The Best Lawyers in Houston in 2024 – Who Made the List?
The Best Lawyers in Houston in 2024 – Who Made the List?
Looking for the best lawyers in Houston? Here’s our 2024 list by practice area, with selection criteria and highlights for each attorney.

As one of the largest cities in the United States, Houston presents a competitive environment for legal practitioners across various specialties. For individuals and businesses seeking legal counsel, identifying the most capable attorneys can be a pivotal step toward achieving successful outcomes.
We conducted an objective review of the best lawyers in Houston in 2024 across eight different practice areas, examining each attorney’s expertise, client feedback, and professional achievements.
Our Criteria
Choosing an attorney is a decision that can significantly impact the resolution of legal matters. Key factors that distinguish top lawyers include:
- Specialization: Expertise in a particular legal area ensures a nuanced understanding of the relevant laws and procedures.
- Proven Results: A history of successful case outcomes underscores the attorney’s capability.
- Client Communication: Regular updates and clear communication help clients stay informed and confident.
- Professional Reputation: Positive reviews and peer recognition reflect credibility and reliability.
Using the above criteria as the basis for our selections, here are the lawyers who made our list for 2024.
Best Lawyers in Houston by Practice Area
Best Lawyers in Houston by Practice Area
Personal Injury Law
Andrew J. Cobos
The Cobos Law Firm
Known for his relentless advocacy and strategic litigation, Andrew J. Cobos has built a reputation for securing significant compensation for clients who have suffered due to negligence. His military background instills discipline, precision, and leadership in his legal practice, setting him apart in Houston’s competitive personal injury field.


Known for his relentless advocacy and strategic litigation, Andrew J. Cobos has built a reputation for securing significant compensation for clients who have suffered due to negligence. His military background instills discipline, precision, and leadership in his legal practice, setting him apart in Houston’s competitive personal injury field.
Notable Achievements
- Significant Verdicts: Secured multimillion-dollar verdicts for clients in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases.
- Bellwether Success in 3M Litigation: Played a critical role in the 3M earplug mass tort litigation, achieving a notable bellwether verdict on behalf of injured service members. His advocacy helped pave the way for accountability and compensation in this high-stakes case.
- Military Honors: As a former Army officer, Cobos received multiple awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, demonstrating leadership and dedication under pressure.
- Community Contributions: Regularly participates in initiatives to educate the public on legal rights and personal safety.
Areas of Expertise
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Representing victims of car, truck, and motorcycle accidents caused by reckless or negligent drivers.
- Workplace Injuries: Advocating for workers injured on job sites, including construction accidents and industrial disasters.
- Catastrophic Injuries: Handling cases involving severe injuries such as brain trauma, spinal cord damage, and amputations.
- Wrongful Death Claims: Fighting for families who have lost loved ones due to the negligence or misconduct of others.
- Premises Liability: Litigating cases involving unsafe property conditions, such as slip-and-fall accidents or inadequate security.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Strategic Litigation Skills: Cobos meticulously analyzes cases, ensuring every detail supports his client’s claims.
- Empathy and Compassion: His approach prioritizes understanding the emotional and financial toll on his clients.
- Military Discipline: His background as an Army officer instills a disciplined, results-driven approach to legal advocacy.
- Client-Centered Representation: Cobos is known for tailoring his legal strategies to each client’s unique needs.
- Mass Tort Expertise: His experience in complex mass tort cases like the 3M earplug litigation highlights his ability to navigate high-stakes, multidistrict litigation.
- Strong Negotiation: He excels at negotiating with insurance companies, often securing settlements without the need for prolonged litigation.
Client Perspectives
“Andrew and his team fought tirelessly for me after my car accident. He kept me informed throughout the process and secured a settlement far beyond my expectations. I couldn’t recommend him more highly.”
— Jennifer R.
“I felt like family working with Andrew. He genuinely cared about my recovery and worked relentlessly to get me the compensation I deserved.”
— Carlos T.
“Cobos Law Firm went above and beyond for my family after a devastating accident. Andrew’s professionalism and compassion made all the difference during this difficult time.”
— Lisa M.
Contact Information
- Website: Cobos Law Firm
- Phone: (713) 234-5860
- Address: 711 W. Alabama, Houston, TX 77006
- Contact: Email
Criminal Law
Nicole DeBorde
Hochglaube & DeBorde Law Firm
With decades of experience, including her background as a prosecutor, Nicole DeBorde offers clients a well-rounded perspective on criminal law. Her commitment to defending individuals facing serious charges has earned her a reputation as one of Houston’s top criminal defense attorneys.


With decades of experience, including her background as a prosecutor, Nicole DeBorde offers clients a well-rounded perspective on criminal law. Her commitment to defending individuals facing serious charges has earned her a reputation as one of Houston’s top criminal defense attorneys.
Notable Achievements
- High-Profile Case Defense: Successfully defended clients in cases that garnered significant public and media attention.
- Recognition: Consistently ranked among Houston’s top criminal defense lawyers by organizations such as Super Lawyers and Texas Monthly.
- Prosecutorial Experience: Her former role as a prosecutor gives her invaluable insight into how cases are built and prosecuted, allowing her to craft effective defense strategies.
- Federal Case Successes: Achieved dismissals and acquittals in challenging federal cases involving complex legal issues.
Areas of Expertise
- White-Collar Crimes: Representing individuals and businesses accused of fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes.
- Federal Crimes: Handling complex cases in federal court, including drug trafficking, weapons charges, and conspiracy cases.
- Violent Crimes: Defending clients charged with assault, homicide, and domestic violence.
- DWI/DUI Cases: Providing strategic defense for clients facing charges of driving while intoxicated.
- Sex Offenses: Representing individuals accused of sexual assault and other related offenses.
- Appeals: Pursuing post-conviction relief and appeals in both state and federal courts.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Strategic Mindset: DeBorde’s ability to anticipate prosecution strategies and counteract them is a cornerstone of her practice.
- Thorough Case Preparation: She invests extensive time and resources into preparing each case, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
- Strong Advocacy Skills: Known for her compelling courtroom presence, she is a formidable advocate for her clients.
- Client-Centered Approach: DeBorde prioritizes clear communication and provides compassionate support throughout the legal process.
- Proven Negotiator: Her ability to negotiate favorable outcomes often helps clients avoid lengthy trials.
Client Perspectives
“Nicole is a true lifesaver. She worked tirelessly on my case and got my charges dismissed. I’m grateful for her expertise and compassion.”— Robert M.
“Having Nicole as my attorney was the best decision I made. Her experience and knowledge of the legal system were evident from day one. She fought for me every step of the way.”
— Angela S.
“Ms. DeBorde treated me with respect and dignity during one of the most challenging times of my life. Her guidance and legal strategy resulted in a not-guilty verdict.”
— John P.
Contact Information
- Website: Hochglaube & DeBorde Law Firm
- Phone: (713) 526-6300
- Address: 3515 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77004
Family Law
Mary E. Ramos
Ramos Law Group
With over two decades of experience, Mary E. Ramos has established herself as a trusted advocate for clients navigating the complexities of family law. Her compassionate approach, combined with her legal acumen, ensures that clients receive tailored and effective representation during some of life’s most challenging transitions.


With over two decades of experience, Mary E. Ramos has established herself as a trusted advocate for clients navigating the complexities of family law. Her compassionate approach, combined with her legal acumen, ensures that clients receive tailored and effective representation during some of life’s most challenging transitions.
Notable Achievements
- Certified Family Law Specialist: Recognized as an expert in family law, demonstrating her deep knowledge and experience in this practice area.
- Top Attorney Rankings: Consistently named among Houston’s top family lawyers by organizations such as Super Lawyers and Avvo.
- Successful Custody Litigation: Achieved favorable outcomes for clients in high-conflict custody battles.
- Innovative Solutions: Known for her ability to find creative legal strategies in complex divorce and property division cases.
Areas of Expertise
- Divorce: Handling both contested and uncontested divorces, ensuring equitable outcomes for clients.
- Child Custody and Visitation: Advocating for parents to secure custody arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the child.
- Child and Spousal Support: Navigating the complexities of calculating and negotiating support payments.
- Property Division: Assisting clients in the fair division of marital assets, including complex property disputes.
- Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: Drafting agreements to protect assets and clarify financial expectations.
- Adoptions: Guiding families through the legal process of adopting children.
- Mediation Services: Offering certified mediation to help clients resolve disputes amicably without court intervention.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Empathetic Representation: Ramos balances legal strategy with compassion, ensuring clients feel supported throughout the process.
- Client-Centered Approach: She tailors her representation to the unique circumstances and needs of each client.
- Extensive Mediation Experience: Her skills as a certified mediator help clients reach amicable solutions, often saving time and reducing stress.
- Proven Litigator: Ramos is prepared to aggressively represent her clients in court when mediation is not an option.
- Strong Communication Skills: Known for keeping clients informed and involved at every step of their case.
Client Perspectives
“Mary Ramos and her team were phenomenal during my divorce. She explained every step of the process clearly and fought hard to ensure I received a fair settlement. I felt heard and cared for the entire time.”
— Lisa H.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better advocate in my child custody case. Mary’s expertise and dedication gave me peace of mind during a very difficult time.”
— Robert K.
“Mary Ramos is not only an excellent attorney but also a compassionate and understanding professional. She turned an emotionally draining experience into something manageable and ensured the best possible outcome for me and my children.”
— Jennifer T.
Contact Information
- Website: Ramos Law Group
- Phone: (713) 225-6200
- Address: 1214 Miramar St, Houston, TX 77006
Business & Corporate Law
Rusty Hardin
Rusty Hardin & Associates
Rusty Hardin is the founder of Rusty Hardin & Associates and has decades of experience representing high-profile clients and businesses. He has earned a reputation for his sharp legal acumen and effective litigation strategies. His firm handles a diverse range of business disputes, from small-scale conflicts to complex, high-stakes cases involving Fortune 500 companies.


Rusty Hardin is the founder of Rusty Hardin & Associates and has decades of experience representing high-profile clients and businesses. He has earned a reputation for his sharp legal acumen and effective litigation strategies. His firm handles a diverse range of business disputes, from small-scale conflicts to complex, high-stakes cases involving Fortune 500 companies.
Notable Achievements
- High-Profile Cases: Successfully represented major corporations and executives in disputes involving millions of dollars.
- Top Rankings: Frequently recognized by Texas Monthly, Super Lawyers, and Chambers USA for excellence in business litigation.
- Trailblazing Litigation: Secured precedent-setting verdicts that have shaped business law in Texas and beyond.
- Client-Centric Results: Achieved favorable outcomes for businesses ranging from startups to multinational corporations.
Areas of Expertise
- Corporate Litigation: Handling disputes involving breach of contract, shareholder conflicts, and fiduciary duties.
- Intellectual Property Protection: Litigating cases involving trademarks, patents, and trade secrets.
- Employment Law: Representing businesses in disputes related to wrongful termination, discrimination claims, and wage issues.
- Business Torts: Addressing cases of fraud, interference with contracts, and unfair competition.
- Mergers and Acquisitions: Assisting with complex M&A transactions and related disputes.
- Regulatory Compliance: Advising businesses on navigating state and federal regulations.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Strategic Thinker: Known for crafting innovative legal strategies tailored to complex business disputes.
- Persuasive Advocate: His courtroom presence and ability to articulate compelling arguments set him apart as a top litigator.
- Experienced Negotiator: Hardin excels at resolving disputes outside the courtroom, saving clients time and resources.
- Team Leadership: His firm’s collaborative approach ensures clients benefit from the expertise of a well-rounded legal team.
- Client-Focused Approach: Hardin prioritizes his clients’ goals, delivering results that align with their business objectives.
Client Perspectives
“Rusty Hardin was instrumental in resolving a complicated contract dispute for our business. His team’s attention to detail and strategic approach helped us achieve a favorable settlement.”
— Michael R.
“I’ve worked with Rusty Hardin & Associates on multiple occasions, and every time they have exceeded my expectations. Rusty’s leadership and expertise are unmatched.”
— Linda G.
“Rusty Hardin’s firm took on our case when others said it was unwinnable. Their persistence and skill turned things around, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
— Jonathan S.
Contact Information
- Website: Rusty Hardin & Associates
- Phone: (713) 652-9000
- Address: 5 Houston Center, 1401 McKinney St, Suite 2250, Houston, TX 77010
Employment Law
Mark J. Oberti
Oberti Sullivan
Mark J. Oberti brings decades of trial and appellate experience to complex cases involving discrimination, retaliation, wage-and-hour claims, and ERISA disputes. With a career marked by significant jury verdicts, appellate victories, and precedent-setting outcomes, Oberti has earned a reputation for precision litigation strategy, relentless advocacy, and results that consistently favor his clients.


Mark J. Oberti brings decades of trial and appellate experience to complex cases involving discrimination, retaliation, wage-and-hour claims, and ERISA disputes. With a career marked by significant jury verdicts, appellate victories, and precedent-setting outcomes, Oberti has earned a reputation for precision litigation strategy, relentless advocacy, and results that consistently favor his clients.
Notable Achievements
- Major Jury Verdicts: Successfully tried and won high-profile employment cases, including a $2.9 million jury verdict in an age-discrimination matter recognized by Texas Lawyer as Litigator of the Week.
- Federal Appellate Success: Argued and prevailed before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in ERISA litigation, resulting in a $255,000 recovery for his client plus attorneys’ fees.
- Defense Trial Wins: Served as lead defense counsel in multi-million-dollar employment trials, securing take-nothing verdicts for employers in severance and executive-contract disputes.
- Consistent Recognition: Named Best Lawyers – Labor and Employment (2018, 2024), Top 100 Texas Super Lawyer, and Band 1 Employment Lawyer by Chambers USA.
Areas of Expertise
- Employment Litigation: Discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and wrongful termination claims.
- Wage & Hour (FLSA): Overtime, misclassification, and collective action defense.
- Executive & ERISA Litigation: Severance disputes, benefits litigation, and fiduciary claims.
- Whistleblower & Retaliation Claims: High-risk internal investigations and litigation defense.
- Appellate Advocacy: Employment-law appeals in state and federal courts.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Elite Trial Lawyer: Proven courtroom results in jury trials and bench trials alike.
- Strategic Litigator: Known for dismantling complex employment claims through targeted motion practice.
- Appellate Authority: Trusted advocate before the Fifth Circuit and federal appellate courts.
- National Thought Leader: Frequent CLE presenter and commentator on evolving employment-law issues.
- Results-Driven Advocate: Focused on decisive, efficient outcomes aligned with client objectives.
Client Perspectives
“Very professional and very responsive to all our communications and needs. His attentiveness and support were greatly appreciated.”
— Johnny A.
“A huge help navigating me through my first NDA and employment agreement.”
— Neil M.
“A voice of reason and solid advice legally, professionally, and personally when I needed it most in my life. He expertly coached me through negotiations. I couldn’t recommend anyone more highly.”
— Allison M.
Contact Information
- Website: Oberti Sullivan
- Phone: (713) 401-3555
- Address: 712 Main Street, Suite 900, Houston, Texas 77002
Immigration Law
Giancarlo A. Vega
Law Offices of Vega & Associates, PLLC
Giancarlo A. Vega is a skilled immigration attorney who focuses on guiding individuals and families through some of the most complex and high-stakes areas of U.S. immigration law. His practice centers on employment-based visas, family-based petitions, and removal proceedings, where precision, preparation, and client trust are critical.


Giancarlo A. Vega is a skilled immigration attorney who focuses on guiding individuals and families through some of the most complex and high-stakes areas of U.S. immigration law. His practice centers on employment-based visas, family-based petitions, and removal proceedings, where precision, preparation, and client trust are critical.
Notable Achievements
- Immigration Court & Removal Defense Experience: Represented individuals in complex removal proceedings, helping clients pursue relief and defend against deportation.
- Clinic-Based Legal Advocacy: Served as a student attorney in the South Texas College of Law Immigration Clinic, providing legal support and advocacy to noncitizen juveniles and victims of certain crimes.
- Employment-Based Immigration Focus: Concentrates on employment-based visa matters, supporting professionals and employers through high-detail filings and strategy.
- Bilingual Representation: Fluent in English and Spanish, allowing direct communication and advocacy for Spanish-speaking clients.
- Multi-Jurisdiction Admission: Licensed in Texas and Washington, D.C., expanding the scope of clients he can serve.
Areas of Expertise
- Employment-Based Immigration: Assisting employers and professionals with visa petitions and compliance matters.
- Family-Based Immigration: Guiding families through petitions, adjustments of status, and reunification processes.
- Removal Proceedings: Representing individuals facing deportation and advocating for relief before immigration courts.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Detail-Driven Representation: Careful preparation in visa filings and court matters.
- Client Communication: Clear, accessible explanations of immigration options and risks.
- Bilingual Advocacy: Fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing direct representation without intermediaries.
- Cross-Jurisdictional Licensing: Admitted to practice in Texas and Washington, D.C.
- Compassionate Approach: Particularly effective in cases involving families and vulnerable individuals.
Client Perspectives
“Mr. Vega is very knowledgeable and takes the time to explain all details. He demonstrates that he cares and isn’t just after money — highly recommended.”
— Gissel S.
“My wife and I had an excellent experience with Vega & Associates. Definitely worth every penny. The service and guidance were outstanding.”
— Ramon T.
“Excellent service! He always answered our questions and explained every step clearly. I would recommend this law office for any immigration matter.”
— Laura J.
Contact Information
- Website: Law Offices of Vega & Associates
- Phone: (713) 527-9606
- Address: 122 Tuam St., Houston, Texas 77006
Estate & Probate Law
Cory Krueger
Hensley & Krueger, PLLC
Cory Krueger is a respected estate planning and probate attorney in Houston known for his hands-on advocacy, meticulous attention to detail, and deep commitment to client service. Clients and peers alike recognize him for his dedication, responsiveness, and ability to simplify complex estate processes while protecting clients’ interests and family legacies.


Cory Krueger is a respected estate planning and probate attorney in Houston known for his hands-on advocacy, meticulous attention to detail, and deep commitment to client service. Clients and peers alike recognize him for his dedication, responsiveness, and ability to simplify complex estate processes while protecting clients’ interests and family legacies.
Notable Achievements
- Trusted Probate & Estate Advocate: A cornerstone of Hensley & Krueger, PLLC, Krueger has helped countless families and fiduciaries resolve probate and estate issues with clarity and confidence.
- Detail-Oriented Representation: Known for thorough preparation and strategic planning in both uncontested and contested probate matters, reducing delays and courtroom surprises.
- Holistic Estate Planning: Guides clients through wills, trusts, power of attorney documents, and guardianship planning—ensuring legal strategies align with personal and financial goals.
- Collaborative Legal Approach: Works closely with clients and families to build trust and ensure peace of mind throughout the probate process.
- Recognition for Service: Featured in multiple client testimonials for professionalism, hard work, and exceeding expectations in estate matters.
Areas of Expertise
- Estate Planning: Creating tailored wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and health care directives to protect client goals and family interests.
- Probate Administration: Guiding executors and beneficiaries through formal probate, inventories, creditor claims, and final distributions.
- Probate Litigation: Representing clients in disputes over estate administration, will construction, and fiduciary duties.
- Legacy Protection: Advising on trust structures and planning tools that help minimize probate and safeguard assets across generations.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Probate Precision: Known for meticulous handling of probate filings, deadlines, and court requirements—reducing delays, disputes, and unnecessary costs.
- Client-Centered Counsel: Takes a hands-on, accessible approach, ensuring clients fully understand each step of the estate or probate process.
- Litigation-Ready Mindset: Experienced in contested probate and fiduciary disputes, allowing him to anticipate and neutralize issues before they escalate.
- Calm, Practical Advocate: Particularly valued by families navigating emotionally difficult situations, bringing clarity and steadiness to complex decisions.
- Ethical & Detail-Oriented Practice: Frequently praised by clients for professionalism, integrity, and thorough follow-through.
Client Perspectives
“Cory is one of the best lawyers all around… extremely ethical and intelligent in estate matters.”
— Siphti S.
“By far, Cory and his team are everything you can expect out of a top law firm in Houston.” — LM Richardson
Contact Information
- Website: Hensley & Krueger, PLLC
- Phone: (713) 527-9606
- Address: 5615 Kirby Drive, Suite 720, Houston, TX 77005
Intellectual Property Law
Joseph Y. Ahmad
AZA Law
Joseph Y. Ahmad is a premier attorney in Houston, Texas, specializing in intellectual property (IP) law. His firm, AZA, is known for their strategic and aggressive representation, and has built a reputation for helping businesses and innovators protect their most valuable assets. His team of seasoned litigators handles a wide range of IP disputes with a focus on achieving results that safeguard their clients’ creative and intellectual investments.


Joseph Y. Ahmad is a premier attorney in Houston, Texas, specializing in intellectual property (IP) law. His firm, AZA, is known for their strategic and aggressive representation, and has built a reputation for helping businesses and innovators protect their most valuable assets. His team of seasoned litigators handles a wide range of IP disputes with a focus on achieving results that safeguard their clients’ creative and intellectual investments.
Notable Achievements
- High-Stakes Wins: Secured multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements in patent and trademark disputes for clients in various industries, including energy, technology, and healthcare.
- Recognition: Regularly ranked among the top litigation firms in Texas by Chambers USA, Super Lawyers, and Benchmark Litigation.
- Notable Representation: Successfully represented both Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups in landmark IP cases.
- Precedent-Setting Cases: Played a critical role in shaping IP law through impactful litigation and appellate decisions.
Areas of Expertise
- Patent Litigation: Representing clients in disputes involving patent infringement, validity challenges, and enforcement.
- Trademark Protection: Assisting businesses in securing and enforcing trademark rights to protect brand identity.
- Copyright Law: Handling cases involving copyright infringement and licensing disputes.
- Trade Secrets: Litigating cases involving misappropriation of confidential business information.
- IP Portfolio Management: Advising on strategies for managing and monetizing intellectual property assets.
- Technology Licensing: Structuring and negotiating licensing agreements for technology, software, and other IP assets.
- Startup IP Protection: Helping emerging businesses secure patents, trademarks, and copyrights to establish strong foundations.
Key Attributes and Strengths
- Aggressive Litigation: Joseph is known for his relentless approach in court, ensuring clients’ IP rights are rigorously defended.
- Technical Expertise: His firm’s attorneys have a strong understanding of complex technologies, enabling them to effectively litigate technical IP disputes.
- Strategic Problem-Solving: Joseph crafts innovative strategies to address each client’s unique IP challenges.
- Client-First Approach: AZA prioritizes transparency, communication, and collaboration, ensuring clients are informed and involved at every step.
- Industry-Specific Knowledge: The firm’s experience spans key sectors such as energy, biotechnology, software, and manufacturing.
Client Perspectives
“AZA took on a complex patent case for our company and delivered a decisive win. Their technical understanding and courtroom skills were truly remarkable.”
— Sarah L.
“The attorneys at AZA went above and beyond to protect our trademark. Their aggressive advocacy ensured our brand remained intact.”
— Mark T.
“Ahmad, Zavitsanos & Mensing handled a trade secrets case for us with exceptional skill. Their knowledge and attention to detail were critical to our success.”
— Robert H.
Contact Information
- Website: Ahmad, Zavitsanos & Mensing (AZA)
- Phone: (713) 655-1101
- Address: 1221 McKinney St, Suite 2500, Houston, TX 77010

