Michael A. Shaunessy

Michael represents governmental and private sector clients in a wide range of litigation matters, including employment, commercial disputes, and serious personal injury claims. With decades of experience trying cases across Texas, he brings a practical, results-driven approach to resolving complex disputes. His trial experience spans breach of contract, unfair competition, fraud, partnership disputes, discrimination and retaliation claims, and matters involving governmental entities, giving him a well-rounded perspective on litigation strategy and risk. 

Over the course of his career, Michael has tried jury cases to verdict in numerous counties throughout the state and has handled matters at every stage—from pre-suit counseling through trial and even on appeal. He works closely with clients to assess risk early, identify opportunities to avoid or resolve disputes efficiently, and develop strategies that align with their business and operational priorities. 

In addition to his client work, Michael has held leadership roles within his prior firm, including serving on the management committee and leading the litigation section, and has been actively involved in mentoring and developing junior attorneys. He is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is a member of an invitation-only national trial advocacy organization recognizing experienced trial lawyers. 

Solutions in action

• Obtained reversal of trial court judgment which will allow one of the fastest growing counties in the country to move forward with a $430 million road improvement program.  A state court judge found the posting for the commissioners court meeting violated the Texas Open Meetings Act and struck down a successful bond election.  However, upon appeal, the Court of Appeals was convinced that the posting for the meeting was lawful and there was no question that the election results accurately reflected the will of voters.
• Obtained jury verdict as lead counsel in San Antonio in favor of a former partner regarding valuation of the buyout price for his interest in a professional partnership.
• Prevailed in jury trial as lead counsel representing a network affiliate television station in a suit that alleged race discrimination and retaliation brought by award-winning Hispanic female reporter.
• Obtained summary judgment in federal court in Austin for university where plaintiff, a former baseball coach, sued for race discrimination.
• Obtained summary judgment in federal court in Dallas for prominent newspaper where former employee brought claims for discrimination based on race and national origin under Title VII, violations of the Family Medical Leave Act, and defamation. Summary judgment affirmed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
• Obtained summary judgment in federal court in Austin for assistant district attorney and law enforcement officers on claims of malicious prosecution and false arrest brought by a teacher charged with improper contact with middle school students.
• Secured arbitration award for limited partner against general partner and its principal for breach of fiduciary duty. 
• Successfully obtained appointment of receiver over real estate limited liability corporation for benefit of limited partner where general partner was abusing its position for the benefit of its owners.  Receiver ultimately paid compensation covering all damages sustained by limited partner.