbotham American Inn of Court, Master Emeritus
Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow
Honored by Texas Lawyer Magazine in June, 2010, as one of the “25 Greatest Texas Lawyers of the Past Quarter Century”
Named as Trial Lawyer of the Year, Bench Bar Conference, Dallas Bar Association, 2005
AV Preeminent rating, Martindale-Hubbard, 2011
Named to the “Top 5% of America’s Most Honored Professionals,” American Registry, 2011
Honored by the Dallas Bar Foundation with the 2015 Fellows Justinian Award
Named as a Local Trial Lawyer Legend, Tort and Insurance Practice Section, Dallas Bar Association, 2010
Named as one of the “Top 12 Lawyers in Dallas,” D Magazine, 1997
“True Texas Legend in Insurance Law,” Texas Bar CLE and the Insurance Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2010
Selected for inclusion in “Top 15 Business-Defense Lawyers in Dallas/Ft. Worth,” by the Dallas Business Journal, 2005
Selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine, 1997-2017
Selected for the Texas Lawyer Go-To Guide, 2007
Selected for inclusion in “3,000 Leading Lawyers in America,” Lawdragon, 2006
Named as one of “7 Go-To Lawyers in Texas” for Legal Malpractice Defense, Texas Lawyer Weekly, 2002
Inducted into the “Honorary Serjeants Inn of Dallas-Fort Worth Inn of Court”
Named as one of the 50 Lions of the Texas Bar by Texas Lawbook in 2015
Awarded a Citizens Certificate of Merit and named as Honorary Dallas Police Officer by the Dallas Police Department, 1971
“Revenge of the Carrier: When Lawyers Become the Target of Legal Malpractice in Cases Involving Insurance,” 3rd Annual Advanced Insurance Law Course, State Bar of Texas, March 30 31, 2006
“Apples & Oranges or Apples & Apples,” Ethics, 2004 Spring Meeting, TADC, April 14-18, 2004
Legends of The Law Seminar, speaker, September 2000
“30 Minute Voir Dire,” Collin County Bench and Bar Conference, June 1999
“Putting it All Together,” Defense Research Institute, March 1998
“Closing Argument,” Young Lawyers Seminar, Texas Association of Defense Counsel, June 1997
“Winning in the Beginning - Defense Techniques for Voir Dire and Opening Statement,” Defense Research Institute, April 1997
“Checklist for Avoiding Legal Malpractice,” Southern Methodist University School of Law, February 1997
“The Biggest Developments in Insurance Law,” Texas Lawyer, December 16, 1996
“Alternative Fee Proposals,” Texas Association of Defense Counsel Seminar, August 1996
“Developments in Insurance,” Texas Lawyer, December 18, 1995
“Child Molestation Damage Claims,” Spring Seminar, Texas Association of Defense Counsel, 1995
“Choosing and Courting a Jury,” State Bar of Texas Seminar, April 1995
“Responsibilities of Senior and Junior Attorneys,” Texas Bar Foundation and The Texas Center for Legal Ethics and Professionalism, Texas Wesleyan and SMU Law Schools, 1994
“Professionalism,” Texas Tech, 1993
“Jury Verdicts: A Sign of the Times or a Disaster,” Fall Seminar, Texas Association of Defense Counsel, 1993
“Anatomy of a Trial Lawyer,” Rookie Seminar, Texas Association of Defense Counsel, 1993
“Voir Dire and Jury Selection in a Medical Malpractice Case,” Litigating the Medical Malpractice Case, Southern Methodist University, 1993
“Effective Pretrial Strategy,” Learning from the Masters Seminar, Dallas Bar Association, 1992
“Trial Demonstration,” Southwestern Legal Foundation: Academy of American and International Law, 1991
“Medical Malpractice,” University of Texas Medical School, 1991
“Medicine for Lawyers,” State Bar of Texas, 1991
“Current Issues in Medical Malpractice Cases,” Tarrant County Civil Trial Lawyers Association, 1991
“Firm Economics,” Texas Association of Defense Counsel, 1991
“Cross-Examining Economic Experts,” Texas Association of Defense Counsel, 1991
Stephen is Of Counsel in the general civil and commercial litigation practice groups of Cowles & Thompson. For 25 years, Stephen has leveraged his CPA and CEO/CFO experience as a lead litigator, successfully defending high-value cases across a range of legal practices. He has handled cases for both the Defense and Plaintiff sides of the bar, gaining experience and extra skills used to anticipate and understand the legal strategy and intricacies of each side, and has litigated cases in many different states applying various states’ laws. Moreover, a vast majority of Mr. Drinnon’s trial experience was earned in federal courts.
Stephen’s defense work began with vehicle collision and medical malpractice matters. It then developed to routinely involve complex commercial disputes, including leading NYSE-500 parties and catastrophic traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases with life care plans exceeding $60 million in financial damages. He successfully defended such injury cases and wrongful death cases on behalf of American manufacturers of children’s products in Texas and across the nation with a federal jurisdiction emphasis.
On the plaintiff’s side, Stephen gained national prominence with the initial filing of claims against a world-wide pharmaceutical giant on behalf of the family of a victim whose death was caused by a diabetes drug. Stephen’s trial experience encompasses employment law case wins, firearm litigation in numerous states and federal court jurisdiction and venue.
AREAS OF FOCUS -- General Civil Litigation with significant experience in:
Personal Injury - Catastrophic traumatic brain injury and wrongful death
Toxic, Mass Torts, and Environmental Law
Business Torts and complex commercial cases
J.D., with highest honors, Texas Tech University School of Law, 1992
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas
C.P.A. Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, 1982
Representative Matters
As lead Defense litigator, obtained summary judgment in a personal injury, wrongful death case of a child in federal district court in Houston, Texas, and defended the judgment in the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, which resulted in costs-only settlement while on appeal.
As lead Plaintiff litigator, obtained favorable verdict and settlement two weeks into trial in two employment discrimination cases tried in Dallas, Texas against a New York Stock Exchange Index-listed communications company with 300,000 employees based in Dallas, Texas.
As lead Plaintiff litigator, obtained a default judgment in District Court in Nolan County, Texas, and defended the default judgment after removal to the U.S. District Court Northern Division of Texas with creation and novel use of the alter ego theory that was upheld o appeal by the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.
As a commercial litigator, pursued a trademark infringement case (LANHAM Act) claim against a national and international tennis shoe manufacturer, a professional basketball association, a professional basketball team, and a prominent professional basketball player in Federal Court, Portland, Oregon.
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Texas Society of CPAs
Texas Tech University School of Law
Mr. Drinnon distinguished himself while studying law at Texas Tech University on numerous occasions. He graduated second in a class of 147 with highest honors in 1992. Among many awards and recognitions of academic achievement, he received the coveted American Jurisprudence Award on six occasions for the following: Federal Evidence, Federal Jurisdiction, Commercial Law, Wills & Trusts, Criminal Law, and Martial Property. He also received recognition as highest grade in Oil & Gas Law and Commercial Torts. Mr. Drinnon was honored as an associate editor of the Texas Tech Law Review for two years and a member of The Order of the Coif.
Representative Presentations and Papers Authored
“Strategic Defense of Product Recalls at Trial,” presenter, Products Liability Conference, February, 2005.
“Product Recalls as Subsequent Remedial Measures and the Use of Federal Rule of Evidence 407 in Products Liability Cases,” author, DRI Products Liability Conference, February, 2005.
“Product Recalls as Subsequent Remedial Measures and the Use of Federal Rule of Evidence 407 in Products Liability Cases,” author and presenter, DRI Products Liability Conference, Children’s Products Closed Door Session, 2004.
“Preemption after Geir,” presenter, Juvenile Product Manufacturer’s Meeting, October 2002.
“Srader v. General Motors Mock Trial,” presenter, Juvenile Product Manufacturer’s Meeting, October 2002.
“What a Difference a Forum Can Make,” presenter, Juvenile Product Manufacturer’s Meeting, October 2001.
“Upgrading Federal Safety Standards for Child Restraint Systems Post-TREAD,” author, May 2002.
“Side Impact Protection Rulemaking Proposed Post-TREAD,” author, May 2002.
Helen Emerson is an Associate in the Dallas office of Cowles & Thompson, practicing primarily in the areas of civil litigation and civil appeals. Helen served as a briefing attorney for the Honorable Douglas S. Lang, Fifth District Court of Appeals of Texas, 2014-15 and as a judicial intern for the Honorable John R. Roach, Jr., 296th Judicial District Court, 2012.
J.D., cum laude, SMU Dedman School of Law, 2014
B.S., magna cum laude, Business Administration, Saint Louis University, 2011
State Bar of Texas, 2014
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
Successful jury trial in which the plaintiff sought damages at $7 million from our client franchisee and franchisee’s employee for injuries arising from a motor vehicle accident. We obtained summary judgment on claims against the corporate franchisor and gross negligence claims against the franchisee and its employee. By stipulating liability and arguing responsibility for damages was limited to a specific time frame, the resulting award was less than $200,000. (2018)
Successful bench trial win and take-nothing judgment for our client, a private contractor, in a case where the plaintiff alleged that our client damaged plaintiff’s property while performing repairs to streets and sidewalks. (2017)
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Director and Judicial Internship Committee Co-Chair
American Bar Association
William “Mac” Taylor American Inn of Court, Associate
Brian T. Farrington is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Firm's Employment Law Practice Group. His practice consists of transactional work advising and representing management concerning employment law. Principal practice areas are Fair Labor Standards Act and Equal Employment Opportunity laws. Also, Texas Workforce Commission unemployment eligibility, government contracts labor standards (Davis Bacon Act, Service Contract Act), OSHA 11(c), and state wage payment laws. He also handles employment-related mediation.
During Mr. Farrington’s career, he has represented hundreds of employers in investigations conducted by U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division under FLSA. He has prepared dozens of position statements annually in response to EEOC/state discrimination and harassment charges. He has additional experience in responding to complaints under OSHA 11(c), state wage payment laws. Mr. Farrington has also engaged as an expert witness in more than 50 cases in federal and state court. In the 1980’s, he was an Investigator/Compliance Officer in Chicago and later promoted to Assistant District Director in the Dallas Office of Wage-Hour where he supervised over 5,000 investigations. Mr. Farrington is noted for his exceptional ability as a speaker and trainer. He has taught sessions on the FLSA for the State Bar of Texas and Arkansas, and for the Dallas Bar Association. He has addressed groups such as the Society of Human Resource Management, the Texas Payroll Conference, attendees at AADP's "Meeting of the Minds" national conference, Ceridian Corporation's "Insights" national conference, local chapters of the Human Resources Associations, American Payroll Association, American Compensation Association, and many others.
J. D., Texas Wesleyan University School of Law, 1994
M.A., University of Chicago, 1974
B.A., summa cum laude, University of Dallas, 1973
Admitted to State Bar of Texas, 1994
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas|U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
March 2013 - Brian Farrington settles wage dispute. A Houston-area employer was investigated by the Wage and Hour Division of the U. S. Department of Labor (“DOL”). DOL told the employer it was in violation of the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”), the federal minimum wage and overtime law, and owed in excess of $500,000 in back wages. The company’s local counsel called in Brian Farrington of Cowles and Thompson. Brian got the case settled for $45.00. Needless to say, the client and the local attorney were very happy with the outcome.
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
For years 2016 and 2017, Brian Farrington has been listed by Best Lawyers® (a Woodward/White, Inc. publication) as one of the Best Lawyers in America in the field of Employment Law-Management.
Brian is noted for his exceptional ability as a speaker and trainer. He has taught sessions on the FLSA for the State Bars of Texas and Arkansas, and for the Dallas Bar Association. He has addressed groups such as the Society of Human Resource Management, the Texas Payroll Conference; attendees at AADP's "Meeting of the Minds" national conference, Ceridian Corporation's "Insights" national conference, local chapters of the Human Resources Associations, American Payroll Association, American Compensation Association, and many others. Recent presentations include:
EEO Basics, Texas Payroll Conference, 2018
FLSA and Exempt Employees, Texas Payroll Conference, 2018
FLSA and Non-Exempt Employees, Texas Payroll Conference, 2018
Charles A. Green is a Shareholder in the Tort and Insurance and the Commercial Litigation Practice Groups of Cowles & Thompson. His practice involves the representation of a wide range of clients in the areas of tort and commercial litigation, transportation law and toxic torts.
Mr. Green has given numerous lectures and presentations at various seminars, including such topics as direct and cross examination of doctors, selecting a jury, taking depositions of the opposing party, avoiding bad faith and toxic torts.
Mr. Green is a member of the State Bar of Texas, American Bar Association, the Dallas Bar Association, Dallas Association of Defense Counsel, Texas Association of Defense Counsel, and Defense Research Institute. He received his B.A. degree, cum laude, in 1976 from the University of North Texas and his J.D. degree in 1980 from The University of Texas School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1980 and is admitted to practice in all of the United States District Courts of Texas.
J.D., University of Texas At Austin School of Law, 1980
B.A., cum laude, University of North Texas, 1976
Admitted to the State Bar, 1980
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Representation of corporate and individual clients in defense of catastrophic injury and death claims arising out of industrial, transportation and mass transit accidents.
Representation of corporate and individual clients in defense of product liability litigation.
Representation of corporate clients in defense of mass tort product liability litigation, including asbestos, silica, hazardous chemical, and environmental related claims.
Representation of corporate and individual clients in construction, commercial, and business litigation and disputes.
Scott P. Hazen is a Shareholder in the Dallas office of Cowles & Thompson and has more than 30 years of legal experience and has successfully defended clients in a wide variety of litigation including: toxic/mass torts, product liability, personal injury, medical malpractice, construction defect, professional liability, employment, and creditors rights.
Scott has spent the majority of his career focusing on toxic torts/environmental, product liability, and personal injury litigation. He has represented a wide variety of public and private sector companies including manufacturers, lenders, service providers, premises owners, suppliers, and distributors. Scott has successfully defended toxic exposure cases involving asbestos, diacetyl, hydrogen sulfide; mortar/mixed dust, benzene, mineral spirits, silica, legionella, and other chemicals. Scott has also defended a number of fire damage cases involving refineries, oil field equipment, and land owners. In addition, Scott has extensive experience handling large dockets, and multi-district litigation.
J.D., University of Tulsa School of Law, 1986
B.A., The University of Texas, 1982
State Bar of Texas, 1987
United States Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Defense Research Institute
Speaking Events
Director, Advanced Creditors Rights Course(s), State Bar of Texas CLE
Computers: Building a 21st Century Practice, State Bar of Texas CLE
FIRREA’S Administrative Claims Process and Anti-Injunctive Provisions, State Bar of Texas CLE
Dealing with the FDIC and Resolution Trust Corporation as Opponents, State Bar of Texas CLE
Medicare Secondary Payer Rules and Mandatory Reporting Requirements
The Pitfalls of Incomplete Medical Records and the Effect on Medical Malpractice Claims, Baylor Medical Center
Sim Israeloff is a Senior Shareholder with more than 30 years of trial experience, and is Section Head of the Cowles and Thompson Commercial/Business Litigation Practice Group. His practice is devoted to commercial and complex business litigation in state and federal courts. He represents U.S. and foreign businesses and individuals in litigation and arbitration involving business transactions, real estate, partnerships, franchises, securities, intellectual property, injunctions, and probate matters. Sim is a frequent writer and speaker on business litigation and trial tactics and serves as the firm's legal counsel.
Mr. Israeloff is Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). Since 2007, Mr. Israeloff has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America, by Woodward/White, Inc., in the areas of Commercial Litigation, Litigation-Construction, Litigation-Intellectual Property, Litigation-Patent, and Litigation-Real Estate. In 2010 he was named to the Lawdragon 3000 Leading Lawyers in America. He was has also been included on the Texas Super Lawyers list, a Thomson Reuters service, since 2003 in the areas of Business Litigation, Class Action/Mass Tort, and Intellectual Property Litigation.
Contract Disputes
Partnerships, franchises, co-tenancies
Business sales, acquisitions, buyouts, dissolutions, successor liability
Preemptive rights, oppression of minority shareholders
Lender liability, usury
Real Estate Litigation
Sales, leases, financing, title insurance, property damage, mold
Investor disputes, mismanagement, self-dealing
Easements, surveys, boundary disputes
Condemnation, eminent domain
Intellectual Property Litigation
Patents, trademarks, copyrights, Lanham Act
Misappropriation, trade secrets
Injunctions, accountings, disgorgement, lost profits
Employment Litigation
FLSA wage and hour, overtime claims
Discrimination
Class Action Litigation
Arbitration
Representing parties in AAA commercial arbitrations
Serving as a party-appointed arbitrator
J.D., with honors, The University of Texas School of Law, 1983
Associate Editor, Texas Law Review
B.B.A., Accounting, with highest honors, The University of Texas, 1980
Phi Delta Phi, member
Beta Alpha Psi, Accounting Honor Society, member
State Bar of Texas
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. Court of Federal Claims
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Successfully defended an electronics manufacturer against a $7 million patent infringement claim for anti-shoplifting tags and antennas, winning a unanimous jury verdict finding no infringement. The result was reportedly the first defense jury verdict in a patent case in the Eastern District of Texas.
Represents foreign businesses and individuals in U.S. litigation of business disputes.
Represented Norwegian manufacturer of card-key products in jury trial against $11 million claim for alleged breach of contract and tortious interference.
Represented Mexican electric utility and its insurer in suit for damages to failed gas turbine generator in Mexico.
Represents real estate investors and managers in disputes involving real property including improper management, lenders and borrowers, easements and title disputes and others.
Represents partners, joint venturers and franchisees in litigation involving partnership and franchise disputes, fiduciary duties and business separations.
Represented franchisee in arbitration claim under the American Arbitration Association for losses allegedly due to breaches of contract and fiduciary duty.
Obtained favorable settlement, as well as compensation for services rendered, on behalf of information technology consulting company in defense of a $4 million claim for alleged misrepresentation.
Successfully defended municipality at trial against a challenge to a city ordinance. Obtained a judgment upholding the ordinance and ordering the challenger to pay unpaid access fees and attorney's fees.
Successfully defended insurance company at trial against a $3.2 million insurance coverage claim arising out of the insured's intentional criminal acts.
Successfully defended seven doctors in a jury trial for alleged violation of preemptive stock rights.
Served as arbitrator through the International Centre for Dispute Resolution regarding the application of life insurance proceeds on a business owner in Peru.
Defended trustee in probate dispute over the validity of Community Property Agreement and proper distribution of trust proceeds.
Represented commercial pool company in jury trial against claims for misappropriation and violations of the Lanham Act.
State Bar of Texas, Litigation Section
American Bar Association, Section of Litigation
Dallas Bar Association
Dallas Bar Foundation, Sustaining Life Fellow
Patrick E. Higginbotham American Inn of Court, Former Barrister
City of Fairview, Texas, Former of Mayor (2003 to 2013)
AV Peer Review (Pre-eminent®), rated by Martindale Hubbell
Elected to the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), 2016
ABOTA is a national organization of leading trial lawyers and judges dedicated to the preservation of civil jury trials. Membership is by invitation only. Qualifying members must have considerable jury trial experience and a reputation for civility, integrity and professionalism to help younger attorneys achieve a higher level of trial advocacy. ABOTA’s members include lawyers from both plaintiff and defense bars as well as judges in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Named a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, 2016
The organization is a trial lawyer honorary society composed of less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers. Fellowship is by invitation only. Fellows are selected based upon excellence and accomplishment in litigation, both at the trial and appellate levels, and superior ethical reputation.
Claire James is an Associate in the Plano office of Cowles & Thompson, and practices in the firm’s Commercial/Business Litigation, Family Law, and Appellate sections. In her commercial litigation practice, Claire focuses on representing small businesses and their owners. She regularly represents clients in disputes involving business dissolutions, breach of contract actions, collection matters, landlord-tenant issues, and construction litigation. Claire also has experience representing clients in arbitration, having defended multiple businesses in complex contract arbitrations.
About fifty-percent of Claire’s practice is devoted to family law, including divorce, division of property, child custody, child support, and post-divorce modification as well as enforcement and contempt actions, and issues related to same-sex marriage and relationship dissolution. Claire is skilled at walking her clients through the family court process with a mixture of compassion and tenacity. As a former Child Protective Services Worker, Claire is uniquely well-suited to cases involving child safety issues, family violence, and other disputed custody matters. She practices throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, including Collin, Dallas, Tarrant, and Denton counties.
Claire lives in Richardson and is married with a son, a daughter, and two dogs.
J.D., cum laude, Southern Methodist University, 2012
B.S., Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2005
State Bar of Texas, 2012
Representative Matters:
Drafted successful Motion for Summary Judgment that was granted in favor of commercial landlord client and later upheld on appeal (2016)
Obtained Summary Judgment in favor of business client defending against insurance company in which the court initially granted default judgment in favor of the insurance company (2016)
Secured temporary restraining order and, ultimately, primary possession of child for father in case involving child safety (2016)
Represented client in child custody dispute related to same-sex relationship dissolution in which client was given primary possession of children (2015)
Drafted appellate briefing for anonymous blogger in successful mandamus proceeding before the Texas Supreme Court (In re Doe a/k/a “Trooper”, 444 S.W.3d 603 (Tex. 2014)) (2013)
Represented father in successfully dissolving Temporary Restraining Order and obtaining final order giving client primary possession of children in disputed child custody case involving child safety allegations (2013)
Texas Bar Association (Family Law & Litigation Sections)
Dallas Bar Association (Family Law & Litigation Sections)
Dallas Association of Young Lawyers
Teen Court, mentor, Wylie, Texas
SMU Law Review Association, Articles Editor, 2010-2012
“’Alimony’ is Strictly Limited by the Texas Family Code,” Cowles & Thompson Newsletter, Dec. 2016
“Fort Worth Court of Appeals Considers Parental Rights of Sperm Donor,” Reverse & Render blog, Dec. 12, 2016
“The Intersection of the Anonymous Right to Free Speech, The Texas Citizens Participation Act, and Rule 202 Pre-Suit Discovery,” Reverse & Render, Oct. 25, 2016
“Show Me the Money – Divorce and Constructive Fraud in Texas,” Cowles & Thompson Newsletter, Oct. 20, 2016
“Texas Anti-SLAPP Commercial Speech Exemption Does Not Apply to Blogger’s Statements about Wedding Photographer,” Reverse & Render blog, Aug. 22, 2016
“Protecting Your Business from Divorce,” Cowles & Thompson Newsletter, Dec. 2015
Writer in Residence for Ms. JD, 2015
“Internet Torts: What are the Limits of Personal Jurisdiction?” Dallas Bar Association Headnotes, Aug. 2015
“Attorney Speech, What Lawyers Can and Can’t Say; Handling Bar Grievances and Other Disciplinary Actions; Confidentiality, Loyalty, and the Attorney-Client Privilege,” materials for National Business Institute CLE, Dec. 31, 2012
“Tax Exempt Organizations from Start to Finish,” papers and materials for National Business Institute presentation, materials for National Business Institute CLE, 2011
David A. Johnson is a Senior Shareholder in the Tort and Commercial Litigation Sections of Cowles & Thompson. Mr. Johnson's practice areas include product liability defense, premises liability litigation, labor and employment litigation, healthcare litigation, and commercial and complex business litigation.
J.D., cum laude, Texas Tech University School of Law, 2001
oStudent Writing Editor, Law Review, 2000 – 2001
oMember, Phi Delta Phi, 1999-2001
oDean’s Executive Award, 2001
oScribe’s Award, Law Review, 2001
B.S., Political Science, Texas A&M University, 1998
State Bar of Texas, 2001
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Representative Matters
Obtained Summary Judgment and complete dismissal of all claims in state court on behalf of a client where Plaintiff claimed over $100,000 in damages in a premises liability claim against client. March 2017
Obtained Summary Judgment and complete dismissal of all claims asserted against a contractor client. Plaintiff alleged the contractor failed to perform requested repairs to a local hotel, which allegedly resulted in Plaintiff suffering significant injuries in a fall down a staircase in the hotel. Plaintiff sought in excess of $5 million in the lawsuit against multiple Defendants, including our client. September 2016
Successfully first-chaired a complete, take-nothing defense verdict in a jury trial involving various claims of negligence, assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and gross negligence against a multi-national retailer client. Plaintiff sought in excess of $5 million in damages from the firm’s client in the lawsuit. July 2016
Obtained Summary Judgment and complete dismissal of all claims in state court on behalf of a client where Plaintiff claimed assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress. March 2016
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Dallas Association of Young Lawyers
Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow (2010-12)
Patrick E. Higginbotham American Inn of Court, Associate, 2007-2008
“One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: Construction of Restrictive Covenants After the Implementation of Section 202.003 of the Texas Property Code,” author, Volume 32, Number 2 of the Texas Tech Law Review
Products Liability Update: April 2003, co-author, presented at the Cowles & Thompson Tort Litigation Update, April, 2003
Joshua Klinck is an Associate in both the Dallas and Plano offices of Cowles & Thompson. He maintains a diverse litigation practice involving a variety of complex matters. His practice includes prosecuting claims for Plaintiffs as well as defending companies and individuals. Joshua has tried cases in a variety of courts across North Texas and surrounding areas including Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Wise, Kaufman, and Bexar counties.
J.D., Texas Wesleyan University School of Law, December 2012
B.A., Music and Communications, Texas Christian University, 2010
State Bar of Texas, 2013
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Dallas Association of Young Lawyers
2016 DAYL Leadership Class
Texas Wesleyan University School of Law President’s Scholarship
Molly Ann Lawrence is an Associate in the Cowles and Thompson Commercial/Business Litigation Practice section. Her legal experience includes preparing matters for commercial litigation and personal injury trials, witness preparation, conducting depositions, and hearing practice. She has served as second-chair in cases involving breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence, fraud, DTPA, misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition, and other civil claims.
Prior to graduation from law school, Molly Ann served as a Legal Intern to the Louisiana State University NCAA Office of Compliance, and as a Legal Extern with the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General.
Volunteer, English as a Second Language instructor, Buckner International Watermark Community Church, member and women’s group leader
"Social Media in Pre-Litigation Investigation and Litigation," presenter, CLE/CE for attorneys and insurance adjusters, St. Louis, Missouri, November, 2018.
Christopher Littell is an Associate in the Dallas office of Cowles and Thompson where he maintains a general civil and commercial litigation practice in a variety of complex matters. He primarily concentrates on insurance defense, as well as some structured settlement work.
J.D., cum laude, Baylor School of Law, 2011
B.A., Economics with High Honors, University of Texas, 2008
State Bar of Texas, 2011
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas
Represented the Plaintiff in work performed on behalf of a municipality in bringing suit on the fraudulent sale of emergency dispatch software.
Represented the Defendants in a trial in the Southern District of Texas regarding a lien priority and collections dispute.
Represented the Defendant in a small claims trial regarding allegations of negligently performed vehicle repairs.
Represents various subcontractors in disputes regarding construction defects.
Represents various Defendant companies in personal injury and auto-accident litigation.
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Baylor Law Review, Executive Editor 2009-2011
Baylor Law School Dean’s Academic Excellence Scholarship
Angela M. Lopez is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Cowles and Thompson Immigration Practice Group. Angela has been practicing exclusively in the field of immigration law since 2002. She has developed a large national practice representing numerous foreign nationals and their employers in obtaining temporary employment nonimmigrant visas and permanent residence. She has represented numerous hospitals, healthcare systems, medical providers, university medical centers, physicians, and allied staff (nurses, physical therapists, and medical technologists).
Angela’s extensive experience includes J-1 two-year foreign residency waiver applications for physicians, H-1B professional worker visas, O-1 extraordinary ability visas, E-1/E-2 treaty investor, L-1 transfer visas, TN temporary work visa for citizens of Canada & Mexico, E-3 professional worker visas for Australian nationals, and permanent residence applications based upon labor certification, extraordinary ability aliens, national interest waivers, multinational managers and executives, and EB5 investor immigrant visas.
In addition, Angela has represented hundreds of individuals and their families in obtaining legal permanent residence (“green card”), successfully overcoming the challenges of the US immigration system and keeping families united.
Angela began her career in 1989 as a Deputy District Attorney and Town Solicitor in Colombia, South America. In 1993, she worked with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in Hampden County, as a Family Service Officer, gaining experience in Family Law, mediation and investigative services. In 1997, she was a founding partner in “Mediation Works,” a mediation center and dispute resolution service in Springfield, MA. In 1998, Angela relocated to Texas and completed her Masters in International and Comparative Law (LLM) at SMU in Dallas. During and after her Masters studies, she worked with Alcon Laboratories, a Fortune 500 Company, in their International Legal Department, assisting Alcon affiliates worldwide on a broad range of issues related to International Business transactions.
L.L.M. (Masters in International and Comparative Law), Southern Methodist University (SMU), School of Law, 2000
J.D., Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana (UPB), Colombia, 1988
Admitted to the State Bar of New York, 2001
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas, 2007
Dallas Bar Association Immigration Section, Chair, 2018
Dallas Bar Association Immigration Section, Vice-Chair, 2017
State Bar of New York
American Bar Association
Dallas Bar Association
American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
International Medical Graduate Taskforce (IMG Taskforce)
Uplift Williams Preparatory, Advisory Council member
Top 50 Women Lawyers in Dallas, Texas Diversity Council Award, 2017
Excellence Award, The Rotary Club of Plano Latin-American, 2011
“E-B5 and Physician Investors,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, June 2018
“Physician Recruiting,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, May 2018
“Immigration Update for Employers,” speaker, Richardson Chamber of Commerce, April 2018
“2018 Government Update,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, April 2018
“Citizenship Process: Dos and Don’ts for Applications,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, March 2018
“H-1B Season: H-1B CAP, Wage Level and Specialty Occupation Issues,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, February 2018
“Immigration and Worksite Enforcement – What Employers Must Know, Whether They Employ Foreign Nationals or Not,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, January 2018
“Immigration: State of the Union,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, December 2017
“The Perm Process: 5 Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, November 2017
“Immigration Under President Trump,” author, Cowles & Thompson newsletter article, November 2017
“Immigration for Investors and Entrepreneurs,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, October 2017
“Immigration 101,” speaker, Dallas Bar Association North Clinic, September 2017
“Family-Based Immigration,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, September 2017
“Permanent Residence Options (Green Card) for Physicians,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, August 2017
“Immigration: State of the Union,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, July 2017
“Immigration Enforcement at the State level – S-B4,” author, Cowles & Thompson newsletter, July 2017
“J-1 Physicians: Are You Waiver Ready?,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, June 2017
“H-1B Compliance and the Hire American Executive Order,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, May 2017
“Physicians’ Immigration,” webinar presenter, National Association of Physicians Recruiters (NAPR), April 2017
“Immigration 101,” presenter, United Dallas, April 2017
“Alternatives to the H-1B Visa,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, April 2017
“Immigration Under a Trump Administration,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson seminar, Brookhaven College, Dallas, TX, March 2017
“The State of US Immigration Under a Trump Administration,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, March 2017
“J-1 Waiver Options & Executive Order Impact,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, February 2017
Plano Citizenship Day, volunteer attorney, Plano, TX, February 2017
“The New Form I-9 and Compliance,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, January 2017
“Inmigración Bajo la Administración Trump,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson seminar, Brookhaven College, Dallas, TX, December 2016
“The Upcoming USCIS Deadline and How to Prepare,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, December 2016
“Practical Tools for Global Development,” panelist, International Business Summit, New Crossroads for Latin America-Asia Trade, Dallas, TX, October 2016
Dallas Latina Leadership (NHBA), participant/organizer, SMU, Dallas, TX, October 2016
Women in Education Forum, presenter, AMEP/UTD, September 2016
“Alternatives to H-1B Visa,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson webinar, Dallas, TX, May 2016
“H-1B Visas - Proving Your Case,” speaker, Dallas Bar Association, Immigration Law Section, Dallas, TX, January 2016
“5 Major Mistakes Business Owners Make that Expose Their Businesses to Huge Legal Risk, Severe Financial Loss, and Bad Publicity,” speaker, Frisco Chamber of Commerce, November 2015
Immigration and Citizenship Workshop, speaker, Richland College, August 2015
“EB-5 Investor Visas: Permanent Residence in the U.S.,” speaker, Brazil, June 2015
“Top 6 Alternatives To H-1B Visas for Foreign National Professionals,” speaker, June 2015
“Proving and Winning Your H-1B Case in 2015,” speaker, January 2015
Executive Action Immigration Workshop, presenter, December 2014
Immigration Workshop, presenter, El Centro College, August 2014
“Avoiding Workplace Pitfalls: Domestic and Foreign Employee Compliance,” speaker, Frisco Chamber of Commerce, July 2014
“Secrets to Winning a Green Card for Top International Professionals,” presenter, July 2014
“Secrets to Winning A Green Card Through PERM Labor Certification,” presenter, June 2014
“Immigration Pitfalls To Avoid In Family Law And Employment Law,” speaker, February 2014
“H-1B Compliance: H-1B Compliance. 9 Costly H-1B Mistakes Employers Can Make and How to Avoid Them,” speaker, February 2014
“H-1B Visas: Proving Your Case in 2014,” speaker, January 2014
Immigration and Citizenship Workshop, speaker, Richland College, August 10, 2013
“What Every International Graduate Student Should Know,” speaker, Texas Christian University, July 26, 2013
Updates from the AILA National Annual Conference, speaker, AILA Dallas Chapter, July 23, 2013
Immigration Update, speaker, Tri-County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Addison, July 11, 2013
“Immigration Reform, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Family Unity Waivers,” (Spanish), speaker, Iglesia Misión Cristiana Nuevo Pacto, Garland, April 26, 2013
“Immigration Reform, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Family Unity Waivers,” speaker, March 27, 2013
“Immigration Reform, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Family Unity Waivers,” speaker, Collin County Community College (Frisco Campus), March 23 and March 27, 2013
“Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Advance Parole, and Legalization,” speaker, DREAMers Immigration Workshop, El Centro Community College, February 20, 2013
“Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA),” speaker, North Lake Community College, DREAMers Immigration Workshop, October 20, 2012
Immigration and Citizenship Workshop, speaker, Richland College, August 17, 2012
Citizenship Workshop, volunteer attorney, Plano Multi-Cultural Outreach Roundtable (MCOR), March 10, 2012
“H-1B Visas: Proving Your Case in 2012,” presenter, webinar, January 25, 2012
“7 Secrets You Must Know to Win a Green Card Through PERM Labor Certification,” presenter, webinar, November 10, 2011
2011 Citizenship and Immigration Workshop, speaker, Richland College, August 13, 2011
“9 Critical Immigration Rules IMG Residents/Fellows Must Know to Practice Medicine in the U.S.,” presenter, July 23, 2011
“How to Get a Green Card Through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program”, speaker, Plano Latin American Rotary Club, July 7, 2011
“EB-5 Immigrant Investor Webinar,” presenter, May 19, 2011
Committee Immigration, CLE, Tarrant County Bar Association, April 2011
EB5 Investor Seminar in Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador, speaker, City of Dallas Regional Center, October 2010
“What You Really Need to Know About Immigration & Citizenship in 2010!,” speaker, August 28, 2010
“9 Critical Immigration Rules IMG Residents/Fellows Must Know to Practice Medicine in the U.S.,” presenter, Physician Tele-Seminar, June 2010
“Hablemos el Mismo Idioma,” presenter, tele-seminar for Spanish-speaking physicians, March, June, September, & December 2010
“How to Emigrate Your Workforce from Mexico,” presenter, Hispanic Marketing and Sales Mega-trends 2010, 2nd Annual Summit, October 2009
“The I-9 Audit and How to Prepare for It,” Collin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, September 2009
“I-9 Audits and Avoiding the High Cost of Noncompliance,” CLE, speaker, September 2009
“10 Immigration Rules Every Physician Recruiter Should Know,” presenter, February 2009
“Sponsoring Foreign Workers,” speaker, US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, New Business Forum, Dallas, TX, January 2009
Lawful Immigration Symposium, speaker, US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, Dallas, TX, October 2008
Educational Series Panelist, Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas, Richland College, Dallas, TX, September 2008
International Business Summit Conference, speaker, Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Dallas, TX, August 2008
“I-9 Compliance and E-verify Seminar,” CLE, speaker, July 2008
Immigration Workshop, presenter, Hispanic Contractors Association of DFW, Dallas, TX, January 2008
“Hot Topics in I-9 Compliance,” speaker, November 2007
Day Coordinator, American Immigration Lawyers Association, National Conference, July 2007
“Critical Immigration Issues for Employers, Retaining Foreign Workers and I-9 Compliance,” speaker, Collin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Plano, TX, 2007
“Protecting Your Practice: Immigration Pitfalls to Avoid,” speaker, Dallas Bar Association, Minority Development Program (CLE), Dallas, TX, 2006
“Strategies for Success: How to Win the Race to Secure H-1B Visas,” presenter, tele-seminar, February 2006
“Immigration Issues and Pending Legislation Before Congress,” speaker, The International Group Of Dallas (GID), Dallas, TX, 2006
“Visa Options for Foreign Students,” speaker, The Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting (ALPFA), 2005
Angele Lopez interviewed on San Diego radio regarding Applications for U.S. Citizenship soar in first quarter of 2016. Please click here to hear the interview.
George A. (Tony) Mallers is a Shareholder in the Plano office of Cowles & Thompson and he is the Firm's Section Head of the Construction Practice Group and the Family Law Practice Group. His practice is based primarily in the areas of family law, civil litigation, and corporate and real estate transactions and closings. For the past 27 years, Tony has represented individuals and companies in a wide variety of complex cases, including divorce, child custody, property division, child support, post-divorce modification and enforcement, business litigation, probate disputes and litigation, and landlord-tenant cases. His broad based civil practice has included representation from both the Plaintiff’s and Defendant’s side of the docket. Tony routinely handles matters throughout the Dallas Fort Worth area, including Collin, Denton, Rockwall, Ellis, and Kaufman Counties.
Tony regularly handles matters in several areas, including:
Family Law
Divorce
Annulment
Property Division
Premarital and Post marital agreements
Alimony
Child Support
Child Custody and Visitation
Paternity
Post-divorce Modification
Post-divorce Enforcement
Business and Real Estate Litigation
Breach of Contract
Breach of Lease
Fraud
Negligence
Deceptive Trade Practices Act
Commercial Landlord-Tenant
Eviction
Employment contracts
Covenants Not to Compete
Wills and Probate
Preparing Wills and Trusts
Probating Wills and Representing Executors during Probate
Contesting or defending Wills in Court
Healthcare Power of Attorney
Directive to Physicians
Juris Doctor degree, Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1987
Bachelor of Science degree, Business Administration, cum laude, Indiana University, 1984
State Bar of Texas, 1987
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Business/Commercial Litigation
Lead counsel in ongoing state court litigation against a commercial landlord in a wrongful eviction suit where our client, a national fast-food franchisee, was wrongfully evicted for an alleged non-monetary breach of lease.
On-going defense of a health club chain client against a $500,000 claim for overtime wages made by former employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act. We are opposing an attempt by Plaintiff to obtain class certification.
Defended client in Dallas federal court litigation arising from a dispute over possession of a cell phone tower, including claims of successor liability to the previous owner of the towers. The matter involved expenses of $750,000, and our client was ultimately dismissed from the case by the plaintiff.
Filed suit against a defaulting tenant under a commercial lease in Austin, Texas. The tenant abandoned premises without excuse and the property owner sued for damages valued at $750,000. The matter settled June 2017.
Prosecuted and defended separate covenant-not-to-compete claims: one claim by our client, a regional flooring service company, was made against a former employee, while the other claim is against our client for hiring an employee who was covered by a non-compete from a prior employer. Both matters were settled March 2017.
Tony Mallers filed a Rule 12(b)(6) Motion to Dismiss in the United States Bankruptcy Court seeking dismissal of RICO claims against his clients in a multi-party adversary proceeding. The court granted the motion dismissing those claims. June 2010
Tony Mallers as lead counsel negotiated a dismissal of federal RICO and state law fraud claims against his client in the United States District Court in Austin, Texas after filing Motions to Dismiss with the Court. November 2009
After a 3 day non-jury trial in Tarrant County, Texas, a trial team led by Tony Mallers obtained a Judgment for 195,000.00 for their client, an unpaid general contractor which had performed substantial tenant finish out work. The Court ordered foreclosure of the contractor’s mechanic’s lien. 2009
Tony Mallers as lead counsel successfully obtained a court order removing a mechanic’s lien wrongfully filed against a construction project in the District Court of Denton County, Texas. 2009
After a one day non-jury trial in Dallas County, Texas, Tony Mallers as lead counsel obtained a Judgment for $119,000.00 on behalf of his client, an unpaid flooring supplier, against the management company of an apartment complex, overcoming the argument that the management company was merely an agent for a disclosed principal. The Judgment was collected. 2009
Tony Mallers as lead counsel obtained a final summary judgment in Travis County, Texas dismissing all claims against his client, a shopping center developer from Round Rock, Texas, in a suit brought by a materials supplier against the developer and the general contractor on the project. 2008
A general contractor represented by Tony Mallers obtained a settlement of its breach of warranty claims against a nationally known paint manufacturer and its local distributor for an amount exceeding $110,000.00 arising from improper catalyzation of a staining product used on wooden cabinets inside the residence. 2008
Homeowners in Plano, Texas represented by Tony Mallers as lead counsel settled breach of warranty claims against a nationally known water heater manufacturer for $1.15 million after the water heater ruptured and flooded the house. 2005
Tony Mallers successfully brought a Texas Lemon Law Claim against BMW North America on behalf of his client resulting in a brand new vehicle to replace the defective vehicle. 2005
Divorce/Family Law
After a non-jury trial in Dallas County, Texas, a parent represented by Tony Mallers obtained a judgment awarding his client the exclusive right to designate the primary residence of two children. 2007
After a jury trial in Collin County, Texas, the jury awarded the parent represented by Tony Mallers the exclusive right to designate the children’s primary residence within Collin County. 2002
After a jury trial in Denton County, Texas, a client represented by Tony Mallers obtained a jury verdict awarding his client the exclusive right to designate the child’s primary residence. 1999
Tony Mallers has represented clients in dozens of family law cases, including divorce, paternity, modifications, enforcement, breach of alimony contracts, and interpretation and enforcement of pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements. By far the vast majority of these cases have settled out of court after a few preliminary hearings, depositions, or mediations. Mr. Mallers has demonstrated skill and expertise in guiding his clients through the difficult and many times traumatic emotional and financial experience of divorce. 1987 – present
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association, member - Family Law and Construction Law sections
Collin County Bar Association, member - Board of Directors, Family Law section
Texas Family Law Foundation
Collin County Bench-Bar Foundation, Lifetime Fellow,
Selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers, Family Law, by Best Lawyers, 2017, 2018.
David J. Metzler is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Cowles & Thompson Coverage and Insurance Litigation Practice Group. His practice is devoted to tort, commercial and insurance coverage issues. He also advises clients on insurance and entertainment law. David also has significant experience litigating real estate disputes.
J.D., Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1990
B.A., University of Texas at Arlington, 1987
State Bar of Texas, 1990
United States Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Aug 25, 2014 - In August of 2014, David obtained a dismissal of all claims asserted against his client through summary judgment. David was defending his client in a business litigation matter from claims for libel, slander and business disparagement as well as claims for interference with existing prospective business relationships.
Oct 29, 2010 - After a three day trial in El Paso, David Metzler received a jury finding in favor of our client, a real estate agency from California, accused of misconduct in connection with real estate investments in El Paso. The Plaintiff sought damages in excess of $650,000.
Sep 25, 2008 - In September 2008, David Metzler defended an insurance agent and agency in a suit alleging the agent failed to procure an insurance policy. The jury found for the Defendants, determining the Plaintiff was 100% negligent. David Oliveros assisted at the trial.
Oct 24, 2006 - David Metzler successfully argued an appeal before the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, with briefing by David Johnson. The case arose out of a claim for injuries to a child left in a day care center van on a hot summer day. The firm's client provided general liability insurance for the day care center. The issue was whether the claim was covered by the day care's general liability policy or its automobile insurance policy. The District Court granted summary judgment for the firm's client, and this order was affirmed by the Fifth Circuit, which held that the injuries arose out of the use of an automobile. Lincoln General Insurance Company v. Aisha's Learning Center, ____ F.3d ____, (5th Cir. 2006)(Cause No. 05-10981; Opinion issued October 24, 2006).
May 15, 2006 - David Metzler, chair of the Firm's Insurance Coverage and Litigation Practice Group, recently obtained a victory on appeal for an insurance carrier accused of bad faith in handling a workers' compensation claim. In one week in January of 2005, Mr. Metzler obtained summary judgment in two separate bad faith lawsuits against an insurance carrier. One plaintiff elected not to appeal; the second appealed, but the appellate court was convinced summary judgment was the appropriate action.
Representative Matters
Continental Cas. Co. v. N. Am. Capacity Ins. Co., 683 F.3d 79 (5th Cir. 2012) (representing insurer in successful action by excess carrier to recover defense costs from primary insurers that improperly denied coverage).
Philadelphia Indem. Ins. Co. v. Creative Young Minds, Ltd. D/B/A Primrose School of Walnut Creek, 679 F. Supp. 2d 739 (N.D. Tex. 2009) (successfully defended insurance carrier’s denial of coverage).
All Saints Catholic Church v. United Nat'l Ins. Co., 257 S.W.3d 800 (Tex.App. -- Dallas 2008, no writ) (successfully defended property insurer in coverage dispute involving more than one cause of property damage).
Lincoln General Ins. Co. v. Aisha’s Learning Center, 468 F. 3d 857 (5th Cir. 2006) (successfully represented insurer in suit arising out of denial of coverage based upon “auto” exclusion in CGL policy)
American Home Assur. Co. v. United Space Alliance, LLC, 378 F. 3d 482 (5th Cir. 2004) (represented primary and excess carrier at trial of claim for wrongful refusal to defend)
Southstar Corp. v. St. Paul Surplus Lines. Ins. Co., 42 S.W.3d 187 (Tex. App. -- Corpus Christi 2001, no pet.) (successful defense of insurer in "advertising injury" coverage and bad faith dispute)
St. Paul Fire & Marine Ins. Co. v. Convalescent Services, Inc., 193 F.3d 340 (5th Cir. 1999) (represented insurer in decision limiting insurer's Stowers duty)
Gracida v. Tagle, 946 S.W.2d 504 (Tex. App. -- Corpus Christi 1997, orig. proceeding) (represented insurer, real party in interest)
Williams v. Land Title Co. of Dallas, 1997 LEXIS 2098 (Tex. App. -- Dallas 1997, no writ history). Represented Appellee.
St. Paul Fire & Marine Ins. Co. v. American Int'l Surplus Lines Ins. Co., 1997 LEXIS 4596 (N.D. Tex. 1997)
Member, State Bar of Texas
Member, Claims and Litigation Management Alliance
Member, Certified Litigation Management Professional
Member, Defense Research Institute (2000-2010)
Member, Dallas Bar Association
Advisory Council, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School (2004-2007)
Commissioner, City of Dallas Environmental Health Commission (2007-2011)
“Litigation of UM/UIM Cases,” Presented to GEICO Insurance, Dallas, Texas June 2006
"Texas Law Update: What’s Happening Now?” Presented to AIGDC, Inc. Excess Casualty Group, New York November 2005
American Bar Assoc., Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section, Toxic Torts and Environmental Law Committee, “Mold Litigation and Other Emerging Issues in Toxic Tort and Environmental Law,” Phoenix, March 2003 (Panel Member: “Toxic Mold and Insurance Coverage Issues”)
Cowles & Thompson, “The Philistines Are Still at the Gate: Texas Bad Faith and Coverage 2003” Dallas, September 2003
Cowles & Thompson, “Survival of the Fittest: Texas Bad Faith and Coverage 2002” Dallas, August 2002
Cowles & Thompson, “Handling Mold Claims: Claims Tips and Coverage Issues” Dallas, April 2001
Cowles & Thompson, “Supreme Court Review” Dallas, December 2000
Kenneth J. Mighell is Of Counsel to Cowles & Thompson. Mr. Mighell's vast experience includes serving in the United States Navy, 1952-1954 and as a Captain in the United States Naval Reserve, 1954-1980; Assistant United States Attorney, 1961-1977; and United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, 1977-1981.
J.D., University of Texas at Austin School of Law, 1957
B.B.A., University of Texas at Austin, 1952
State Bar of Texas, 1957
United States Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
State Bar of Texas
Association of Attorney-Mediators
Center for American and International Law
Federal Bar Association
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Dallas Association of Defense Counsel
Dallas Bar Association
President, 1993
President-Elect, 1992
Vice President, 1990-1991
Board of Directors, 1981-1989
Chair, 1989
Vice Chair, 1988
Advisory Board, Institute for Law Enforcement Administration
Dallas Metropolitan YMCA
Member, Board of Directors
Dallas Bar Foundation
Past Chair
American Lung Association
Past President, Board of Directors
Downtown Dallas YMCA
Past Chairman, Board of Management
AV Peer Review (Pre-eminent), rated by Martindale Hubbell
Kenneth has lectured on "Jury Selection" at the Federal Bar Seminar from 1985-1988
Steven Moses is a Shareholder in the Tort and Insurance Litigation and Commercial Litigation practice groups of Cowles & Thompson. He represents clients on a wide range of legal matters including medical malpractice, premises liability, hospitality & lodging, and real estate matters.
He is a member of the State Bar of Texas, the American Bar Association, the Dallas Bar Association and the J.L. Turner Legal Association. He received his B.A. degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2000, and his J.D. degree, from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 2006, where he was a national semi-finalist in the Thurgood Marshall Mock Trial Competition. Steven was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2006 and he is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court of the Northern District of Texas. He also joined Patrick E. Higginbotham’s Inn of Court in 2008.
J.D., University of Arkansas School of Law, 2006
B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Texas at Arlington, 2000
State Bar of Texas, 2006
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
May 2015 – Obtained pretrial dismissal of premises liability case wherein plaintiff alleged over $100,000 in damages.
April 2014 - Obtained pretrial dismissal of premises liability case wherein plaintiff alleged over $100,000 in damages.
April 2014 - Obtained pretrial dismissal of premises liability case wherein plaintiff alleged over $80,000 in damages.
September 2013 - Obtained pretrial dismissal of premises liability case wherein plaintiff alleged over $100,000 in damages.
July 2013 - Obtained pretrial dismissal of premises liability case wherein plaintiff alleged over $100,000 in damages.
August 2012 - Obtained pretrial dismissal of premises liability case wherein plaintiff alleged over $100,000 in damages.
April 2012 – As lead counsel, successfully obtained eviction of residential tenant and judgment against tenant for outstanding rent.
January 2012 – Obtained summary judgment dismissal of claims against reputable retailer stemming from an investigative detainment. Plaintiff alleged client racially-profiled him, detained him unlawfully, committed assault against him, and maliciously prosecuted him criminally.
December 2010 – Obtained favorable settlement for client in matter involving a $20 million commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) loan dispute. The Firm’s client was an upscale, full-service luxury hotel branded with a world-wide leader in the hotel industry. The client exercised its right under the loan agreement to “re-brand” the hotel; however, the master servicer and special servicer of the CMBS loan allegedly failed to grant borrower’s unfettered right to “re-brand” the hotel in a timely manner. Borrower asserted damage claims for diminution in value to the hotel. CMBS lender waived default interest, attorneys’ fees and other monetary claims. Borrower re-negotiated interest rate, maturity date and other issues favorable to borrower.
November 2009 – Obtained favorable settlement for client accused of “price-gouging” in lawsuit filed by the Office of the Attorney General, Consumer Protection & Public Health Division, on behalf of the State of Texas. The State of Texas alleged the Firm’s hotel client engaged in price-gouging by demanding and charging Hurricane Ike evacuees excessive prices for lodging after Texas Governor Rick Perry declared a state of disaster from Hurricane Ike. The State of Texas further alleged the hotel charged and collected state and local hotel/motel taxes from Hurricane Ike evacuees in violation of the waiver issued by the Governor. The Firm’s hotel client entered into a Final Judgment and Permanent Injunction in lieu of large civil and criminal fines and other injunctive penalties.
March 2009 - Successfully tried case to jury verdict and obtained a six-figure award along with an award of all claimed attorneys’ fees and costs on behalf of client. The litigation involved enforcement of two post-separation agreements (Separation, Release and Restructuring Agreement and Contribution and Indemnification Agreement) that related to the division of commercial shopping centers, the transfer of general partner interests, and liability of the managing general partner for committing “Bad Boy Guarantor” acts under the Indemnification Agreement. The Defendant was found liable for not indemnifying and reimbursing the Plaintiff for payment of ad valorem taxes to the lender.
November 2009 - Successfully retried claim involving airport access fees charged by the firm's municipality client. In first trial, the fees were ruled invalid; in retrial, client awarded all past fees and attorney fees.
April 2008 - Obtained favorable pre-suit mediation result for commercial tenant client facing default under commercial lease agreement; client was released from all obligations, including nearly $1 Million in accelerated rent, and landlord received no compensation.
April 2008 - Represented franchisee against national franchisor in successful arbitration, obtaining a declaratory ruling of fraud against the franchisor and affirmative monetary relief.
April 2007 - Prevailed at trial on behalf of firm's trucking delivery company client in employee benefits case.
Steven Moses was recognized by D Magazine® in the 2014 issue of "Best Lawyers in Dallas" magazine in the field of Tort, Product & Medical Liability Litigation Defense.
The January 2009 issue of “Lodging Hospitality” published an article co-written by Rick Barrett and Steven Moses entitled ”Arbitration: Panacea or Nightmare?”
PUBLICATIONS
I Know I Knew, But...The Texas Supreme Court Clarifies Duty Owed by Landowners to Knowledgeable Invitees (click here to read the article)
Monica Narvaez is a Shareholder in the Cowles & Thompson Employment Law section. Currently, she advises a variety of businesses and industries on labor and employment matters. She leverages her experience and knowledge as a certified human resources professional to help businesses navigate the most complex employment situations in the hopes of avoiding litigation. However, she also litigates disputes before the TWC, EEOC, DOL, state and federal courts, and other state and federal regulatory bodies.
Before joining private practice, Monica served as an Assistant Ohio Attorney General and defended state and county agencies as well as universities against simple and complex employment disputes before state and federal courts. She also served as a Human Resources Policy Attorney for the State of Ohio where she wrote laws, rules and policies pertaining to the personnel processes and functions for close to 100,000 employees.
Representative Matters
Successful bench trial, with Todd Harlow, where the court in Collin County enforced a training expense repayment contract on behalf of our plaintiff client, a local air carrier. The court found that the defendant, a former pilot employed by the carrier, was obligated to repay training costs; the court awarded all of the requested attorneys’ fees.
L.L.M., University of Edinburgh, School of Law, United Kingdom, Commercial Law, 2010 (With Distinction)
J.D., The Ohio State University, Moritz College of Law, 2003
Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution
M.B.A., Schiller International University, Paris France and London England, 1996
B.S.B.A., International Business and Human Resources from The Ohio State University, Fisher College of Business, 1992
State Bar of Texas, 2003
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Society for Human Resource Management
Top 50 Women Lawyers in Dallas, Texas Diversity Council Award, 2018
R. Michael Northrup is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Firm's Appellate Practice Group. He practices in both the trial and appellate courts in cases involving personal injury, insurance issues, employment law and commercial disputes, and he provides litigation support to attorneys in other sections of the firm. Mr. Northrup served as a briefing attorney for former Chief Justice Thomas R. Phillips, Texas Supreme Court, 1988-89. He has taught as an adjunct professor at Hastings College of Law and SMU School of Law. He is Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Mr. Northrup is a contributing author to the Texas Torts & Remedies as well as the Texas Litigation Guide for which he has authored chapters on the Deceptive Trade Practices Act, Punitive Damages, Limitation of Actions, the Appellate Record, and Liquor Liability. He also authored Restrictions on Class-Action Attorney-Fee Awards, 46 South Texas Law Review (2005), Per Curiam Disposition The Houston Lawyer, March/April 1990, and Per Curiam Review in the Supreme Court, The Appellate Advocate, Winter 1990.
Mr. Northrup is a member of the State Bar of Texas, Dallas Bar Association, College of the State Bar of Texas, and the Defense Research Institute. He is a former chair of the Appellate Law Section of the Dallas Bar Association. He received his B.S. degree in 1985 from Texas A & M University and his J.D. degree in 1988 from Texas Tech University, where he was a member of Phi Delta Phi. Additionally, he was a recipient of the Houston Bar Foundation's award for Outstanding Legal Article and was named to the Who's Who Among Attorneys in America from 1989-90. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1988 and is admitted to practice in the United States Supreme Court, United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, as well as the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas.
J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law, 1988
B.S., Texas A&M University, 1985
State Bar of Texas, 1988
United States Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Board Certified Civil Appellate Law
Succeeded in challenging a series of trial court’s orders on appeal on the basis that the orders did not establish a final judgment, as the party in whose favor the orders were rendered had argued. The Appellee had obtained an order severing out various claims and parties –apparently for the purpose of creating a final enforceable judgment and forcing an appeal. The Court of Appeals concluded that there was no final judgment because no order disposed of post-judgment interest. The Court of Appeals also noted that the trial court should not have severed the judgment merely for the purpose of obtaining an advisory appellate opinion.
Successfully defended a summary judgment awarded in favor of a homeowner’s association and a group of individual homeowners. The Plaintiffs were themselves homeowners and brought suit seeking to declare that the various homeowners were in violation of the association’s deed restrictions and that all the deed restrictions were void because of lack of enforcement. The association and individual homeowners secured a summary judgment against the claims and the Plaintiffs appealed. The court of appeals affirmed the summary judgment. They held that one of the Plaintiffs had failed to prosecute an appeal, while the other plaintiff lacked standing to sue because the record showed she was not the record owner of the property at the time she brought suit.
Successful in getting claims against two individual Georgia residents dismissed due to lack of personal jurisdiction. In the same case, he was also successful in getting claims for fraud and conspiracy against a corporate defendant dismissed for failure to state a claim.
Successfully won an appeal in the Dallas Court of Appeals regarding a Municipal Airport operator’s right to charge an access fee pursuant to its regulatory power as a governmental entity because the license agreement and lease agreement the property owner relied upon expressly made the rights in those agreements subject to future ordinances and regulations.
Provides litigation support in pretrial matters, including review of pleadings, drafting of complex motions and responses, preservation of error during trial, and preparation of jury charges
Handles post-trial and appellate matters, including drafting of proposed judgments, post-trial motions, requests for findings of fact and conclusions of law, supersedeas challenges, and appellate briefs
Successfully obtained reversal of judgment against chiropractors and doctors for alleged fraudulent treatment and billing practices and conspiracy charges
Successfully invalidated contractual indemnity clause in appeal of insurance coverage dispute under the Texas Oilfield Anti-indemnity Act
Successfully defended in-house insurance counsel against allegations of the unauthorized practice of law
Successfully defended a summary judgment in a Will contest involving a Will purportedly signed on the decedent’s deathbed
Established the right of putative class members objecting to class action settlement agreement to appeal judgment approving the settlement agreement
Successfully defended a Trust against a beneficiary’s divorcing spouse’s claim that the trust was community property
Reversed a summary judgment barring a lender from foreclosing on real property due to the expiration of the statute of limitations
Successfully defended an appeal asserting that an employer discriminated against its employee on the basis of gender, and retaliated against her
Successfully overturned a $5 million medical negligence verdict
Successfully overturned an insurance bad-faith jury verdict including punitive damage award
Member, State Bar of Texas
Member, Dallas Bar Association
Member, College of the State Bar of Texas
Member, Defense Research Institute
Member, Texas Aggie Bar Association
For years 2013-2018, Mike Northrup was listed by Best Lawyers® (a Woodward/White, Inc. publication) as one of the Best Lawyers in America in the field of Appellate practice.
For years 2012, 2013, and 2016, Mike Northrup was recognized by D Magazine® as one of the "Best Lawyers in Dallas" in the area of Appellate law.
A sample of published opinions in which Mr. Northrup wrote the brief and/or argued:
Northrup v. Southwestern Bell Tel. Co., 72 S.W.3d 1 (Tex. App. -- Corpus Christi 2001, pet. denied);
Texas Commerce Bank v. Grizzle, 96 S.W.3d 240 (Tex. 2002);
Espalin v. Children's Medical Center, 27 S.W.3d 675 (Tex. App. -- Dallas 2000, no pet. h.);
St. Paul Surplus Lines Ins. Co. v. Dal-Worth Tank Co., 974 S.W.2d 51 (Tex. 1998);
Greene's Pressure Testing & Rentals, Inc. v. Flournoy Drilling Co., 113 F.3d 47 (5th Cir. 1997); Pansegrau v. National Union Fire Ins. Co., 23 F.3d 960 (5th Cir. 1994);
Little v. Smith, 943 S.W.2d 414 (Tex. 1997);
Cleaver v. George Staton Co. 908 S.W.2d 468 (Tex. App.--Tyler 1995, writ denied);
Stuart O’Neil has more than thirty years of legal experience and has successfully defended clients in a wide variety of litigation including: personal injury, healthcare, medical malpractice, trucking, product liability, construction law, premises liability, and general litigation. In addition to being a senior shareholder, he leads the Cowles and Thompson Healthcare section, and is also a member of the Tort Litigation section. He has successfully tried many high-value cases to jury verdict over the last five years.
Stuart represents hospitals, playground manufacturers, pharmacies, trucking companies, nursing homes, acute care facilities, hospice agencies, carriers, and other companies from Texas’ southern border to the panhandle. He has also worked with healthcare companies in amending and updating their policies, procedures, and bylaws.
Stuart has also led a group of attorneys, who defend the largest international retailer, in matters related to pharmacy, security, slip and fall, fallen merchandise, and other areas. Additionally, he represents a large national healthcare company representing all their facilities on a broad range of matters including premises liability claims, auto liability claims, healthcare and medical malpractice claims throughout the State of Texas. Stuart has experience in both Texas state and federal courts, and in administrative disciplinary proceedings with the Texas Board of Nursing, Texas Medical Board, Texas State Board of Dental Examiners, and Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services. He has also served in an advisory capacity for clients seeking to develop national strategy for the defense of their tort and healthcare litigation.
Recent Representative Matters
Favorable jury trial for retail client in Dallas County, Texas in fallen merchandise case where plaintiff required a multi-level back fusion.
Represented manufacturing client in favorable result regarding alleged defectively designed and manufactured balcony railing system on 32-story high-rise hotel/condominium project.
Favorable settlement for client facility in wrongful death healthcare liability claim involving hospice agency, nursing home, and physicians in Smith County, Texas.
Successful jury trial for retail client in Tarrant County in case involving significant back injury of plaintiff following oil spill.
Successful jury trial in Cooke County, Texas for retail client where plaintiff alleged complex regional pain syndrome and sought more than $10 million.
Obtained summary judgment dismissal of case for client hospital in slip and fall case.
Obtained pretrial summary judgment dismissal for retail client in slip and fall claim.
Obtained summary judgment dismissal on behalf of client dentist and dental practice alleging improper dental care with over $100,000 in dental expenses.
Obtained summary judgment dismissal for client hospital where plaintiff physician tripped, fell and broke his hip.
Favorable settlement in pool slide case involving severely brain damaged child.
J.D., Oklahoma City University Law School, 1985
B.B.A., in Business Administration, St. Francis Xavier University, 1982
State Bar of Texas, 1986
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Recent Representative Matters
Favorable jury trial for retail client in Dallas County, Texas in fallen merchandise case where plaintiff required a multi-level back fusion.
Represented manufacturing client in favorable result regarding alleged defectively designed and manufactured balcony railing system on 32-story high-rise hotel/condominium project.
Favorable settlement for client facility in wrongful death healthcare liability claim involving hospice agency, nursing home, and physicians in Smith County, Texas.
Successful jury trial for retail client in Tarrant County in case involving significant back injury of plaintiff following oil spill.
Successful jury trial in Cooke County, Texas for retail client where plaintiff alleged complex regional pain syndrome, and sought more than $10 million.
Obtained summary judgment dismissal of case for client hospital in slip and fall case.
Obtained pretrial summary judgment dismissal for retail client in slip and fall claim.
Obtained summary judgment dismissal on behalf of client dentist and dental practice alleging improper dental care with over $100,000 in dental expenses.
Obtained summary judgment dismissal for client hospital where plaintiff physician tripped, fell and broke his hip.
Favorable settlement in pool slide case involving severely brain damaged child.
Publications and Speaking Events
Stuart actively gives presentations at hospitals, insurance companies, third-party administrators, and healthcare groups on multiple issues including risk management and risk assessment. He has also given continuing legal education presentations to other lawyers and members of the insurance industry.
Recent Speaking Engagements
"Welcome to the Party" (spoliation and comparative responsibility issues), continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters, Maryland Heights, Missouri. November, 2018
“Stowers Demands” (duty to act in good faith), continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters, St Louis, Missouri. November, 2018
"Proportionate Responsibility Update," continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Dallas, Texas. February, 2018
“Texas Tort Update – 2017,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in St. Louis, Missouri. June, 2017
“Recovering and Challenging Medical Expenses,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Maryland Heights, Missouri. June, 2017
“Proportionate Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Las Colinas, Texas. June, 2016
“Proportionate Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Frisco, Texas. June, 2016
“Premises Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in St. Louis, Missouri. February, 2016
“Proportionate Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in St. Peters, Missouri. February, 2016
Selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in Dallas, Tort, Personal Injury, Product & Medical Liability Litigation Defense, by D Magazine®, 2016-2018.
Rated "AV Preeminent" by Martindale-Hubbell (international attorney listing), as having the "Highest Possible Peer Review Rating in Legal Ability & Ethical Standards" for the last 15 years.
Publications and Speaking Events
Stuart actively gives presentations at hospitals, insurance companies, third-party administrators, and healthcare groups on multiple issues including risk management and risk assessment. He has also given continuing legal education presentations to other lawyers and members of the insurance industry.
Recent Speaking Engagements
"Welcome to the Party" (spoliation and comparative responsibility issues), continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters, Maryland Heights, Missouri. November, 2018
“Stowers Demands” (duty to act in good faith), continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters, St Louis, Missouri. November, 2018
"Proportionate Responsibility Update," continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Dallas, Texas. February, 2018
“Texas Tort Update – 2017,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in St. Louis, Missouri. June, 2017
“Recovering and Challenging Medical Expenses,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Maryland Heights, Missouri. June, 2017
“Proportionate Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Las Colinas, Texas. June, 2016
“Proportionate Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in Frisco, Texas. June, 2016
“Premises Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in St. Louis, Missouri. February, 2016
“Proportionate Liability,” continuing education course to attorneys and insurance adjusters in St. Peters, Missouri. February, 2016
John M. Pease is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Cowles and Thompson Transportation and Trucking Litigation Practice Group, as well as a member of the Tort Litigation Practice Group. He began his legal practice at Cowles and Thompson, and for the past 30 years he has provided representation to clients in personal injury litigation, transportation, products liability, premises liability, oilfield injury, and other personal injury matters. He has also litigated commercial matters.
John has represented both national and Texas-based corporations and other entities in the state and federal courts of Texas. He has tried cases in counties throughout the state, including Dallas, Tarrant, Harris, Bexar, Travis, El Paso, Wichita, Jefferson, Freestone, Henderson, Johnson, and Madison Counties. John has major claim trial experience, representing product manufacturers, transportation and trucking companies, oilfield entities, retailers, insurance companies, and child care centers, among others.
J.D., University of Texas at Austin School of Law, 1986
B.A., with honors, University of Texas at Austin, 1983
State Bar of Texas, 1986
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Take-nothing verdict in a wrongful death case against a gas company traffic accident with an 8-figure demand to the jury.
Summary Judgment upheld in a construction accident/serious personal injury case.
Successfully defended a personal injury aviation case in Federal Court over an alleged product defect.
Obtained summary judgment defending an international insurer; ultimately upheld on appeal by the Supreme Court of Texas.
Obtained defense verdict in a case against a business owner in wrongful death and personal injury automobile accident.
Successfully prosecuted a case for an oil and gas client involving multiple indemnity agreements with respect to a well blowout, by obtaining a jury verdict awarding 100% of the client’s damages.
Successfully defended a property management company from allegations of negligence resulting in a plaintiff’s death, affirmed in the Fort Worth Court of Appeals of the take-nothing judgment.
Successfully defended a professional counselor from allegations of fraud and professional negligence by obtaining a take-nothing judgment in favor of the client at trial.
Won a trial in Travis County, Texas, on behalf of a petroleum company client. in a personal injury employee assault.
State Bar of Texas
Transportation Industry Defense Association
Dallas Association of Defense Counsel
Dallas Bar Association
American Bar Association
The Patrick E. Higginbotham American Inn of Court, Barrister
International Association Defense Counsel
Lawyer’s Cooperative Publishing, Editorial Board
Legal Services of North Texas, pro bono representation
Claims and Litigation Management Alliance
AV Peer Review (Pre-eminent), rated by Martindale Hubbell
The Patrick E. Higginbotham American Inn of Court, Barrister
John has written and lectured attorneys and clients on various subjects, including transportation industry defense, effective advocacy at hearings, written discovery, premises liability, preparation of settlement documentation and the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA).
Melissa J. Pegram is Of Counsel with Cowles and Thompson and a member of the firm’s Corporate and Business Law Practice and Labor and Employment Law Practice groups.
Business Law Melissa focuses on the representation of businesses in the area of commercial law and in dealing with all types of employment law issues commonly encountered by businesses. As a part of her representation of businesses, Melissa supervises and directs the handling of complex employment and commercial litigation matters, successfully negotiates and documents complex "business divorces," structures and documents business acquisitions and sales, drafts all documents relating to the formation of business entities and reviews and negotiates all types of business transactions, such as lease agreements and commercial loan transactions, and provides general counsel advice and services necessary for the day-to-day operation of businesses.
Employment Law In the employment context, Melissa prepares employer responses to employment-related complaints filed with the Department of Labor, the EEOC, and other administrative agencies; conducts investigations into allegations of executive and employee misconduct; prepares employment policies and handbooks, all types of employment-related contracts, confidentiality agreements, covenants not to compete/restrictive covenants, and separation/severance agreements. Melissa regularly advises corporate counsel and corporate human resources/personnel directors regarding litigation avoidance measures and the handling of employment-related situations and decisions.
Probate and Trusts In her many years of experience, Melissa has successfully handled numerous complicated estate probate and trust matters, working through difficult, hard-fought issues to reach favorable results for her clients.
J.D., Baylor University School of Law, 1981
B.A., University of Texas at Arlington, 1972
State Bar of Texas, 1981
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Successfully resolved a $2 million investment fraud case. The firm's clients were investors, officers, shareholders, and members of the Board of Directors of a defrauded corporation. The lawsuit alleged the president of the defrauded corporation had misappropriated corporate funds, breached his fiduciary duties, participated in “self-dealing”, and conspired with a national banking institution to usurp all ownership rights in the defrauded corporation in a “quid pro quo” arrangement of favorable loans to the president in exchange for alleged bribery payments to the national banking institution. In a favorable settlement, the clients received the return of more than $1.5 million dollars, representing approximately 75% of their initial investment of $2 million dollars. Ms. Pegram analyzed various documents and transactions that were a part of this arrangement and also prepared the settlement documents, including the Settlement Agreement, the Promissory Note, a Pledge Agreement, utilizing stock in several corporations as security for payment of settlement obligations, corporate resolutions and consents, and Deeds of Trust to secure performance of obligations under the terms of the settlement documents. 2009
Represented tenant in negotiation and documentation of second largest commercial lease transaction of 500,000+ square feet in DFW Metroplex for the year, 2006.
Resolved complex $27 million partnership dispute involving the control, management, and transfer of ownership interests in six hotels branded by three international hotel companies.
Part of team that closed a $60,000,000 acquisition of four multi-tiered hotels located in Texas. Participated by assisting in handling the purchase and sale documentation.
Handled the sale, acquisition, and financing for $15 million independent, privately-owned business in Dallas in 2008.
Serves as employment law counsel for national healthcare firm, national logistics firm, etc., providing daily employment counsel for clients throughout the nation.
General counsel employment advice for service providers in healthcare services, logistics, warehousing, accounting firms, computer software providers, providers of billing services for healthcare providers, human resource software providers, and other industries.
Provides employment law representation for municipalities.
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Melissa is a frequent speaker at educational seminars on a wide range of commercial and employment law-related topics. She is an adjunct professor in the Paralegal Studies Program of the Dallas County Community College District. She is the author of numerous articles on various commercial and employment topics, several of which are posted on the Cowles & Thompson website.
Julia Pendery is an attorney in the Cowles and Thompson Appellate Law section. She has represented clients in the Texas appellate courts for 35 years. She predominantly represents the party appealing an adverse judgment and has successfully appealed business and commercial, personal injury, professional malpractice, real estate, family, and many other types of disputes. She enjoys taking on complex cases and has practiced in most of the appellate courts in Texas and the federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans. She is also well-known for setting aside/obtaining relief from default judgments and frequently speaks to other lawyers on that topic.
Julia writes amicus curiae (friend of the court) briefs for industry groups, businesses, and individuals who are interested in important Texas Supreme Court cases but are not direct parties to the case. She is an active faculty and planning committee member of the Appellate Practice Institute, sponsored by the American Bar Association’s Judicial Division, where she helps other appellate lawyers develop their skills. She has served as vice-chair of the ABA Judicial Division’s Council of Appellate Lawyers and the ABA’s Appellate Law Section, as well as President of the Dallas Bar Association Appellate Section.
Julia also represents landowners in eminent domain proceedings. She became involved in this type of law through her family ranch corporation in the 1990s and has represented both urban commercial landowners and rural agricultural landowners in the North Texas. Her experience as a Special Commissioner appointed by a County Court at Law to assess value in a condemnation proceeding gives her an advantage in representing clients before panels of Special Commissioners. She helps her clients maximize the compensation they receive for their land by providing compassionate and effective legal guidance through a difficult process. She can also negotiate non-monetary concessions and, in some cases, successfully challenge the governmental entity's right to take private property.
J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, 1978
B.A., Biology and English, Texas Christian University, 1975
State Bar of Texas, 1978
United States Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Representative Matters
Watson v. Hardman, 497 S.W.3d 601 (Tex. App.--Dallas 2016, no pet.). (Anti-SLAAP suit early dismissal)
Khwaja v. Quik-Way Retail Associates II, Ltd., 2015 WL 9482517 (Tex. App.--Dallas 2016, no pet.). (default judgment)
Fitness Evolution, L.P. v. Headhunter Fitness, L.L.C., 2015 WL 6750047 (Tex. App.--Dallas 2016, no pet.). (real estate guaranty and tortious interference)
Gibbs v. Bureaus Inv. Group Portfolio No. 14, LLC, 441 S.W.3d 764 (Tex. App.--El Paso 2014, no pet.). (business records evidentiary standards)
Tagore v. U.S., 735 F.3d 324 (5th Cir. 2013). (amicus brief – Religious Freedom Restoration Act)
State v. Central Expressway Sign Associates, 302 S.W.3d 866 (Tex. 2009). (amicus brief – eminent domain, billboard valuation)
Lawler v. Digiuseppe, 269 S.W.3d 588 (Tex. 2008). (specific performance of real estate sales contract)
State Bar of Texas and State Bar of Texas Appellate Section
ABA Judicial Division’s Counsel of Appellate Lawyers
Dallas Bar Association and DBA Appellate Section
Board Certified® in Civil Appellate Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 1990
Zirwa Sheikh is an Associate in the Family Law and Commercial/Business Litigation Practices of Cowles Thompson. She works in our Plano office and has experience with bankruptcy filings as well as documentary and evidentiary research and drafting motions and pleadings.
Prior to her legal career, Zirwa served as an Extern for the Lubbock County District Attorney’s Office—Juvenile Defendants, as a Judicial Intern for the Thirteenth Court of Appeals in Corpus Christi, and as an Extern with Interstate Batteries.
Zirwa is fluent in English, Urdu, and Punjabi.
J.D., cum laude, Texas Tech University School of Law, 2017 B.A., magna cum laude, Psychology, Texas A&M University, 2014
State Bar of Texas, 2017
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Assocation
Dallas Association of Young Lawyers
“Beware the Zone of Insolvency and Unexpected Fiduciary Duties”, co-author, Dallas Bar Association Headnotes, 2018
William L. (Bill) Siegel is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Cowles & Thompson Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights Practice Group as well as a member of the Corporate and Business Practice Group. His experience includes representing individuals and business entities in their corporate and transactional affairs, including drafting and negotiating agreements of all types, and representing individuals and business entities in disputes that may arise in litigation in State and Federal Courts. He also represents debtors, creditors, Trustees, and Committees in bankruptcy matters in Chapter 7 liquidations and Chapter 11 reorganizations. His clients include small and medium-sized businesses, start-up technology companies, and partnerships.
J.D., University of Toledo College of Law, 1982
B.S., Miami University - Ohio, 1979
State Bar of Texas, 1982
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Business Representation
General Counsel representation for numerous businesses, including handling transactional and corporate affairs, lease negotiations, asset and stock sales, employment/non-compete/confidentiality issues, strategic planning, as well as day-to-day issues that arise in the ordinary course of business.
Representation of numerous businesses in disputes ranging from breach of contract, fraud, deceptive trade practices, and collection.
Representation of shareholders and partners in minority shareholder/partner oppression disputes/lawsuits.
Bankruptcy
Represents debtors, creditors, and trustees in Chapters 7 and 11 bankruptcy proceedings.
Assists debtors with informal workouts, focused on the goal of avoiding a bankruptcy filing.
Represents equipment financing companies in numerous bankruptcies in Texas regarding motions to assume or reject equipment financing leases, and motions to modify the automatic stay to take possession of equipment.
Represents landlords regarding motions to assume or reject leases, and motions to modify the automatic stay to take possession of the premises.
Represents creditors and equity interest holders in bankruptcy and workouts.
Represents creditors in Chapter 5-related bankruptcy adversary proceedings (preference and fraudulent conveyance).
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
American Bar Association
Rotary Club of Park Cities
North Dallas Chamber of Commerce, Board Member, Chair-Elect
Big Thought, Inc., former Chairman of the Board
Association of Corporate Growth, Program Committee
The Real Estate Council, Professional Services Committee
Rated AV Preeminent® by Martindale-Hubbell®, the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary.
Selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in Dallas, Bankruptcy & Workout, by D Magazine, 2013, 2016.
Bill Siegel is a sought-after speaker, moderator, and commentator, especially concerning areas related to business formations (from sole-proprietorships to partnerships to corporations); contracts, obligations, and responsibilities of corporate leadership; reorganization; and bankruptcy. He has also led presentations at the National CLE Conference on topics of Bankruptcy Law and the Texas Real Estate Commission, and he is a frequent lecturer before various professional organizations regarding corporate law and bankruptcy.
e2e Forum, moderator, North Dallas Chamber, February 2016
KRLD-AM 1080, interviewed re: Sports Authority and its financial and restructuring issues, February 2016
“Real World Tax Advice for the Rest of Us,” moderator, 1st Tuesday Connections, North Dallas Chamber of Commerce, November 2015
“Advantages and Disadvantages of Corporations,” presenter, Cowles & Thompson Legal Risk Management Seminar, Frisco Chamber of Commerce, October 2015
“An Overview of Bankruptcy – It’s a Jungle Out There,” Dallas Bar Association, North Dallas Clinic, December 2014
KTVT CBS-affiliate and KTXA 21, interviewed re: Texas Rangers’ bankruptcy and action, August 2010
“Still No Decision on Rangers Sale,” quoted source, Dallas Business Journal, June 2010
KRLD-AM 1080, interviewed re: Texas Rangers’ breakup fee between Greenberg and Ryan, June 2010
“Greenberg-Ryan Could Get $10M Breakup Fee,” quoted source, Dallas Business Journal, June 2010
“Bankruptcy Next Step in Texas Rangers Saga as Hicks Tries to Wrap Up Sale,” quoted source, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, May 2010
“VarTec Founders Seek End to Suit – Mitchells’ Lavish Lifestyle Remains Key Issue,” quoted source, Dallas Business Journal, August 2009
“Superior Air Parts Action Likely to Focus on Equity,” quoted source, Dallas Business Journal, July 2009
“SBA to Take Control of Fund that Owes Money,” quoted source, Dallas Business Journal, May 2009
“Auto Dealerships Discuss Bailout Possibility,” interviewed by Shaun Rabb, KDFW Fox 4 News, November 2008
“Bankruptcy,” speaker, 2007 Tax & Accounting Expo, East Texas Chapter, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, 2007
“Bankruptcy,” speaker, ABA Business Law Section, semi-annual meeting, San Francisco, CA, 1999
“Attorney Liability – Is This the New Twilight Zone?,” author, The University of Memphis Law Review, Vol. 27, No. 1, 1997
“Bankruptcy Issues Related to Intellectual Property Licenses – Assumption and Rejection of Executory Contracts,” speaker, ABA Business Law Section, semi-annual meeting, Nashville, TN, 1996
“Attorney Liability – Is This the New Twilight Zone?,” speaker, National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges, Memphis Bar Association, San Diego, CA, 1996
“Treatments of Covenants Not to Compete in Bankruptcy,” ABA Spring Conference, 1993
KRLD-AM 1080, numerous interviews re: the American Airlines and Hostess bankruptcies
Jonathan M. Spigel is a Shareholder and Section Head of the Firm's Tort Litigation Practice Group. Jonathan’s practice consists primarily of general insurance defense litigation, including transportation defense, products and premises liability defense, professional liability defense, employment and commercial litigation. His clients include a variety of product manufacturers and retailers, national hotel chains, retail stores and restaurants, national trucking companies, and local law firms and lawyers.
J.D., St. Mary's University School of Law, 1989
- Editor, St. Mary’s Law Journal
B.B.A., Finance, University of Texas at Austin, 1986
State Bar of Texas, 1989
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
Obtained voluntary dismissals, summary judgments, and favorable settlements on commercial, employment, food poisoning, negligent security, premises and products liability suits brought against national hospitality, restaurant, retail-related businesses, and product manufacturers and retailers.
Obtained Summary Judgments and favorable settlements for national trucking companies in wide variety of trucking accident cases.
Obtained voluntary dismissals, summary judgments, favorable settlements, and successful trial results for local attorneys defended in a wide variety of legal malpractice suits.
Obtained voluntary dismissal for cigarette lighter distributor sued in multiple death case involving minors, where one minor allegedly started apartment fire with cigarette lighter.
Obtained summary judgment for gasoline tanker trailer manufacturer and lessor in products liability suit brought after gasoline tanker trailer rolled over, caught fire, exploded, and resulted in the burn death of tanker trailer driver.
Obtained summary judgment for trailer hitch manufacturer in multiple death SUV/travel trailer rollover accident.
Obtained favorable settlement for mowing equipment manufacturer in suit brought by woman whose legs had to be amputated near her knees when she fell from her riding mower and was cut by mowing implement.
Obtained favorable settlement for owner of bucket truck/"cherry picker" that allegedly malfunctioned, pinning cable employee against wires, injuring his back and requiring multiple surgeries.
Successfully represented international hotel chain in age discrimination suit.
Obtained summary judgment for international hotel chain in retaliatory discharge (workers' compensation) suit.
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
2018: Jonathan Spigel was nominated and approved for membership in the International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC). Membership is by nomination-only into the private organization of insurance lawyers and executives from around the world. Founded in 1920, the IADC takes a leadership role in many areas of legal reform and professional development.
