Darlene Payne Smith
About Darlene Payne Smith
Darlene Payne Smith is a lawyer based in Houston, TX and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2024. Darlene Payne Smith is recognized in the following practice areas:
- Houston, Texas
- Litigation - Trusts and Estates
- Trusts and Estates
Current Firm: Crain Caton & James A Professional Corporation
Education: University of Houston Law Center, J.D., graduated 1987
Location: Houston, TX
Nearby Lawyers
Brian Glenn Patterson is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Labor and Employment. Brian Glenn, who practices law in Houston, Texas, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Brian Glenn is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
John C. Cain is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Trade Secrets Law and Trademark Law. John C., who practices law in Houston, Texas, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which John C. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Katherine Strahan is a trial lawyer with twenty-five years of experience in complex commercial and managed care litigation. She has spent her entire career representing managed care organizations (MCOs) in business and healthcare disputes and has extensive experience representing employers, group insurers and claims administrators in disputes involving health, disability, life and accidental death and dismemberment benefits, including claims under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (...
Wilburn Orea McDonald is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Corporate Law. Wilburn Orea, who practices law in Houston, Texas, has been recognized since 2015. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Wilburn Orea is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Benjamin P. Miller is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Real Estate Law. Benjamin P., who practices law in Houston, Texas, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Benjamin P. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
C. Brannon Robertson is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation. C. Brannon, who practices law in Houston, Texas, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which C. Brannon is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
“Board Certified, 30 Years Experience, AV Rated Preeminent, Super Lawyer, Best Lawyers-Criminal Defense” Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer John T. Floyd, a board-certified criminal law expert as recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, offers premier legal defense for individuals and businesses facing serious criminal charges. Acknowledged by Best Lawyers: Criminal Defense and Super Lawyers by Thomson Reuters, and holding an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale Hubbell...
Les Pickett brings more than 35 years of experience representing clients in complex commercial litigation, business disputes, and professional liability matters. His practice includes trial and appellate work in state and federal courts. Les is known for his strategic approach and dedication to achieving practical, cost-effective solutions for clients. Discover more about Les’s extensive litigation experience at: gallowaylawfirm.com
Kristen McDanald is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Insurance Law. Kristen, who practices law in Houston, Texas, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Kristen is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
David Ledyard joined Strong Pipkin in 1975. In 45 years of practice, he has handled a wide range of litigation across Texas and in states including Louisiana, Arkansas, California, Mississippi, Illinois and Maryland. He has tried as lead counsel business, commercial, construction, toxic tort, premises liability, products liability, maritime, Jones Act and property damage cases. He has defended companies in plant and pipeline explosions and fires, CERCLA actions, medical device cases, trucking...
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
Build Your Legal Practice with Effective Online Networking
by Jamilla Tabbara
How thoughtful online networking supports sustained legal practice growth.
Blogging for Law Firms: Turning Content into Client Connections
by Jamilla Tabbara
How law firms use blogs to earn trust and win clients.
Reddit’s Lawsuit Could Change How Much AI Knows About You
by Justin Smulison
Big AI is battling for its future—your data’s at stake.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer