Fort Worth

J. David Tracy

David Tracy represents high net worth individuals, as well as family owned entities, in the planning, structure, and implementation, of various strategies involving tax, asset, and succession planning. David also serves as a consultant to a client’s other professionals on complex federal tax matters.
Tax
Trusts & Estates
Estate Planning

Southern Methodist University (LL.M., 1971) – Taxation
The University of Texas School of Law (J.D., 1970)
The University of Texas (B.A. with Honors, 1968)
dtracy@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2822
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Wealth transfer planning for individuals and families, including business succession planning
Estate planning
Probate and trust law
ERISA, employee benefits, and individual retirement accounts planning
Partnerships (including specifically limited partnerships), limited liability companies, and corporations — with emphasis on tax planning issues
Licensed to practice in Texas, 1970
Admitted to U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas
Admitted to U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit
Admitted to U.S. Tax Court
Admitted to U.S. Supreme Court
Board Certified — Tax Law — Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Board Certified — Estate Planning & Probate Law — Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell Peer Reviews, 2024-2025
Recognized in Fort Worth Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” for 2019
Recognized in Fort Worth Inc. Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” for 2018
Recognized as a “Texas Super Lawyer for 2018” in Estate Planning and Probate by Texas Monthly Magazine in the special September/October issue,
Listed in The Best Lawyers in America in the fields of
Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, 2007-2023
Tax Law, 1995-2023
Trusts and Estates, 1995-2023
by Woodward/White, Inc.
Recognized as a “Super Lawyer”, by Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters rating service,
2003 – 2018
Named 1982 Outstanding Young Lawyer — Tarrant County Young Lawyer’s Association
Lecturer in Law, Southern Methodist University School of Law (1975-77). Added the Advanced Corporate Taxation course to the curriculum in the Master of Laws Graduate Tax Program.
Fellow, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC)
Board of Directors, Texas Academy of Probate & Trust Lawyers — Chair (2003-2005)
Real Estate, Probate & Trust Law Section, State Bar of Texas — Section Chair (1991-1992)
Tax Advisory Commission, Texas Board of Legal Specialization (1987-2000) and (Chair 1999-2000)
Fort Worth Business & Estate Council — Chair (1984-1985).
Sustaining Life Fellow, American Bar Foundation
Sustaining Life Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation
Sustaining Charter Fellow, Tarrant County Bar Foundation
Charter Member, College of the State Bar of Texas
Board of Directors, The Fort Worth Public Library Foundation (1993-1999)
Tax Counsel (Pro Bono), Historic Fort Worth, Inc.
Board of Directors, Tarrant County Convention Center (1983-1989); Chairman (1986-87).
Board of Directors, Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau (1986-1989); Member, Executive Committee (1986-1989).
Board of Directors, Mental Health Association of Tarrant County (1975-78).
Board of Directors, Shakespeare in the Park, Inc. (1979-81).
Texas Tax Service – Chapter 16 (Rental and Lease Transactions), Matthew Bender & Co. (1984)
Southwestern Law Journal (1971, 1974, 1975, and 1976)
The Business Lawyer (1976)
Texas Bar Journal (1976)
Community Property Law Journal (1976)
Taxes Magazine (1976)

Speaking Engagements (listed by Course Sponsor)

State Bar of Texas (1975, 1978, 1980, 1982, 1992, 1999, 2000, 2003 and 2006)
University of Texas School of Law — Current Issues Affecting Partnerships, Limited Partnerships and LLCs (2005)
Southern Methodist University School of Law (1976 and 1979)
Trust Division of the Texas Bankers Association (1978 and 1989)
Southwestern Legal Foundation — now the Center for American and International Law (1984)
CLE International (2001)
National Association of Personal Financial Advisors Conference (1996)

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Carol Traylor

Prior to becoming an attorney, Carol was a Registered Nurse, a background that provided unique experience in the area of medical malpractice and health law, and gives her unique understanding of the complex cases she handles for her clients. She represents doctors, hospitals, nursing homes and health care professionals involved in catastrophic injury, construction, premises liability, and other personal injury cases, as well as handling claims of negligence, negligent credentialing and license challenges. She also assists corporate clients in general litigation matters. Carol is licensed in Texas.

Health Law
Medical Device/Pharma
Baylor University School of Law (J.D., 1984)
Mary Hardin-Baylor (B.S. – Nursing, 1976)
ctraylor@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2895
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Has tried approximately 30 cases to verdict, including medical cases, premises liability cases, product liability cases, and personal injury cases
Works on the defense of construction cases filed in Texas
Defends Texas business owners in litigation, including oil and gas and business owners
Successfully defended physicians in suits involving medication allegations, emergency surgery allegations, urological surgery allegations, cardiac surgery and cardiology allegations, cancer allegations, orthopedic allegations, and birth injury allegations
Successfully defended hospitals in suits involving cardiology allegations, brain injury allegations, and birth injury cases
Defends Texas nursing homes, hospitals, health care providers in medical claims, lawsuits, credentials issues, professional license challenges, and professional business negotiations
Licensed to practice in Texas, 1985
Admitted to U.S. Court Northern District of Texas
Admitted to U.S. Court Eastern District of Texas
Admitted to U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit
American College of Trial Lawyers
American Board of Trial Advocates – Fort Worth
American College of Trial Advocates, Texas State Committee 2007-2012
Texas Association of Defense Counsel, Board of Directors, 2005-2011
Texas Bar Foundation
Texas Health Research & Education Institute 2012/2013 Leadership Council
Tarrant County Medical Legal Liaison Committee
Fort Worth Business Press Attorneys of Excellence 2003, 2004 & 2005
Named “Super Lawyer” by Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters rating service, 2004 – 2015
Texas Monthly and SuperLawyers “Top 50 Women Attorneys in Texas”
Colleyville Chamber of Commerce Thursday business group
Colleyville Chamber of Commerce 2013 Golf Tournament Volunteer
Grapevine Chamber of Commerce Tuesday and Thursday business groups
Grapevine Chamber of Commerce 2013 Grapefest booth Volunteer
Recognized as a “Texas Super Lawyer” Medical Malpractice-Defense by Texas Monthly Magazine in the special September/October issue, 2018 & 2019.

Health Care Law Settlement and Negotiations, 2006, Chapter The Client

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Ryan Valdez

Ryan Logan Valdez is an experienced trial and appellate lawyer representing Fortune 500 companies, locally-owned and regional businesses, and individuals in complex commercial disputes. Ryan’s practice focuses on matters involving insurance coverage and bad faith, fraud, breach of contract, restrictive covenant enforcement, homeowners associations, employment practices and discrimination, products liability, and negligence.

Appellate
Commercial Litigation
Insurance Defense
Labor & Employment
Tulane University School of Law (J.D., 2002)
The University of Texas at Austin (B.S. Advertising, 1999)
rvaldez@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2847
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Represented major electric delivery company in easement dispute involving the placement of a private airstrip beneath a transmission line. Obtained permanent injunction following week-long jury trial and successfully upheld judgment on appeal. Fuqua v. Oncor Elec. Delivery Co., 315 S.W.3d 552 (Tex. App.—Eastland 2010, pet. denied).
Defended Fortune 500 energy company in pipeline easement dispute. After hung jury was announced, obtained a take nothing directed verdict. Plaintiff chose not to appeal.
Defended one of the three largest metal building insulation fabricators and distributors in the United States in breach of warranty and products liability lawsuit filed in the Northern District of Texas. Obtained partial summary judgment one month before trial leading to settlement.
Represented Fortune 500 insurance company in coverage dispute involving claims of bad faith and violations of the Texas Insurance Code. Obtained take nothing summary judgment in favor of client which led to settlement.
Defended corporation providing cold pasteurization services to the food and agricultural industries in fraud and breach of contract lawsuit brought by former officers and directors of corporation. Obtained a take nothing jury verdict.
Defended former president of hospitalist company in violation of covenant not to compete, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, and misappropriation of trade secret lawsuit. Settled lawsuit with favorable payment to client following temporary injunction hearing.
Defended leading global pipeline equipment dealer in lawsuit seeking to overturn the purchase and subsequent sell of multimillion dollar pipeline equipment. Obtained take nothing summary judgment and successfully upheld judgment on appeal. Empire Equip. Intern v. Pipeline Machinery Intern., L.P., 2011 WL 754340 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2011, pet. denied).
Represented former owner of wholesale and retail tire business when purchaser of business breached purchase agreement. Obtained summary judgment for $1.9 million on the eve of trial and successfully upheld judgment on appeal. Shin v. Sharif, 2009 WL 1565028 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2009).
Represented certified public accountant in violation of covenant not to compete or solicit lawsuit brought by former business partner. Upheld summary judgment on appeal in favor of client. Pickle v. Johnson, 2011 WL 4345233 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2011).
Serves as outside general counsel to mud company servicing over 14,000 wells throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, and New Mexico.
Licensed to practice law in Texas in 2002.
Admitted to practice before the United States District Court, Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern Districts of Texas.
American Bar Association
Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court – Associate, Barrister, and Master
State Bar of Texas
Tarrant County Bar Association
2014 Fort Worth Business Press “40 Under 40” Honoree
Leadership Fort Worth Class of 2013-14
Recognized as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers Magazine, a Thomson Reuters service, 2007-2016
2013 Dallas Business Journal “40 Under 40” Honoree
2013 Inaugural Lawyers of Color “Hot List” Honoree
Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association, Officer/Director
El Scorcho 25km/50km Endurance Run, Founder and Co-Race Director
Camp Fire USA – First Texas Council, Former Director and Chair of Outdoor Task Force
Fellow, Tarrant County Bar Foundation, 2018
Junior Achievement, Volunteer Teacher
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Volunteer Fund Raiser
Accepted as a member of the international Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel, May, 2020
“Eight-Corners and Extrinsic Evidence: Never… Sometimes… Maybe?”, published on law.com, an ALM publication, April 21, 2020.
“Fun with Insurance Coverage Disputes. Really.” 21st Annual Texas Minority Counsel Program, Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, November 6-8, 2013.
“Intellectual Property, Copyright and Trademark Law – the Black, White, and Gray Areas of Intellectual Property Law and How it Protects and Impacts Your Business.” The American Institute of Graphic Arts – DFW Business Talk Series: Getting Down to Business, October 20 and 27, 2005.

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Douglas Clayton

Douglas Clayton is Chairman of the firm’s Business Transactions Practice Group. His practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, securities offerings, SEC compliance, and other business transactions.

Corporate/Securities
Energy
Business Law
Banking
Harvard Law School (J.D., 1998)
Harvard Journal of Law and Public Policy (Senior Editor)
Texas Tech University (B.B.A., 1995)
dclayton@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2890
(817) 333-2990
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Represented acquirer of commercial business park in North Texas in connection with a $340,000,000 purchase/leaseback transaction.
Represented a national banking institution in its capacity as representative agent and lead arranger in connection with a $60,000,000 secured loan facility to be used by the borrower to support an acquisition strategy.
Represented a real estate developer in connection with a $110,000,000 secured financing facility for the construction of a 100,000 square foot amphitheater and performance hall and related structures.
Represented a foreign bank in its capacity as agent and lender in connection with multiple credit facilities in the aggregate amount of over $400,000,000 to a multi-national institution borrower and its foreign subsidiary to complete acquisitions of stock in multi-national entities.
Represented a private oil and gas company in the negotiation of a $25 million line-of-credit facility.
Represented a private financial services firm in the negotiation of a $75 million senior secured credit facility and a $51 million subordinated debt facility.
Represented a private media company in the negotiation of a $140 million senior secured credit facility and a $17 million subordinated debt facility.
Represented a publicly traded oil and gas company in the acquisition of oil and gas interests held by a private oil and gas company.
Represented a private flight simulation company in a merger with another private flight simulation company.
Represented a publicly traded oil and gas company in the issuance of convertible debt by means of a private investment in public equity (PIPE) transaction.
Represented a private equity fund in an investment in a retail food company.
Represented a private equity fund in the acquisition of the assets of a private pawnshop.
Represented a publicly traded retail company in the sale of common stock by its affiliates by means of a private investment in public equity (PIPE) transaction.
Represented a private media company in the issuance of preferred and common equity and the issuance or senior and subordinated debt.
Represented a private right-of-way acquisition company in the sale of its assets to a private engineering firm.
Represented a publicly traded oil and gas company in a public offering of common stock.
Represented a non-profit corporation in a loan transaction to finance the construction of a charter school funded by a tax free municipal loan through a conduit cultural educational facilities finance corporation.
Represented a non-profit corporation in the acquisition of the assets of a private manufacturing company.
Represented a publicly traded oil and gas company in the implementation of a shareholder rights plan (poison pill).
Assisted in the capitalization and formation of a state chartered bank, including a private offering of common stock, chartering with state and federal regulatory authorities, and the formation of a bank holding company.
Licensed to practice law in Texas, 1998.
Certified Public Accountant, State of Maryland, 1998-2000
State Bar of Texas
Texas Bar Association
Tarrant County Bar Association, Corporate Counsel Section
Dallas Bar Association, Securities and Merger & Acquisition Sections
Adjunct Professor, Texas A&M University School of Law, Entrepreneurship Law Clinic, 2014, 2019 – 2022
Planning Committee for the Annual Conference on Securities Regulation and Business Law sponsored by the University of Texas School of Law, 2004-2016
Director, Junior Achievement of the Chisholm Trail, Inc.
Volunteer (and former Director and Board Chairman), TECH Fort Worth non-profit business incubator
Fellow, Tarrant County Bar Foundation
Named Top Attorney by Fort Worth Magazine, 2014-2019, 2022-2024
Named Top Attorney by 360 West magazine, 2017-2020, 2024
“The Fort Worth Outlook: M&A Expectations for 2021”, Association for Corporate Growth, January 26, 2021.
“When is an Oil & Gas Joint Venture Interest a Security?”, published in the Dallas Bar Assoication’s Headnotes, November, 2019.
“Frequently negotiated deal terms in M&A transactions”, published in The Fort Worth Business Press, March 2019.
“For-Profit Corporation vs. Nonprofit Corporation vs. Social Purpose Corporation vs. Public Benefit Corporation” published in both the Dallas and Houston citybizlists, September 2018.
“Who the Heck Signs Our Stock Certificates?” published in the Dallas and Houston citybizlists, September, 2018
“Blowing the Whistle on Confidential Agreements that Restrict Whistleblowers”, published in The Fort Worth Business Press, November, 2017
“What’s in a Name (of a Texas Company)?”.  published in the Dallas and Houston citybizlists, September, 2017
“Takeaways from SEC’s Access to Capital and Market Liquidity Report to Congress” published in eight citybizlist markets, August, 2017
“Surprising Quirks of Texas Nonprofit Corporation Governing Documents”, published in the Dallas citybizlist, August, 2017
“Texas Could Show Better Form for Formation”, published in the Dallas and Houston citybizlists, July, 2017
“Hail to the Tweet: 5 Tweets I’d like Trump to send out to make America Great Again,” published in Fort Worth Business Press, January 2017
“Time to Sell: Five Tips,“ published in Fort Worth, Inc., December 2016
“Join the crowd? Early Equity Crowdfunding Success in Texas,” published in Fort Worth Business Press, October 2016
“What Every In-House Attorney Should Know about Purchase and Sale Agreements in the United States,” presented to Association of Corporate Counsel, May 2016
“Take It to the Limit in your next M&A Deal,” published in Fort Worth Business Press, April 2016
“What to Know When Selling Your Business” podcast with TECH Fort Worth on Texas TECH Talk Radio, November 2015
Co-Authored “SEC No-Action Letter Highlights Hidden Risk in Lender’s Ability to Sell Securities Pledged by Affiliates.” Independent Bankers, November/December 2001
“10 Things Every Business Owner Should Know Before Selling Their Business.” Fort Worth Business Press, January 28, 2008.
Co-Authored “New Rule 144 Amendments Improve Businesses’ Access to Capital” Texas Lawyer, March 10, 2008.
“The ABCs of Taking on a Business Partner” in the N.E.T. Business Resource, September/October, 2010 publication.
“Raising Capital for the Future of Your Business” in the N.E.T Business Resource, January/February 2011 publication.
“E-Corporate Law” (Electronic Contracting and Electronic Corporate Formalities), presented to The University of Texas School of Law 33rd Annual Conference on Securities Regulation and Business Law, February 10-11, 2011, Dallas, Texas
“Structuring the Deal” presented to Seed Investing as a Team Sport conference at World’s Best Technology Innovation Showcase, March 21-23, 2011.
“Texas Supreme Court ruling may surprise landlords” Fort Worth Business Press, July 29, 2011.
“Acquiring Knowledge: Don’t let your M&A deal end up in the rough,” Dallas Business Journal, July 22-28, 2011.
“JOBS Act Good News for Growing Businesses,” CityBizList, Dallas, April 26, 2012.
“Two Key Developments in the JOBS Act,” Texas Lawyer, August 6, 2012
“The SEC and Social Media”, Dallas Bar Association Headnotes, July, 2013
“Why SEC’s M&A Broker Exemption is a Good Thing,” CityBizList, Dallas, March 31, 2014
“The Multi-Million Dollar E-mail: Electronic Contracts in the Digital Age”, Fort Worth Business Press, June 9-14, 2014

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Tawanna Lynn Cesare

Tawanna Lynn Cesare began her legal career as an associate with Cantey Hanger from 2003-2007, following a summer clerkship. During that time, she focused on business and commercial litigation matters, including banking, construction, trademark infringement, insurance and personal injury defense. Drawing on her litigation skills, Ms. Cesare developed a successful family practice in the years prior to returning to Cantey Hanger.

Family Law
Texas Wesleyan School of Law, J.D. 2003 “Outstanding Student of the Year” Maclean & Boulware scholarship, 2003
Northwood University, B.B.A. 2000, summa cum laude
tcesare@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2823
(817) 877-2807
Cantey Hanger LLP
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Ms. Cesare has extensive experience in Family Law and commercial litigation. The past eight years she has focused primarily on family law matters, including complex divorce and property settlement, representation of high net worth individuals, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, domestic and international child custody matters, terminations and adoptions, paternity establishment, child support, grandparents’ rights, modifications and collaborative law. Ms. Cesare also has a significant business litigation practice.
Licensed to practice law in Texas in 2003
Admitted to practice before the U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit
Admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Northern and Southern Districts of Texas
Recognized as a Top Attorney in Family Law by Fort Worth, Texas Magazine
Named Top Attorney by 360 West Magazine
Designated as a Texas Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyer Magazine
Board Member and member of the Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association
Member of the Tarrant County Bar Association
Member of the L. Clifford Davis Legal Association and former past president
Member of the Tarrant County Bar Board of Directors 2012-2013
Former member of the Greater Fort Worth Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW)
Honorary Member and Past Chair of the Board for Family Pathfinders, Inc. of Tarrant County

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Philip Vickers

Philip Vickers represents clients in complex commercial litigation and arbitration. His litigation experience includes energy, trademarks, fiduciary duties, insurance coverage, real estate, probate, and civil rights/First Amendment issues. He also assists clients with reviewing and negotiating proposed commercial contracts and often provides guidance in pre-litigation dispute resolution. Appointed by the Texas Supreme Court, Philip serves on the Professional Ethics Committee. Philip is also dedicated to pro bono work, actively participating in and promoting these programs both within the firm and throughout the Fort Worth legal community. Before joining Cantey Hanger, Philip was privileged to serve as a Judicial Clerk for the Honorable Michael H. Schneider, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Texas.

Commercial Litigation
Appellate
Intellectual Property
Energy Litigation
The University of Texas School of Law (J.D., 2005)
Texas Review of Law & Politics (Editor-in-Chief)
Hillsdale College (B.S., 2002)
pvickers@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2849
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Select Commercial Engagements:

Represented trustee of investment trusts in litigation seeking declarations that certain investor-owned life insurance policies having death benefits over $40 million were valid and enforceable. Obtained favorable summary judgments and recovered millions in attorneys’ fees in a jury trial.
Represented national chain of healthcare clinics in suit over health insurer’s attempt to claw-back millions authorized and paid for healthcare services. Obtained verdict for client after a bench trial.
Defended global distribution system in billion-dollar breach of contract and anti-trust actions brought against it by American Airlines. Case settled favorably during jury trial.
Defended video game manufacturer in breach of contract and fraud claims where plaintiff sought millions in damages. Obtained summary judgment dismissing all claims before trial.
Representation of commercial real estate developer in dispute with former partner in connection with $60+ million development. Matter resolved favorably after defeating opponent’s Anti-SLAPP motion to dismiss.
Representation of urban multi-modal mass transit operator in various contract negotiations and related disputes.
Representation of trustees, beneficiaries, and executors in prosecution and defense of fiduciary claims.
Representation of business owners in disputes with partners, shareholders, and managers over breaches of fiduciary and contractual duties.
Representation of borrowers in disputes with lenders.
Representation of franchisors in disputes with franchisees.
Representation of employers or other business owners in disputes over enforcement of non-competition and other restrictive covenants.

Select Intellectual Property Engagements:

Representation of trademark owners in registration and prosecution of trademarks.
Representation of trademark owners in actions to enforce trademark rights in state and federal courts and before the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Representation of auto parts manufacturer in claims for trademark infringement and unfair competition. Obtained verdict after trial affirming validity of registered trademarks and finding willful unfair competition.
Representation of packaged food manufacturer in dispute over alleged violations of Uniform Trade Secret Act and employee non-competition agreement. Case settled after defeating opponent’s motion for temporary injunction.
Representation of software company in breach of contract suit against Dell Computer and in defense of claims for indemnity related to patent infringement. Case settled favorably after obtaining a ruling in client’s favor on Dell’s motion to dismiss.

Select Oil and Gas Engagements:

Representation of payees in royalty disputes, including underpayment, nonparticipating royalty rights, post-production deductions, and suspension issues against lessees/operators.
Representation of owners of mineral and water rights in title disputes and water and surface use agreements.
Represented the City of Fort Worth and the Fort Worth Independent School District in suits filed in state court against Chesapeake Exploration and Total E&P for underpayment of royalties in connection with hundreds of oil and gas leases. Both cases settled favorably returning millions of dollars to taxpayers in past and future underpayments.
Represented working interest owners in claims against Chesapeake and Total E&P to recover for breaches of rights under joint operating and exploration and development agreements. Case resolved after obtaining summary judgments for clients confirming questions of liability.

Other Representative Engagements:

Advise and represent lawyers and law firms on matters concerning professional ethics and responsibility.
Representation of ExxonMobil in actions against attorneys general of New York, Massachusetts, and the US Virgin Islands challenging alleged violations of First Amendment rights about speech over climate change.
Represented church in First Amendment/Religious Freedom Restoration Act case seeking to require public school to let church hold on-campus after school Bible club. Case resolved favorably after hearing on request for temporary injunction.
Participate in independent investigations and analyses of abuse prevention policies and procedures on behalf of civic and religious institutions.
Texas, 2005
U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit
U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Eastern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas

Professional

Appointed by the Texas Supreme Court to the State Bar’s Professional Ethics Committee, 2024
Tarrant County Bar Foundation, Director and Sustaining Life Fellow
Tarrant County Bar Foundation, Volunteer Attorney Services (Pro Bono) Committee, Member and past Co-Chair
Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow
Tarrant County Bar Association, Energy Law Section
Tarrant County Bar Association, Intellectual Property Law Section, past Chair
Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court, former Barrister
Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association, past Director

Civic

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas, Volunteer Attorney
Appointed by Governor Perry to the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 2013-2020
Austin Graduate School of Theology, Trustee, 2017-2020
Texas Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, Member, 2015-2020
Arts Council of Fort Worth & Tarrant County Grants Review Panel, 2013-2015

Honors

Martindale Hubbell “AV” Preeminent Rating
“Super Lawyer” in Business Litigation, 2020-2024; “Rising Star” from 2013-2019, Texas Super Lawyers by Thomson Reuters
“Top Attorney”, Fort Worth, Texas magazine, 2011-2021, 2024
Tarrant County Bar Foundation-TVAS Attorney Volunteer Award, 2023
Leadership Fort Worth, Leadership Class 2022, Leading Edge 2013
Fort Worth Business Press, “40 Under 40”, 2016
Speaker, “Removal and Remand”, Tarrant County Bar Assoc. CLE on Federal Procedure, Feb. 26, 2021
Speaker, “Recent Significant U.S. Supreme Court Opinions for Litigators”, Meritas Litigation Section Annual Meeting, Oct. 2018.
Panelist, Fort Worth Business Press “Business for Breakfast: Law Panel”, July 18, 2018.
Panelist, “Words, Phrases & Rhetorical Ploys That Will Make Some Judge’s Skin Crawl. Are You Playing Russian Roulette With Your Briefing?”, Eastern District of Texas Bench Bar Conference, Oct. 4, 2017.
Co-Author, For the Good of Your City: How Law Firm Pro Bono Can Impact Clients and the Community, 79 Tex. B.J. 364, May 2016.
Speaker, “Texas E-Filing Basics”, Texas Forum, State Bar of Texas—Standing Committee on Paralegals, Feb. 28, 2014.
Speaker, “Pro Bono Family Law Basics”, Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services volunteer CLE presentations, 2013-2018.

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Julie Bergkamp

Julie C. Bergkamp is the Vice-Chairman of the firm’s Business and Tax Section. Ms. Bergkamp’s practice focuses on business and tax planning for clients in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and energy sectors. Clients have included everything from Fortune 100 companies to closely held family organizations. Ms. Bergkamp also represents a variety of health care organizations, with contractual and state and federal regulatory issues.  She advises physicians and health care service providers on issues involving M&A, business structuring, and Fraud & Abuse rules.  She also advises her clients on various aspects of intellectual property laws, including trademark, copyright, and licensing matters.  She previously practiced law in New York and Chicago, where she primarily focused on international tax law, and on mergers and acquisitions before returning to her hometown of Fort Worth and joining Cantey Hanger LLP.

Health Law
Intellectual Property
Business Law
Mergers and Acquisitions
Tax
Syracuse University College of Law, Syracuse, New York, 1995 J.D.
Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, 1992 B.A.
Honors: magna cum laude
jbergkamp@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2812
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Tax and Business

Julie C. Bergkamp’s practice focuses in tax and business planning for multinational and local clients. Clients have included everything from Fortune 100 companies to closely held family organizations.  Because of her diverse experience, she is able to assist her clients in a wide range of legal matters.

Healthcare Regulatory

Julie also represents a variety of health professionals with healthcare regulatory issues. She advises physicians and health care service providers on issues involving Stark Law, Anti-Kickback rules, and the Affordable Care Act.
Ms. Bergkamp was born in Mississippi but moved to Fort Worth with her family at the age of nine. As a young adult, she lived in Paris, France, as well as in New York and Chicago, before returning to Fort Worth and joining Cantey Hanger in 2003.

She previously practiced law in New York, New York and Chicago, Illinois, where she primarily focused on international tax law, and on mergers and acquisitions.
Licensed to practice law in Texas in 2004
State Bar of Illinois
State Bar of New York
State Bar of Texas
Vice Chair, General Tax Issues Committee, Section of Taxation – State Bar of Texas
Fort Worth Metropolitan YMCA Board of Directors
UNT Health Science Center Foundation – Applied Genetics Committee Member
Named Top Attorney by 360 West magazine, 2020
“Intellectual Property, The Basics of IP and IP Related Agreements” the TCBA Corporate Counsel Section Luncheon, January 30, 2019

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Harry Bartel

Mr. Bartel’s practice includes federal and state taxation, estate planning, employee benefit and executive compensation planning, (including ERISA and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation matters) for businesses, non-profits and governmental entities, business planning for professionals, charitable organization formation and tax exempt status issues, business entity formation, organization and reorganization.

Estate Planning
Trusts & Estates
Tax
Labor & Employment
Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, 1964 B.A.
Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, 1967 LL.B.
Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, 1968 LL.M.
hbartel@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2813
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Mr. Bartel’s practice includes federal and state taxation, estate planning, employee benefit and executive compensation planning, (including ERISA and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation matters) for businesses, non-profits and governmental entities, business planning for professionals, charitable organization formation and tax exempt status issues, business entity formation, organization and reorganization.
Licensed to practice law in Texas in 1967
American Bar Association
American College of Trust and Estate Counsel
State Bar of Texas
Texas Bar Foundation, Fellow
Estate Planning and Probate Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Recognized in Fort Worth Inc. Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” for 2018
Listed in Best Lawyers in America 2019 Edition by Woodward/White, Inc. in Trusts and Estates and Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Selected as a “Super Lawyer” in Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters rating service, 2008
Listed in Best Lawyers in America 2009 – 2014 Editions by Woodward/White, Inc. in Trusts and Estates and Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law

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Derek Carson

Derek represents clients in a wide range of civil lawsuits and helps his clients solve problems.
A particular area of focus for Derek is federal-court litigation.  Prior to joining Cantey Hanger, Derek served for three years as law clerk to the Honorable Terry R. Means, U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division.  Derek currently serves on the Court Advisory Committee for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas.

Derek is also an appellate practitioner, having argued numerous cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
Other areas of emphasis within Derek’s practice include qui tam litigation under the False Claims Act, insurance-coverage litigation, contract disputes, construction-related litigation, and serving as de facto general counsel for small businesses and organizations.

Commercial Litigation
Appellate
Construction
Litigation
Insurance Defense
The University of Memphis, J.D., 2010
Managing Editor, The University of Memphis Law Review
Union University, B.S.B.A., 2007
dcarson@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2850
(817) 333-2950
600 W. 6th St. #300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
500 North Akard Street, Suite 2940
Dallas, Texas 75201
Matthews v. Green, No. 4:22-CV-0471-P, 2023 WL 319949 (N.D. Tex. Jan. 19, 2023)
Sealed Appellant v. Sealed Appellee, No. 22-10116, 2022 WL 3359272 (5th Cir. Aug. 15, 2022)
United States ex rel. Roshan v. E. Texas Med. Ctr., No. 6:16-CV-01128-JDK, 2020 WL 8918651 (E.D. Tex. Nov. 24, 2020)
Surratt v. McClarin, 851 F.3d 389 (5th Cir. 2017), denied sub nom. Surratt v. McClaran, No. 16-1492, 2017 WL 2573655 (U.S. Oct. 2, 2017);
Jones v. Shivers, No. 16-41347, 2017 WL 3911775 (5th Cir. Sept. 6, 2017)
Hurlston v. City of Princeton, 672 F. App’x 335 (5th Cir. 2016)
Hackbelt 27 Partners, L.P. v. City of Coppell, 661 F. App’x 843 (5th Cir. 2016)
Hefner v. Texas Health Mem’l Hosp. Fort Worth, 720 F. App’x 732 (5th Cir. 2018)
House of Praise Ministries, Inc. v. City of Red Oak, No. 10-15-00148-CV, 2017 WL 1750066 (Tex. App.—Waco May 3, 2017, no pet.)
Ashley Electric LLC v. VM Energy LLC et al., No. DC-14-01128, 95th Judicial District Court, Dallas County (Nov. 17, 2014)
Capshaw v. Fort Worth Independent School District, 4:17-cv-00094-A (N.D. Tex. Mar. 21, 2017)
Licensed in Tennessee, 2010
Licensed in Texas, 2013
Admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States
Admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
Admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas
Admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
Admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
Admitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
Tarrant County Bar Association
Tarrant County Bar Association, Diversity Committee
Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association
Leading Edge, Class of 2017
Co-Founder, Community Frontline of Fort Worth, Inc.
Mentor, Kid’s Hope USA, I.M. Terrell Elementary School, 2014
Volunteer, GO Center, Dunbar Middle School, 2015
Federal Bar Association
Coach, Mock Trial Team, Young Men’s Leadership Academy (2022)
Coach, Mock Trial Team, Young Men’s and Women’s Leadership Academies (2021)
Selected “Rising Star” for 2018, 2019, and 2020 by Texas Super Lawyers
Co-Recipient, Community Service Award, 2018, presented by Dunbar High School Alumni Association
Recognized in Fort Worth Inc. Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” for 2018 and 2021
Rocketship Public Schools Texas, Board Member
Court Advisory Committee, U.S.D.C. for the Northern District of Texas
Bar Association of the Fifth Circuit
Selected to 360West Magazine’s “Top Attorneys 2021”
“No One to “Lien” On? An Introduction to the Miller Act”, published on citybiz.co, August 22, 2021
““With Bite, and Without Apology”: Some Basics on Challenging Qui Tam False Claims Act Complaints within the Fifth Circuit”, published by Texas Lawyer Online, August 17, 2021
“Oh Snap!” A Loophole Around the Forum-Defendant Rule“, October 2018 Headnotes, Antitrust Trade Regulation Business Litigation Section of the Dallas Bar Association
“’Oh Snap’ A Loophole Around the Forum-Defendant Rule in Removal Cases,” Tarrant County Bar Association Bulletin (July /August 2018)
“Federal Rules Update: December 2015,” The Federal Lawyer (April 2016)
“Challenging A Default Judgment In A Texas Federal Court”  So you just learned that a federal court in Texas has entered a default judgment against your company.
“Texas Supreme Court Issues New “Spoliation” Rules with Implications for Company Document-Retention Policies”, July 15, 2014
“Fifth Circuit Clarifies the ‘Active Participation’ Exception to the Internal Revenue Code’s Farming Syndicate Rules,” July 8, 2014
“Chapter 150 Update,” Cantey Hanger LLP – January 2014
“Things to Consider When Writing a Brief,” Cantey Hanger Associate Training, April 15, 2015
“Playing Eighteen Holes of Golf Will Teach You More About Your Adversary Than Will Eighteen Years of Dealing with Him in a Courtroom,” presented by J. Frank Kinsel, Jr., at the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys, 2015 Annual Meeting, Ponte Vedra, Florida, April 22-26, 2015
“Appellate Issues Involving Voir Dire,” Presented at the Tarrant County Bar Association’s Brown Bag Seminar Series “Brave New World: Jury Selection,” January 22, 2016

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Mary H. Barkley

Mary Barkley’s practice includes representation of corporate clients, developers, individuals and governmental entities in real estate transactions and disputes, including eminent domain and condemnation, lease disputes, general property disputes, and constitutional rights litigation, both at trial and on appeal.
Ms. Barkley is the Chair of the Firm’s Appellate Section and is Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Appellate
Commercial Litigation
Eminent Domain/Property Rights
Environmental Law
Energy
St. Mary’s University School of Law (J.D., 2005)
– St. Mary’s Law Journal (Editor-in-Chief)
– Intern, Chief Justice Alma Lopez, San Antonio Court of Appeals
Briefing Attorney, Second Court of Appeals, 2005-2007
Tulane University (B.S. 2002)
– Honors: Cum Laude
mbarkley@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2889
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
First chair trial and appellate experience in eminent domain and condemnation cases involving disputes over $1 million
Prepared appellate briefing and oral argument before the Texas Supreme Court, Fort Worth Court of Appeals, Eastland Court of Appeals, Waco Court of Appeals, and other courts
Represent municipality in drafting ordinances related to surface uses, oil and gas regulation, and zoning
Represent individuals and governmental entities in constitutional litigation involving claims of regulatory taking, inverse condemnation, and First Amendment violations
Draft easements, development agreements, purchase and sale agreements, lease agreements, and other transactional documents including title curative documents, for developers, buyers, and sellers
Represented energy company in federal court litigation regarding pipeline and wetland mitigation bank credits
Represent landlords and tenants in lease disputes and negotiations
Represent landowners in suits involving alleged contamination of real property
Licensed to Practice Law in Texas, 2005
Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 2020
Admitted to practice in the United States District Court for the Northern, Southern, and Western Districts, the Southern District Bankruptcy Court, and the  5th Circuit Court of Appeals
Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation
Appointed to the Texas Bar Journal Board of Editors Committee, 2018-2021
Recognized as a “Texas Super Lawyer” in Eminent Domain by Texas Monthly Magazine in the special September/October issue, 2018-2021.
Fort Worth Business Press “40 Under 40” Honoree, 2018
Recognized as a “Rising Star” in the 2015, 2014, and 2013 editions of Super Lawyers Magazine, a Thomson Reuters service.
Appointed to the Texas Bar Journal Board of Editors Committee, 2015-2018
Voted “Top Attorney” by Fort Worth Magazine 2009 to present
Tarrant County Bar Association Appellate Section Chair, 2016, and Executive Committee
Austin’s Old 300 Member
First United Methodist Church Fort Worth
Downtown Fort Worth Rotary Club Member and Reading Mentor
Trinity Valley School Audit Committee
– Board Member, CASA of Tarrant County
Fellow, Tarrant County Bar Foundation, 2018
Recognized in Fort Worth Inc. Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” for 2018
Named Top Attorney by 360 West magazine, 2020″Avenues for Tenant Relief When Business is Closed by Local Order”, April 1, 2020
“Are Businesses Due Compensation for Damages Caused by Stay-at-Home Orders Resulting from COVID-19?”, March 31, 2020
Presentation, Acquiring Rights of Way the Right Way, Permian Basin Landman’s Association, April 2018
Presentation, A Question of Intent: The Intersection of Inverse Condemnation and Construction Law, March 2018 Tarrant County Construction Law Section Luncheon
“Liability Is Blowin’ in the Wind . . . or Is It?”, Texas Bar Journal, December 2017.
Presentation, Eminent Domain from the Landowner’s Perspective, November 2017, Tarrant County Bar Association Corporate Counsel Section
Presentation, Eminent Domain & Economic Development, July 11, 2016, Commercial Real Estate Association of Montgomery County
“Energy Transfer Prevails, What Does it Mean for Texas?”, Fort Worth Business Press, October 2015
“10 Tips for Negotiating Pipelines Deals for Landowners”, Texas Lawyer, August 2015
“Legislature leaves unanswered questions about fracking ban”, Dallas citybizlist, August 2015
Presentation Approved for CLE Credit, Eminent Domain: Basic Requirements and Common Pitfalls, Johnson County Bar Association (2011).
Co-Author and Presenter, Case Law Update, 2010 Dallas Lorman Eminent Domain Seminar.
Co-Author, 2006 Second Court of Appeals Case Law Update, presented at the 2006 Tarrant County Bench Bar Conference.
Comment, The New Texas Ad Litem Statute: Is it Really Protecting the Best Interests of Minor Children? 35 ST. MARY’S L. J. 1035 (2004).

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Michael Appleman

Michael Appleman is a former Managing Partner and a former Chairman of the firm’s Business, Tax and Estates Section. He has helped clients plan their estates, and probate the wills and administer the estates of clients’ family members, since joining Cantey Hanger in 1993. Mr. Appleman also has significant experience with court-ordered guardianships. And, Mr. Appleman has formed, established, and secured charitable recognition for several non-profit organizations

Estate Planning
Trusts & Estates
Tax
The University of Texas School of Law (J.D., 1993)
The University of Texas (B.A. (Plan II Honors), 1990)
mappleman@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2803
(817) 333-2903
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Marital property planning, including the preparation of pre-nuptial agreements
Estate and gift planning, including the preparation of wills and trusts and other, related documents that help reduce estate, gift, and other transfer taxes
Lifetime planning, including the preparation of powers of attorney and directives to physicians (living wills)
Representation in guardianship matters, including as court-appointed guardian ad litem and attorney ad litemh
Representation of executors and administrators in the administration of decedents’ estates, including the probate of wills, will contests, and the preparation of federal estate tax returns
Representation of estate and trust beneficiaries
Representation of trustees in connection with the administration of trusts, including the interpretation and construction of trust provisions, the appointment or removal of trustees, trust accountings, and trust-related litigation
Client counseling regarding the formation, operation and transfer of family business ventures, including
Formation, recognition, and representation of non-profit and charitable organizations
Licensed to practice law in Texas, 1993
State Bar of Texas
Tarrant County Bar Association
Tarrant County Probate Bar Association
The North Texas Community Foundation, Board of Directors
Tarrant County Bar Foundation, Board of Directors
Trinity Valley School Alumni Association, Board of Directors
Listed in Best Lawyers in America Woodward/White, Inc. in Trusts and Estates and Litigation – Trusts and Estates
Recognized in Fort Worth Inc. Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” in Probate, Estates and Trust
Recognized in 360 West Magazine for being a “Top Attorney” in Wills, Trusts, Estates and Probates
Tarrant County Bar Association Brown Bag Seminar Series – Nov 2011 “Probate for the Non-Probate Attorney: Legislative Update – 2011”
State Bar of Texas – Paralegal Div., Texas Adv. Paralegal Seminar (TAPS) – Oct 2011 “Legislative Update – 2011”
United Way of Tarrant County – Apr 2011 “Blueprint for Board Service”

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Robert E. Aldrich, Jr.

Robert was born and raised in Fort Worth. He received his undergraduate degree from Texas Christian University and his law degree from St. Mary’s University. Upon graduation from law school, Robert began his legal career at the Tarrant County District Attorney’s office where he spent two years trying many types of criminal cases. Turning his attention from criminal law to civil trial law after leaving the district attorney’s office, Robert spent 11 years at Cantey Hanger and left to form his own firm for 22 years. Robert has now returned to Cantey Hanger.
Throughout his legal career, Robert has tried many different types of cases including those involving death, serious bodily injury, commercial fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, real estate disputes as well as condemnation matters. Almost exclusively, he has represented plaintiffs in these matters including groups of plaintiffs. In addition to the above, Robert regularly represents individuals who find themselves in need of a divorce – normally cases involving substantial marital estates – and has tried a number of these cases to juries in Tarrant and other counties.

Commercial Litigation
Fiduciary Litigation
Family Law
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, TX
B.B.A., 1975
St. Mary’s University
San Antonio, TX
Juris Doctor, 1978
raldrich@canteyhanger.com
(817) 877-2833
(817) 877-2807
600 W. 6th St., Suite 300
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Throughout his legal career, Robert has tried many commercial and fiduciary cases including the representation of plaintiffs in securities matters, estate and will contests, fraud claims, DTPA claims, and many types of construction issues.  His family law practice includes cases involving substantial estates with complex legal issues.  Robert also handles personal injury claims involving serious bodily injury as well as death cases.

Robert has been active in the legal and civic communities and, since 2006, has served as a board member, Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President, and President of the Tarrant County Bar Association.  For the 2011-2012 bar year, Robert served as President of the Tarrant County Bar Association.  He has been elected to various boards, associations and legal foundations and continues to be active in them. Robert is board certified in both personal injury and civil trial law and speaks on these subjects.
Licensed by the State Bar of Texas on November 6, 1978
Admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, United States Court of Federal Claims, United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, United States District Courts for the Northern, Eastern, and Western Districts of Texas
Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Certification in Civil Trial Law, 1998
Personal Injury Trial Law, 2000
American Board Of Trial Advocates
American Civil Liberties Union
American Inns Of Court, Emeritus, Eldon B. Mahon Inn
Life Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation
State Bar of Texas, District 7 Director, 2012-2015; Member: Litigation and Family Law sections
Charter Fellow, Tarrant County Bar Foundation
Tarrant County Bar Association
President, 2011-2012
President-Elect, 2010-2011
Vice President, 2009-2010
Secretary/Treasurer, 2008-2009
Board of Directors, 2006-2008
Chair, Election Committee, 2004-2005
Chair, Mentor Committee, 2006-2008
Tarrant County Family Bar Association

Honors:

Listed in Best Lawyers in America 2019 Edition by Woodward/White, Inc. in Commercial Litigation and Family Law
“Best” Lawyers, “Super” Lawyers, Texas (2003-2019)
“Distinguished” Lawyers And “Pre-eminent” Lawyers In Various National, State, Regional and Local Periodicals.
Recognized as a “Texas Super Lawyer” in General Litigation by Texas Monthly Magazine in the special September/October issue, 2018-2021.
Recognized in Fort Worth Inc. Magazine for being a “Top Attorney”.
Author, Speaker & Panelist

Numerous Seminars And Workshops On Trial Practice

Robert E. Aldrich, Jr. Read More »