News

Austin Franklin Guest Lecturer at TCU Neeley School of Business
Austin Franklin recently spoke on the "Fundamentals of Negotiation" at the TCU Neeley School of Business, Essentials of Negotiation online course.
Monica Jacobs Featured Panelist at Permian Basin Produced Water Management Council Webinar
Monica Jacobs recently spoke on water issues in the current New Mexico and Texas legislative sessions.
McClane P. Thompson Joins Kelly Hart
McClane P. Thompson joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Corporate & Securities section..
Amelia Hurt Joins Kelly Hart
Amelia L. Hurt joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Bankruptcy and Business Reorganization section.
William Burford Featured Speaker at TexasBarCLE Webinar

Tiffany Means Featured Speaker at Texas Young Lawyers Association West Texas Roadshow
Tiffany P. Means recently spoke on "Maintaining Privilege in Mineral Disputes" at the West Texas Roadshow presented by the Texas Young Lawyers Association (TYLA) and the State Bar of Texas.
Lindsey B. Harmon Joins Kelly Hart

Sean Bryan Authors Article on Extended Opportunity Zone Deadlines
Sean Bryan's column—entitled "IRS Again Extends Qualified Opportunity Zone Periods"—addresses the automatic extension through March 31 of a 180-day window for investing gains to qualify for the tax benefits of the program.
Whitney Beckworth Named Tarrant County Bar Foundation 2020 Pro Bono Award Recipient
The Tarrant County Bar Foundation (TCBF) selected Whitney Beckworth as the TVAS 2020 Pro Bono Attorney Volunteer Award recipient.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Second-Draw PPP Loans and Details
Sean Bryan's column—entitled "New Rules for New PPP Loans"—addresses new Interim Final Rules (IFR) and guidance issued by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Treasury.
Sharon Millians Authors Article in Texas Lawbook
Sharon Millians penned an article, "Remembering Fort Worth's Bill Hallman, Jr. – 'Generous, Selfless, Loyal," which recently was published in The Texas Lawbook.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021, COVID-19 Relief Bill
Sean Bryan's column—entitled "New Law Expands PPP Loans and Provides Grants for Shuttered Entertainment Venues" —addresses key PPP issues.
Kelly Hart Announces Five New Partners
Kelly Hart elected five new partners—Caleb Bulls, Joe Greenhill, Jody Walker, Jeff Whitfield, and Chelsea Wood.
Sean Bryan Authors Column on PPP Loans For Mergers and Acquisitions
Sean Bryan's column—entitled "The SBA’s Stealthy Rule-Making For Mergers and Acquisitions" —addresses rules and documents affecting PPP loan borrowers.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on PPP Loan Necessity Questionnaires
Sean Bryan's column—entitled "PPP Loan Necessity Questionnaires" —addresses supplemental information and updates on loan necessity questionnaires provided by the Treasury and the SBA.
Fort Worth Magazine Names 67 Kelly Hart Attorneys as Top Attorneys 2020
The December issue of Fort Worth Magazine recognizes 67 Kelly Hart lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in its 2020 Top Attorneys list.

Passing of William P. Hallman, Jr., Co-Founding Partner of Kelly Hart & Hallman
William P. Hallman, co-founder of Kelly Hart & Hallman, passed away on November 30, 2020.
Katherine Hopkins Featured Speaker at TCBA Virtual Brown Bag Webinar
Katherine Hopkins recently spoke on "The Landlord/Tenant Relationship Within the Bankruptcy Context" at the TCBA Virtual Brown Bag Seminar Series.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Non-Deductibility of PPP Covered Expenses
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled "IRS Doubles Down on Non-Deductibility of PPP Covered Expenses"—provides clarification on the non-deductibility of certain expenses paid with forgivable PPP loans.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Erin Arnold to New Orleans Office
Erin Arnold joins Kelly Hart as a senior associate in the Bankruptcy & Business Reorganization section.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Austin Franklin to Fort Worth Office
Austin Franklin joins the firm as an associate in the Litigation section.

Kelly Hart Receives National Rankings from U.S. News – Best Lawyers® "Best Law Firms" 2021
Kelly Hart receives top tier rankings in the U.S. News – Best Lawyers® "Best Law Firms" 2021 survey, including four national rankings and 27 tier 1 metropolitan rankings.

Sean Bryan Authors Article on SBA Loan Necessity Questionnaires
Sean Bryan's article—entitled "Proposed SBA Questionnaires Regarding "Necessity" of PPP Loan"—addresses questionnaires requiring borrowers that received PPP loans of $2 million or more to provide additional information to support the certification that economic uncertainty made the loan necessary.
Leslie Robnett Featured Speaker at Tarrant County Bar Association Brown Bag Webinar
Leslie Robnett recently spoke on "Growing the Texas Cannabis Market: State and Federal Cannabis Legislation Now and Tomorrow" at the TCBA Virtual Brown Bag 'Pot-Pourri' Seminar.
Thirty Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2020 Texas Super Lawyers
Super Lawyers named 30 Kelly Hart attorneys to its 2020 Texas Super Lawyers list.
Six Kelly Hart Attorneys Earn Top 2020 Texas Super Lawyers Honors
Super Lawyers has named six Kelly Hart attorneys to its 2020 top honors lists.

Pati Meadows and Sharon Millians Named Top 50 Texas Women Super Lawyers
Super Lawyers has named Pati Meadows and Sharon Millians to its 2020 Top 50 Texas Women Super Lawyers list.

Sean Bryan Authors Article on New Interim Final Rule for PPP Loan Forgiveness for Owner-Employees and Non-Payroll Items
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “Paycheck Protection Program Simplifies Forgiveness for Small Borrowers and Confirms Certain Lender Review Responsibilities”—addresses supplemental PPP information and clarity on loan forgiveness documentation.
Hannah Parks Featured Speaker at Nonprofit Leaders Virtual Luncheon Series
Hannah Parks recently spoke on "Addressing COVID-19 Employment Challenges" at the Virtual Lunch and Learn for Nonprofit Leaders.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Two New Associates to Fort Worth Office
Kelly Hart welcomes associates Delaney Blakey and Kylee Mease to the Fort Worth office.

Clark Rucker Featured Speaker at Whitley Penn Annual Energy Conference
Clark Rucker recently presented an update on Texas oil and gas caselaw at the Whitley Penn 2020 Virtual Energy Conference.

Kelly Ransom Authors Article in Energy Law Advisor
Kelly Ransom's column—entitled “Fifth Circuit Affirms Remand Orders in Louisiana Coastal Zone Lawsuits” and published in the Energy Law Advisor—addresses the federal appeals court's decision to prevent oil companies from moving Louisiana coastal wetlands lawsuits to federal court.

Jody Sanders Featured Speaker at Texas Association of Appellate Court Attorneys Meeting
Jody Sanders recently spoke on "Supersedeas Issues in the Appellate Courts" at the Texas Association of Appellate Court Attorneys (TAACA) virtual meeting.
Kelly Ransom Serves as Managing Editor of Energy Law Advisor 2020
Kelly Ransom serves as managing editor of IEL's Energy Law Advisor, an online newsletter produced by the Institute for Energy Law.
Cheryl Leb Featured Speaker at Texas A&M University School of Law Professional Speaker Series
Cheryl Leb recently spoke on "A Practice in Copyright and Trademark Law: Current and Future Trends and Issues" at the Virtual Professional Speaker Series hosted by Texas A&M University School of Law.
Kelly Ransom Named 2020 CityBusiness Women of the Year Honoree
New Orleans CityBusiness has selected Kelly Ransom as a 2020 Women of the Year recipient.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on New Guidance for PPP Loan Forgiveness for Owner-Employees and Non-Payroll Items
Sean Bryan’s article—entitled "New Guidance for PPP Loan Forgiveness for Owner-Employees and Non-Payroll Items”—addresses supplemental information on PPP loan forgiveness and clarity on certain issues.
Aimee Hebert Named 2020 CityBusiness Woman of the Year Recipient
New Orleans CityBusiness has selected Aimee Hebert as a 2020 Women of the Year honoree.
William Kerr Named 2021 Natural Resources Law "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers®
Best Lawyers in America® selected William Kerr as the 2021 Austin Natural Resources Law “Lawyer of the Year.”
Henry Robinson Named 2021 Labor Law-Union "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers®
Best Lawyers in America® selected Henry Robinson as the 2021 Dallas/Fort Worth Labor Law - Union “Lawyer of the Year.”
Forty-three Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Among The Best Lawyers in America® 2021
Forty-three Kelly Hart attorneys were included in the 27th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America© which is published annually in U.S. News & World Reports.
Lars Berg Named 2021 Mass Tort Litigation / Class Action Plantiffs "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers®
Best Lawyers in America® selected Lars Berg as the 2021 Dallas/Fort Worth Mass Tort Litigation / Class Action Plantiffs “Lawyer of the Year.”
Nine Kelly Hart Attorneys Listed Among The Best Lawyers in America© "Ones to Watch" 2021
The Best Lawyers in America© has named nine Kelly Hart attorneys to its inaugural 2021 Best Lawyers® Ones to Watch list, which is published in U.S. News & World Reports.

Sean Bryan Authors Column on Guidance on Appeal of SBA’s PPP Loan Decisions
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “"New Guidance on Appeal of SBA’s PPP Loans”—addresses additional information regarding Paycheck Protection Program loans and procedures to appeal SBA loan review decisions.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on New FAQs to the Payroll Protection Program Interim Final Rules
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled "New FAQs for PPP Loan Forgiveness”—addresses supplemental information and detail on PPP loan forgiveness.

Michael McConnell Named to Lawdragon's 500
Lawdragon has named Michael McConnell to The 500—its 2020 list of the leading U.S. Bankruptcy & Restructuring Lawyers.
Five Kelly Hart Attorneys Named to Fort Worth Inc.-The 400
Fort Worth Inc. has named five Kelly Hart attorneys to The 400—its 2020 list of the most influential leaders in Fort Worth.
Alan Hegi Featured Speaker at American Railway Development Association Annual Meeting
Alan Hegi recently spoke on “Force Majeure in the Time of Coronavirus: A Review of Contract Issues" at the virtual Annual Meeting for the American Railway Development Association (ARDA).

Jody Sanders Featured Speaker at Texas Bar CLE Webinar
Jody Sanders recently spoke on "Fiduciary Duties" at the Texas Bar CLE Advanced Civil Trial Course webinar.

Loulan Pitre Authors Column in Biz New Orleans
Loulan J. Pitre Jr authored an article—entitled “Where We Go From Here" and published in the July issue of Biz New Orleans.

360 West Magazine Named 99 Kelly Hart Attorneys as Top Attorneys for 2020
The July issue of 360 West magazine recognizes 99 Kelly Hart lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in its 2020 Top Attorneys list.

Katherine Hopkins Moderates CLE Webinar on Business Reorganization
Katherine Hopkins recently moderated a CLE webinar on the Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019, sharing practical, fact-based information about business bankruptcy during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Revisions to PPP Loan Rules for Loan Forgiveness
Sean Bryan's article—entitled "Revisions to PPP Loan Rules for Loan Forgiveness”—addresses changes in the law, as well as the announcement of a simplified PPP Loan Forgiveness Application Form.

Loulan Pitre Leads Effort in $500M Highway Project

Sean Bryan Authors Column on New Updates to Payroll Protection Program Interim Rules
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled "Update to PPP Interim Rules for Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act”—addresses rule changes and clarity on certain matters.
Sean Bryan Authors Column on Extensions on Qualified Opportunity Zone Time Periods
Sean Bryan’s article—entitled “Treasury Extends Qualified Opportunity Zone Time Periods”—addresses extensions of time periods for investment in or by a qualified opportunity fund (QOF) as a result of the declaration of disaster due to COVID-19.
Nancy Ribaudo Elected Chair of Tarrant County Bar Association Bankruptcy Law Section
Nancy Ribaudo recently was elected to serve as chair of the Tarrant County Bar Association (TCBA) Bankruptcy Law Section for a one year term beginning in July of 2020.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on New Extensions for Payroll Protection Program Loans
Sean Bryan column—entitled “New Extensions for PPP Loans ”—addresses extensions for both the application deadline and the cap on highly paid employees.

Jane Jackson Authors Column in IEL's Energy Law Advisor
Jane Jackson authored an article in the May issue of IEL's Energy Law Advisor, an online newsletter produced by the Institute for Energy Law.
Kelly Ransom Serves as Managing Editor of Energy Law Advisor
Kelly Ransom serves as managing editor of IEL's Energy Law Advisor, an online newsletter produced by the Institute for Energy Law.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Second Interim Final Rule on Payroll Protection Program Loans
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “SBA Issues PPP Forgiveness Rules for Loans under Review”—addresses forgiveness of loans under review by the SBA.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on New Interim Final Rules on Payroll Protection Program Loans
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “SBA Issues General PPP Forgiveness Rules”—addresses loan forgiveness requirements and guidance, legitimizing the provisions of the loan forgiveness application.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Payroll Protection Program Loan Forgiveness
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “Application Posted for Payroll Protection Program Loan Forgiveness”—addresses the U.S. Treasury Department's guidance on the loan forgiveness application.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Additional Draws on PPP Loans
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “Additional Draws on PPP Loans for Partnerships and Employers with Seasonal Employees"—addresses the new Interim Final Rule on PPP loans.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Certification for Payroll Protection Program Loans
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “Guidance on Certification for Payroll Protection Program Loans-Repayment Rather Than Penalties”—addresses the SBA's provisions of FAQ #46, regarding good faith certification of the necessity of a Payroll Protection Program loan.
Drew Neill Featured Speaker at Texas Bar CLE Webinar

Katherine Hopkins Featured Panelist at Texas A&M University School of Law Event
Katherine Hopkins recently spoke on the Chapter 11 Small Business Reorganization Act at the Texas A&M University (TAMU) School of Law Webinar.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on New TWC Guidance For Unemployment Claimants
The Texas Workforce Commission has promulgated rules allowing employees to continue receipt of benefits even if rejecting a return to suitable work.

Sean Bryan Authors Article on New PPP Rules
Sean Bryan’s column—entitled “Tightening the PPP Rules as the IRS Awakes”—addresses new Interim Final Rules regarding Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Unemployment Benefits for Employees Refusing to Return to Work
If a business reopens and an employee chooses not to return to work, they become ineligible for unemployment, according to the Texas Workforce Commission.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on PPP Application and Certification
The Payroll Protection Program (PPP) application requires an applicant certify, on penalty of fines or imprisonment, that the loan is necessary to support its ongoing operations.
Sean Bryan Authors Article on Alternative Sources of Government Funds During Covid-19
The Families First Corona Response Act and the CARES Act entitle employers and self-employed individuals to claim payroll tax credits.
Hannah Parks Authors Blog on Employer Considerations for Returning Employees After COVID-19 Shutdowns
The EEOC recently clarified its update to its Pandemic Preparedeness in the Worklplace and the ADA Guidance.
IRS Moves Tax Day To July 15
Treasury and IRS Delay Federal Tax Day from April 15 to July 15 Due to COVID-19 Outbreak

The CARES Act: What You Need To Know
The CARES Act provides fast and direct economic assistance for American workers and families, small businesses, and preserves jobs for American industries.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Temporary Regulations on Emergency Paid Sick Leave and Emergency FMLA Expansion Acts
On April 1, 2020, the DOL issued its regulations on the paid leave provision of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The Rule defines “quarantine or isolation orders” to include a broad range of governmental orders.
Loulan Pitre Named CityBusiness 2020 Driving Forces Honoree
New Orleans CityBusiness has selected Loulan Pitre as a 2020 Driving Forces Award recipient.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
The Act establishes a $349 Billion program to issue payroll protection loans intended to encourage small businesses to retain their employees and remain in business during this crisis.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
The U.S. Department of Labor published Questions and Answers on the soon-to-be effective Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act and the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act

Jody Sanders Launches Texas Appellate Law Podcast
The Texas Appellate Law Podcast covers topics of interest to lawyers handling civil appellate matters in Texas courts.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on City of Fort Worth Disaster Declaration
On March 21, 2020, the City of Fort Worth amended its Emergency Disaster Declaration closing all non-essential businesses for Covid-19.

Lesli Harris Presents Sound Advice American Bar Association Podcast
Lesli D. Harris recently presented a podcast on scandalous and obscene trademarks.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Families First Coronavirus Response Act and Emergency Paid Leave Act of 2020
The Bill, if passed by the Senate, will provide paid sick leave and unemployment benefits to employees taking leave as a result of COVID-19.

Katherine Hopkins Named Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association Outstanding Young Lawyer
The Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association (TCYLA) has selected Katherine Hopkins as its 2020 Outstanding Young Lawyer recipient.

Jody S. Sanders Earns Top Texas Rising Stars Honors

Fifteen Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Texas Rising Stars
Fifteen Kelly Hart attorneys have been selected as 2020 Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars.
Jonathan Cranz Named Forty Under Forty Honoree
The Fort Worth Business Press has selected Jonathan Cranz as a 2020 Forty Under Forty award recipient.
Kelly Ransom Named CityBusiness 2020 "Leadership in Law" Honoree
Kelly Ransom has been chosen to the New Orleans CityBusiness “Leadership in Law” Class of 2020.

Jody Sanders Featured Speaker at 12th Annual Damages in Civil Litigation Course
Jody Sanders recently spoke on “Ch. 33: How to Make the Best Use Of and Avoid Pitfalls Under Texas’ Proportionate Responsibility Scheme” at the Texas Bar CLE’s Damages in Civil Litigation Course.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at the Fifth Circuit Bankruptcy Bench Bar Conference
Louis Phillips recently spoke on “Applying Objective Reasonableness: The Many Questions That Remain After Taggart V. Lorenzen” at the Fifth Circuit Bankruptcy Bench-Bar Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 5-7, 2020.

Lars Berg Selected Fellow of Litigation Counsel of America
Lars Berg recently was chosen to become a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA) Trial Lawyer Honorary Society.
Kelly Ransom Appointed to Institute for Energy Law’s Executive Committee
Kelly Ransom recently was appointed to serve on the Institute for Energy Law’s (IEL) executive committee.

Jody Sanders Featured Speaker; Leslie Robnett Seminar Moderator at Tarrant County Bar Association Brown Bag Seminar Series
Jody Sanders and Leslie Robnett recently presented at the Tarrant County Bar Association (TCBA) Appellate Law Brown Bag Seminar Series.
Hannah Parks Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law
Hannah Parks is board certified in Labor and Employment law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Russell Cawyer Featured Speaker at Employment Lunch & Learn
Gus Bates Insurance and Investments recently hosted a Labor and Employment Lunch & Learn, featuring Russell Cawyer.

David Keltner and Taylor Spalla Co-Author Texas Title Disputes Paper
David Keltner and Taylor Spalla co-authored a paper titled “The Presumed Grant Theory and its Application to Texas Title Disputes.”

Kelly Ransom Authors Column in The Energy Dispatch
Kelly Ransom penned an article in the January 2020 issue of The Energy Dispatch, a news publication produced by the Institute for Energy Law's Young Energy Professionals.

David Keltner Featured Speaker at State Bar of Texas Oil and Gas Disputes 2020
David Keltner recently spoke on “The Presumed Grant Theory and its Application to Texas Title Disputes” at the Texas Bar CLE’s Oil and Gas Disputes 2020.

Kelly Hart Elects 5 New Partners
Congratulations to Kelly Hart’s newest partners—Jane Jackson, J.R. Johnson, Jeff Kuhnhenn, Chase Medling, and Dan Vela.
Kelly Hart Named TVAS 2019 Law Firm Partner Award Recipient
Tarrant County Volunteer Services (TVAS) will honor Kelly Hart with its 2019 Law Firm Partner Award on January 29, 2020.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Andrew W. Homer
Andrew Homer has joined Kelly Hart as an associate in the firm’s Corporate & Securities section.
Derek Montgomery Joins Kelly Hart
Derek Montgomery joins Kelly Hart's Midland office as a partner in the firm’s Litigation and Appellate practices.Fifty-seven Kelly Hart Lawyers Named Top Attorneys by Fort Worth, Texas Magazine
The December edition of Fort Worth, Texas magazine recognizes 57 Kelly Hart lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in its Top Attorneys list.

Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at 39th Annual Mississippi Bankruptcy Law Conference
The 39th Annual Bankruptcy Law Conference will be held on November 14-15, 2019, at the Oxford Conference Center in Oxford, Mississippi.

Tiffany Means Authors Column in The Energy Dispatch
Tiffany P. Means penned an article in the October 2019 issue of The Energy Dispatch, a news publication produced by The Institute For Energy Law's Young Energy Professionals (IEL).

Kelly Hart Receives National Rankings from 2020 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”
Kelly Hart earned top tier rankings in the 2020 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings, including four national rankings and 28 first-tier metropolitan rankings.

Nirav Patel Authors Column in The Energy Dispatch
Nirav Patel penned an article in the October 2019 issue of The Energy Dispatch, a news publication produced by the Institute for Energy Law’s Young Energy Professionals (IEL).

Kelly Ransom Serves as Issue Editor of The October Energy Dispatch
Kelly Ransom served as editor of the October 2019 issue of The Energy Dispatch, a news publication produced by the Institute for Energy Law’s Young Energy Professionals (IEL).

Elizabeth Berthiaume Featured Panelist at Texas A&M School of Law Event
Elizabeth Berthiaume recently spoke at the Texas A&M School of Law “Latinos in Law” event regarding the Latino/a experience in law school and how being a Latina shaped her career trajectory.

Braden Allman Joins Kelly Hart
Braden Allman joins the firm as an associate in the Fort Worth office’s Labor & Employment section.

Leslie Darby and Gracie Garcia Featured Panelists at Women of Color Collective Law Students Association Event
Leslie Darby and Gracie Garcia recently spoke at the Texas A&M School of Law Women of Color panel event.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Six New Associates to Fort Worth Office
Kelly Hart welcomes associates Edward “Teddy” Boschini, Jonathan Petree, Joanna Raines, Mason Smith, Marylynn Smitherman, and Emily Steppick to the Fort Worth office.

Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at 25th Annual Bankruptcy Law Seminar
The 25th Annual Bankruptcy Law Seminar will be held on October 17-18, 2019 at Lod Cook Alumni Center in Baton Rouge.
Twenty-Nine Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2019 Texas Super Lawyers
Texas Super Lawyers named 29 Kelly Hart attorneys to its 2019 list.
David Keltner Earns Top Texas Super Lawyer Honors
David Keltner has been recognized as a Top 10 Lawyer by Texas Super Lawyers.

Phil McCrury Named Accredited Estate Planner®
Phillip McCrury receives Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) designation.
Nancy Ribaudo Selected Master Member in the John C. Ford American Inn of Court
Nancy Ribaudo recently was chosen to become a Master member in the John C. Ford American Inn of Court.
David Keltner Named 2020 Arbitration "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers®
Best Lawyers in America® selected David Keltner as the 2020 Dallas/Fort Worth Arbitration “Lawyer of the Year.”

Forty-Three Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Among The Best Lawyers in America® 2020
Forty-three Kelly Hart attorneys were included in the 26th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America© which is published annually in U.S. News & World Reports.
William Kerr and Bob Stewart Named Top Austin Attorneys by Austin Monthly
The August edition of Austin Monthly magazine names William Kerr and Bob Stewart to its 2019 Top Attorneys list.

Caroline Brownlie and Austin Franklin Selected to Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association Board
Caroline Brownlie and Austin Franklin recently were selected to serve on the 2019-2020 Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association (TCYLA) Board of Directors.

Travis Alley Joins Kelly Hart
Travis Alley joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Fort Worth office’s Corporate & Securities section.

Six Kelly Hart Attorneys Named to Fort Worth Inc.’s The 400
Fort Worth Inc. has named six Kelly Hart attorneys to The 400—its 2019 list of the most influential leaders in Fort Worth.
Hannah Parks Authors Column in the Fort Worth Business Press
Hannah Parks authored an article addressing what businesses need to know about service and emotional support animals in the workplace.

John Cayce Sworn In as Tarrant County Bar Association President
John Cayce recently was sworn in as president of the Tarrant County Bar Association (TCBA).

Kelly Ransom Serves as Issue Editor for The Energy Dispatch
Kelly Ransom served as editor of the July 2019 issue of The Energy Dispatch, a news publication produced by the Institute for Energy Law's Young Energy Professionals.

Sean Bryan Authors 3-Part Article in Fort Worth Business Press
Sean Bryan penned a 3-part article, “New Guidance for Investment in Qualified Opportunity Zones—Part I, II, and III,” which recently was published in the Fort Worth Business Press.

360 West Magazine Names 85 Kelly Hart Attorneys as Top Attorneys for 2019
The July issue of 360 West magazine recognizes 85 Kelly Hart lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in its Top Attorneys list.
Jeff Whitfield Elected to United Way of Tarrant County Board of Directors
Jeff Whitfield recently was elected to the United Way of Tarrant County Board of Directors for a three-year term.
J. Austin Franklin Selected Barrister Member of the Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court
Austin Franklin recently was chosen to become a Barrister member of the Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court.
Gracie Garcia Selected Associate Member of the Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court
Gracie Garcia recently was chosen to become an Associate member of the Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court.
Kelly Hart Sponsors Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans Summer Legal Clinic
Kelly Hart sponsored the Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans (TLTV) Summer Legal Clinic.

Russell Cawyer Pens Blog on San Antonio’s Paid Sick Leave Ordinance
Barring legal action and an injunction, employers that have an employee performing at least 80 hours per year in San Antonio should be prepared to comply with the city’s new paid sick leave ordinance beginning on August 1, 2019.
Katherine Hopkins Selected to the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges Next Generation Program
Katherine Hopkins has been selected to participate in the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges (NCBJ) Next Generation (“NextGen”) program.
Alan Hegi Elected Chair of the American Railway Development Association’s Law Section
Alan Hegi recently was elected Chair of the Law Section of the American Railway Development Association (ARDA) for the 2019-2020 fiscal year.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Paid Sick Leave Ordinances
Employers in Dallas and San Antonio must prepare for the implementation of the local paid sick leave laws that take effect August 1, 2019.
Henry Robinson Authors Article in the 2019 Employee Relations Law Journal
Henry Robinson penned an article, “How Employees May Minimize Current Fiduciary Risks under ERISA—Part II,” which was published in the Summer 2019 Employee Relations Law Journal.
James E.McClain Joins Kelly Hart
.James McClain joins Kelly Hart in the Fort Worth office’s Corporate and Securities section.J
Louis M. Phillips Featured Speaker at 13th Annual Texas Bankruptcy Bench Bar Conference
The 13th Annual Texas Bench Bar Conference provided current and informative advice on the issues most important to bankruptcy and insolvency practitioners.

Rick Shelby Featured Speaker at Louisiana State Bar Association Bankruptcy Seminar
Rick Shelby recently spoke on “Everybody Wants a Discharge—What Is It and How to” at the Louisiana State Bar Association Bankruptcy Code seminar in New Orleans.

Kelly Hart Partner David S. Morales Confirmed as United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas
The United States Senate confirmed David S. Morales to a seat on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Arbitration Agreements of Interstate Truck Drivers
Transportation companies utilizing arbitration agreements should consider whether to implement and apply state law rather than the Federal Arbitration Act.
Loulan Pitre Featured Speaker at Second Annual Coastal Law in Louisiana Seminar

David W. Cook and Jody S. Sanders Earn Top Texas Rising Stars Honors

Leslie Darby and Jim Scott Named 40 Under 40 Honorees
The Fort Worth Business Press has selected Leslie Darby and Jim Scott as 2019 40 Under 40 award recipients.
Nineteen KH Attorneys Named Texas Rising Stars
Nineteen Kelly Hart attorneys have been selected as 2019 Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars.

Katherine Hopkins Named St. Mary’s University School of Law 10 under 10 Honoree
St. Mary’s University School of Law has selected Katherine Hopkins as a 2019 10 Under 10 award recipient.
Taylor Spalla Featured Speaker at 2nd Annual Permian Basin Water In Energy Conference
Taylor Spalla recently spoke on the regulatory and legal panel of the 2nd Annual Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference (PBWIEC) in Midland, Texas, February 19–22, 2019.
Loulan Pitre Honored in Leadership in Law Hall of Fame; Rick Shelby Selected as 2019 Honoree
Loulan Pitre and Rick Shelby have been named to the New Orleans CityBusiness Leadership in Law class of 2019.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on the Legality of CBD Oil in Texas
The possession, use, or sale of CBD oil is a felony under state law—except for CBD oil that has a THC concentration of less than .5 percent and is prescribed for intractable seizures by a physician licensed and registered to prescribe the oil (and confirmed by a second physician).
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Transgender Title VII Case
In Wittmer v. Phillips 66 Company, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a trial court’s summary judgment in favor of an employer that had been sued for employment discrimination based on transgender status.
Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center Dedication
Texas Christian University held a dedication ceremony on December 7, 2018 to mark the completion of a major expansion and renovation of the Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center.
Katherine Hopkins Voted President-Elect of Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Young Bankruptcy Lawyers
Katherine Hopkins recently was elected to serve as president-elect of the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Young Bankruptcy Lawyers Board of Directors.
Alan Hegi and Michael McConnell Featured Speakers at American Railway Development Association Executive Forum
Alan Hegi and Michael McConnell recently spoke to the Executive Forum of the American Railway Development Association (ARDA) regarding issues and risks in tenant bankruptcy.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at the 14th Annual Bankruptcy, Insolvency, and Creditor Rights Retreat
The 14th Annual Bankruptcy, Insolvency, and Creditor Rights (BICR) Retreat will provide the most current and informative advice on the issues most important to bankruptcy and insolvency practitioners.

Heidi Angel Named Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services 2018 Pro Bono Award Recipient
Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services (TVAS) selected Heidi Angel as the 2018 Attorney Mentor Award Honoree.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Meredith W. Knudsen

Cheryl Leb Serves as Contributing Editor to Thomson Reuters Practical Law
Cheryl Leb authored the 2019 Right of Publicity Laws guide, an online resource produced by Thomson Reuters Practical Law, for Texas.
Kelly Hart Elects Five New Partners (2)
Kelly Hart elected five new partners—Jonathan Cranz, Brian Garrett, Katherine Hopkins, Drew Neal, and Rick Shelby.
Kelly Hart Elects Five New Partners (3)
Kelly Hart elected five new partners—Jonathan Cranz, Brian Garrett, Katherine Hopkins, Drew Neal, and Rick Shelby.
Kelly Hart Pitre Attorneys Named 2018 Top Lawyers by New Orleans Magazine
Lesli D. Harris and Aimee Hebert were selected by their peers for inclusion in New Orleans Magazine’s Top Lawyers list.
TCU Dedicates Expanded, Renovated Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center
Texas Christian University held a dedication ceremony on December 7, 2018 to mark the completion of a major expansion and renovation of the Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center.
Henry Robinson Authors Article in the Employee Relations Law Journal
Henry Robinson penned an article, “How Employers and Employees may Minimize Current Fiduciary Risks under ERISA,” to be published in the Spring 2019 Employee Relations Law Journal.
Eighty-two Kelly Hart Lawyers Named Top Attorneys by Fort Worth, Texas Magazine
The December edition of Fort Worth,Texas magazine recognizes 82 Kelly Hart lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in the 2018 Top Attorneys list.

Sean Bryan Authors Column in Fort Worth Business Press
Sean Bryan authored an article addressing Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) and the deferral of tax on capital gains that are invested in these QOZs.

Three Kelly Hart Attorneys Newly Selected Fellows of the Tarrant County Bar Foundation
Katherine Hopkins, Clark Rucker, and Jody Sanders recently were selected as Fellows of the Tarrant County Bar Foundation.
Thirty-two Kelly Hart Attorneys Newly Selected Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation
The Texas Bar Foundation has selected thirty-two Kelly Hart attorneys as Fellows of the Foundation. Fellows are selected for outstanding professional achievements and a demonstrated commitment to the improvement of the justice system throughout Texas.
Rachel Scarafia Appointed to South Louisiana Chapter of the Women’s Energy Network Board
Rachel Scarafia recently was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Women’s Energy Network (WEN) South Louisiana Chapter for a one year term.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at 24th Annual Bankruptcy Law Seminar
The 24th Annual Bankruptcy Law Seminar was held on November 8 and 9, 2018 at LSU Law Center.
Kelly Hart Receives Top Tier Rankings in U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”
Kelly Hart earned high rankings in the 2019 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings, including 4 national rankings and 26 first-tier metropolitan rankings.

Cheryl Leb Honored as a 2018 Great Woman of Texas
The Fort Worth Business Press selected Cheryl Leb as a 2018 Great Woman of Texas.

Kelly Hart Hosts Nonprofit Leaders Luncheon Series
Together with JPMorgan Chase Bank and Whitley Penn, Kelly Hart hosted the fourth in a series of Lunch and Learns for Nonprofit Professionals at McDavid Studio on September 25, 2018.
Sharon Millians Featured Speaker at Texas Wall Street Women’s C-Suite Event
Sharon Millians recently spoke at the Inaugural C-Suite dinner that was sponsored by Texas Wall Street Women (TXWSW) Fort Worth.
Anna Brandl Featured Speaker at the Executive Women’s Club of Midland Luncheon Series
Anna Brandl recently spoke to the Executive Women’s Club of Midland on the fundamentals of intellectual property.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Three New Associates to Fort Worth Office
Kelly Hart welcomes associates Bailey Blaies, Taylor Cummins, and Grant Moore to the Fort Worth office.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Sven Stricker to Austin Office
Sven Stricker joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Austin office’s Litigation section.
Nine Kelly Hart Attorneys Named to Fort Worth Inc.’s The 400
Fort Worth Inc. has named nine Kelly Hart attorneys to The 400—its list of the most influential leaders in Fort Worth.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Lesli D. Harris
Lesli D. Harris joins Kelly Hart as Of Counsel in the New Orleans office’s IP and Litigation sections.
Darren Keyes Elected Fellow of the Construction Lawyers Society of America
The Construction Lawyers Society of America has elected Darren Keyes to its Fellowship.
Heidi Angel Featured Speaker at the Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas Speaker Series
Heidi Angel is scheduled to speak at the Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas (DSPNT) educational speaker series on special needs planning and guardianship.
Jack S. Wilson Joins Kelly Hart
Jack S. Wilson joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Midland office’s Oil & Gas/Energy section.
Twenty-eight Kelly Hart Attorneys Recognized on 2018 Texas Super Lawyers List
Texas Super Lawyers named twenty-eight Kelly Hart attorneys to the 2018 list.
The George Washington University Law School Celebrates Dee J. Kelly, Sr. with a Building in his Honor
The George Washington University Law School (GW Law) renamed the Law School Learning Center as the Dee J. Kelly Law Learning Center.
Loulan Pitre Elected Fellow of the Construction Lawyers Society of America

Leslie Darby Named 2018 Top 50 Woman in Law by National Diversity Council
The National Diversity Council selected Leslie Darby as a Top 50 Woman in Law in the Dallas region.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Elizabeth Spencer Berthiaume
Elizabeth Spencer Berthiaume joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Fort Worth office's Corporate & Securities section.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Hillary Hunter
Hillary Hunter joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Midland office’s Oil & Gas/Energy section.

Sharon Millians Elected to TCU AddRan College of Liberal Arts Board of Visitors Executive Committee
Sharon Millians recently was elected to the Executive Committee of the TCU AddRan College of Liberal Arts Board of Visitors for a two year term.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on San Antonio’s Paid Sick Leave Ordinance
In a 9-2 city council vote, San Antonio joined Austin to become the second city in Texas to require private employers to provide paid sick leave.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Austin’s Sick Leave Ordinance
The Austin Court of Appeals has temporarily blocked implementation of Austin’s sick leave ordinance.

Forty-Three Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Among The Best Lawyers in America® 2019
The Best Lawyers in America© has named 43 Kelly Hart attorneys to its Best Lawyers® list which is published annually in U.S. News & World Reports.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Jonathan I. Heathman
Jonathan Heathman joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Fort Worth office’s Corporate & Securities section.
Kelly Hart Represents Appliance Distributors of Louisiana in Sale to Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.

Kelly Hart Represents Mustang Energy Services in Sale to Extreme Plastics
Kelly Hart represented Mustang Energy Services in its sale to private equity-backed competitor Extreme Plastics Plus (EPP).
Kelly Hart Welcomes Elizabeth A. Cuneo
Elizabeth Cuneo joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Fort Worth office’s Litigation section.
David Keltner Named 2018 Chief Justice Jack Pope Professionalism Award Recipient
The Texas Center for Legal Ethics has selected David Keltner to receive the 2018 Pope Award for Integrity and Professionalism.
Rachel Scarafia Selected for Institute of Energy Law Inaugural Leadership Class
The Institute of Energy Law (IEL) has chosen Rachel Scarafia to participate in its inaugural Leadership Class.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Daniel Lichtl
Daniel Lichtl joins Kelly Hart as a partner in the New Orleans office’s Corporate and Securities section.
Tom Hegi Featured Panelist at Business Series
Tom Hegi was a featured panelist for the Fort Worth Business Press Business for Breakfast Series event focused on the law.
Cheryl Leb Elected Chair of Tarrant County Bar Association Intellectual Property Law Section
Cheryl Leb recently was elected to serve as Chair of the Tarrant County Bar Association (TCBA) Intellectual Property Law Section for a one year term beginning in July of 2018.

Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2018 Top Attorneys by 360 West Magazine
The July issue of 360 West magazine recognizes 84 Kelly Hart lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in the Top Attorneys list.
Jane Jackson Authors Column in Louisiana Oil & Gas Association (“LOGA”) Industry Report
Jane Jackson authored an article addressing the recent uptick in lawsuits filed under Louisiana’s environmental citizen suit statute.
Kelly Hart Represents Circus Property and Three Ring Remainder in Real Estate Transaction
Peter Kopfinger recently represented Circus Property I, LLC and Three Ring Remainder I, LLC in the sale of seven restaurant properties.
Alan Hegi Elected Vice Chair of Law Section of the American Railway Development Association
At the annual American Railway Development Association (ARDA) meeting in New York, Alan Hegi was elected to serve as Vice Chair of the Law Section of the ARDA.
David Keltner Featured in Texas Lawbook Story
The Texas Lawbook interviewed David Keltner for its story on his receipt of the Tarrant County Bar Association’s Blackstone Award.
Christopher R. Wilkes Joins Kelly Hart
Christopher R. Wilkes joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Fort Worth Office’s Corporate and Securities Section.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Robert H. Baker
Robert H. Baker joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Austin office’s Corporate and Securities section.
David Keltner Featured in Fort Worth Business Press Story
Fort Worth Business Press interviewed David Keltner on receiving the Tarrant County Bar Association’s Blackstone Award.
Chambers USA 2018 Recognizes 5 Kelly Hart Attorneys
Chambers USA has ranked 5 Kelly Hart lawyers for excellence in its 2018 edition. Two of the Firm’s lawyers have achieved Band 1 rankings in their respective practice area.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Orest B. Dachniwsky
Orest B. Dachniwsky joins Kelly Hart as Senior Counsel in the Fort Worth office’s Litigation section.
David S. Morales Nominated to Serve as United States District Judge
President Donald Trump has announced his nomination of Kelly Hart & Hallman partner David S. Morales to serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas.
Aimee Hebert Featured in New Orleans CityBusiness Story
New Orleans CityBusiness interviewed Aimee Hebert on how and why mineral royalties came to be classified as “rent” under the state mineral code.
Katherine Hopkins and Clark Rucker Elected to Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association Board
Katherine Hopkins and Clark Rucker recently were elected to serve as Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association (TCYLA) President and Treasurer, respectively. Each was elected to a six-month term beginning March 2018.
Monica Jacobs Featured Speaker at Permian Basin Petroleum Association’s Water Committee Meeting
Monica Jacobs recently spoke on water rights at the Permian Basin Petroleum Association's Water Committee meeting.
Jane Jackson Featured Speaker at Louisiana State University Mineral Law Institute
Jane Jackson recently spoke on “Citizen Suits Under Environmental Statutes” at the LSU Mineral Law Institute.

Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Employee Fiduciary Duties
In Texas, absent a valid non-compete agreement, an at-will employee generally is free to compete with the former employer so long as the employee does not take or use the company’s confidential information or trade secrets. A recent case from the El Paso Court of Appeals helps define what constitutes preparing to compete versus actively competing.
Loulan Pitre Featured Panelist at Tulane Environmental Law & Policy Summit

Seventeen Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2018 Texas Rising Stars
Seventeen Kelly Hart attorneys have been selected as 2018 Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars.

Cheryl Leb Contributing Editor to Thomson Reuters Practical Law
Cheryl Leb served as a contributing editor for Right of Publicity Laws: Texas, a Q&A resource published by Thomson Reuters.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on the Payroll Audit Independent Determination Program
The United States Department of Labor (DOL) launches the Payroll Audit Independent Determination (PAID) program, a wage violation self-reporting program.
Loulan J. Pitre Featured Speaker at Coastal Law Seminar

Michael McConnell and Louis Phillips Featured Speakers at the Fifth Circuit Bankruptcy Bench-Bar Conference
The Fifth Circuit Bankruptcy Bench-Bar Conference, which was held February 21-23, 2018, provided plenary sessions featuring ethics, evidentiary issues, the aftermath of the most recent Supreme Court cases, and the state of the middle class.

David Keltner Receives Tarrant County Bar Association’s Blackstone Award
The Tarrant County Bar Association (TCBA) has selected David Keltner to receive the prestigious Blackstone Award.

Aimee Hebert Appointed by Louisiana State Law Institute
Aimee Hebert recently was appointed by the Louisiana State Law Institute to serve on its Mineral Law Committee.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at the 13th Annual Bankruptcy, Insolvency, and Creditor Rights Educational/Social Retreat
The 13th Annual Bankruptcy, Insolvency and Creditor Rights (IBCR) Educational Seminar will provide the most current and informative advice on the issues most important to bankruptcy and insolvency practitioners.

Jane A. Jackson Named New Orleans CityBusiness 2018 Leadership in Law Recipient (3)
New Orleans CityBusiness has selected Jane A. Jackson as a 2018 Leadership in Law honoree.
Jane A. Jackson Named New Orleans CityBusiness 2018 Leadership in Law Recipient
New Orleans CityBusiness has selected Jane A. Jackson as a 2018 Leadership in Law honoree.
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Unpaid Intern Test
Russell Cawyer authors blog on the Labor Department's Revisions to the Unpaid Intern Test.

Tiffany Means Joins Kelly Hart Midland Office
Tiffany P. Means joins the firm as an associate in the Oil & Gas/Energy section.
Kelly Hart Sponsors Inaugural Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference (PBWIEC)
Monica Jacobs, Anna Brandl, and Max Wright are leading Kelly Hart’s involvement with the inaugural PBWIEC on February 20-23 in Midland.
Heidi Angel and Leslie Robnett Join Kelly Hart Fort Worth Office
Kelly Hart welcomes associates Heidi McClain Angel and Leslie Ritchie Robnett to the Fort Worth office.
Mary Baker Named 2018 Woman of Distinction
The Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest selected Mary W. Baker a 2018 Woman of Distinction.
Kelly Hart Welcomes J. Austin Franklin to the Firm
J. Austin Franklin joins the firm as an associate in the Litigation section.

Twelve Kelly Hart Attorneys Admitted to the 2017 Pro Bono College
The State Bar of Texas has admitted twelve Kelly Hart attorneys to the 2017 Pro Bono College.
Nancy Ribaudo and Shauna Wright Named 2017 Pro Bono Award Recipients
Nancy Ribaudo and Shauna Wright have been selected to receive the Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services (TVAS) Pro Bono Awards for Attorney Volunteer and Attorney Mentor, respectively.
Louis M. Phillips Earns Top Super Lawyer Honors
Louis Phillips has been recognized as a Top 50 Lawyer by Louisiana Super Lawyers.

Rick Shelby Named 2018 Louisiana Super Lawyers Rising Star
Rick Shelby has been selected as a 2018 Louisiana Super Lawyers Rising Star.

Aimee W. Hebert, Louis M. Phillips, Loulan J. Pitre Jr. Named 2018 Louisiana Super Lawyers
Aimee Hebert, Louis Phillips, and Loulan Pitre have been selected as 2018 Louisiana Super Lawyers.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Deducting Payouts on Sexual Harassment Settlements
Russell Cawyer's blog post—entitled “New Tax Law Limits Deductibility of Sexual Harassment and Abuse Settlements Containing Nondisclosure Provisions” and published on the Texas Employment Law Update—addresses provisions of the new tax reform law signed by President Trump on December 20, 2017.

Krystin Frazier Featured in CityBusiness “Ones to Watch”
Krystin Frazier is included in the New Orleans CityBusiness “Ones to Watch” feature that focuses on up and coming professionals in their respective fields.
Russell Cawyer Authors Blog on Age Discrimination in Facebook Job Ads
Russell Cawyer's blog post—entitled “New Lawsuit Claims Companies Discriminate Against Older Workers in Facebook Job Placement Advertising” and published on the Texas Employment Law Update—addresses a recent lawsuit filed by three workers and the Communication Workers of America against T-Mobile, Amazon, Cox Communications, and Cox Media Group.
Kelly Hart Represents Pegasus Resources in $300 Million Private Equity Commitment
The Kelly Hart team of Tom Hegi, David Cook, Todd Spake, and Drew Neill represented Texas-based royalty acquisition company Pegasus Resources in connection with a $300 million equity commitment from EnCap Investments LP.

Kelly Hart Serves as Bond Counsel for Southwest Region Deal of the Year
The Bond Buyer selected Kelly Hart’s client, The Fort Worth Transportation Authority, for the Southwest Region Municipal Bond Deal of the Year.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Kyle N. Harter to the Firm
Kyle Harter joins the firm as an associate in the Fort Worth office’s Corporate & Securities practice group.
Kelly Hart Receives Top Tier Rankings from U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”
Kelly Hart earns high rankings in the 2018 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings, including 6 national rankings and 26 first-tier metropolitan rankings.

Kelly Hart Pitre Wins in United States and Louisiana Supreme Courts
Kelly Hart Pitre prevails in the United States and Louisiana Supreme Courts for client South Lafourche Levee District.
Dana Stayton Honored as a 2017 Great Woman of Texas
The Fort Worth Business Press has named Dana Stayton a 2017 Great Woman of Texas in recognition of her significant business, civic, and social contributions.
Aimee Hebert Featured Speaker at Institute for Energy Law (IEL) Energy Litigation Conference
At the 16th Annual Energy Litigation Conference on November 9, Aimee Hebert will be speaking on key oil and gas issues in Appalachia and Texas/Louisiana.
Jeff Whitfield Chosen 2017 Community Champion Award Finalist
Presbyterian Night Shelter has selected Jeff Whitfield as a finalist for the Community Champion Award based on his service to our country and our community.
Ronak Patel Featured Speaker at Practising Law Institute (PLI) Webcast
At a recent PLI webcast on Broker/Dealer Regulation and Enforcement, Ronak Patel participated in a panel discussion addressing state enforcement initiatives, developments, and priorities.
Russell Cawyer and Hannah Parks Co-Author Blog on Tracking Employee Worktime
Russell Cawyer and Hannah Parks co-authored an article addressing the use of biometric systems to tracks hours.
Russell Cawyer Quoted in Star-Telegram
The Star-Telegram interviewed Russell Cawyer on the legality of Jerry Jones’s anthem stance.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Kayla M. Matus to the Firm
Kayla Matus joins the firm as an associate in the Corporate & Securities practice group.

Marianne Auld Named 2017 Law “Good Scout” Recipient
The Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America selected Marianne Auld as the 2017 Law “Good Scout” Honoree.
Kelly Hart Fort Worth Welcomes New Associates
Janese Dudash, David Miles and Greg Roper join the firm as associates in our Fort Worth office.
Cheryl Leb Named Top 50 Woman in Law by National Diversity Council
National Diversity Council selected Cheryl Leb as a Top 50 Woman in Law in the Dallas region.

Max Wright Elected to Texas Association of Defense Council (TADC) Board of Directors
The TADC elected Max Wright as the District 16 member of the Board of Directors.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees (NABT) Annual Convention
At the recent NABT Annual Convention, Louis Phillips participated in a panel discussion addressing recent developments in bankruptcy law.

David Keltner Named 2018 Appellate "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers®
Best Lawyers in America® selected David Keltner as the 2018 Dallas/Fort Worth Appellate “Lawyer of the Year.”

Howard Rosenthal Appointed to Southlake Mayor’s Advisory Council
The Southlake Mayor’s Advisory Board recently appointed Howard Rosenthal to the Mayor’s Advisory Council.

Claudia Carrizales Joins the Firm
Claudia Carrizales joins the firm as an associate in the New Orleans office’s Oil & Gas/Energy section.
David Keltner Earns Top Super Lawyer Honors
David Keltner has been recognized as a Top 10 Lawyer by Texas Super Lawyers.

Twenty-nine Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2017 Texas Super Lawyers
Texas Super Lawyers names twenty-nine Kelly Hart attorneys to the 2017 list.
Henry Robinson Authors Guide for Evaluating Requested Leaves of Absence
Henry Robinson penned a chapter titled Tailoring Interactive Processes to Initial and Supplemental Requests for Leaves of Absence that is published in the Employee Relations Law Journal (Vol. 43, No. 2, Autumn 2017).

Gracie Garcia Joins the Firm
Gracie Garcia joins the firm as an associate in the Fort Worth office’s Litigation Section.
Cheryl Leb Participates in Diversity Panel at Texas A&M University School of Law
Cheryl Leb is a featured panelist at the Hispanic Law Student Association’s Diversity in Big Law session

Russell Cawyer and Hannah Parks Co-Author Blog on Workplace Attendance and Telecommuting
Russell Cawyer and Hannah Parks co-authored an article addressing a recent decision from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Katherine Hopkins and Clark Rucker Re-Elected to Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association Board
Katherine Hopkins and Clark Rucker were re-elected to another six-month term on the Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association (TCYLA) Board of Directors.

Forty-One Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Among The Best Lawyers in America® 2018
Forty-one Kelly Hart attorneys were recognized as The Best Lawyers in America® 2018.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN)
Russell Cawyer posts an article on a recent affirmation of summary judgment from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Kelly Hart Pitre Wins Reversal in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reverses judgment against Kelly Hart client.

Kelly Hart Represents Quality Hill LLC in Real Estate Purchase
The Kelly Hart team of Sharon Millians, Jenny Rosell, and Sean Bryan represented Quality Hill LLC, a Jim Finley entity, in the purchase of office buildings and acreage located at 2001 Beach Street from 2001 Beach Street Investors, L.P.
Nirav Patel Recognized as Top 50 Multicultural Lawyer
The Texas Diversity Council has recognized Nirav Patel as a Top 50 Multicultural Lawyer in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
Dee J. Kelly Foundation Gifts George Washington University Law School with $1.25 Million
The George Washington University Law School announced on July 17 that it received from the Dee J. Kelly Foundation a $1.25 million gift to support its operations.
Kelly Hart Represented Silverback Exploration II in $500 Million Equity Transaction
Kelly Hart represented Silverback Exploration II in connection with a $500 million equity commitment from EnCap Investments LP to pursue conventional and unconventional U.S. resource plays.
Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2017 Top Attorneys by 360 West Magazine
360 West Magazine recognizes 94 Kelly Hart attorneys as 2017 Top Attorneys.
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Attorney Fee Recovery
In In re National Lloyds Ins. Co., et al., the Texas Supreme Court recently held that attorney-billing information of the defendant is not relevant or discoverable where the defendant is not using its own fees as a comparator.
David Keltner and Andrew Weber Featured Speakers at UT Law's Conference on State and Federal Appeals
David Keltner and Andrew Weber were featured speakers at the University of Texas Law School’s 27th Annual Conference on State and Federal Appeals.

The National Law Journal Honors Robert C. Grable
The National Law Journal (NLJ) selected Robert C. Grable as a 2017 Energy & Environmental Trailblazer.
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Defamation Claim
Russell Cawyer posts an article on a recent ruling from the Texas Supreme Court.

Andrew Weber Featured Speaker at 2017 Corporate Counsel Institute
Andrew Weber was a featured speaker at the 2017 Corporate Counsel Institute hosted by The University of Texas School of Law. The session covered government relations and policy solutions.
David Keltner Featured Speaker at Houston Bar Association Luncheon
David Keltner was a featured speaker at the Houston Bar Association Appellate Practice Section Luncheon in Houston. The session was titled, "Winning strategies for petitioners and respondents in the Texas Supreme Court."

Kylie M. Rahl Joins Kelly Hart
Kylie M. Rahl joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Real Estate & Finance practice group, Fort Worth office.
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Retaliation Case
Russell Cawyer posts an article on a recent case from the Fifth Circuit. In Cabral v. Brennan, U.S. Postal Service employee Cabral brought a retaliation claim against his employer following a two day suspension. The Fifth Circuit considered whether Cabral’s two day suspension constituted a materially adverse action sufficient to state a claim for retaliation.

David Garza and Evan Malloy Selected as 2017 40 under 40 Honorees
David Garza and Evan Malloy named Fort Worth Business 2017 40 under 40 Honorees.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at ABA Business Law Spring Meeting
Louis Phillips is a featured speaker at the American Bar Association Business Law Section Spring Meeting.

Max Wright Featured Speaker at State Bar Advanced Evidence and Discovery Course
Max Wright is a featured speaker at the State Bar Advanced Evidence and Discovery CLE course in Houston and San Antonio, Texas. His speaking topic is titled, "Handling Evidence Pre-Trial."
Kelly Hart Partner Co-Authors a chapter on Fraud for Business and Commercial Litigation in Federal Courts, Fourth Edition
Bill Warren co-authors a chapter on Fraud for Business and Commercial Litigation in Federal Courts, Fourth Edition a treatise addressing procedure, law, and strategies published by Thomson Reuters in conjunction with the American Bar Association.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Clark E. Smith to the Firm
Clark Smith joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Public Law section of the firm, Austin office.
Kelly Hart Represents Management of Luxe Minerals in $254 Million Private Equity Commitment
Kelly Hart represented management of Luxe Minerals LLC in connection with a $254 million equity commitment from Natural Gas Partners.
Kelly Hart Represents Bass Family In $6.6 Billion Oil & Gas Divestiture

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Service Animals in Workplace
Russell Cawyer publishes a new blog post,on the consequences of the Americans with Disabilities Amendment Act’s expanded definition of disability.

Nineteen Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Texas Rising Stars
Nineteen Kelly Hart attorneys have earned selection to the 2017 Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

Demarcus J. Gordon Named New Orleans CityBusiness 2017 Leadership in Law Honoree
Demarcus Gordon has been chosen as a 2017 CityBusiness "Leadership in Law" honoree.

Whitney Beckworth Appointed To Trinity River Authority Board Of Directors
Governor Greg Abbott appointed Whitney Beckworth to the board of directors of the Trinity River Authority (TRA).
Taylor Spalla Appointed to Young Professionals in Energy Board
The current Board of the Austin Chapter of Young Professionals in Energy appointed Taylor Spalla to a board position for the 2017 calendar year.
Taylor Spalla Appointed to Young Professionals in Energy Board (3)
The current Board of the Austin Chapter of Young Professionals in Energy appointed Taylor Spalla to a board position for the 2017 calendar year.
Dee Kelly Jr. Appointed to Citizens Blue Ribbon Committee
Dee Kelly Jr. was recently appointed to serve on the Tarrant County Citizens Blue Ribbon Committee.

Kelly Hart Receives Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans (TLTV) Pro Bono Award
Kelly Hart Receives TLTV 2016 Law Firm Partner of the Year award.

Chester Grudzinski 2016 Distinguished Alumni Honoree
Chester Grudzinski to receive the Texas Tech School of Law 2016 Distinguished Alumni Award. Mr. Grudzinski is being recognized for his significant contributions to the legal profession and to the law school.
Loulan J. Pitre Jr. Earns Top Super Lawyer Honors
Loulan J. Pitre Jr. receives listing as a Top 50 Louisiana Super Lawyer.

Aimee W. Hebert, Louis M. Phillips, Loulan J. Pitre Jr. Named 2017 Louisiana Super Lawyers
Louis Phillips, Aimee Hebert, Loulan Pitre have been named 2017 Louisiana Super Lawyers.

Rick Shelby Named Louisiana Super Lawyers Rising Star
Rick Shelby has earned selection to the 2017 Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

Auld to Succeed Kelly as Managing Partner
Marianne Auld has been elected as the new Managing Partner of Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP effective January 1, 2017. She succeeds Dee Kelly Jr who stepped down from the post at the end of 2016. Mr. Kelly has served as the firm's Managing Partner since 2006.

Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at 34th Annual CLE Conference
Louis Phillips is a featured speaker at the 34th Annual National CLE Conference January 4-6, 2017 in Snowmass, Colorado.

Kelly Hart Names New Partners
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP is pleased to announce that David H. Garza, Preston R. Mundt, Clark H. Rucker, Kim D. Uskovich and Jeff Whitfield have been elected partners of the firm, Fort Worth office, effective January 01, 2017.

Clark Rucker Elected President-Elect of CASA Tarrant County Board
Clark Rucker was recently elected to serve as President Elect of the Board of Directors of CASA of Tarrant County for 2017.
Kelly Hart Represented Fort Worth Transportation Authority in Note Issuance
The Kelly Hart team of Jonathan Cranz, Brandon Hill and Dan Settle represented the Fort Worth Transportation Authority (“the T”) in a $325 million note issuance.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Torrie Poehls to the Firm
Torrie T. Poehls is an associate in the Estate Planning, Probate and Non-Profit section of the firm.
Max Wright Elected to Petroleum Museum's Board of Trustees
Max Wright was recently elected to a three year term to the Petroleum Museum’s Board of Trustees.
Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2016 “Top Attorneys” by Fort Worth Texas Magazine
Fort Worth, Texas magazine recognizes 70 Kelly Hart attorneys as 2016 "Top Attorneys" in their field.

Kelly Hart Represented Silverback Exploration in $855 Million O&G Transaction
Centennial Resource Development to Acquire the Upstream Assets of Silverback Exploration in Reeves County for $855 million.
40th Annual Page Keeton Civil Litigation Conference
Max Wright was a featured speaker at the Page Keeton Civil Litigation Conference in Austin.
Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at Jay Westbrook Bankruptcy Conference
Louis Phillips is a featured speaker at the 35th Annual Jay L. Westbrook Bankruptcy Conference on November 17-18, 2016 in Austin, Texas. Louis will be speaking on Pre-Bankruptcy Planning.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Caroline Brownlie to the Firm
Caroline A. Brownlie joins the firm as an associate in the in the Corporate and Securities practice group.
Krystin Featured in Gambit’s 40 Under 40, Class of 2016
Krystin Frazier was selected as one of Gambit’s 40 under 40, Class of 2016 honorees recognizing some of the city’s brightest innovators, artists and professionals. Ms. Frrazier's profile is featured in the October 31st issue of Gambit Weekly.
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Employee Hiring and Non-Competes
Russell Cawyer posts article on the on the issue of non competes and restrictive covenants.
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog On The Texas Election Code
Russell Cawyer posts article on the Texas Election Code and an employer’s obligation to provide employees time off to vote.

Kelly Hart Receives National Ranking in U.S. News - “Best Law Firms”
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers released their 2017 “Best Law Firms” list. Ranked firms, presented in tiers, are listed on a national and/or metropolitan scale. Receiving a tier designation reflects the high level of respect a firm has earned among other leading lawyers and clients in the same communities and the same practice areas for its abilities, its professionalism and its integrity.
Ray Oujesky Inducted into Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District Hall of Fame
Ray Oujesky was recently inducted into the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District Hall of Fame.

Gary M. Carter Appointed to XULA Presidential Advisory Board
Gary Carter, was recently appointed to the Xavier University Presidential Advisory Board, the mission of which is to assist in advancing the goals and interests of Xavier University in the broader community.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Phil McCrury
Phillip McCrury joins the firm as Senior Counsel in the Estate Planning & Probate Practice Group, Fort Worth office.

Kelly Ransom Appointed to Board at New Coastal Restoration High School
Kelly Ransom was recently appointed to serve as a Founding Board Member for New Harmony High, XQ Super School which focuses on coastal restoration and preservation in Louisiana.
Bob Stewart Earns Who’s Who Legal Environment Honors
Bob Stewart was selected as one of the world’s leading practitioners in the field of Environment and is listed among in Who’s Who Legal Environment 2016.
Ronak Patel Receives Esteemed Patricia D. Struck Award
Ronak Patel selected as first recipient of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) Patricia D. Struck Award.

Louis Phillips Appointed Permanent Chair of LSU Seminar
Louis Phillips was recently appointed the permanent chair of the Annual Bankruptcy Law Seminar at LSU Law Center Auditorium.

Travis Clardy Elected to CLEER Board
Travis Clardy was recently elected to the Center for Legislative Energy and Environmental Research (CLEER) Board.
Melinda Barlow Featured Panelist at 2016 IMLA’s 81st Annual Conference
Melinda Barlow was a featured speaker at the International Municipal Lawyers Association 81st Annual Conference, September 28-October 2, 2016.

Jody Sanders Featured Speaker at Texas Bar Association CLE
Jody Sanders recently spoke at the Texas Bar Association Advanced Civil Appellate Practice Course 2016. His presentation was titled, “THE TEXAS CITIZENS PARTICIPATION ACT: How to Avoid (or Give) an Anti-SLAPP.”

Mary Baker Featured in Midland Magazine
Mary W. Baker was selected by Midland Reporter-Telegram as one of Midland’s "20 Under 40" showcasing young, dynamic leaders living or working in Midland County and who have distinguished themselves in their careers and/or in the community.

Kelly Hart Welcomes New Associates
Caitlyn E. Hubbard and Nirav N. Patel join the firm as associates in our Fort Worth office.

Kelly Ransom Chosen a 2016 NOLA Woman of the Year
Kelly Ransom has been chosen as a 2016 CityBusiness Woman of the Year.

Ronak V. Patel Joins Kelly Hart
Ronak V. Patel joins the firm as a partner in the in the litigation section and handles a variety of civil litigation matters for businesses and individuals.

Jody Sanders Featured Speaker at 39th Annual Advanced Civil Trial Course
Jody Sanders was a featured speaker at the State Bar of Texas 39th Annual Advanced Civil Trial Course, August 17-19th, in Dallas, TX.

Beth Thurman Appointed TCBA Real Estate Section Chair
Beth Thurman has been elected chair of the Tarrant County Bar Association Real Estate Section for a one year term. The Real Estate Section provides a forum for attorneys practicing in real estate law to hear topics of interest as well as opportunities to meet and network with other real estate attorneys.
Four Kelly Hart Attorneys Earn 2016 Top Super Lawyers Listings
John Cayce Jr., David Keltner, Sharon Millians and Marshall Searcy earn special recognition in Texas Super Lawyers 2016 Top Lists.
Chester Grudzinski Appointed Co-Chair of State Bar of Texas Tax Section Committee
Chester Grudzinski has been recently appointed Co-Chair of the Partnership and Real Estate Tax Committee for the Tax Section of the State Bar of Texas.

Kelly Hart Welcomes New Associate to Baton Rouge Office
Amelia L. Bueche joins the firm as an associate in the Bankruptcy and Business Reorganization Practice group, Baton Rouge office.

Katherine Hopkins and Clark Rucker Re-Elected to Board Positions
Katherine Hopkins and Clark Rucker were re-elected to another six month term on the Tarrant County Young Lawyers Board of Directors. Katherine Hopkins was elected Secretary of the TCYLA through February, 2017.

Thirty-Six Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Among The Best Lawyers in America® 2017
Thirty-Six Kelly Hart attorneys are listed among The Best Lawyers in America® 2017.

Louis Phillips Named Best Lawyers® 2017 Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law "Lawyer of the Year"
Louis M. Phillips was chosen Best Lawyers® 2017 Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law "Lawyer of the Year" for Baton Rouge.
C. Andrew Weber Appointed to Greater Austin Performing Arts Center Board
C. Andrew Weber was recently appointed to the Long Center for the Performing Arts Board of Trustees, in Austin, Texas.
Benton Cantey Appointed to Bullock Texas State History Museum Board
Benton Cantey was named a member of the Board of Trustees of the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, Texas for a 3-year term beginning August, 2016.
Kelly Hart Welcomes New Associate to Fort Worth Office
Jennifer S. McDaniel joins the firm as an associate in the Corporate and Securities practice group in our Fort Worth office.

Kelly Hart #4 in Vault’s 2017 Best Midsize Law Firms to Work For
Associates across the United States ranked the Best Midsize Law Firms to Work For
Aimee Hebert and Bill Kerr Featured Speakers at Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Institute
Aimee Hebert and Bill Kerr were amongst the featured speakers at the 62nd Annual Institute of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation.
Matthias Kleinsasser Speaks on Insolvency Proceedings
Matthias Kleinsasser spoke on, "Financial Crimes and Misdemeanors: The Dark(er) Side of Insolvency Proceedings" at the Tarrant County Young Leaders Association Membership Luncheon, July 19th, 2016.
Katherine Hopkins Elected Chair of TCBA Bankruptcy Section
Katherine Hopkins was elected Chair of the Tarrant County Bar Association's Bankruptcy Section for the 2016-2017 year.
James C. Scott Joins Kelly Hart
Kelly Hart & Hallman is pleased to announce that James C. Scott joins the firm as a partner in the Litigation Practice Group, Fort Worth office. Mr. Scott practice centers upon civil litigation at the trial and appellate levels in a broad range of commercial matters including oil and gas litigation, and financial and real estate litigation.
Katherine Hopkins Receives Romina L. Mulloy-Bossio Achievement Award
Katherine Hopkins is the 2016 recipient of the Romina L. Mulloy-Bossio Achievement Award. This award was created in memory of Ms. Mulloy-Bossio to honor her service as an outstanding young bankruptcy lawyer who exemplifies the highest degree of professional proficiency, service to her profession, and service to her community.
Russell Cawyer Authors Article on Overtime Exemptions
Russell Cawyer pens article on the recent ruling by the U.S. Department of Labor on changes to the regulations regarding overtime exemptions. The article, "New rules impact employers, workers" was published in the June 6, 2016 edition of Fort Worth Business.

Russell Cawyer Authors Article on Overtime Exemptions (3)
Russell Cawyer pens article on the recent ruling by the U.S. Department of Labor on changes to the regulations regarding overtime exemptions. The article, "New rules impact employers, workers" was published in the June 6, 2016 edition of Fort Worth Business.

David Keltner Appointed to State Bar of Texas Continuing Legal Education Committee
David Keltner was recently appointed to the State Bar of Texas Continuing Legal Education committee. David’s term to run June 2016-June 2019.

Russell Cawyer Comments On Recent DOL Ruling
Russell Cawyer publishes an article on a final ruling from the Department of Labor raising the minimum salary an exempt employee must be paid to qualify under an overtime exemption. The blog post, "DOL Announces Details of Final Rule Changing Regulations on the Overtime Exemptions" is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Bill B. Caraway Elected to ABOTA Membership
Bill B. Caraway, partner in the Midland office, has been elected to the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), a nationwide organization of trial lawyers devoted to the rule of law and the preservation of the civil and criminal justice systems.

Kelly Hart Welcomes New Attorney
Nathan E McCune joins the firm as an associate in the Corporate & Securities practice group in Fort Worth.

Marshall Searcy Receives Blackstone Award
Marshall Searcy received Tarrant County Bar Association’s most prestigious award, The Blackstone Award, given in recognition of a career that exemplifies professional aptitude, integrity and courage.
Kelly Hart Welcomes New Associate
Greg J. Feeney joins the firm as an associate in the Oil & Gas/Energy and Environmental Law practice groups in our New Orleans office.

Former Assistant City Attorney Joins Kelly Hart
Melinda H. Barlow joins the firm as senior counsel in the Litigation and Public Law Practice Groups.
Stephanie Lintern Recipient of LSBA Pro Bono Century Award
Stephanie Lintern has been selected to receive the Pro Bono Century Award from the Louisiana State Bar Association in recognition of her more than 100 hours of pro bono service during 2015.

Jane Jackson Recipient of LSBA 2016 Pro Bono Publico Award
Jane Jackson has been selected to receive the LSBA Pro Bono Publico Award for 2016.

Seventeen Kelly Hart Attorneys Named Texas Rising Stars
Seventeen Kelly Hart attorneys have earned selection to the 2016 Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

Marshall Searcy Receives Prestigious Blackstone Award
Marshall Searcy to receive the Tarrant County Bar Association’s most prestigious award, The Blackstone Award, given in recognition of a career that exemplifies professional aptitude, integrity and courage.
Aimee Hebert and Loulan Pitre Named CityBusiness Leaders in Law
Aimee Hebert and Loulan Pitre have been selected as 2016 City Business Leaders in Law. Leadership in Law recognizes 50 area legal professionals in four categories. Honorees were selected based on their professional and community involvement and achievements that have set the pace for the overall community.
Kelly Hart Represents W. T. Waggoner Estate in Historic Real Estate Transaction

Louis Phillips Featured Speaker at 5th Circuit Bankruptcy Bench-Bar Conference
Louis Phillips will be discussing Oil and Gas Issues and Recent Cases during the 5th Circuit Bankruptcy Bench-Bar Conference, January 24-26th in New Orleans.

Loulan J. Pitre Appointed to Water Code Committee of the Louisiana State Law Institute

Former General Counsel to Texas Governor Joins Kelly Hart
David S. Morales has joined the firm as a partner in the Litigation, Administrative Law and Public Law practice groups, Austin office.David Cook and Brandon Hill Selected as 2016 40 under 40 Honorees
David Cook and Brandon Hill named Fort Worth Business 2016 40 under 40 Honorees.
Katherine Hopkins, Preston Mundt and Clark Rucker Honored by Texas Bar Foundation
Katherine Hopkins, Preston Mundt and Clark Rucker elected to membership in the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation.
Alan Hegi Featured Speaker at ARDA Executive Forum
Alan Hegi will make a presentation to the American Railway Development Association entitled ‘Scratching the Surface: Railroads and Mineral Interests’ on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at ARDA's Executive Forum in Miami, Florida.
KELLY HART & PITRE EXPANDS PRESENCE IN LOUISIANA
Kelly Hart & Pitre announces the opening of its second Louisiana location in the capital city of Baton Rouge.
Mark L. Hart, Jr., Co-Founding Partner of Kelly Hart Dies.
Mark L. Hart, Jr., longtime managing partner and co-founder of Kelly Hart & Hallman, passed away on December 24, 2015.
Mark L. Hart, Jr., Co-Founding Partner of Kelly Hart Dies. (3)
Mark L. Hart, Jr., longtime managing partner and co-founder of Kelly Hart & Hallman, passed away on December 24, 2015.
Travis Clardy Featured in the Cherokeean Herald
Travis Clardy provides his year in review as state representative for Cherokee, Nacogdoches and Rusk counties.
Gary Carter authors article, "DRI Launches Public Utility Task Force" published in DRI monthly, December 2015
Gary Carter, Founder and Chair of the DRI Public Utility Task Force, authors article, "DRI Launches Public Utility Task Force" published in DRI monthly, December 2015.
DRI, The Voice of the Defense Bar, the magazine for defense, insurance and corporate counsel.

Shauna Wright Elected to The Women’s Center’s Board of Directors
Shauna Wright has been recently elected to The Women’s Center’s Board of Directors for the 2016-2018 term, which commences on January 1, 2016.
Clark Rucker Re-Elected to Board Position
Clark Rucker was recently re-elected to another 3 year term and chosen to serve as Treasurer of the CASA of Tarrant County board of directors for 2016.
Katherine Hopkins Elected to DAYBL Board Position
Katherine Hopkins was recently elected to serve a one year term as the Treasurer for the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Young Bankruptcy Lawyers, commencing January 2016 to December 2016.
Kelly Hart Attorneys Recognized as “Top Attorneys” by Fort Worth, Texas Magazine
Fort Worth, Texas magazine recognizes seventy-seven Kelly Hart Attorneys as 2015 "Top Attorneys." In its 15th annual listing, Fort Worth, Texas magazine features Tarrant County’s “Top Attorneys” in selected fields who were nominated by their peers.

Loulan J. Pitre, Jr. Speaks at LSU Law School CLE
Loulan J. Pitre was a featured speaker at an LSU Law School CLE on Insurance Coverage in Legacy Litigation. The speaking engagement was held on October 30, 2015.
Michael McConnell Speaks at Jay L. Westbrook Bankruptcy Conference
Michael McConnell was a featured speaker at the UT Law Bankruptcy Conference and spoke on "The Formation and Functioning of a Creditors Committee." The conference was held November 11-13, 2015 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin.
Happy Veteran’s Day!
Happy Veteran’s Day! Remember to honor the sacrifices and service of armed forces veterans this Veteran's Day.
Kelly Hart & Hallman Receives National Ranking in 2016 U.S. News - “Best Law Firms”
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers released their 2016 “Best Law Firms” list. Firms listed are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.
Travis Clardy Receives Champion of Access Award
Travis Clardy recently received the Friend of the First Amendment Award by the Texas Press Association (TPA).

Gary Carter Jr. wins Seat in Louisiana House
Gary Carter Jr., partner, at Kelly Hart & Pitre, clinched the seat in House District 102, which covers about half of Algiers, the second oldest neighborhood in New Orleans.
Travis Clardy Featured Speaker at 2015 TRHA Annual Conference
Travis Clardy to discuss Policymakers and Perspectives at the 2015 TRHA Annual Conference - Rural Healthcare in the 21st Century, October 29-30, 2015 at the Sheraton Hotel and Spa in Fort Worth.
Dee J. Kelly, beloved founder of Kelly Hart & Hallman, has passed
The Executive Committee of Kelly Hart & Hallman is deeply saddened to announce that the Firm’s beloved and legendary founder, Dee J. Kelly, unexpectedly passed away on October 2, 2015. The accomplishments of his great career, and his contributions to the community, are too legion to even begin to list in this brief announcement. It will suffice to simply say that he was truly a great man. While the entirety of his Firm grieves at his passing, we are committed to carrying on his great legacy of...

Travis Clardy Honored for Hospital Advocacy Efforts
Travis Clardy to receive the Texas Health Advocacy Tribute Award from the Texas Hospital Association for his legislative work on behalf of good hospital and health care policy.
Kelly Hart Welcomes Two New Associates
Kelly Hart welcomes associates Kara A. Larson and Stephen M. Pocsik to the firm.
Chester Grudzinski Authors Column in Real Estate Taxation
Chester Grudzinski authors article, "Reverse Exchanges and Multiple Related Parties" published in Real Estate Taxation, 3rd quarter, 2015, a Thomson Reuters trade journal.
Steve Ravel Featured Speaker at 39th Annual Texas Association of Bank Counsel Convention
Steve Ravel speaks at the Texas Association of Bank Counsel's 39th Annual Convention, October 1-2, 2015, at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in New Orleans. Steve's presentation topic, "What Bank Lawyers Should Know About Energy Workouts And Bankruptcy". The TABC convention is open to attorneys who represent state, national and savings banks and other financial service providers, large or small, and those who practice with a regulatory agency with jurisdiction over these entities.

Toby Galloway Interviewed by Fort Worth Business
Toby Galloway was interviewed in Fort Worth Business article, "Preparation key to thwarting cyber attacks", September 21-27, 2015.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Employee Meal Periods
Russell Cawyer publishes a new article on the U.S. Court of Appeals opinion in an FLSA case over the compensability of meal periods. The blog post, "Fifth Circuit Holds Mandatory Travel Time May Render Meal Periods Compensable under FLSA" is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.
Three Kelly Hart Attorneys Earn Top Super Lawyers Listings
David Keltner, Sharon Millians, and Marshall Searcy earn special recognition in Texas Super Lawyers 2015 Top Lists.
Kelly Hart Welcomes New Partner
Bill B. Caraway joins Kelly Hart as a partner in the Oil & Gas/Energy Practice Group, Midland office.

Chester Grudzinski Appointed Chair of State Bar of Texas Tax Section
Chester Grudzinski has been recently appointed Chair of the Partnership and Real Estate Tax Committee for the Tax Section of the State Bar of Texas.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Two New Associates
Hannah Penley joins the firm as an associate in the Labor & Employment Practice Group, Fort Worth office and Jeff Kuhnhenn joins the firm as an associate in the Oil & Gas/Energy Practice Group, Midland office.

Aimee W. Hebert Chosen a 2015 NOLA Woman of the Year
Aimee W. Hebert has been chosen as a 2015 CityBusiness Woman of the Year.

Dee J. Kelly to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award
Dee J. Kelly named one of 22 lawyers to be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Texas Lawyer.

Kelly Hart Engaged in Major Land Acquisition at AllianceTexas
Kelly Hart recently represented Hillwood in the acquisition of approximately 260 additional acres of land located directly across I-35W from Texas Motor Speedway.

David Keltner Named Best Lawyers' 2016 Appellate Practice "Lawyer of the Year" for Dallas/Fort Worth
David Keltner was named Best Lawyers® 2016 Appellate "Lawyer of the Year” for Dallas/Fort Worth

Thirty-Six Kelly Hart Attorneys Listed Among The Best Lawyers in America 2016®
Thirty-Six Kelly Hart attorneys are listed among The Best Lawyers in America 2016®.

John H. Cayce Jr. and Chester W. Grudzinski Jr. Named 2015 Power Attorneys
John H. Cayce, Jr. and Chester W. Grudzinski, Jr. have been selected 2015 Power Attorneys by Fort Worth Business.

Kelly Hart Overturns a 1.8 Million Verdict on Appeal
The Kelly Hart team of Bill Warren, Sharon Fulgham, David Keltner and Stacy Blanchette obtained the reversal of a trial court judgment for breach-of-contract.

Gary M. Carter, Jr. joins the firm as a partner in the New Orleans Office
Gary M. Carter, Jr. joins the firm as a partner in the New Orleans office. Mr. Carter represents individuals, corporations, and other institutional clients in all aspects of litigation and trials.

Henry Robinson Authors Article in the Labor Law Journal
Henry Robinson publishes article, “Applying NRLA Section 7 to Company Policies and Related Discipline” in the Labor Law Journal (Vol. 66, Issue 2, Summer 2015).

Russell Cawyer Comments on Texas Open Carry Law
Russell Cawyer publishes a new article on employer requirements as the open carry bill is signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The blog post, “Texas Governor Signs Open Carry Law –Employers Have Time to Prepare is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Kelly Hart Announces New Partner in Charge of Austin Office and Office Move
Andrew Weber, former First Assistant Attorney General of Texas under now- Governor Gregg Abbott, is the new Partner in Charge of Kelly Hart & Hallman's Austin office. His appointment coincides with the office's move to the 20th floor of 303 Colorado Street effective July 1, 2015.
David Keltner Featured Speaker at UT LAW 25th Annual Conference on State and Federal Appeals
David Keltner spoke at UT Law Annual Conference on State and Federal Appeals

Sharon S. Millians Recipient of TCBA Professionalism Award
Sharon S. Millians is the 2015 recipient of the Law Day Professionalism Award from the Tarrant County Bar Association. This award is presented to the bar member who has displayed outstanding professional conduct and character.

Sean A. Bryan Rejoins Kelly Hart
Sean A. Bryan rejoins Kelly Hart as a partner in the Tax Practice Group. Mr. Bryan has handled complex tax matters for 25 years representing individuals, private business interests, and passive investors seeking limited liability.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Recent Texas Supreme Court Ruling
Russell Cawyer publishes a new blog post, "Texas Supreme Court Reverses Million Dollar Verdict in Retaliation Case.” Mr. Cawyer's blog is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Misclassification of Employees as Independent Contractors
Russell Cawyer publishes a new blog post, “DOL Issues Administrator Interpretation on Misclassification of Independent Contractors.” Russell's blog is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Russell Cawyer Comments on Dealing with Transgender Employees
Russell Cawyer publishes a new blog post, "Texas Employers Should Educate Themselves on Dealing with Transgender Employees,” on Texas Employment Law Update.

The Texas Supreme Court Rules Favorably in Anti-SLAPP Case
In a case of first impression in Texas, the Kelly Hart appellate team led by John Cayce persuaded the Texas Supreme Court that Texas’ Anti-SLAPP statute allows Range Resources the right to proceed with its defamation counterclaim against a plaintiff who falsely alleged that Range’s fracing activities polluted his water supply.

Kristi Hudson Receives Special Olympics Volunteer of the Year Award
Kristi Hudson Receives Special Olympics Volunteer of the Year Award

Russell Cawyer Comments on WARN Act Implications
Russell Cawyer publishes a new blog post, "Oilfield Service Providers Should Consider WARN Act Implications Prior to Making Job Cuts,” on Texas Employment Law Update.

Sharon Millians Awarded the TCBA Law Day Professionalism Award
Sharon Millians has been selected to receive the Law Day Professionalism Award from the Tarrant County Bar Association.

Darren Keyes and Scott Wiehle Selected as 2015 40 under 40 Honorees
Darren Keyes and Scott Wiehle have been selected by the Fort Worth Business Press as 2015 40 under 40 Honorees. Winners were judged by a panel comprised of local businesses, past honorees, and the FWBP Editorial Staff. Those chosen are under the age of 40 and have demonstrated leadership, initiative, and dedication in pursuing their careers.

Kelly Hart Featured in TCBA Bulletin
Kelly Hart was featured in the TCBA April 2015 Bulletin for being a steadfast support of the Texas Lawyer Texas Veterans clinics.

Sixteen Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2015 Texas Rising Stars
Sixteen Kelly Hart attorneys have earned selection to the 2015 Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

Dee J. Kelly Recipient of Outstanding 50 Year Lawyer Award
Dee J. Kelly is a recipient of the 2015 Texas Bar Foundation Outstanding 50 Year Lawyer Award. The Outstanding 50 Year Lawyer Award was the first award established by the Texas Bar Foundation, in 1974. The award recognizes attorneys whose practice spanned fifty years or more, and who adhere to the highest principles and traditions of the legal profession and service to the public.

Aimee Hebert Spoke at Tulane Environmental Law Summit
Aimee Hebert spoke on the Preemption of Local Government Regulation of Fracking at the Summit on Environmental Law & Policy, February 27-28, 2015, at Tulane University Law School in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Kelly Hart overturns $3.8 million fraud verdict on appeal
A Kelly Hart team led by John Cayce won a reversal on appeal of a judgement against another law firm and its partner for conspiracy, fraud, and tortious interference with inheritance rights. Pete Greenhaw, Matt Stayton, and Joe Greenhill assisted with the appeal.

Kelly Hart Featured in Texas Lawyer Story
Dee Kelly Jr. featured in Texas Lawyer article, Come to Texas, Y'all: Lateral Hiring Up in Texas in 2014,” February 23, 2015.

Loulan Pitre Speaks at LSU Mineral Law Institute
Loulan Pitre will be a featured speaker at the 62nd LSU Mineral Law Institute on March 20, 2015. His 50 minute presentation titled, “Legacy Litigation Update” is scheduled on March 20 from 1:40-2:30 p.m. in the LSU Law Auditorium.

D’Ann Penner Authors Column in LSBA newsletter
D’Ann Penner authors a short essay, “The Value of a State Court Clerkship," published in the LSBA newsletter, Seasoning - Volume 2, Number 3, January 2015.

David Keltner Featured in Texas Lawyer Story
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed a judgment against Amarillo-based AQHA in which the District Court determined that AQHA violated antitrust laws by declaring cloned horses ineligible for AQHA breed registration. David Keltner was interviewed by Texas Lawyer on the Fifth Circuit's decision in Abraham v. American Quarter Horse Association.

Toby Galloway Quoted in The Texas Lawbook
Toby Galloway interviewed in The Texas Lawbook article, “TPG Capital Taps Fort Worth SEC Official to Lead Corporate Compliance,” January 23, 2015.

Kelly Hart Wins Reversal in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed a judgment against Amarillo-based AQHA in which the District Court determined that AQHA violated antitrust laws by declaring cloned horses ineligible for AQHA breed registration. Rendering judgment for AQHA, the Fifth Circuit held that the Plaintiffs’ antitrust claims against AQHA failed as a matter of law. Specifically, the Plaintiffs’ claim for violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act failed because the Plaintiffs did...

Toby Galloway Speaks at UT Law Securities Regulation and Business Law Conference
Toby Galloway is a featured panelist at the 37th Annual UT Law Conference on Securities Regulation and Business Law, Feb 12-13, 2015 at Cityplace Conference Center in Dallas. The conference is sponsored by University of Texas Law School and features comprehensive discussions of relevant topics for those representing or working for public or private companies on business, financial and governance matters.

Jody Sanders Speaks at TCBA Brown Bag Seminar
Jody Sanders to speak on “Jumping the Gun: Interlocutory and Permissive Appellate Proceedings” at the Tarrant County Bar Association Brown Bag Seminar, January 30, 2015.

Dee Kelly Jr. Elected to TCBF Board of Directors
Dee Kelly Jr. was recently elected to serve on the Tarrant County Bar Foundations Board of Directors. The Tarrant County Bar Foundation is a charitable organization formed under the auspices of the Tarrant County Bar Association. The Tarrant County Bar Foundation was established in 1997 to support and expand its commitments to "justice, service, and professionalism" by funding important community service projects. These projects include crucial legal services to needy citizens and education of...

Nine Kelly Hart Attorneys Elected Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation
Derek W. Anderson, Mary W. Baker, Dirk E. Eshleman (Life Fellow), Toby M. Galloway (Life Fellow), Brandon M. Hill, Evan M. Malloy, Henry H. Robinson, Howard L. Rosenthal and Jeffrey E. Whitfield have been elected to membership in the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation. Fellows of the Foundation are selected for outstanding professional achievements and a demonstrated commitment to the improvement of the justice system throughout Texas. Selection as a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation is...

Mike McConnell Featured in Texas Lawbook Story
Michael McConnell was interviewed in The Texas Lawbook story, "Shadow Banking Leads to Plunge in Texas Business Bankruptcy Filings.”

Brandon M. Hill Elected Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation
Brandon M. Hill has been elected to membership in the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation. Fellows of the Foundation are selected for outstanding professional achievements and a demonstrated commitment to the improvement of the justice system throughout Texas.

Mary Baker Elected Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation
Mary W. Baker has been elected to membership in the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation. Fellows of the Foundation are selected for outstanding professional achievements and a demonstrated commitment to the improvement of the justice system throughout Texas.

Kelly Hart Announces New Partners
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP is pleased to announce Brandon M. Hill, Darren J. Keyes, Evan M. Malloy, Richard T. McMillan II, Derek L. Montgomery and Jody S. Sanders have been elected Partners of the Firm effective January 1, 2015.

Aimee Hebert and Loulan Pitre Named 2015 Louisiana Super Lawyers
Aimee Hebert and Loulan Pitre have been named 2015 Louisiana Super Lawyers. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. Aimee was recognized in Energy & Natural Resources Law and Loulan is listed for Environmental Litigation. Super Lawyers is a Thomson...

Russell Cawyer and Ezra Kuenzi Co-Author Article in Fall 2014 SBOT Corporate Counsel Section Newsletter
Russell Cawyer and Ezra Kuenzi co-author article, "EXXON MOBIL CORP. V. DRENNEN” in the Fall 2014 SBOT Corporate Counsel Section Newsletter.

Loulan Pitre Featured in WWL-TV 4 News Story
Loulan Pitre quoted in WWL-TV 4 News story, “Tainted Legacy: Legislature's fixes create obstacles to oil and gas cleanup.”

Kelly Hart & Pitre Named Pro Bono Law Firm of the Year
Kelly, Hart & Pitre will be awarded this year’s Pro Bono Law Firm award chosen by the Pro Bono Project in New Orleans. Judge Ray Steib will present the award at the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event, December 4th at 5 p.m at Jones Walker, 201 St Charles Ave New Orleans, LA, 70170

Jeff Whitfield Interviewed for KERA News Story
Jeff Whitfield interviewed for KERA news story, “Legal Clinic Helps Tarrant County Veterans.”

Kelly Hart & Hallman Receives National Tier 1 Ranking in 2015 U.S. News - “Best Law Firms”
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers released their 2015 “Best Law Firms” list. Firms listed are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

D’Ann Penner Quoted in Tulane Lawyer
D’Ann Penner quoted in Tulane Lawyer magazine, Tulane University Law School, Fall 2014.

Michael McConnell Appointed to Advisory Council of the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Center for Energy, Law and Business
Michael McConnell appointed to a three-year term on the Advisory Council of the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Center (KBH) for Energy, Law and Business at the University of Texas at Austin.

Brandon Hurley Appointed Chairman of Governor's Radioactive Waste Disposal Commission
Gov. Rick Perry has appointed Brandon Hurley chair of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission. The commission manages and disposes of low level radioactive waste, while maintaining the health, safety and welfare of citizens.

Dee Kelly, Jr. Named 2014 Distinguished Citizen
Dee Kelly, Jr. was selected as the 2014 Distinguished Citizen honoree by the Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America. The Distinguished Citizen Award recognizes noteworthy and extraordinary leadership of citizens in communities across the United States. The lives of distinguished citizens put into place guideposts that serve to inspire our youth to lead, to accept responsibility, and to care about principles and causes beyond self-interest.

Cheryl Leb Featured in Fort Worth Business Press
Cheryl Leb was recently interviewed for the "On The Desk" feature in the October 20th issue of the Fort Worth Business Press.

Marianne Auld and Shauna Wright Named Great Women of Texas
Marianne Auld and Shauna Wright were selected 2014 Great Woman of Texas honorees by the Fort Worth Business Press. This annual event honors outstanding women in Texas who are recognized for their significant accomplishments in business, civic and social contributions. The Great Women of Texas awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, November 19 at 6:30 pm at the Omni Hotel.

Kelly Hart Recognized by the Texas Access to Justice Commission
Kelly Hart was acknowledged as a supporter of TAJC’s Access to Justice Campaign during National Pro Bono Week with a reception honoring law firms and individual attorneys that support access to justice efforts in Texas. This year’s Access to Justice (ATJ) Campaign raised more than $1.1 million from more than 8,270 attorneys across the state.

Jenny Rosell Appointed to Fort Worth Museum of Science and History Board
Jenny Rosell was recently appointed to the Board of Trustees for the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Microsoft Defamation Case
Russell Cawyer posts a new article, "Texas Employee Awarded $11.6M by Austin Jury in Defamation Case.” Russell's blog is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Victor Jones to Speak at NBI Seminar
Victor Jones will be presenting two topics at the National Business Institute’s (NBI) Special Education Laws Made Simple Seminar/CLE in Shreveport, LA, on November 6, 2014 as a part of the NBI’s School Law Series.

Kelly Hart Opens Midland Office
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP announced the opening of a new office in Midland, Texas. Joining the firm are Harold L. Hensley, Jr., William B. Burford, and C. D. Martin, all of whom formerly practiced with the Hinkle Hensley firm headquartered in Roswell, New Mexico. Also adding oil and gas expertise to the Midland office are partners Max Wright, Mary Baker and Anna Brandl.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Three New Associates
Kelly Hart welcomes Samantha A. Fant, James "Drew" Neill, and Kate L.Young to the firm.

Russell Cawyer Posts New Blog
Russell Cawyer posts a new article, “Adrian Peterson Situation Spotlights Dilemma Employers Face Frequently.” Russell’s blog is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Hugh Connor and Brian Stagner Named 2014 Power Attorneys
Hugh Connor and Brian Stagner have been selected as 2014 Power Attorneys by the Fort Worth Business Press. The honorees will be recognized at an awards ceremony and dinner, October 8, 2014 at the Omni Fort Worth Hotel.

Marshall Searcy to Receive 2014 Legends Award
Marshall Searcy has been selected to receive the 2014 Power Attorney Legend Award from the Fort Worth Business Press.

Four Kelly Hart Attorneys Earn Top Super Lawyers Listings
John Cayce, Jr., David Keltner, Sharon Millians and Marshall Searcy earn special recognition in Texas Super Lawyers Top Lists. In addition to being recognized as a 2014 Texas Super Lawyer, Kelly Hart attorneys with the highest point totals from each category were selected for the following:

Twenty-Eight Kelly Hart Attorneys Featured in Super Lawyers 2014 Business Edition
Twenty-eight Kelly Hart attorneys have been selected and will be listed in the 2014 Super Lawyers Business Edition.

Toby Galloway Quoted in Houston Chronicle Story
Toby Galloway was interviewed in the Houston Chronicle story, “Business Energy riches Oil baron’s divorce hits heights Continental Resources leader, wife battle over $17 billion earned in 26 years of marriage.”
Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Workplace Investigations
Russell Cawyer posts a new article, “NFL Could Take a Lesson from Human Resources in Conducting Investigations." Russell's blog is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Thirty-Two Kelly Hart Attorneys Named 2014 Super Lawyers
Thirty-two Kelly Hart Attorneys have been named 2014 Super Lawyers. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.

Toby Galloway Quoted in The Texas Lawbook Story
Toby Galloway was interviewed for a story on the securities law issues raised in a recent divorce case.

Cheryl Leb to Work as Liaison for Texas A&M University School of Law
Cheryl Leb has been selected as the Attorney Clinic Supervisor and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) liaison for the Texas A&M University School of Law Trademark Clinic.

LA 1 Coalition
Kelly Hart is an active member of the LA 1 Coalition, a non-profit corporation working for road improvements from Grand Isle to U.S. Hwy. 90.

Andrew H. Neal Joins Kelly Hart
Andrew Neal joins Kelly Hart as an associate in the Fort Worth office and concentrates his practice on oil and gas matters.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Religious Discrimination Case from the Fifth Circuit
Russell Cawyer posts a new article on the significance of status following a Fifth Circuit religious discrimination ruling.

David Keltner and Marianne Auld Co-Author Column in The Advocate
David Keltner and Marianne Auld co-author article, “Post Trial Error Preservation in Texas and Federal Courts.” The article is published in the State Bar of Texas Litigation Section report, The Advocate, Volume 67, Summer 2014.

D’Ann Penner joins Kelly Hart
D'Ann Penner joins Kelly Hart as an associate in our New Orleans’ office. D’Ann concentrates her practice on energy and environmental litigation.

Clark Rucker Elected to Board Position
Clark Rucker was elected to serve on the Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association’s Board of Directors.
Katherine Hopkins Re-Elected to Board Position
Katherine Hopkins was recently re-elected to serve her fourth term on the Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association’s Board of Directors.
Sharon Millians Elected to Board Position
Sharon Millians was recently elected to the Board of Visitors of AddRan College of Liberal Arts, TCU. The Board of Visitors is comprised of local, national, and internationally recognized and respected leaders who are committed to the mission of the AddRan College of Liberal Arts.
Thirty-Three Kelly Hart Attorneys listed Among The Best Lawyers in America 2015®
Thirty-Three Kelly Hart attorneys are listed among The Best Lawyers in America 2015®. They include:

Loulan J. Pitre Jr. Named Best Lawyers® 2015 New Orleans Litigation Environmental "Lawyer of the Year”
Loulan J. Pitre Jr. was named the Best Lawyers® 2015 Litigation Environmental "Lawyer of the Year” in New Orleans.

R. Dan Settle, Jr. Named Best Lawyers® 2015 Dallas Public Finance Law "Lawyer of the Year”
R. Dan Settle Jr. was named the Best Lawyers® 2015 Public Finance Law "Lawyer of the Year” in Dallas.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Notice Delivery Requirements Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on Notice Delivery Requirements Under the FMLA
Russell Cawyer posts a new article on receipt of notice dispute following a federal court of appeals opinion from the Third Circuit.

Shauna Wright Featured in LegalFront
Shauna Wright is the recipient of the State Bar of Texas 2014 Pro Bono Coordinator of the Year award and is featured in the August issue of LegalFront e-newsletter, a State Bar of Texas publication.

Chelsea Tabor Elected to Board Position
Chelsea Tabor was recently elected to serve on the Central Area Council Board of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce. The primary goals of each Area Council Board will be to identify, inform and promote the interests of their membership within the boundaries of their Area Council and within the overall program and policies of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.

Kelly Hart Represents Formosa in Obtaining Greenhouse Gas Permit
Bob Stewart and Brenda Clayton represented Formosa Plastics Corporation, Texas before the United States Environmental Protection Agency to secure a greenhouse gas Prevention of Significant Deterioration construction permit for Formosa's facility in Point Comfort, Texas.

Loulan Pitre Interviewed for WWLTV News Story
Loulan Pitre interviewed for WWLTV Channel 4 News story, Tainted Legacy: Legislature’s fixes create obstacles to oil and gas cleanup.

Brenda Clayton to Speak at State Bar CLE Conference
Brenda Clayton to speak at the State Bar of Texas, Suing and Defending Governmental Entities CLE Course, July 31-August 1, 2014, in Austin, Texas. Her presentation is titled, "Hydraulic Fracturing, Close to Home."

Loulan Pitre to Speak at the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association Seminar
Loulan Pitre to speak at the LOGA Industry Seminar and CLE, September 15-16, 2014, at the JW Marriott in New Orleans. Loulan will conduct a joint presentation titled, "The Importance and Use of Historical Evidence in Light of LL&E" with environmental historian, Jason Theriot, Ph.D.

Kelly Hart Opens Office in NOLA
Kelly Hart & Hallman has opened a new office location at 400 Poydras St., Suite 1812, in New Orleans with Loulan J. Pitre Jr., a former member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, as partner in charge. The Louisiana office will do business as Kelly Hart & Pitre.

Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association
Kelly Hart is a member of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association, LMOGA, a trade association exclusively representing all sectors of the oil and gas industry operating in Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico. LMOGA serves exploration and production, refining, transportation, marketing and mid-stream companies as well as other firms in the fields of law, engineering, environment, financing and government relations.

Greater New Orleans, Inc.
Kelly Hart is a member of Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.), a regional economic development alliance serving the 10-parish region of Southeast Louisiana. Loulan J. Pitre, Jr. is an active member of the GNO, Inc. Public Policy Committee. GNO, Inc. serves as the catalyst for wealth creation in the 10-parish region of Southeastern Louisiana by pursuing an aggressive agenda of business development, marketing the region, and product development.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on U.S. Supreme Court Decision
Russell Cawyer posts a new article on the U.S. Supreme Court decision to hear a case involving whether and to what extent pregnant employees are entitled to reasonable accommodations for conditions related to their pregnancy. The case is Young v. UPS.

Derek Montgomery Selected To Leadership Fort Worth
Derek Montgomery has been selected to the Leadership Fort Worth Class of 2015. Leadership Fort Worth is a nine-month program that brings together a diverse group of decision-makers from across the community who want to broaden their perspective about Fort Worth and uses their resources to address identified needs.

Russell Cawyer Posts Blog on DOL Proposed Extension of FMLA Benefits to Same-sex Spouses
Russell Cawyer posts a new article on the DOL proposed rule to extend FMLA benefits to same-sex spouses in Texas. Russell's blog post is published on the Texas Employment Law Update.

Dee Kelly Jr. Elected Vice Chairman of the FW Chamber Board
The Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce recently elected new officers and incoming board directors for 2014-2015. Officers are: Chairman Bob Pence, president and CEO, Freese and Nichols; Vice Chairman Dee Kelly Jr., Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP; Treasurer Wade Wallace, regional president, Southwest Bank-Fort Worth Region; and Bill Thornton, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber.

Kelly Hart Opens New Orleans Office
Kelly Hart & Hallman has opened a new office location at 400 Poydras St., Suite 1812, in New Orleans with Loulan J. Pitre Jr., a former member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, as partner in charge. The Louisiana office will do business as Kelly Hart & Pitre.

David Keltner to Present at State Bar Convention
The State Bar of Texas and the Texas Supreme Court Historical Society present a live oral argument reenactment in Sweatt v. Painter in the Historic Supreme Court Courtroom in the Capitol. The reenactment will take place during the State Bar of Texas Annual Meeting, June 26, 2014, 2-4 p.m.

Shauna Wright Featured In The Texas Lawbook
Shauna Wright featured in The Texas Lawbook story "Kelly Hart Partner Recognized for Pro Bono Efforts."

Toby Galloway Quoted In Texas Lawbook Story
Toby Galloway was interviewed in The Texas Lawbook story, "SEC’s Probe of Key Energy May Expand."

Henry Robinson Speaks at State Bar CLE
Henry Robinson was a featured speaker The Texas State Bar “Soaking Up Some CLE 2014" conference, May 15-16, 2014 in South Padre Island. His presentation, "Health Care Litigation Overview."

Chester Grudzinski Authors Column in Real Estate Taxation
Chester Grudzinski authors article, "U.S. Oil and Gas Interests, Foreign Investors, and Firpta," published in Real Estate Taxaction, 2nd quarter, 2014 business publication.

Chambers USA 2014 Ranks Kelly Hart & Hallman Partners and Practice Groups
Four Kelly Hart partners were selected for inclusion in the 2014 edition of the prestigious Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business guide.

Shauna Wright Receives 2014 State Bar of Texas Pro Bono Coordinator Award
Shauna Wright is the recipient of the 2014 State Bar of Texas Pro Bono Coordinator Award. Shauna will be recognized at the Bar Leaders Recognition Luncheon at the State Bar Annual Meeting in Texas on Thursday, June 26, 2014, at 12:00 p.m. at the Hilton Austin.

Toby Galloway Speaks at Forensic Forum Webcast
Toby Galloway served as a panelist on a forensic forum webcast titled, “The Forensic Forum: Fraud and Your Responsibility.” The topic was “a look at pressing fraud and litigation issues affecting corporate executives.”

Sharon Millians Appointed to Texas Wesleyan Board
Sharon Millians was appointed to the Texas Wesleyan University Board of Trustees and will begin her term in August, 2014.

Kelly Hart Attorneys Volunteer at TVAS Clinic
Seven KH attorneys volunteered at the quarterly TVAS (Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services) clinic on Tuesday evening, April 29th. Brian Stagner, Mary Smith, Katherine Thomas, Nancy Ribaudo, Howard Rosenthal and Elizabeth Fitch all represented indigent clients. Shauna Wright serves as the TVAS volunteer coordinator.

David Keltner and John Cayce Elected to the TCBA Board of Directors
David Keltner and John Cayce Elected to the TCBA Board of Directors.

Toby Galloway Quoted in The Texas Lawbook
Toby Galloway was interviewed in The Texas Lawbook story, "SEC v. The Wylys: Insider Trading Trial Goes Way Beyond Texas."

Jenny Rosell Elected to Board of Trustees for TVS
Jenny Rosell has been elected to Board of Trustees for Trinity Valley School. Her two-year terms begins July 1, 2014.

Dee Kelly Jr. Named to Texas High-Speed Rail Commission
Dee Kelly Jr. was appointed to the six member Texas High-Speed Rail Commission. The commission will oversee the state's role in a proposed high-speed rail line that would connect Houston, Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth.

Toby Galloway Speaks at Annual SEC Conference on Fraud
Toby Galloway is a featured speaker at the University of Texas at Dallas’s 9th Annual Fraud Conference, March 28, 2014. Toby will provide a SEC Enforcement Update. This conference is hosted in conjunction with the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Tom Hegi Selected as 2014 40 under 40 Honoree
Tom Hegi has been selected by the Fort Worth Business Press as a 2014 40 under 40 Honoree.

Jeff Whitfield Featured on Cover of Super Lawyers
Jeff Whitfield was chosen as a 2014 Super Lawyers Texas Rising Star. His story is featured in the 2014 Super Lawyers Texas Rising Stars March edition.

Nineteen Kelly Hart Attorneys Named as 2014 Texas Rising Stars
Nineteen Kelly Hart attorneys recognized as 2014 Texas Rising Stars by Super Lawyers.

Mary Smith Authors Column in TCBA Bulletin
Mary Smith authored article, "Tricks and Traps: Practical Tips for your Appellate Practice" in the TCBA Bulletin.

Kelly Hart Announces New Partners
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP is pleased to announce that Natalie J. Carlgren, David W. Cook and Christopher S. Greer have been elected partners in the firm effective January 01, 2014.

Henry Robinson and Ezra Kuenzi Co-Author Article in Fort Worth Business Press
Henry Robinson and Ezra Kuenzi co-author article, "ACA: What Large Employer's Don't Do May Hurt Them." The article is published in the December 16, 2013 issue of the Fort Worth Business Press.

Brandon Hurley Appointed to Governor's Radioactive Waste Disposal Commission
Governor Rick Perry Appoints Brandon Hurley to Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission.

Kelly Hart Attorneys Recognized as “Top Attorneys” by Fort Worth, Texas Magazine
Fort Worth, Texas Magazine recognizes sixty-six Kelly Hart Attorneys as 2013 "Top Attorneys." In its 13th annual listing, Fort Worth, Texas magazine features Tarrant County’s “Top Attorneys” in selected fields who were nominated by their peers.

Chester Grudzinski and Jacob Birnbaum Co-Author Article in Law360
Chester Grudzinski and Jacob Birnbaum co-author article, "New Medicare Tax Lacks Specificity." The article is published in the November 20, 2013 issue of Tax and Health Law360 and will be published in corresponding newsletters.

Kelly Hart Selected as a 2014 U.S. Top Ranked Law Firm
Kelly Hart selected as one of Martindale-Hubbell's 2014 U.S. Top Ranked Law Firms. Martindale-Hubbell chooses these firms by identifying U.S. law firms of 10 or more attorneys, where at least one-third of the attorneys in the firm achieved the AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating.

Kelly Hart Recognized in Texas Verdicts Hall of Fame
Kelly Hart & Hallman honored with three awards for jury verdicts ranking among the Top 100 Verdicts from 2010-2012 by Texas Lawyer, in conjunction with VerdictSearch, and will be included in the publication's Texas Verdicts Hall of Fame.

Kelly Hart Sponsors Smart Moves Event
Kelly Hart, Capital One Bank, and The Fort Worth Business Press presented 10 companies with Smart Moves awards on Wednesday night at the new Sundance Square Plaza Pavilion.

Kelly Hart & Hallman Receives Tier 1 Ranking in 2014 U.S. News - “Best Law Firms”
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP has received a Tier 1 Ranking in the 2014 Edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers' “Best Law Firms.”

Toby Galloway and Chase Medling Co-Author Article
Toby Galloway and Chase Medling co-author article, "Home-Court Advantage: How the SEC’s Intention to Bring More Administrative Proceedings Could Affect You," published in The Texas Lawbook, October 25, 2013

Henry Robinson Authors Column in FWBP
Henry Robinson authors column, "Legal Implications of the Individual Mandate" in the October 14, 2013 issue of the Fort Worth Business Press.

Michael A. McConnell Recognized in the Fort Worth Business Press for Leadership Award
Michael A. McConnell is profiled in the October 7, 2013, Fort Worth Business Press. McConnell to receive the prestigious A. Sherman Christensen Award, the highest award presented by the American Inns of Court.

Toby Galloway Speaks at ABA National Institute on Securities Fraud
Toby Galloway to speak at the ABA National Institute on Securities Fraud, October 24-25 in New Orleans.

Kelly Hart Welcomes Three New Associates
Kelly Hart welcomes Torrie C. Taylor, Hannah M. Watkins, and Jarratt F. Watkins to the firm.

Dan Settle and Benton Cantey Named 2013 Power Attorneys
Dan Settle and Benton Cantey have been selected as 2013 Power Attorneys by the Fort Worth Business Press.

Dan Settle and Benton Cantey Named 2013 Power Attorneys (3)
Dan Settle and Benton Cantey have been selected as 2013 Power Attorneys by the Fort Worth Business Press.

Three Kelly Hart Attorneys Recognized on Top Super Lawyers Lists
David Keltner, Marshall Searcy, Bob Stewart named on top Texas Super Lawyers 2013 lists. Attorneys with the highest point totals from each category are selected.

Thirty Kelly Hart Attorneys named 2013 Texas Super Lawyers
Thirty Kelly Hart Attorneys have been named 2013 Texas Super Lawyers. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.

Twenty-Nine Kelly Hart Attorneys have been listed among the 2014 Best Lawyers in America®
Twenty-Nine Kelly Hart Attorneys have been listed among The Best Lawyers in America 2014®. They include:

Dee J. Kelly, Jr. has been named the Best Lawyers’ 2014 Dallas Administrative / Regulatory Law "Lawyer of the Year."
Dee J. Kelly, Jr. has been named the Best Lawyers’ 2014 Dallas Administrative / Regulatory Law "Lawyer of the Year."

Dee J. Kelly Featured on the Inaugural Issue of Fort Worth/Attorney at Law Magazine
Dee J. Kelly is profiled on the cover of Fort Worth/Attorney at Law Magazine's inaugural issue. Published August 8, 2013.

Henry Robinson Authors Column in the Fort Worth Business Press
Henry Robinson pens column, "The Affordable Care Act's New Retaliation Claims" in the Fort Worth Business Press.

Michael A. McConnell To Receive the A. Sherman Christensen Award
Michael A. McConnell to receive the prestigious A. Sherman Christensen Award, the highest award presented by the American Inns of Court.

Toby Galloway and Chase Medling Co-Author Column in The Texas Lawbook
Toby Galloway and Chase Medling co-author column, "Fifth Amendment Privilege: Shield or Sword in White-Collar Cases?" in The Texas Lawbook, July 1, 2013.

Jacob Birnbaum Authors a Financial Derivatives Tax Treatise Published by Bloomberg/BNA
Bloomberg/BNA published a financial derivatives tax treatise authored by Jacob Birnbaum titled "Taxation of Exchange-Traded Options."