Goranson Bain Ausley, PLLC

Attorney Angeline Lindley Bain

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1987
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas, 1987

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1987
  • J.D.
  • Cum Laude
  • Honors: Order of the Coif
  • Honors: Chairperson, Law Fellows Tutorial Barristers
  • Honors: Sarah T. Hughes Federal Courts Award
  • Honors: Koons, Rasor, Fuller & McCurley Family Law Award
  • Law Journal: Journal of Air Law & Commerce, Staff Editor
• Texas A&M University, 1976
  • B.S.
  • Cum Laude
  • Rural Sociology

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 1995 – 2021, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2017 – 2021, 2024 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2025
• Dallas 500 – The Most Powerful Business Leaders in Dallas Fort-Worth, 2016
• Selected to “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 – 2014
• Selected to “Best Women Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2009
• Selected to “Best Personal Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2009
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2003-2025
• Selected to the “Top 10: Texas Super lawyers” list, Thomson Reuters, 2009
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers” list, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2015, 2022
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers” list, Thomson Reuters, 2004-2006, 2009-2015
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Region Super Lawyer” list, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2006, 2008 – 2015, 2022
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow, 2015
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas), Member
• Collaborative Divorce Dallas (f/k/a The Collaborative Alliance), Member
• Committee for a Qualified Judiciary, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Foundation, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member, District 6 Grievance Committee
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• Attorneys Serving the Community, Volunteer, 1996 – 1998
• Planned Parenthood of North Texas, Board Member, 2007-2016
• Citizens for a Qualified Judiciary, Board of Directors
• Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, Board Member, 2001– 2006
• Dallas Women’s Foundation, Board of Directors, 2015
• Dallas Independent School District, Tutor volunteer
• First Unitarian Church in Dallas, Choir Member
• Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, Advisory Board

Attorney Kevin Davidson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2008

Education:

• University of Houston Law Center, 2008
  • J.D.
  • Law Review: Senior Articles Editor, Houston Business and Tax Law Journal Student article selected for publication, Retooling Patents: Current Problems, Proposed Solutions, and Economic Implications for Patent Reform
• The University of Texas at Austin
  • B.A.
  • Anthropology & Psychology

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2020 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America © in the field of Family Law Arbitration, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2021
• State Bar of Texas
  • Chair, Civil Liberties & Civil Rights Section, 2022 – 2023
  • Chair, Individual Rights & Responsibilities Section, 2015 – 2016
  • Course Director, State Bar’s Bill of Rights Continuing Legal Education Course, 2015 – 2016
  • College of the State Bar of Texas, Member, 2016 – present
• Dallas Bar Association
  • Board Member, Family Law Section, 2023
  • Member, Family Law Section, 2014 – present
  • Committee Chair, Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, 2011 – present
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Leadership Class, 2016

Attorney Esther R. Donald

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1988
• Northern District of Texas
• Eastern District of Texas

Education:

• University of Texas School of Law, 1988
  • J.D.
• Texas Law Review, Associate Editor
• University of Texas at Austin, 1985
  • B.A.
  • English with Honors

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2025 & 2026
• State Bar of Texas, Annual Collaborative Law Course, Course Director, 2022
• State Bar of Texas, Annual Collaborative Law Course, Assistant Course Director, 2021
• State Bar of Texas, Annual Collaborative Law Course, Planning Committee/Speaker, 2020 – 2024
• Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© list in the field of Family Law by Best Lawyers, 2017 – 2026
• Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© list in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law by Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2016 – 2025
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth” Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2022
• Selected to the “Top 50 Women Texas Super Lawyers” list, Thomson Reuters, 2022
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Alternative Dispute Resolution Section, Secretary, Charter Board Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Collaborative Divorce Collin County, President, 2024, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Fellow, Membership Chair, 2022, Board Member, 2021-23, Member, 2024-present
• Dallas Bar Association, Collaborative Law Section, Chair, 2019 – 2020, Vice Chair, 2018 – 2019
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Foundation, Fellow, 2019
• State Bar of Texas, Collaborative Law Council, Vice President, 2024 – 2025
• State Bar of Texas, Collaborative Law Section, Member
• State Bar of Texas Annual Collaborative Law Course, 2020 – Planning Committee Member and Speaker, 2021 – Assistant Course Director, 2022 – Course Director, 2023, 2024, 2025 – Planning Committee Member and Speaker
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Center for the Judiciary, Presenter 2024 Family Justice Conference and Regional Conferences
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member

Attorney Diana Friedman

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1991

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1991
  • J.D.
  • Cum Laude
  • Order of the Coif
• Louisiana State University , 1984
  • B.S.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Sam Emison Award, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2016
• Dallas 500 – The Most Powerful Business Leaders in Dallas Fort-Worth, 2016
• Lawyer of the Year in Family Law, Dallas/Ft. Worth, The Best Lawyers in America, 2016
• Dan R. Price Award Recipient, Texas Bar Foundation, Family Law Section, 2014
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2010 – 2021, 2024 – 2026
• “A Standing Ovation” Award, Texas Bar CLE, 2015
• Selected to the “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2013, 2015 – 2017
• Selected to the “Best Lawyers Under 40″, D Magazine, 2004
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyer, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters – 2004- 2007, 2010 – 2015, and 2018 – 2020
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Region Super Lawyer”, Thomson Reuters – 2011 – 2015, 2017
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2011, 2013, 2017
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Chair, CLE Committee, 1995 – 1997
• District 6-A Grievance Committee, Member, 1996 – 2002
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • Chair
  • Family Law Council, Member, 2002 – Present, Chair, 2013 – 2014
  • Co-Chair, Legislative Committee, 2007 to present
  • Co-Course Director, Advanced Family Law Course, 2012
  • Planning Committee – Advanced Family Law Course , 2016
  • Co-Course Director, New Frontiers in Marital Property Law, 2006
  • Family Law Practice Manual Committee, 1993 – 1994
  • State Bar Mentoring Program
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialist, Member, Past President
• Texas Association of Family Law Specialists Trial Institute, Course Director, 2007
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member, Past President, 2013-2015
• The College of Master Advocates and Barristers, Member, 2001
• Dedman School of Law at SMU, Alumnae Steering Committee
• Southern Methodist University, ATLA Mock Trial Team, Coach, 1993

Attorney Thomas P. Goranson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1971

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1971
  • J.D.
• Southern Methodist University, 1969
  • B.B.A.
  • Finance & Management

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 1987 – 2021, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Selected to the “Top Lawyers: Family Law”, D Magazine, 1995, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2007 – 2009
• Selected to the “Best Personal Lawyers in Dallas; Family Law”, D Magazine, 2011
• Selected to the “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2008
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2004- 2005
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2005
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow, 1982 – present
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• American Inns of Court, Member
• Annette Stewart Inns of Court, Member, 2003 – 2004
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas), Member
• College of the State Bar, Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law and Solo and Small Firm Section, Member
• Denton County Bar Association, Member
• Founding Member, Education Vice President
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• William “Mac” Taylor Inns of Court, Member
• Toastmasters International Club Counselors #5918, Founding Member

Attorney Beth Maultsby

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1987

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 1987
  • J.D.
  • Honors: John M. Harlan Society; Phi Delta Phi
  • Honors: With Distinction
  • Law Review: St. Mary’s Law Journal, Note and Comment Editor, 1986 – 1987
• Texas Christian University, 1981
  • M.P.A.
  • Honors: With Honors; Pi Alpha Alpha
• North Texas State University, 1976
  • B.A.
  • Social Science

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law Mediation “Lawyer of the Year” in Dallas/ Fort Worth, Best Lawyers, 2019
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2017 – 2021 & 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2007 – 2021 & 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2007 – 2021
• Selected to the “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2007
• Selected to the “Best Women Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2010
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2008 – 2025
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• Dallas Family Law Section, Past Member of Board of Directors
• Collaborative Law Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas), Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, ADR and Family Law Section, Member, Past Legislative Committee Member
• Dallas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• State Bar of Texas, Judicial and Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• Community Partners of Dallas
• The Family Place (f/k/a Faith & Liberty’s Place) Advisory Board
• Jonathan’s Place, Board of Directors
• Legacy Family Court Foundation
• Literacy Achieves, Volunteer ESL Teacher, 2018 – present
• Scholar Shot, Board of Directors
• St. Mary’s Law School Alumni, Board of Directors, 1999 to 2003

Attorney Lindsey Obenhaus

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2012
• Northern and Eastern Districts of Texas and the Supreme Court of the United States

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 2011
  • J.D.
• Vanderbilt University College of Arts and Sciences, 2008
  • B.A.
  • Magna Cum Laude with High Honors in History
  • Minor in Philosophy

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2021 & 2022
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2022 – 2024
• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2021, 2022, 2023, & 2024
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, Past Member, Basic Training, 2018, Advanced Training, 2018
• College of the State Bar of Texas, Member
• D CEO Magazine Emerging Women’s Leadership Network, Member
• Dallas Area Young Lawyers Leadership Class, Member, 2017
• Dallas Bar Association, Women Empowered to Lead (WE LEAD), 2020
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Collaborative Law Section, Member, Secretary, 2019
• Hockaday School for Girls, Alumnae, Alumnae Legal Society, Chair
• International Academy of Family Lawyers, Fellow
• Jonathan’s Place, Board of Directors
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Bar Association
  • Member
  • Family Law Section
  • Pattern Jury Charge Committee
  • Selected to 2021-2022 LeadershipSBOT Class
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member, Bill Review Committee
• Texas Young Lawyers Association, Member
• Genesis Women’s Shelter Young Leaders, Member

Attorney Aimee Pingenot Key

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2003
• U.S. Supreme Court, 2014
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas

Education:

• The University of Texas School of Law, 2003
  • J.D.
  • Law Review: Texas International Law Journal
• University of Texas in Austin, 1998
  • M.S.S.W., with Honors
  • Social Work
• University of Texas in Austin, 1996
  • B.A., with Honors
  • Psychology

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2024, 2025 & 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2014 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2019, 2022 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2025
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2006 – 2013
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2015 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Dallas Young Lawyers Association Leadership Class Member, 2006
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section and GP/Solo Section, Member
• American Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member, Member Chair, 2014 – present
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas), Member
• Collaborative Professionals of Dallas, Member, Secretary
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member, President, 2017 – 2018
• Collin County Young Lawyers Association, Member, Vice President, 2010-2012
• Curt B. Henderson American Inn of Court, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Collaborative Law and Family Law Section, Member, Family Law Section Board Member, 2015-2018
• Dallas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, Member
• Legacy Family Court Foundation, Board Member
• State Bar of Texas, Collaborative Law and Family Law Section, Member, Marriage Dissolution, Course Director, 2017
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• Junior League of Dallas

Attorney Katie Flowers Samler

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2007

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2007
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 2004
  • B.A.
  • Speech Communications

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• 20 Under 40, People Newspapers, 2020
• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2018 – 2020
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2018 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyer list, Thomson Reuters, 2022- 2025
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2014 – 2020
• Up-and-Coming 100: Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2020
• Up-and-Coming 50: Women Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2020
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Associate Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas), Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Collin County Young Lawyers Association, Member
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• Legacy Family Court Foundation, Grants Committee Chair

Attorney Chandler Rice Winslow

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, 2009

Education:

• Southern Methodist University – Dedman School of Law, 2009
  • J.D.
• Southern Methodist University, 2006
  • B.A.
  • Advertising

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch © in the field of Family Law, Woodward and White Press, 2023
• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2022
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2023
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, Member
• Collin County Younger Lawyers Association, Board of Directors, 2010-2016
• Dallas Bar Association, Member, Women Empowered to Lead (WE LEAD), 2022
• Dallas Women Lawyers Association, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow

Attorney Karen Bryson

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, May 2017

Education:

• Syracuse University College of Law, Syracuse, NY, May 2016
  • J.D.
  • Seeley Johnson Award Recipient
  • Pro Bono and Community Service Award Recipient
• Howard University, Washington, DC, July 2012
  • B.S.
  • Psychology

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2025 & 2026
• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2025
• Inclusion in Super Lawyers “Rising Stars,” Thomson Reuters, 2025

Attorney Alina Caratas

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, 2013
• State Bar of California, 2011
• United States District Court, Northern District

Education:

• Southwestern Law School, 2008
  • J.D.
  • Vice President of Labor and Employment Law Association, 2004-2005
  • Courses: Trial Advocacy, Federal Courts, Antitrust, Land Use, Debtor-Creditor Relations, Bankruptcy, Community Property, Wills and Trusts, Mergers and Acquisitions
• California State University, 2003
  • B.S.
  • Finance

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Dallas Bar Association, Member
• California Bar Association, Member

Attorney Mona Hosseiny Tovar

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2015
• Federal Law Northern District of Texas, 2018

Education:

• Golden Gate University School of Law, 2015
  • J.D.
  • Visiting Student 2014-2015, SMU Dedman School of Law, Dallas, TX
  • Awards: 3rd Place, Bernie L. Segal Cross ‘n Close Competition
  • CALI Excellence for the Future Award: Criminal Litigation
  • CALI Excellence for the Future Award: Ethical Prosecutions
• University of Texas at Austin, 2006
  • B.S.
  • Radio/Television/Film
  • Honors: Dean’s List, four semesters

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Best Lawyers, 2024 & 2025
• Inclusion in Super Lawyers “Rising Stars,” Thomson Reuters, 2025
• LGBT Bar Association, Dallas, TX Chapter, Member
• Iranian American Bar Association (IABA), San Francisco, CA Chapter, Member 2012-2015

Attorney Ashton McCary

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, 2025

Education:

• Southern Methodist University, 2025
  • J.D.
• The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, May 2011
  • B.S.
  • Chemistry

Attorney Lerrin Reinecke

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2008
• Colorado

Education:

• University of Denver College of Law, 2008
  • J.D.
  • American Jurisprudence Award, Spanish for Lawyers II
  • Sports and Entertainment Law Journal
  • Academic Achievement Program Tutor, Constitutional Law
  • Social Justice Action Group
• University of Texas at Austin, 2005
  • B.S.
  • Political Communications with Concentration in Business Foundations
  • Texas Zephyrs Service Fraternity
  • Dean’s List

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America , Family Law, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court
• Texas Bar Association, Family Law Section
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section
• Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers
• Texas Association of Young Lawyers

Attorney Rachel Rizzieri Feist

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, 2018

Education:

• SMU Dedman School of Law, 2017
  • J.D.
• New York University, 2011
  • B.A.
  • Psychology
  • Cum Laude

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, Family Law, 2024 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Dallas Bar Association Family Law Section
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers
• Collin County Bar Association Family Law Section
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member

Attorney Kyle Basinger

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1989

Education:

• SMU, 1989
  • J.D.
  • Phi Delta Phi
• St. Edwards University, 1986
  • M.B.A
• Texas A&M,1981
  • B.S.
  • Microbiology

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2008 – 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2011 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2011 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory

Attorney Ryan R. Bauerle

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2011
• District of Columbia Bar, 2012
• Federal – Texas Northern & Eastern Districts

Education:

• Regent University School of Law, 2011
  • J.D.
  • Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity
  • Newman Club, Vice President
  • Israel International Law Program
  • Strasbourg, France International Law & Human Rights Program
• Southern Methodist University, 2008
  • B.B.A., Finance
  • B.A., Political Science
  • Phi Gamma Delta, President
  • International Fraternity Council Representative
  • National Society of Collegiate Scholars
  • University Scholar
  • Order of Omega Honor Society
  • Hilltop Scholars Program

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2025
• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2020 – 2023
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2020-2024
• Texas Young Lawyers Association
  • President’s Award, 2025
  • Trial & Appellate Advocacy Award, 2024
  • President’s Award of Merit Recipient, 2023

Attorney Angel J. Berbarie

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2004

Education:

• The University of Houston Law Center, 2004
  • J.D.
• Texas A&M University, 2001
  • B.S.
  • Political Science
  • Cum Laude
  • Distinguished Student
  • Dean’s Honor Roll
  • Golden Key National Honor Society

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2021-2026
• Selected to Texas Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2022 – 2025
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2012- 2018
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Collin County Bar Association, ADR/ Collaborative Law Section and Family Law Section, Member
• Curt B. Henderson American Inn of Court, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law and Collaborative Law Section, Member
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• St. Jude Partners in Hope

Attorney Hayley Collins Blair

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2011

Education:

• Saint Louis University School of Law, St. Louis, Missouri, 2011
  • J.D.
• Southern Methodist University, 2008
  • B.A.
  • English and Philosophy

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2018, 2021, and 2022
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2015 – 2019, 2021-2025
• Up-and-Coming 100: Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2018 & 2020-2023
• Up-and-Coming 50: Women Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2018 – 2023
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2019 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2021
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law, LGBT Law, Juvenile Law, and Women and the Law Section, Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member

Attorney Jeff Domen

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2000

Education:

• Baylor University School of Law, 2000
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 1997
  • B.A.
  • Political Science

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2013 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers List, Thomson Reuters, 2014 – 2025
• Inclusion in Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2020-2022
• Texas Monthly – Top Attorneys in Texas, 2018
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2008 – 2014
• Best Lawyers in Texas, Wall Street Journal, 2016
• Top 10 Attorney Award, National Academy of Family Law Lawyers, 2015
• Interim Associate Judge – Dallas Family Courts, 2011
• Christian Legal Society, Board Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member, President, 2017 – 2018
• Dallas Bar Association, Member
• Denton County Bar Association, Member
• Frisco Bar Association, Member, 2014
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee, Member, 2009 – 2012

Attorney Chad Elsey

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, 2005

Education:

• University of Tulsa College of Law, 2004
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 2001
  • B.A.
  • Finance

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2021-2025
• Selected as a Texas Super Lawyers, Rising Star, 2011, 2013-2018
• Denton County Bar Association

Attorney Thomas A. Greenwald

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1992
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas

Education:

• Texas Tech University School of Law, 1992
  • J.D.
• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1987
  • B.B.A.
  • Finance

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Dallas/Fort Worth, Best Lawyers, 2018 & 2026
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law Mediation “Lawyer of the Year” in Dallas/Fort Worth, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Selected to the “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2002 – 2003, 2007-2009, and 2011 – 2012, 2018, 2022
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2003-2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2017 – 2019, 2021-2024
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2005, and 2008 – 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2005 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2023 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Selected for inclusion in the list of “Ten Leaders in Divorce Law Age 45 & Under – Dallas Forth Worth”, The Ten Leaders Cooperative, 2002 – 2012
• Presidential Citation for Outstanding Leadership, Dallas Bar Association, 2005
• AV Preeminent® Rating in Martindale-Hubbell
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow
• American Bar Association, Member
• Christian Trial Lawyers Association, Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas), Former Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Member
• Collin County Bench Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Committee for a Qualified Judiciary, Former Member
• Curt B. Henderson American Inn of Court, Former Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Member
• Dallas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• State Bar of Texas, Member
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization Family Law Advisory Commission, Former Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member

Attorney Curtis Harrison

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1994
• U.S. District Court Eastern District of Texas
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas

Education:

• Baylor University School of Law, 1994
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 1991
  • B.B.A.
  • Economics

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2017 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2018 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2019 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2008-2025
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Collaborative Divorce – Collin County, Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas)
  • President, 2015
  • Vice President, 2013
  • Treasurer, 2010
  • Board Member, 2010 – Present
  • Member, 2005 – Present
• College of the State Bar of Texas, Member, 1999 – Present
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law, ADR/ Collaborative Law, Law Practice Management Section, Member, 1998 – Present
• Collin County Bench Bar Foundation, Member, Pas Chair, Past Treasurer, Life Fellow
• Curt B. Henderson American Inn of Court, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, ADR, Collaborative Law, and Family Law Section, Member, 2002 – Present
• Frisco Bar Association, Member, 2014
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member, 1998 – Present
• Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member, 2004 – Present
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Family Law Advisory Commission, Member, 2013 – Present
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member

Attorney Jonathan James

Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of Texas, 2012

Education:

• Texas Wesleyan School of Law, 2012
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 2009
  • B.A.
  • Political Science

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers Under 40, D Magazine, 2023, 2025, & 2026
• The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• The Best Lawyers in America©, Best Lawyers, 2020-2021, 2023 – 2026
• Rising Star, Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2019-2022 & 2025
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member

Attorney John J. Kappel

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2014
• Federal Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit
• Federal District Court, Northern District of Texas
• Federal District Court, Eastern District of Texas
• Federal District Court, District of Colorado

Education:

• Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law, 2014
  • J.D.
  • cum laude
• Baylor University, 2011
  • B.S.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected as a lawyer “On the Rise” winner by Texas Lawyer, 2025
• Rated AV Preeminent™ by Martindale-Hubbell®
• Selected to the list of “Texas Rising Stars” by Super Lawyers, 2023-2025
• Selected to the list of “Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch” for Family Law by Best Lawyers, 2023-2026
• Selected to the list of “Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch” for Appellate Practice by Best Lawyers, 2026
• Selected to a list of the “Best Lawyers Under 40 in Dallas” by D Magazine, 2021-2022
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 2024
• State Bar of Texas, 2014-present – Family Law and Appellate Sections – Family Law Leadership Class and Family Law Appellate Committee, 2024
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2021-present
• Annette Stewart Inn of Court, 2019-present
• Collin County Bar Association, 2012-present – Family Law and Civil Litigation & Appellate Law Sections
• Collin County Young Lawyers Association, Member, 2012-present
• Dallas Bar Association, 2012-present – Family Law and Appellate Sections
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, 2012-present

Attorney Kathryn J. Murphy

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1989
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1989
  • J.D.
• University of Texas, 1986
  • B.A.
  • Honors
  • English
  • Honors: Distinguished Student Award
  • Speech Performance Tuition Award
  • President’s Honor Roll
  • Academic Tuition Scholarship

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Diplomate of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers since 2020 – The organization consists of 100 of the top family law attorneys in the United States.
• Martindale-Hubbell “AV Preeminent” Peer Review Rating
• Recipient of the Sam Emison Award, 2021
• Recipient of the State Bar of Texas Dan Price Award, 2018
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Dallas, Best Lawyers, 2015, 2017, and 2019
• 2016 honoree of UT Tyler’s Distinguished Alumni Award
• Best Family Law CLE article, State Bar of Texas, 2004 (Relocation)
• Annette Stewart Inn of Court, Serjeant of the Inn Award, 2013
• Selected to the “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2001, 2005- 2010, 2017 – 2020, 2023, 2024 & 2026
• Selected to the “Best Women Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2010
• Selected to the “Best Personal Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law”, D Magazine, 2009
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2003 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/ Fort Worth Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2004 – 2009, and 2011 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2004 – 2006, 2008-2009, 2011, and 2013- 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Recipient of the Bismarck State College, Alumna of the Year Award, 2025

Attorney Jeff Shore

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1986
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 1981
  • J.D.
• Syracuse University, 1978
  • B.A.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2019 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2019 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2019 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• List as Lawyer of the Year for Collaborative Law in Dallas, Best Lawyers, 2024
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2010 – 2025
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• Collaborative Law Dallas President, 2011 – 2012 Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas) Member

Attorney Clint Westhoff

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1999

Education:

• Washburn University School of Law, 1996
  • J.D.
  • Deans Honors
• Kansas State University, 1994
  • B.S.
  • Political Science

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2017 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Appellate Practice, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2013 – 2025
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2004 – 2011
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court Associate, Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member

Attorney Sarah Aminzadeh Milinsky

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2022

Education:

• University of North Texas Dallas College of Law, 2021
  • J.D.
  • Cum Laude
  • Dean’s List – Fall 2018, Spring 2019, Spring 2020, Fall 2020, Spring 2021
  • CALI Award – Evidence, Fall 2020
• University of North Texas, 2017
  • B.A.
  •  Psychology
  • Legal Studies Certificate
  • Dean’s List – Spring 2016, Fall 2016
  • President’s List – Spring 2017, Fall 2017

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2024 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Collaborative Divorce Collin County, Member
• Curt B. Henderson American Inn of Court, Member

Attorney Ally Caskey

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2021

Education:

• Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law, 2021
  • Dean’s List
  • Family Law Association, President
  • W. Caruth, Jr. Child Advocacy Clinic, Attorney Ad Litem
  • Women in Law, Member
• University of Oklahoma, 2018
  • B.A.
  • Journalism and Mass Communication, 
  • summa cum laude
  • President’s Honor Roll,
  • Dean’s Honor Roll
• interDaF Herder-Institut, 2016
  • International Intensive Language Course

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2023-2025
• Included in the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Best Lawyers, 2024-2026
• Annette Stewart American Inn of Court, Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Young Lawyers Section, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Collaborative Law Section, Member
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Member
• Dallas Women Lawyers Association, Member
• Denton County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Young Lawyers Section, Member
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member
• Texas Young Lawyers Association, Board of Directors – District 4, Present

Attorney Megan Decadi

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2020

Education:

• University of North Texas Dallas College of Law, 2020
  • J.D.
  • Summa Cum Laude
  • Dean’s list
• University of North Texas, 2016
  • B.A.A.S.
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution, Sociology, and Business Management
  • Dean’s list
• University of North Texas Professional Development Institute, 2004
  • Paralegal Certificate Program

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2023 – 2026
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Collin County Bar Association Member
• Collin County Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Curt B. Henderson Inn of Court Member
• Dallas County Bar Association Member
• Dallas County Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Denton County Bar Association Member
• Denton County Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation Member

Attorney Jill Lowe

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2019
• Florida, 2004

Education:

• Stetson University College of Law
  • J.D.
• University of Central Florida
  • B.A.
  • Legal Studies

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2019 – 2020, 2024
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2009 – 2010, 2016 – 2018
• Professional Excellence Award, Next Generation Divorce, 2016
• Collaborative Law Section, State Bar of Texas, Member, Current Chair
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, Member

Attorney Tom Trahan

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2024

Education:

• University of Texas School of Law
  • J.D.
• University of Texas at Austin
  • B.A.
  • with honors and special honors in Economics

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2026
• Member, Collin County Bar Association
• Member, Dallas Bar Association

Attorney Jack Wall

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2023

Education:

• Baylor University School of Law, 2023
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 2019 
  • B.A. 
  • Political Science with Spanish Minor

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers “Rising Stars,” Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, Member
• Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member

Attorney Kristen A. Algert

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1988

Education:

• Baylor University School of Law, 1988
  • J.D.
• Baylor University,1984
  •  B.A.
  • English

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Austin’s Top Attorneys, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2020
• Recipient of the Gay G. Cox Award, Collaborative Divorce Texas, 2019
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law Mediation “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2019
• Named the Best Lawyers© Collaborative Law: Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2013, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2025
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2011 and 2015
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2005 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers” list, Thomson Reuters, 2020-2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Central/ West Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2019-2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2020-2025
• Recipient of the J. Chrys Dougherty Award for dedication and commitment to access to justice for all, 2015
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2007 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2008 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2008 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Member
• Austin Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Baylor Law Alumni Association Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas) Board of Trustees, 2007-2013 President Elect 2008-2010 President 2010-2012 Member Advanced Training, 2019
• Collaborative Divorce Austin Member
• College of the State Bar Member
• International Academy of Collaborative Professionals Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section Member Life Fellow
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Member
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization Legal Assistant Commission, 2001-2004
• Texas College of Collaborative Law Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation Member
• Travis County Family Law Advocates Member
• Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas Program Services Committee Chair, 2005-present Board of Directors, 2001- 2014 Treasurer 2005-2006 Secretary 2003-2004

Attorney Thomas L. Ausley

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1968

Education:

• University of Texas School of Law, 1968
  • J.D.
• Texas Tech University, 1965
  • B.B.A.
  • Finance

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Professionalism Award, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 2019
• Outstanding 50 Year Lawyer Award, Texas Bar Foundation, 2019
• Selected to Austin Monthly’s Top Attorneys, 2022 – 2024
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 1987 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2023-2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Collaborative Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Arbitration, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Larry York Mentor Award, Austin Bar Association, 2016
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2003 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2007
• Selected to the “Top 50: Central/West Texas Region Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2003, 2007, 2009, 2013, and 2015- 2023
• Recognized for Contributions to the Advancement of Professionalism and Collegiality, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 2015
• Sam Emison Award, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2013
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2009
• Distinguished Lawyer Award, Austin Bar Association, 2008
• Outstanding Fundraiser Award, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Austin Chapter, 2008
• President and Chair’s Courage and Integrity Award, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, 2004
• Good Guys and Gals Award, National Women’s Political Caucus, Texas Chapter, 2004
• “AV” Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• Finalist, 1st annual “Ethics in Business Awards”: Individual (Samaritan Counseling Center and St. Edwards University)
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Fellow Collaborative Law Committee, Vice Chairman, 2010 Professional and Collegiality Committee, Vice Chair, 2015 Texas Chapter Treasurer, 2001-2002 Secretary, 2002-2003 President-Elect, 2003-2004 President, 2005-2006 Board of Governors of American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, National Chapter Member, 2006-2009
• American Bar Foundation Life Fellow, 2006 – present
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• American Board of Trial Advocates Associate
• Austin Bar Association Member
• Austin Bar Foundation Life Fellow
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas) Member Board of Trustees, 2003 – 2007
• College of the State Bar of Texas Member
• International Academy of Family Lawyers Fellow
• Martindale-Hubbell Bar Registry of Preeminent Lawyers
• State Bar of Texas Member, 1968 – present
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section Council Member, 2003 – present Secretary, 2008-2009 Treasurer, 2009-2010 Vice-Chair, 2010-2011 Chair, 2011-2012 Immediate Past Chair, 2012-2013
• State Bar Task Force on Reorganization of the Office of General Counsel Member, 1994
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Member
• Texas Bar Foundation Life Fellow
• Texas Family Law Foundation Charter Member Board of Trustees, 2006-2009
• Travis County Family Law Advocates President, 2000 – 2001 Political Action Committee President, 2001-2002
• Williamson County Bar Association Member

Attorney Kelly Ausley Flores

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1995

Education:

• Texas Tech School of Law, 1995
  • J.D.
  • cum laude
• Texas Tech University, 1987
  • B.B.A.
  • cum laude

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Austin’s Top Attorneys, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2020 & 2023
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Judge Suzanne Covington Individual Pro Bono Service Award, +100 Hours, Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas, 2018
• Pro Bono Award, Travis County Women Lawyer’s Association, 2018
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2017
• Named the Best Lawyers© Collaborative Law: Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2014
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2012 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2012 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2012
• Selected to the Texas Rising Stars list, Thomson Reuters, 2004 – 2005
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2010 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2022 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Central/ West Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2019-2025
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2019-2025
• Selected to the “Top 10: Texas Super Lawyers”, Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Pro Bono Award, Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas, 1998 and 1999
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Fellow Basic Mediation Training Instructor, 2019
• Austin Bar Association, Family Law Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas) Member
• College of the State Bar of Texas Member
• College of the State Bar of Texas, Pro Bono Member, 1999 – present
• Family Law Council Member, 2012 – 2017
• International Academy of Collaborative Professionals Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section Member Family Law Council, 2012 – 2017
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Member
• Texas Bar Foundation Member, 2004 – present

Attorney P. Lindley Bain

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2007

Education:

• Southern Methodist University School of Law, 2007
  • J.D.
• Southern Methodist University, 2007
  • M.B.A.
  • Finance
• Austin College, Sherman, Texas, 2002
  • B.A.
  • Cum Laude
  • Honors
  • Spanish and International Studies

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the Texas Rising Stars list, Thomson Reuters, 2010 – 2020
• Inclusion in the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2020-2025
• Up-and-Coming 100: Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2020
• Up-and-Coming 50: Women Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2019
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2015 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Fellow
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Annette Stewart Inn of Court Member
• Austin Bar Association Member
• Austin Young Lawyers Association Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas) Member
• Collaborative Professionals of Dallas Member
• Collin County Bar Association Member
• Dallas Association of Young Lawyers Member
• Dallas Bar Association Member
• International Academy of Collaborative Professionals Member
• Mac Taylor Inn of Court Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law and Collaborative Law Section Member Council Member Vice Chair, 2018 Chair, 2019
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation Member

Attorney Kristiana Butler

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2013

Education:

• Trained family law mediator in accordance with Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 154.052(b), 2020
• Texas Tech University School of Law, 2013
  • J.D.
  • magna cum laude
• Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, 2006
  • M.S.
• Texas Christian University, 2005
  • B.S.
  • magna cum laude

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2020-2023
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America © in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America © in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Austin’s Top Attorneys, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2020 – 2024
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2017 – 2023
• Up-and-Coming 100: Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2023
• Up-and-Coming 50: Women Texas Rising Stars List, Thomson Reuters, 2023
• Austin Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Austin Young Lawyers Association Member
• Collaborative Divorce Austin Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas Member
• College of the State Bar of Texas Member
• Junior League of Austin Member
• Mother Attorneys Mentoring Association of Austin Director
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section Member
• Travis County Women Lawyers Association Member
• Williamson County Bar Association Member
• Williamson County Bar Association, Women Lawyers Section Vice President

Attorney Kelly Caperton Fischer

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2006

Education:

• University of Texas School of Law, 2005
  • J.D.
• Texas A & M University, 2002
  • B.A.
  • Political Science
  • magna cum laude

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2021 – 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2021-2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2021 -2026
• Named the Best Lawyers© Collaborative Law: Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2024
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Austin’s Top Attorneys, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2020 & 2022 – 2024
• Selected to the Texas Rising Stars list, Thomson Reuters, 2009 – 2012, 2018, 2019
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Austin Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas (f/k/a Collaborative Law Institute of Texas) Member
• College of the State Bar of Texas, Pro Bono Member, 2009 – present
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, Collaborative Law Section Member
• Texas Family Law Foundation Member
• Texas Advocacy Project previously Women’s Advocacy Project Volunteer: lawyer, 2006 – present
• Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas Volunteer: mentor and lawyer, 2006 – present

Attorney Rob Frazer

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2009

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2009
  • J.D.
  • Honors
  • cum laude
• The University of Texas at Austin, 2001
  • B.S.
  • Communications, Radio – Television – Film

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2019 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2021 – 2025
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Selected to the Top Attorneys List, Austin Monthly, 2023 & 2024
• Outstanding Director for the 2021-2022 Bar Year by the Austin Bar Association
• Austin Bar Association Board of Directors, 2019 – 2020 Member
• Austin Bar Association, Bench Bar Planning Committee member
• Lawyers for Literacy Committee member

Attorney Eric Robertson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1992
• New Mexico, 2015

Education:

• Seminary of the Southwest, 2023
  • M.A.M.H.C.
• South Texas College of Law, 1991
  • J.D.
• University of Texas at Arlington, 1986
  • M.S.
  • Psychology

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2005 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Mediation, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law Arbitration, 2025 & 2026
• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Austin, Best Lawyers, 2018
• Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2009–2025
• Inclusion in the Top 50: Central/West Texas Super Lawyers list, Thomson Reuters, 2020- 2023
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Delegate, Board of Governors, 2018-2020 Fellow
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Texas Chapter President, 2016 – 2017 Member
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Austin Bar Association President, Family Law Section, 2002-2003 Member
• State Bar of Texas Grievance Committee, District 9A Past Chair
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Member
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Family Law, Legal Assistants Member 2004-2007
• Williamson County Bar Association Member

Attorney Angelica Rolong Cormier

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2014

Education:

• Texas Tech School of Law, 2014
  • J.D.
  • Texas Tech Law Review: Student Writing Editor Volume 46
• University of Texas at Austin, 2011
  • B.A.
  • Government
  • Plan II Honors

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch © in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2021-2023
• Inclusion in Super Lawyers “Rising Stars,” Thomson Reuters, 2021-2024
• Selected as Austin’s Top Attorneys, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2022 – 2024
• Austin Bar Association, Family Law Section Member
• Austin Young Lawyers Association Member
• Collaborative Divorce Texas Member
• Diversity in the Profession State Bar of Texas Committee, 2020-2021 Advisory Member
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Member
• State Bar of Texas Leadership Class Member, 2019 – 2020

Attorney Carlos Gracia

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2023

Education:

• Texas Tech University School of Law, 2022
  • J.D. 
  • Distinction Award: Legal Practice/Writing
  • Texas Bank Lawyer, Vol. XLIV-XLV – Editorial Board & Senior Writer
  • Dean’s List: 2021-2022
  • Board of Barristers Advanced Mock Trial Competition, Quarterfinalist
• Texas A&M University, 2013
  • M.S. 
  • Sport Management
• Texas A&M International University, 2012
  • B.S. 
  • Business Administration

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in Super Lawyers “Rising Stars,” Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Hispanic Bar Association Member
• Austin Bar Association: Family Law Section Member
• Austin Young Lawyer’s Association Member

Attorney Lauren Restino

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2025

Education:

• Southern Methodist University, 2025
  • J.D.
• University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, 2022
  • B.A.
  • Journalism/Political Science
  • B.A.
  • Communication

Attorney Franchizca K. Scipio

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2024

Education:

• University of Texas School of Law, 2024
  • J.D.
• St. Mary’s University, 2020
  • B.A.
  • Criminal Justice

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2026

Attorney Charla Davies

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2001

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2000
  • J.D.
• The University of Texas at San Antonio, 1995
  • B.A.
  • Political Science and Government

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers in America (Collaborative Law: Family Law), 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 & 2026
• Best Lawyers in America (Family Law), 2024 & 2026
• Best Lawyers in San Antonio, SA Scene Magazine (Family Law and Collaborative Law), 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
• San Antonio Top Attorneys – San Antonio Magazine, 2020, 2021, 2022
• Top Family Lawyer – Scene in S.A., 2022
• Best Lawyers in San Antonio, Rising Star – SA Scene Magazine, 2007, 2008, 2009
• Texas Super Lawyers Rising Star (Thomson Reuters), 2009 and 2010
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Fellow
• College of the State Bar of Texas
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization Advisory Committee – Family Law (2022-2025)
• State Bar of Texas Family Law Section
• San Antonio Bar Association Board of Directors 2020- 2024
• San Antonio Bar Association Family Law Section (Chair, 2018-2020)
• San Antonio Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Fellow
• Bexar County Women’s Bar Association
• Collaborative Divorce Texas
• Collaborative Professionals of San Antonio (President, 2015-2017)
• Texas Association of Family Law Specialists
• San Antonio Family Law Specialists

Attorney Kristal Thomson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2002
• United States District Courts, Western District, 2003

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2002
  • J.D.
• The University of Texas at Austin, 1999
  • B.A.
  • Political Science and Government

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2020-2026
• Inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters, 2018 – 2025
• Best Lawyers in America© Family Law Lawyer of the Year in San Antonio, 2021 & 2023
• Brian Webb Legislative Award, Texas Family Law Foundation, 2023
• Super Lawyer, Family Law Texas Monthly Magazine, 2018-2024
• Best Lawyer, Family Law, San Antonio Scene, 2006-2009, & 2011-2024
• Leadership San Antonio, Steering Committee, Class 46, 2022
• Leadership San Antonio, Class #300 (43), 2018
• Standing Ovation Outstanding Volunteer Award, TexasBarCLE, 2018
• 50 Up-And-Coming Women Lawyers, Texas Monthly, 2017
• 40 Under 40, San Antonio Business Journal, 2017
• Rising Star, Texas Monthly, 2006-2017
• Top 30 Family Lawyers, San Antonio Scene, 2014
• Belva Lockwood Outstanding Young Lawyer, Bexar County Women’s Bar Association, 2007
• San Antonio Outstanding Young Lawyer, San Antonio Young Lawyers Association, 2006
• Rising Star, San Antonio Scene, 2005-2006
• AV® Preeminent Rating, Martindale-Hubbell
• The American College of Family Trial Lawyers, 2026 – Present Diplomate
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 2014 – Present National Involvement: Practice & Technology Committee, 2014-2024 *Committee Co-Chair, 2023-2025 Web Site Committee, 2018-2022 *Committee Co-Chair, 2022-2023 Speaker for Mid-Year Meeting, 2025 Membership Committee, 2020-2022 Speaker for Tech Webinar, 2021 Rebranding Committee, 2020 Speaker for Tech Webinar, 2020 Speaker for Annual Meeting, Chicago, 2017 Speaker for Annual Meeting, Chicago, 2015 Legislative Committee, 2014-2015 Texas Chapter Involvement: Board of Examiners, 2019 – 2026 Immediate Past President, Texas Chapter , 2023-2024 President, Texas Chapter, 2022‐2023 President-Elect, Texas Chapter, 2021-2022 Vice-President, Texas Chapter, 2020-2021 Secretary, Texas Chapter, 2019 – 2020 Treasurer, Texas Chapter, 2018 – 2019 Course Director, Innovations in Child Custody Law, (Chicago), 2022
• American Bar Association, 2002 ‐ 2012 Young Lawyer’s Division Conference Attendee, Miami, 2005 Member of the Family Law Section, since 2002
• Bexar County Women’s Bar Association, 2002 – Present Belva Lockwood Selection Committee, 2025 Speaker, 2017 Retreat Vice-President, 2009 Secretary, 2008 Elected, Director, 2005-2007 Auction Committee Advisor, Autumn Affair, 2010 Financial Chair, Bench Brunch Goes Prime Time, 2009 Financial Chair, Bench Brunch Goes Prime Time, 2008 Printing Chair, Bench Brunch, 2007 Bench Brunch Chair, 2006 Auction Chair, Bench Brunch, 2005 Auction Chair, Bench Brunch, 2004 Auction Committee, Bench Brunch, 2003
• Children’s Commission Standards of Representation Committee
• Collaborative Professionals of San Antonio, 2013 – Present
• College of the State Bar of Texas, 2003 – Present
• St. Mary’s Law Alumni Association, 2002 – Present Director, 2005–2017 Bylaws Committee, 2015-2016 Distinguished Graduate Dinner, Committee, 2015 & 2016 Distinguished Graduate Dinner, Table Sales Co-Chair, 2014 Awards Committee, 2011-2015 Finance Committee, 2010-2013 Distinguished Young Alumni Committee, 2010 Secretary, 2008-2009 Treasurer, 2006-2008
• San Antonio Bar Association, 2002 – Present Board of Directors, 2024-2026 & 2008-2010 Law Day Chair, 2025 SABA Gala Committee, 2017 Bylaws Committee Chair, 2009 Nominating Committee, 2007 District Courts Committee, 2003-2012 Installation Gala Committee, 2008 & 2005 Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee, 2006-2007 Ex-Officio Member of the Board of Directors, 2005-2006 Courting Justice Committee, 2005 Law Day Committee, 2005 Member of Family Law Section, since 2002
• San Antonio Bar Association, Community Justice Program Volunteer Mentor, 2007-2017 CJP Committee, 2009-2011 Volunteer Attorney, 5 Cases
• San Antonio Bar Foundation Fellow, 2006 – Present
• San Antonio Family Lawyers Association, 2010 – Present Past President, 2019-2020 Elected, President, 2018‐2019 Elected, Treasurer, 2010-2018
• San Antonio Young Lawyers Association, 2002 – 2013 Immediate Past President, 2006-2007 Elected, President, 2005‐2006 Elected, President-Elect, 2004-2005 Appointed, Chair Counselors & Cocktails, 2004 Appointed, Committee Member, First Annual Counselors & Cocktails, 2003
• State Bar of Texas, Generally, 2002 – Present Annual Meeting Co-Chair, 2025 Chair of Chairs, 2024-2025 Annual Meeting Planning Committee, 2011 Bar Leader Conference Attendee, 2005 Dallas Bar Leader Conference Attendee, 2004 The Woodlands Member, Women and the Law Section Member, Litigation Section Member, Technology Section Member, Family Law Section
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Council, 2009 – Present Immediate Past Chair, 2021-2022 Elected, Chair, 2020‐2021 Elected, Chair-Elect, 2019-2020 Elected, Vice-Chair, 2018-2019 Elected, Treasurer, 2017-2018 Elected, Secretary, 2016-2017 Re-Elected Board Member, Class of 2016 (2-year Term) Elected Board Member, Class of 2014 (5-year Term) CLE Committee, 2023-2024 Web Site Chair, 2010-2024 Legislative Committee, 2009-2019 Awards & Scholarship Committee, Assistant Chair, 2015-2019 Section History & Archives Committee, 2013-2017 Membership & Member Services Committee, 2013-2016
• State Bar of Texas, Grievance Committee, District 10, Panel 1, 2014 – 2020 Panel 1 Chair, 2018-2020
• State Bar of Texas, Pattern Jury Charge Committee, Estates & Family Law, 2015 – Present
• Texas Bar Foundation, 2012 – Present Texas Bar Foundation Trustee, 2023 – 2026 2025 Chair Dan Rugley Price Selection Committee 2025 Finance and Investment Committee 2024 Samuel Pessarra Selection Committee 2024 Best Law Review Selection Committee 2024 Dan Rugley Price Selection Committee District 10 Nominating Committee, 2013 & 2016 Sustaining Life Fellow
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization – Board of Directors, 2017 – 2023 Member Services and Public Awareness Committee, 2018-2019 Family Law Standards Revision Committee, 2017
• Texas Board of Legal Specialization – Judicial Administration Task Force, 2024
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2010 – Present Elected, President‐Elect, 2024 Elected, Vice-President, 2023 Elected, Secretary, 2022 Elected, Treasurer, 2021 Elected, Board of Directors, 2015–2020 Trial Institute Co-Director, Charleston, South Carolina, 2016
• Texas Family Law Foundation, 2008 – Present Board of Directors, 2021-2025 Co-Chair, Legislative Committee, 88th & 89th Legislative Sessions Appointed, Bill Oversight Committee, 82 -89th Legislative Sessions Lobbyist Volunteer, 82 -89th Legislative Sessions Website Committee, 2021-2024 Auction Committee, 2013-2016 Contributing Author: Predicates Manual Update, 2012 Sustaining Fellow, since 2014

Attorney Heather Hudson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2017

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2016
  • J.D.
• University of Texas, 2011
  • M.B.
  • Business Administration, Project Management
• University of Mary Hardin, 1997
  • B.S.
  • Chemistry

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Named a Rising Star in Texas Monthly, 2026
• Named among Scene in San Antonio’s Best Lawyers, 2021
• Honored as one of Scene in San Antonio’s Outstanding Women in Law, 2021
• Recognized in Scene in San Antonio’s Best Female Lawyers, 2021
• Selected as a Rising Star Lawyer by Scene in San Antonio, 2018, 2020, & 2021
• State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section, 2018–Present Member Leadership Class (2024 – Present)
• San Antonio Collaborative Divorce, 2024–Present Board of Directors
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, 2023–Present Member
• San Antonio Collaborative Divorce, 2019–Present Member
• State Bar of Texas, LGBT Law Section, 2018–Present Member
• San Antonio Bar Association, 2018–Present Member

Attorney Gary L. Nickelson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1972

Education:

• University of Texas School of Law
  • J.D.
• Texas Tech University
  • B.A.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Named the Best Lawyers© Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Dallas/Fort Worth, Best Lawyers, 2025
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2024 – 2026
• Recipient of the Texas Bar Foundation Dan Rugeley Price Memorial Award, 2024
• Top Attorney, Fort Worth Magazine, 2024
• “AV” Preeminent® rating, Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 – 2026
• Thomson Reuters, Texas Super Lawyer, 2023 – 2025
• 360West, Top Attorneys List, 2023
• Recipient of the Pat Nestor Innovation in Professional Development Award, 2018
• Recipient of the Family Law Hall of Legends Award, 2016
• Listed in The Best Lawyers in America as a Top Family Law Attorney, since inception, 2003 to present
• Listed in Fort Worth, Texas Magazine as a Top Family Law Attorney, 2007 to present
• Named in Top 100 Texas Super Lawyers by Texas Monthly Magazine, Several years
• Listed as a Texas Super Lawyer by Texas Monthly Magazine, since inception, 2003 to present
• Recipient of the Judge Sam Emison Award, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2006
• Recipient of the Dan R. Price, Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, 2003
• Recipient of the Eva Barnes Award, Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, 2002
• Fellow of the Year, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 1998
• Co-Course Director, New Frontiers in Marital Property Law Memphis, TN, 2007
• Co-Director of Continuing Legal Education, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 1997-1998
• Course Director of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Texas Chapter Retreat, San Antonio, Texas, 1999
• Co-Course Director of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Texas Chapter Retreat, San Antonio, Texas, 1996-1998
• Chair, Pro Bono Committee of the Family Law Council, State Bar of Texas, 1995-1997
• Course Director 27th Annual Marriage Dissolution Seminar, Fort Worth Texas, 2004
• Course Director 26th Annual Advanced Family Law Seminar, San Antonio, Texas, 2000
• Co-Course Director 22nd Annual Advanced Family Law Seminar, San Antonio, Texas, 1996
• Co-Course Director of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists 9th Annual Trial Institute, New Orleans, LA, 1995
• Co-Founder and Chairman of the Family Law Golf Association, Since 1993
• Order of Barristers, 1972
• International Law Moot Court Competition-University of Texas School of Law, 1972
• Elected Director– Region 7-A, Board of Directors of the State Bar of Texas, 2015 to 2018
• Section Representative to the State Bar of Texas Board of Directors, 2013-2015
• President, Texas Family Law Foundation, 2010-2012
• Member of the Matrimonial Lawyers Network, Since 2002
• Life Member of the Texas Family Law Foundation, Since 1999
• Member of International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Since 1998
• Diplomat of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers, Since 1995
• Chairman of the District 7A Professional Enhancement Program of the State Bar of Texas, 1996-1998
• Member of State Bar of Texas Grievance Committee, 1994-1998
• Editor of Family Law Forum, 1994-1997
• President, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2000-2001
• President – Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, 1993
• Chair, Family Law Council of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, 2001-2002
• Family Law Council of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, 1992-2003
• President, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Texas Chapter, 1999-2000
• President, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, National, 2008-2009
• Fellow of the American Academy Matrimonial Lawyers, Since 1992
• State Bar of Texas Family Law Practice Manual Revision Committee, 1991-1997
• Texas Supreme Court Child Support/ Visitation Guidelines Committee, 1991-1994
• College of the State Bar of Texas, Since 1988
• Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, Since 1980
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Since 1984
• State Bar of Texas, Since 1972
• Tarrant County Bar Association, Since 1973
• International Moot Court Team – 2nd in International Competition, 1972
• Moot Court Board-Secretary/ Treasurer, 1971-1972
• Moot Court Board-University of Texas School of Law, 1970-1972
• National Member of the Order of Barristers – University of Texas School of Law, 1972
• Member of Trial Advocacy Association – University of Texas School of Law, 1972

Attorney Chris Nickelson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1999

Education:

• Texas Tech University School of Law, 1999
  • J.D.
• University of Texas at Austin, 1996
  • B.A.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Appellate Practice, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Family Law Section Chair Award, Family Law Section – State Bar of Texas, 2024
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2024 -2026
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2024 & 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100 Texas Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Texas Super Lawyer, Thomson Reuters, 2023 – 2025
• Super Lawyer, Texas Monthly Magazine, 2014-present
• Top Attorney, Fort Worth Magazine, 2007-present
• Top Attorney, 360 West, 2023
• SBOT Franklin Jones, Jr., CLE Award in 2012
• Rising Star, Texas Monthly Magazine 2004-2013
• SBOT Family Law Section’s Dan R. Price Award in 2013
• Joseph W. McKnight Best Family Law CLE Article Award in 2011 and 2015
• Board of Directors, District 7, Place 1, State Bar of Texas, Present
• Member, Tarrant County Bar Association, Present
• Member, Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, Present
• Chair, Committee on Pattern Jury Charges, Family & Probate Volume, 2020 to present
• Member, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, 2022
• Immediate Past Chair, Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2020-2021
• Chair, Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2019-2020
• Chair-Elect, Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2018-2019
• Vice Chair, Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2017-2018
• Treasurer, Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2016-2017
• Secretary, Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, 2015-2016
• Member, Family Law Council, State Bar of Texas, 2010-2015
• Member, Committee on Pattern Jury Charges, Family & Probate Volume, 2017-2020
• Chair, District Seven Grievance Committee, 2017-2019
• Member, District Seven Grievance Committee, 2013-2019
• Member, Texas Commission to Expand Civil Legal Services, 2015-2016
• Secretary, Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court, 2012-2013
• Director, Tarrant County Bar Association Board of Directors, 2008-2009
• Chair of the Tarrant County Bar Association Appellate Section, 2008-2009

Attorney Cassidy Pearson

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2010
• U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, 2015

Education:

• Saint Louis University School of Law, 2010
  • J.D.
• University of Texas at Austin, 2006
  • B.A.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Selected to the Texas Rising Star list, Thomson Reuters, 2022 – 2025
• Top Attorney, Fort Worth Magazine, 2023 – 2025
• Texas Bar College, (Member, 2016–present)
• Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court, Barrister, (2025-2026)
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, (2024- present)
• Collaborative Divorce Texas, Collaborative Divorce Professional, (2025-present)
• Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, (2015- present)
• Dallas and Tarrant County Bar Associations, (2015 -2022)
• Denton County Bar Association, (2011-2015)

Attorney Cindy V. Tisdale

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 1995

Education:

• Baylor University, 1995
  • J.D.
• Baylor University, 1991
  • B.A.

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2025 & 2026
• Texas Super Lawyer, Thomson Reuters, 2023 – 2025
• Selected to the “Top 100: Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2024
• Selected to the “Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers” List, Thomson Reuters, 2024
• Top Attorney, Fort Worth Magazine, 2024
• Named to the 500 Leading Family Lawyers List, LawDragon, 2025 – 2026
• Dan Price Award Recipient, 2023
• Standing Ovation Award for Outstanding Volunteer to Texas Bar CLE, Recipient
• Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
• Texas Young Lawyers Association’s Believe Award
• Presidential Citation from Allan DuBois, President of the State Bar of Texas
• Presidential Citation from Trey Apffel, President of the State Bar of Texas
• Hood County Attorney of the Year Award, 2004 & 2007
• International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow
• President, Texas Chapter of the American Academy of Family Lawyers, 2025
• Board Member, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 2025 – Present
• Member, Council of the Women and the Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, 2025
• President of the State Bar of Texas, 2023-2024
• Pattern Jury Charge, Family Law Committee Vice Chair, 2020-Present
• Pattern Jury Charge, Family Law Committee Member, 2019-Present
• Member, Tarrant County Bar Association, Present
• Member, Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, Present
• Board of Disciplinary Appeals, member, appointed by the Texas Supreme Court 2020-2022
• Executive Committee for the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists 2017-present
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Board of Directors, 2012-present
• Co-Chair State Bar Workgroup on Texas Lawyer Needs Arising From the 2020 Pandemic and 2021 Winter Storm
• Texas Bar Foundation Board of Trustees, 2015-2019
• Chair of the Texas Bar Foundation, 2017-2018
• Chair to the Council for the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas 2017-18
• Council for the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, 2008-2018
• Co-Course Director, Annual Meeting for the State Bar of Texas, June 2016
• Co-Course Director, the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Trial Institute, January 2015
• Co-Course Director, New Frontiers in Marital Property Law, October 2015
• State Bar of Texas Executive Committee, 2012-2015
• Chair of the Board of Directors for the State Bar of Texas, 2013-2014
• State Bar of Texas Board of Directors, District 14 Representative, 2011-2014
• Course Director, Trying Your First (Or Next) Divorce – January 18, 2013
• Legal Services to the Poor in Civil Matters – Committee Member 2012-2013
• Supreme Court Task Force for the Delivery of Legal Services to the Poor – Committee Member 2012-2013
• State Bar of Texas Affordable Legal Services – Committee Chair 2012-2013
• Co-Course Director, Advanced Family Law Course – August 2011
• James C. Watson Inn of Former Officers and Directors, Member
• State Bar of Texas Family Law Section, Member
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Member
• College of the State Bar of Texas, Member
• Sustaining Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation
• American Board of Trial Advocates, Member
• Hood County Bar Association, Member
• Children’s Advocacy Center of Hood and Somervell County – President 2011-2012, Board of Directors

Attorney Hailey Schmitt

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2023

Education:

• Texas Tech University
  • J.D.
• Texas Tech University
  • B.S.
• Public Relations

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Johnson County Bar Association Member
• State Bar of Texas, Texas Young Lawyers Association Member
• Tarrant County Bar Association Member
• Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association Member
• Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association Member

Attorney Andrew Tisdale

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2023

Education:

• Baylor University School of Law, 2023
  • J.D.
  • Dean’s List Recipient, Winter Quarter 2021 – 2022
• Texas Christian University, 2020
  • B.A.
  • History

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, 2025 & 2026
• Inclusion in Super Lawyers “Rising Stars,” Thomson Reuters, 2025
• Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court Associate Member
• LeadershipSBOT 2024-2025 Class
• State Bar of Texas, Standing Committee for Professionalism and Civility Provisional Member
• State Bar of Texas, Texas Young Lawyers Association Board of Directors, District 10, Place 1, Director, 2025 – Present Membership Services Committee National Trial Competition Committee
• Tarrant County Bar Association Member
• Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association Member
• Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association Member
• Texas Bar College Member

Attorney Clayton Bryant

Bar Admissions:

• Texas, 2007

Education:

• St. Mary’s University School of Law, 2007
  • J.D.
• The University of Texas at Austin, 2004
  • B.A.
• Government

Professional Memberships and Achievements:

• Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Family Law, Best Lawyers, 2026
• Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow, 2013- Present
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Member, 2011-Present
• City of Glen Rose, Municipal Prosecutor, 2012 – Present
• State Bar Grievance Committee, District 14 Panel Member, 2013 – 2019
• Hood County Bar Association, President, 2014
• Kids Armor of Hope, President, 2012