Crain Caton & James

HOUSTON, TX — July 19, 2024— Crain Caton & James is thrilled to announce its recognition as the 2024 Best of the Best Law Firm by the Houston Chronicle in multiple categories, including Commercial Litigation, Corporate, Real Estate, and Trusts and Estates, and a top three finalist in Family Law. This prestigious accolade marks the firm’s third consecutive year either winning or being a finalist in these key practice areas. Mindy M. Riseden, President of Crain Caton & James, expressed her gratitude and pride in the Firm’s achievements: “We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Houston Chronicle once again. This award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our attorneys, the loyalty of our clients, and the hard work of our exceptional staff. We are grateful for their ongoing support, which has been instrumental in our success.” Crain Caton & James has been serving the Houston community for over 110 years, providing sound legal counsel across a wide range of practice areas. The Firm’s commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and professional integrity continues to set it apart in the legal industry. https://lnkd.in/gGNE9HJh

Crain Caton & James is pleased to announce that Michole Easterly has joined the Estate, Trusts and Wealth practice area as a Shareholder. Michole focuses on advising high-net-worth individuals and families on comprehensive trust and estate planning strategies. She collaborates closely with clients to develop tailored plans aimed at safeguarding considerable assets and business interests, while also facilitating the seamless transfer of wealth across generations. Her experience encompasses a wide array of services, including drafting intricate estate planning documents such as wills, revocable trusts, and various other instruments designed to mitigate estate and gift taxes. She excels in structuring family wealth plans that incorporate sophisticated techniques to minimize tax liabilities, optimize asset transfers, and leverage corporate structures for valuation discounts. Furthermore, Michole provides invaluable guidance in business planning endeavors, ranging from entity selection and tax planning to the formation of partnerships, LLCs, and corporations. Her proficiency extends to navigating complex investment opportunities across diverse industries, including technology, real estate, and professional sports, where she advises clients on the most tax-efficient structures for their investments. Moreover, Michole is adept at establishing charitable trusts and tax-exempt organizations, leveraging her expertise to navigate regulatory requirements and optimize tax benefits for philanthropic initiatives. "We are pleased to announce Michole Easterly as our newest shareholder in the Estate, Trust and Wealth Planning practice area. Michole brings invaluable expertise that strengthens our dedication to client success and long-term financial stewardship," states Larry George, Shareholder in the Estate, Trust and Wealth Planning practice area. https://lnkd.in/gZZaWr4J

Bulletin: Actions and Updates | June 2024 https://lnkd.in/gi4Xxtxh

Crain Caton & James welcomes Kimberly Dang as the newest associate in our Banking and Financial Services and Commercial Litigation practice areas. With her background in handling litigation within the banking and finance sector, Kimberly brings valuable experience to our team. Kimberly’s proficiency extends to guiding banking and finance clients through litigation stemming from specific loans, transactions, agreements, or financial products. She is prepared to manage banking cases comprehensively, from inception to resolution, encompassing depositions, trials, mediations, and extensive motions in both Texas state and federal courts. Her clientele includes a diverse array of financial institutions, ranging from lenders to credit unions, and various other entities within the financial sector. Kimberly is sought after for her handling of cases involving fraud, violations of wire transfer laws and procedures, and infringements of the Federal Credit Reporting Act. Pat Huttenbach, a Shareholder in the Banking and Financial Services practice area, states that, “Kim is a tremendous asset to our practice area. Her background in banking litigation aligns with our Firm’s reputation for courtroom success, and I have every confidence she will excel.” https://lnkd.in/gAyeBwGQ

Crain Caton & James proudly announces its inclusion among the top three law firms in Commercial Litigation, Corporate Law, Family Law, Real Estate Law, and Trust & Estates Law by the Houston Chronicle’s Best of the Best Program. The Firm extends its deepest appreciation to clients, attorneys, staff, and friends for their overwhelming support and confidence. Their votes have played an instrumental role in securing this recognition, reaffirming the firm’s commitment to excellence in legal services. “This acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, as well as the trust our clients and community place in us,” remarked Mindy M. Riseden, President of the Firm. “We are truly honored by this achievement and grateful for the continued support of our valued clients, dedicated attorneys, hardworking staff, and cherished friends.” As anticipation builds for the formal announcement of the winner at the Awards Ceremony scheduled for July 18, Crain Caton & James reflects on its outstanding performance last year when it claimed the number one position in all categories. With renewed determination and the unwavering support of its stakeholders, the firm aims to replicate this success once again. https://lnkd.in/gY2Vgh_h

Vote for Crain Caton & James for the Best of Best Law Firms! Vote here: Commercial Litigation: https://lnkd.in/gfjmtArE Corporate Law: https://lnkd.in/gvaJqbhC Real Estate Law: https://lnkd.in/gmZPzvYz Trusts & Estates: https://lnkd.in/gE6gGkni Family Law: https://lnkd.in/g7P_eAFp

Crain Caton & James proudly welcomes Lisa K. Loewenstein to the Firm’s team of legal professionals. Lisa joins the attorneys in the Estate, Trust, and Wealth Planning practice area. Recognized for her dedication to understanding each client’s unique desires, Lisa is known for her personalized approach, ensuring that every aspect of a client’s estate plan is tailored to their specific needs. With a focus on minimizing the potential for legal challenges, Lisa is committed to producing documents that accurately reflect her clients’ intentions and stand strong against any potential disputes. Larry George, a Shareholder in Crain Caton & James’ Estate, Trust, and Wealth Planning practice area, expressed his enthusiasm for the newest addition to his team, stating, “Lisa is an important addition to our group. Her past legal experience and dedication to client satisfaction align perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional legal services. We are confident that she will play a significant role in supporting our clients through the estate planning process.” https://lnkd.in/dkqQ4wrJ

Crain Caton & James was delighted to support the First Community Cares Foundation's inaugural golf tournament! At First Community Credit Union, community care is at the core of everything they do. From supporting education initiatives to empowering families, First Community Cares Foundation ‘s mission is to uplift and engage our communities. With the assistance of sponsors like Crain Caton & James, they can continue making a meaningful impact and helping our community reach new heights https://lnkd.in/gXgrNvQb

Bulletin: Actions and Updates | April 2024 https://lnkd.in/g3vKbFsi

Bulletin: Action and Updates | April 2024 https://lnkd.in/g3vKbFsi