Ryan Kirkham

The first time I ever stood up in front of a jury, I knew that it was where I belonged. I’ve been told that, in front of a jury, I seem to have the opposite of stage fright, and I suppose that’s true. It’s where I feel most comfortable: advocating for my clients, arguing their cases. As a trial lawyer, the courtroom is my second home. I try cases because I enjoy helping people, whether they’re ordinary people who’ve been wronged by a product, company, or a busine...

Before attending law school, Scott Rewak studied accounting. Although he learned many valuable lessons during that time, he would eventually veer away from that field, thinking there were other places he could put his skills to better use. Family Law has given him the opportunity to work with and help others in ways he believes few other areas could match. Mr. Rewak understands those who need the services of a Family Law attorney may be going through a particularly low point in their lives. O...

Michael D. Emerson is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Banking and Finance Law. Michael D., who practices law in Dallas, Texas, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Michael D. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Dick Wiles defends physicians and health care providers in medical malpractice claims. He has tried more than 100 medical practice cases in state and federal courts. He also represents physicians in administrative proceedings before the Texas Medical Board. Dick also represents medical device manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies in product liability cases. Dick is widely recognized for his excellence in medical malpractice and product liability defense. He receives many of his clients f...

Peter Kraus is a nationally respected trial lawyer, known for his advocacy on behalf of individuals injured by asbestos exposure, toxic contamination and other negligent and harmful corporate practices. Over the course of his career, he has earned significant verdicts and settlements for workers, their family members and others, holding corporations and powerful business interests accountable when they place profits over people. As co-founder and managing partner of Dallas-based Waters Kraus ...

In complex business, technology, and intellectual property matters involving parties and interests around the country and beyond, John DeGroote has served as a mediator and arbitrator in significant disputes since 2013. His experience as a litigator, corporate counsel and business executive brings rare and valuable perspective to dispute resolution. Mr. DeGroote previously served as chief litigation counsel to KPMG Consulting, LLC/BearingPoint, Inc., a $3 billion global consulting firm with a...

Sean R. McKenna is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Criminal Defense: White-Collar, Health Care Law and Litigation - Health Care. Sean R., who practices law in Dallas, Texas, has been recognized since 2015. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Sean R. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Stuart C. Atwell is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation. Stuart C., who practices law in Dallas, Texas, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Stuart C. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Amy E. Lott is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Corporate Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Amy E., who practices law in Dallas, Texas, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Amy E. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Chalk is a 1973 graduate of University of Texas School of Law (J.D.), with prior M.A. (1967) and B.S. (1962) degrees from Tennessee Tech University, and A.A. degree (1956) from Freed-Hardeman College. Prior to joining in 1986 Whitaker Chalk Swindle & Schwartz PLLC, Fort Worth, Texas, and its predecessors, Chalk was President of Dabney Capital, Dallas, Texas (1984-86) (real estate finance), General Counsel and Vice President of LaJet, Inc., Abilene, Texas (1978-84) (petroleum refining and ...