My Why
What powers my practice
My passion for politics, government, and the humanities drew me to the legal profession while attending the University of Texas, where I met and worked alongside various lawyers and lobbyists. I find the most fulfillment in helping founders realize their dreams—whether forming a company, funding it, or ultimately achieving a successful sale of the business. Beyond my work at Michael Best, I share my knowledge in the Austin community by serving on various non-profit boards, speaking on legal topics for startups, and advising Austin’s emerging growth companies as they navigate funding and liquidity events. At the core, my “why” is helping businesses succeed while staying dedicated to the community I serve.
Credentials
- Oklahoma City University School of Law, Juris Doctor (J.D.), Notes and Comments Editor, OCU Law Review, 1992, magna cum laude
- University of Texas at Austin, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Government, 1989
- Texas
- Best Lawyers®, Corporate Law, 2020-present
Engagement
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, State Bar of Texas – Business Law Section – Corporate Counsel Section
- Member, Austin Bar Association – Business, Corporate & Tax Section – Technology Law Section
- Board of Trustees Member and Vice Chairman, Ascension Seton Foundation
- Board Member, The Neighborhood Longhorns
- Founding Board Member, RISE School of Austin
- Board Member, Truist Bank Community Advisory Board
- Member, Opportunity Austin Policy Council
- Former President, Austin Longhorn Club
- Leadership Austin Graduate, 2006
- Governor’s Appointee to the Texas One Call Board
Insights

Michael Best Attorneys Earn Recognition in The Best Lawyers in America 2026 List
Michael Best is proud to announce the selection of 104 firm attorneys to The Best Lawyers in America 2026 list, with representation across 48 different areas of legal practice nationwide.Read
Aug 21, 2025

Michael Best Welcomes Partner John Menchaca, Associate Chris Kirby to the Firm’s Austin Office
Michael Best is pleased to announce the addition of John Menchaca as Partner, and Chris Kirby as Associate, to the firm’s Transactional Practice Group, based out of the Austin office. The team joins Michael Best from Enoch Kever, PLLC, bringing more than 35 years of combined extensive expertise in advising emerging growth companies, entrepreneurs, and investors across a wide range of corporate transactions.Read
Nov 11, 2024

