Sam has represented both plaintiffs and defendants in trials before juries, arbitrators and judges in state courts, international arbitral tribunals and three-judge federal panels. He represents clients across a wide array of industries, with a particular focus on energy, oil and gas, petrochemical, and private equity related disputes.
Prior to joining private practice, Sam was a law clerk for the Honorable J. Harvie Wilkinson III in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
Expertise
Experience
Representative matters
Matters tried to a decision
U.S. subsidiary of a multinational company in an arbitration involving the interpretation of an $800 million buy-up provision with the client’s joint venture partner; secured a declaratory judgment in favor of client’s interpretation of the contract in all respects along with a discretionary award of attorney fees; tried before an International Center for Dispute Resolution panel.
Asset management company in a dispute arising out of its contract with a management company; secured dismissal of all tort claims along with judgment in favor of the client on its counterclaims; tried before an American Arbitration Association arbitrator.
Oilfield services company in a books and records dispute; secured denial of all the relief requested and an order estopping the requestor from initiating further litigation; tried before the Delaware Chancery Court.
Pro bono
Sam is committed to pro bono work and community engagement, evident through his active involvement in various board memberships and organizations. He serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Visitors of the University of Texas McDonald Observatory, a unit of The University of Texas at Austin and one of the world's leading centers for astronomical research, teaching, and public education and outreach. Additionally, Sam is a Board member of Houston PetSet, an organization dedicated to combating homelessness among companion animals, showcasing his compassion and efforts to alleviate suffering in his community. Sam is also a member and past coordinator of the Houston Area Minerals Society, an organization dedicated to study in the areas of Earth Science and related fields and arts.
In 2023, Sam achieved a unanimous 8-0 victory in the Texas Supreme Court for his pro bono client, securing the right for the client's eldest daughter to be interviewed in a custody determination, as required by Texas law. Texas family law courts were routinely ignoring the interview requirement in contravention of Texas law and the best interests of children caught in custody litigation. The landmark decision ensures that interview rights for children in similar situations will be protected in the future. Sam took the case on appeal to the intermediate court of appeals, and successfully petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to review and reverse the intermediate court decision.
Published Work
Speaking Engagements
Leadership Positions And Professional Affiliations
Qualifications
Admissions
Courts
Academic
