J.D. Epstein retired from Greer Herz & Adams, LLP on October 31st. Mr. Epstein received both his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Illinois. J.D. was admitted to the practice of law in the states if Illinois, Texas and the District of Columbia. Since the early seventies, Mr. Epstein has
Firm News
John Williamson Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes John as a new associate. John received his B.A. in Political Science from Rice University in 2016, and his J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center in 2021. John is a member of the firm’s litigation group, and concentrates his time on Commercial Litigation disputes. Prior to joining the firm John played
Jordan Raschke Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Jordan as a new associate. Jordan received her B.A. in Sociology from The University of Texas at Austin in 2017, and her J.D. from Baylor University School of Law in 2021. Jordan is a member of the firm’s litigation group, and concentrates her time on corporate transactional law and civil and commercial litigation.
Kathleen McStravick Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Kathleen as a new associate. Kathleen received a B.S. in Forensic and Investigative Sciences from Texas A&M University in 2013, and a J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 2017. Kathleen will focus her practice on corporate, insurance, securities and regulatory services law. Prior to joining the firm, she practiced education
Michel Joo is Sworn in to Texas Bar
The firm congratulates Michel Joo for being sworn in to the Texas Bar by the Honorable Patricia Grady, 212th District Court Judge, Galveston County, Texas. Prior to joining the firm, Michel practiced commercial litigation in New York. She will be working primarily in the firm’s Galveston office focusing her practice on litigation and insurance law.
Freddie Black Passes Away
It is our sad duty to inform you that Freddie Black, a partner with Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP, has passed away. We know you will join us in offering his family and friends our sincerest condolences during this sad time. We will all miss him as a work colleague and friend after his many
Michel Joo Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Michel Joo as a new associate. Michel received a B.A. from University of California, Berkeley in 2011, and a J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 2017, specializing in business law. Michel will focus her practice on litigation and insurance law. Prior to moving to Texas, she practiced commercial litigation in New York.
GH&A’s Real Estate and Lending 2019 Report
In 2019, the firm’s real estate and lending attorneys represented lenders in closing USD 1,360,650,797.52 of mortgage loans and other credit facilities involving a variety of types of properties including office buildings, shopping centers, parking garages, retail stores, hotels, multi-family residential and mixed use projects, development land, and single family residential properties in Texas, Arizona,
Ryan Zapalac Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Ryan Zapalac as a new associate. Ryan received a B.A., magna cum laude, in Philosophy and English, from the University of the Incarnate Word in 2014, and a J.D. from The University of Texas at Austin in 2017.
New Partner Announced
The firm is happy to announce that Scott Andrews was named partner in the firm, effective January 1, 2020. Scott joined the firm as an associate in 2011. His practice is primarily focused on commercial, ad valorem tax, and intellectual property litigation.
GH&A represents client in nursing home sales
Attorneys from GH&A’s Corporate/Regulatory, Health Law, and Real Estate Practice Groups represented National Western Life Group, Inc. (“NWLGI”) in connection with the sale of skilled nursing facilities in Texas and Nevada owned by indirect subsidiaries of NWLGI.
Melissa E. Palmer Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Melissa E. Palmer as a new associate. Melissa received a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Houston in 1994, and a J.D., cum laude, from the University of Houston Law Center in 1997. She will focus her practice on commercial litigation, insurance litigation, premise liability, products liability, consumer litigation, and personal injury litigation.
Communities in Schools – Bay Area
GH&A collaborated with Communities in Schools – Bay Area (CIS) through CIS’s adopt-a-school program for a March donation drive to collect items for at-risk students in Clear Creek ISD and Dickinson ISD. GH&A attorneys and staff pitched in to donate items such as personal hygiene products, blankets, snacks, and other necessary items students need in
Appointments to City of League City
GH&A is pleased to have several firm members appointed to positions with the City of League City: Emily Krone – Ethics Review Board, through 2019. Emily has been with the firm since February 2017. She is an associate working primarily in the Bay Area Houston office. Chelsi Honeycutt – Ethics Review Board, through 2020. Chelsi
Victoria S. Rutherford Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Victoria Rutherford as a new associate. Victoria received a B.A., magna cum laude, from Santa Clara University in 2014, and a J.D., cum laude, from Southern Methodist University in 2018. She will focus her practice on corporate transactional law and civil and commercial litigation. Victoria will be working primarily in the firm’s Galveston office.
Ian Skewes, Firm Administrator
GH&A is happy to welcome its new Firm Administrator, Ian Skewes. Ian brings to the firm ten years of experience working in law firm administration and supervision. Welcome, Ian!
Ali Denson Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Ali Denson as a new associate. Ali received a B.S. in Exercise Science from The University of Texas at Austin in 2012, and a J.D., cum laude, from the University of Houston Law Center, in 2015. She will focus her practice on corporate, insurance, securities, and regulatory services law. Ali’s past practice includes health
Property Owner Not Covered for Guest’s Intentional Shooting
Judith Aronson, Senior Counsel with the firm, is a member of the editorial board of the IRMI Commercial General Liability Law Reporter. The editorial board is staffed through the American Bar Association Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section. In Judy’s article, “Property Owner Not Covered for Guest’s Intentional Shooting”, she discusses the significance of a
Tim Swanson Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Tim Swanson as a new associate. Tim received a B.B.A. from Texas A&M University in 2005, and a J.D. from South Texas College of Law in 2009. Prior to joining GH&A, Tim began his legal career as a judge advocate in the United States Marine Corps. Upon leaving active duty, he then served
Chelsi Honeycutt Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Chelsi Honeycutt as a new associate. Chelsi received a B.S. in Political Communication from The University of Texas at Austin in 2010, and a J.D., cum laude, from Texas Tech University School of Law in 2013. Prior to joining GH&A, Chelsi served the citizens of Harris County as an Assistant District Attorney with
Aronson selected by American Bar Association
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP congratulates Judith Aronson on being selected by the American Bar Association as a member of the Commercial General Liability Reporter Editorial Board for which she will be writing summaries of significant cases. The Commercial General Liability Reporter is a publication of the International Risk Management Institute.
Clay Heald Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Clay Heald as a new associate. Clay received a B.S. with honors from Texas A&M University in 2012, and a J.D. from South Texas College of Law in 2016. Clay will focus his practice on corporate, insurance, securities, and regulatory services law. He will be working primarily in the firm’s Galveston office.
Aronson admitted to Missouri
Judith Aronson successfully completed the requirements to practice in the State of Missouri and is now licensed as a member of the Missouri Bar. Judy has been with the firm since January 2017 as Senior Counsel and works in Albany, New York.
GH&A’s Real Estate and Lending 2017 Report
In 2017, the firm’s real estate and lending attorneys represented lenders in closing USD 1,604,184,269.56 of mortgage loans and other credit facilities involving a variety of types of properties including office buildings, shopping centers, parking garages, retail stores, hotels , multi-family residential and mixed use projects, development land, and single family residential properties in Texas,
GH&A successfully represents clients in mergers
The GH&A Corporate Practice Group recently provided legal support to American National Insurance Company in the mergers of several of its subsidiaries. Effective September 1, 2017, Rural Agency and Brokerage, Inc. merged into American National Insurance Service Company. Effective December 31, 2017, American National Life Holdings, Inc. merged into American National Property & Casualty Holdings,
John A. Buckley, Jr. Announces Retirement
After 34 years with Greer, Herz and Adams, LLP our good friend and valued partner, John A. Buckley, Jr., has retired from the firm effective December 31, 2017. We will all miss John and the many resources he made available to the attorneys and staff working here. While attending The University of Texas Law School,
New Partner Announced
The firm is pleased to announce that David Booth was named partner in the firm, effective January 1, 2018. David joined the firm as an Associate in 2011 and named Senior Counsel in 2015. He concentrates his practice in complex consumer and commercial civil litigation, consumer fraud, insurance subrogation, post-judgment enforcement, and personal injury. David earned
Sarah Mohkamkar Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Sarah Mohkamkar as a new associate. Sarah received a B.A. with honors from The University of Texas at Austin in 2013, and a J.D. from The University of Texas School of Law in 2017. Sarah will be working primarily in the firm’s Galveston office and her practice will be focused on commercial litigation.
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP ranked in 2018 “Best Law Firms”
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the eighth consecutive year, announce the “Best Law Firms” rankings. Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has been ranked in the 2018 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” list regionally in 3 practice areas Firms included in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” list are recognized
3 Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP attorneys named to 2018 Best Lawyers® list
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP is pleased to announce that 3 lawyers have been included in the 2018 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades,
GH&A on Texas Lawyer’s Top 100
In the July 2017 issue of the Texas Lawyer (“Midsize Texas Firms Growing in Texas Alongside National Firms”), Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP was included on The Texas Top 100 chart, which lists firms with the most lawyers in Texas. GH&A tied with two other Texas firms ranking #93 of 100, each employing 34 Texas lawyers. In 2016, the
The Government’s Golden Rule: America’s Attempts to Control Health Care Payment
J.D. Epstein, Of Counsel with the firm, a Professor and practitioner of Health Law for almost fifty years, was asked to author an article in the 50th Anniversary Edition of the American Health Lawyers Association Journal of Health & Life Sciences Law. In J.D.’s article, “The Government’s Golden Rule: America’s Attempts to Control Health Care Payment”,
Texas Shipyard Dismissed from Louisiana Litigation
New GH&A counsel Bob Davee secured the dismissal of a Texas shipyard from litigation filed in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. That multi-party maritime law case involves claimed damages in excess of $2,000,000 stemming from alleged contamination of a cargo of crude oil which was loaded aboard one of two
Bob Davee Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Bob Davee to the firm as Of Counsel. Bob brings to Greer, Herz & Adams over 30 years of experience handling major litigation and significant arbitrations involving millions of dollars in property damage and serious personal injury and wrongful death claims, as well as major insurance claims and business disputes arising from the
Cavanah named Outstanding Young Lawyer
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP would like to congratulate Joe Cavanah for being named Outstanding Young Lawyer of Galveston County at the Galveston County Bar Association’s 2017 Annual Law Day Luncheon. He has been a member of the GCBA since November of 2013. Joe has been with the firm since August of 2013 working in Maritime Law, Securities Litigation,
GH&A’s Real Estate and Lending 2016 Report
In 2016, the firm’s real estate and lending attorneys represented lenders in closing USD 2,302,888,427.52 of mortgage loans and other credit facilities involving a variety of types of properties including office buildings, shopping centers, parking garages, retail stores, hotels , multi-family residential and mixed use projects, development land, and single family residential properties in Texas,
Judy Aronson joins firm as Senior Counsel
GH&A welcomes Judith Aronson as Senior Counsel to the firm. She received an A.B. from Cornell University, cum laude, in 1981, and a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, cum laude, in 1984. She is licensed to practice law in Texas and New York. Judy also received an A.A.S. in nursing, with high honors, from The Belanger
GH&A secures appellate win for Regent Care Center of the Woodlands, LP
GH&A attorney Angie Olalde successfully represented Regent Care Center of the Woodlands, LP in an appeal following a judgment and jury verdict in Regent Care’s favor. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decided the trial court did not improperly exclude evidence at trial, and in its opinion, the appellate court gave a detailed discussion on
Ugly Christmas Sweaters
From Chevy Chase to Jimmy Fallon, Ugly Christmas Sweaters have that vintage Christmas appeal! Ridiculous designs break every known law of fashion – and that’s the point. Firm employees recently held a friendly competition to see who could design the ugliest Christmas sweater. The top three ugliest outfits were chosen by a vote of their
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP ranked in 2017 “Best Law Firms”
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the seventh consecutive year, announce the “Best Law Firms” rankings. Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has been ranked in the 2017 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” list regionally in 3 practice areas. Firms included in the 2017 “Best Law Firms” list are recognized
Kristin Barry Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Kristin Barry as a new associate. Kristin received a B.S. from the University of Central Florida in 2007, and a J.D. from South Texas College of Law, summa cum laude, in 2014. Kristin focuses her practice on corporate, insurance, securities, and regulatory services law. She will be working primarily in the firm’s Galveston office.
AV Preeminent® 25th Anniversary for J.D. Epstein
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP would like to congratulate J.D. Epstein for being rated AV Preeminent® for 25 years with Martindale-Hubbell, the highest possible peer review rating in legal ability and ethical standards. The AV Preeminent® rating is the pinnacle of professional excellence earned through a strenuous Peer Review Rating process that is managed and
Three Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP Attorneys Named to 2017 Best Lawyers® List
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP is pleased to announce that three lawyers have been named to the 2017 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public
GH&A Receives a $3.6 Million FINRA Arbitration Award
Andrew Mytelka won a recent securities litigation lawsuit against Morgan Stanley. Mytelka successfully received a 3.6 Million Dollar FINRA Arbitration Award against Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, LLC and advisor Kim Dee Isaacson on behalf of their client, H. Keith Melton. A panel of three arbitrators found that adviser Kim Dee Isaacson had lied to his
GH&A Secures Victory for Somervell Central Appraisal District by upholding $2.3 Billion Appraisal of Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant
GH&A attorneys, Andrew Mytelka and Scott Andrews recently secured a victory for their client, Somervell Central Appraisal District (“Somervell”), by defending Somervell in an ad valorem tax dispute concerning the 2015 market value of the Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant (“CPNPP”). The trial court found that Somervell’s appraisal of CPNPP was not excessive and affirmed
GH&A’s Real Estate and Lending 2015 Report
In 2015, the firm’s real estate and lending attorneys represented lenders in closing USD 1,443,154,965.93 of mortgage loans and other credit facilities involving a variety of types of properties including office buildings, shopping centers, hotels , multi-family residential and mixed use projects, development land, and single family residential properties in Texas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida,
New Partner Announced
The firm is pleased to announce that Angie Olalde was named partner in the firm, effective January 1, 2016. Angie joined the firm as an Associate in 2006 and concentrates her practice in civil litigation and appellate law. Angie is Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She earned a
Marc Young Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Marc D. Young as an associate attorney working primarily in the Galveston office. Marc’s practice will be chiefly focused on commercial , ad valorem tax, and insurance litigation. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Marc spent many years in public service. He has served as an Assistant Insurance Commissioner for the state of Oklahoma
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP ranked in 2016 “Best Law Firms”
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the sixth consecutive year, announce the “Best Law Firms” rankings. This is the 5th year in a row that Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has received a “Best Law Firms” ranking. Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has been ranked in the 2016 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”
Three Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP Attorneys Named to 2016 Best Lawyers® in America List
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP is pleased to announce that three lawyers have been named to the 2016 Edition of Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most
Olalde becomes Board Certified in Appellate law
The firm congratulates Angie Olalde on becoming Board Certified in Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Angie has been employed by the firm since 2006 and works in the firm’s Bay Area Houston office. Click here to read the press release.
Settlement Reached with Ernst & Young
Firm attorneys, Andrew Mytelka and David Le Blanc, represented American National Insurance Company and affiliates, and The Moody Foundation, in reaching a confidential settlement with Ernst & Young. The Company and Foundation lost over $20 million due to Ernst & Young aiding Lehman Brothers in concealing material amounts of debt through the use of Repo
Appellate Success
Firm attorneys John Buckley, Angie Olalde, and Scott Andrews achieved another appellate success when the Fourth Court of Appeals of Texas summarily denied a petition for writ of mandamus on May 26, 2015. The appellate court’s order was entered in cause number 04-15-00198-CV, In re David B.T. Myrick, Jr. The mandamus petition challenged a trial court order to
GH&A’s Real Estate and Lending 2014 Report
In 2014, the firm’s real estate and lending attorneys represented lenders in closing USD 1,166,347,279 of mortgage loans and other credit facilities involving a variety of types of properties including development land, single family residential properties, office buildings, shopping centers and multi-family residential and mixed use projects in Texas, Arizona, California, Colorado, The District of
Booth named Senior Counsel
The firm would like to congratulate David Booth on being named as Senior Counsel to the firm. David has been with the firm since 2011 and concentrates his practice on complex consumer and commercial litigation, including securities investor fraud, consumer fraud, and commercial loan and contract disputes. He works primarily in the Bay Area Houston
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP ranked in 2015 “Best Law Firms”
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has been ranked in the 2015 “Best Law Firms” list by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® in the following areas: Metropolitan Awards Tier 1, Houston, Health Care Law Tier 2, Houston, Commercial Litigation Firms included in the 2015 “Best Law Firms” list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings
Epstein Receives Distinguished Service Award for Contributions to Health Law
GH&A congratulates J.D. Epstein on being the first recipient of the Distinguished Service Award at the annual Texas Health Law Conference. Co-sponsored by the Health Law Section of the Texas Bar Association and the Texas Hospital Association, the award honors his contributions to the practice of health law. J.D. began his health law practice in
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
GH&A participated in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by having a “Pink Out” Day. Employees were encouraged to wear pink to work to show their support. In addition, employees were allowed to wear blue jeans for making a monetary donation. GH&A is happy to announce that the employee donations totaled $170.00! GH&A is matching that amount
Two Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP Attorneys Named to 2015 Best Lawyers® in America List
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP is pleased to announce that two lawyers have been named to the 2015 Edition of Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the
$28 Million Refinance in Four States
Partners Stephen G. Schulz and Tara B. Annweiler recently represented National Western Life Insurance Company in a $28 million refinance of 32 convenience store properties in four states – Texas, California, Georgia and Tennessee – owned by Ashita, LLC. Sammy Virani, a well-known nationwide owner of convenience store properties is the principal of Ashita, LLC.
Galveston County Food Back Food and Fund Drive Challenge
Galveston County Food Bank held a Food and Fund Drive Challenge during the month of May. Members of the legal industry around Galveston County competed to raise the most money, food, and volunteer the most hours for the Galveston County Food Bank. Greer, Herz and Adams rallied together to receive the highest overall combined total
Jennifer Nobley joins firm
GH&A welcomes Jennifer Nobley as a new associate. Jennifer focuses her practice on commercial litigation. Jennifer received a B.A. in History from the University of Houston, summa cum laude, in 2003, and a J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center in 2006. Jennifer will be working primarily in the firm’s Galveston office.
Le Blanc rides for BP MS 150
Congratulations to David Le Blanc for his participation in the 30th Annual BP MS 150. For 23 consecutive years, David has made the ride from Houston to Austin to help raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis. The MS 150 helps support MS research and provide programs and services that have a direct impact on
Bates – Texas Rising Stars®
Meredith Bates has been selected for inclusion in Texas Rising Stars® 2014 by Thomson Reuters, in the real estate practice area. The list will be published in the April 2014 issue of Texas Monthly. The Texas Rising Stars® represents the top 2.5 percent of Texas attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or those
March Military Madness
During the month of March, employees in the firm’s Galveston office were encouraged to bring in personal and food items to send to military troops. Employees donated enough items to fill two large boxes that will be mailed overseas. The firm is thankful for all of our military troops who have served and are currently
GH&A’s Real Estate and Lending 2013 Report
In 2013, the firm’s real estate and lending attorneys represented lenders in closing $1,291,131,502 of mortgage loans and other credit facilities involving a variety of types of properties including development land, single family residential properties, office buildings, shopping centers and multi-family residential and mixed use projects in Texas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana,
Victory in Breach of Contract and Breach of Warranty Lawsuit
GH&A recently obtained a victory for its client, South Shore Harbour Development, Ltd. (“SSHD”), by securing a final judgment against Atlantic-Meeco, Inc. (“Atlantic-Meeco”) in the amount of $1,448,115 together with attorneys’ fees and expenses totaling an additional $148,700. This lawsuit involved claims by SSHD against Atlantic-Meeco for breach of contract and breach of warranty arising
New Partner Named
The firm is pleased to announce that Christopher M. Lamm was named partner in the firm, effective January 1, 2014. Chris joined the firm as an Associate in 2006 and concentrates his practice in corporate transactions, insurance, securities, and privacy law. Chris also works closely with foundations and non-profit corporations. Chris earned a Bachelor of
Porretto Beach Case Argued before the Texas Supreme Court
Andrew J. Mytelka argued before the Texas Supreme Court in Williams, et al. vs. Texas General Land Office, et al., Case No. 12-0483 on November 5, 2013, asking the Court to reinstate a $5 million jury award issued in 2009, after the trial court found the State had wrongfully taken private beach property owned by Sonya
Joe Cavanah Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Joe Cavanah as a new associate. Joe focuses his practice on Commercial Litigation. Joe graduated from the Naval Leadership School in 2005, received a B.A. in History & Anthropology from the University of Colorado, magna cum laude, in 2010, and a J.D. from Tulane University Law School in 2013 with a certificate in
Greer, Herz & Adams Ranked in 2014 “Best Law Firms”
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has been ranked in the 2014 “Best Law Firms” list by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® in the following areas: Metropolitan Awards Tier 1, Houston, Health Care Law Tier 1, Houston, Health Care Law Tier 2, Houston, Commercial Litigation Tier 2, Houston, Commercial Litigation Firms included in
Steve Windsor Passes Away
It is our sad duty to inform you that Steve Windsor, Sr. Counsel at Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP has passed away. We know you will join us in offering his family and friends our sincerest condolences during this sad time. We will all miss him as a work colleague and friend after his many
Annweiler assists in acquisition of 1892 Bishop’s Palace
Tara Annweiler recently represented the firm’s longtime client, Galveston Historical Foundation, in its successful acquisition of the 1892 Bishop’s Palace from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Greer Herz & Adams, LLP is proud to have been a part of this historic transaction which allows for the preservation of this most significant architectural Island landmark and secures
Freddie Black honored by Meals on Wheels
The Firm congratulates Freddie Black for being honored by Galveston Island Meals on Wheels. At the 2013 Meals on Wheels Wine and Dine fundraiser, Mr. Black was presented with an Award of Excellence for being Past President from 2003-2004 and an Outstanding Volunteer for more than fifteen years. Mr. Black works in the Galveston office
Bates – Texas Rising Stars
Meredith Bates has been selected for inclusion in Texas Rising Stars® 2013 by Thomson Reuters, in the real estate practice area. The list will be published in the April 2013 issue of Texas Monthly. The Texas Rising Stars® represents the top 2.5 percent of Texas attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or those
Third Year to Participate in Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade Parade
The Firm again sponsored a group of employees, family and friends to participate in the 3rd Annual Mardi Gras! Galveston’s Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade Parade. 1,792 participants with decorated umbrellas beat last year’s record of 1,516 and danced the Hokey Pokey as they walked through Galveston’s historic Strand area with the parade.
New Partners Named
The firm is pleased to announce that effective January 1, 2013, Tara Annweiler and Meredith Bates were named partners in the firm. Ms. Annweiler joined the firm as librarian in 1985, worked as a paralegal from 1986 to 1992 when she started as an Associate, and later became Senior Counsel. She has been representing the
GHA Commercial Litigation Group Success
Partners Joseph R. Russo, Jr. and Andrew J. Mytelka achieve $17.75 Million commercial result for Port of Galveston. The lawsuit, which can be read here, joined Lexington Insurance Company, York Risk Services Group, Lancashire Insurance Co. and Allied World Assurance Company on allegations of misrepresenting insurance coverage and terms, failing to properly investigate and adjust claims
Bates – Texas Rising Stars
Meredith Bates has been selected for inclusion in Texas Rising Stars® 2012 by Thomson Reuters, in the real estate practice area. The list will be published in the April 2012 issue of Texas Monthly. The Texas Rising Stars® represents the top 2.5 percent of Texas attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or those attorneys who have
Firm Sues Galveston City Council
The Firm filed a lawsuit against the City of Galveston on behalf of the Indian Beach Property Owners after the City Council overturned a Planning Commission decision that a dog kennel on the West End of Galveston was not compatible with the neighborhood and is not in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan of the City
Firm Participates in Mardi Gras! Galveston’s World Record
The Firm sponsored a group of employees and friends that participated in the 2012 Mardi Gras! Galveston’s Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade Parade. Data collected from the event, by official notaries and record keepers, showed that approximately 1,503 participants broke the world record by dancing the Hokey Pokey with a decorated umbrella for five minutes. The
Schulz represents client in contracts valued at $8 million
Partner Stephen G. Schulz represented Tegrity TH1, LLC in the assignment of 57 Homeowner / Contractor Reconstruction Contracts under the City of Galveston, Texas Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Housing Reconstruction Program from Compass Pointe Homes to Tegrity TH1, LLC. The contracts assigned had a value of $8 million.
Epstein honored by University of Houston Law Center
J. D. Epstein, Of Counsel, was honored by the University of Houston Law Center. As one of the founders of the Health Law & Policy Institute, Mr. Epstein has been involved with the Law Center for more than 30 years as a professor, supporter and adviser. He currently serves as a senior member of the
David Booth Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes David Booth as a new associate. Mr. Booth has nearly ten years of experience in the areas of admiralty and maritime; onshore/offshore oil and gas litigation; commercial litigation; commercial transportation; insurance defense; personal injury; premises liability; FDCPA/FCRA; and post-judgment enforcement. Mr. Booth received a BA from the University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1991
Meredith Bates Joins Firm
GH&A welcomes Meredith Bates as a new associate. Ms. Bates focuses her practice on a variety of different financing and real estate transactions, representing numerous financial institutions and business entities, both private and public. She represents both lenders and borrowers in connection with the acquisition, sale, development, construction, and financing of raw land and improved
Rushing Serves as Deposition Training Instructor
Litigation Partner Janet Rushing has been selected as an Instructor for the much acclaimed Deposition Training course offered by the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) at the University of Houston School of Law. Ms. Rushing has been an instructor in this course several times in the last five years.
Court of Appeals Rules Trustee Has Authority to Enter Into Lease and Encumber Trust Assets
The First Court of Appeals issued an opinion upholding the right of the Trustee of a Trust whose principal asset is a large ranch in West Texas to enter into a Lease that would extend beyond the measuring life of the Trust. The Court of Appeals also agreed the Trustee has the authority to encumber
Buckley and Lamm Assist Client in Obtaining Patent
Utilizing the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s recent Green Technologies Expedited Examination Pilot Program, Stefan Stamoulis, a client of the firm, was issued a patent for a tool and method to perforate existing landfill gas recovery wells. Mr. Stamoulis’ tool and method can be utilized at landfill sites to recapture a greater amount of
GH&A’s Real Estate and Mortgage Lending 2010 Report
In 2010, the Firm’s real estate and mortgage lending attorneys represented lenders in closing $539,566,368.00 of mortgage loans involving office buildings, shopping centers and multi-family residential units in Texas, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Arizona, Utah, Hawaii, New Mexico, Alabama, Tennessee, California, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New York, Louisiana, Nevada, Virginia, and Colorado.
GH&A Closes Sale of Registered Broker-Dealer and Registered Investment Advisor
The GH&A Corporate Practice Group advised American National Insurance Company in the sale of its former subsidiary, Securities Management and Research, Inc., a registered broker-dealer and registered investment advisor. The transaction closed December 31, 2010.
GH&A Advises Client in Formation and Registration of Investment Advisor Subsidiary
The GH&A Corporate Practice Group advised American National Insurance Company in the formation and registration of an investment advisor subsidiary, American National Registered Investment Advisor, Inc.
GH&A Post-Hurricane Ike Updates
GH&A reviewed its disaster recovery plan and took further steps to minimize the business impact of a disaster based on the knowledge gained from surviving Hurricane Ike which struck Galveston Island in September 2008. Network servers were relocated to a remote, secure site which has redundant power and state of the art safety and security
Porretto Beach Case Argued in the First Court of Appeals
Andrew J. Mytelka argued in the First Court of Appeals on behalf of Appellees, Sonya and Rosemarie Porretto. In January 2009, attorneys with the Firm won a judgment in excess of $5 million on behalf of the Porrettos. In that case, the trial court also found that the State of Texas, through its General Land
GH&A Congratulates J. D. Epstein
Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession, has named Jon David Epstein as the “Houston Area Best Lawyers Health Care Lawyer of the Year” for 2011. After more than a quarter of a century in publication, Best Lawyers is designating “Lawyers of the Year” in high-profile legal specialties in large legal
Schulz Obtains Specific-Use Permit
Partner Stephen G. Schulz obtained a specific-use permit for development excavation from the City of Galveston Planning Commission and City Council to dig a canal at Anchor Bay subdivision on the West End of Galveston Island. In 2007, a coalition of West End residents and environmentalists filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of
Adams Obtains Dismissal
On August 12th, 2010, partner Michael Adams obtained a dismissal with prejudice in the 215th Judicial District Court of Harris County on behalf of SRC Construction, Inc., Salvatore Carabetta and Carabetta Enterprises, Inc. based upon a lack of personal jurisdiction. After a lengthy evidentiary hearing, Judge Sylvia Mathews found that the defendants did not have
Summary Judgment Obtained Applying Chapter 245, Texas Local Government Code
Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP obtained summary judgment from Judge Wayne Mallia, 405th District Court of Galveston County, on behalf of the firm’s client, MB Harbour, Ltd. MB Harbour, a local real estate developer, intervened in a lawsuit brought by several League City residents against the City of League City to protect its property interests
GH&A Congratulates Rushing on Award
Janet L. Rushing was presented the President’s Volunteer Service Award by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation in recognition of her work with the Assistance League of the Bay Area, a chapter of the national Assistance League organization. Assistance League of Bay Area is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of
Melton becomes Certified Paralegal
Amy Melton became certified as a Paralegal in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specializations. Qualifying with the required number of years practicing as a paralegal and letters of recommendation, Ms. Melton took a test given by the State and became one of the 79 paralegals certified in Civil Trial in the
GH&A Advises in Formation of New York Insurance Company
GH&A advised American National Insurance Company in the formation and licensing of a new, wholly-owned New York insurance company, American National Life Insurance Company of New York. The GH&A team consisted of corporate partner Greg Garrison and associates Chris Lamm, Louis Ducote, and Janelle Canada. GH&A was assisted in this representation by New York counsel.
GH&A Advises Client in SEC Registration
Corporate partner Sean Monticello advised client American National Insurance Company in its registration under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such registration was effective July 21, 2009. In addition to providing assistance in drafting the registration statement, Mr. Monticello assisted the company in planning for its new SEC reporting obligations, in preparing or revising corporate
