I have focused on plaintiff’s side labor and employment cases since I began practicing law in 1982. Along with the fact that I like to help employees protect and enforce their rights in the workplace, I find this area of the law to be intellectually interesting and dynamic. I work with individuals who are in challenging employment situations to identify their options and to make smart choices. Sometimes litigation is the best option but not always; I work with individuals to figure out what makes sense for them. In addition to representing individuals, I have been fortunate in my career to represent a number of labor unions, particularly in the public sector. I have served as General Counsel for Texas AFT, the state affiliate for the American Federation of Teachers, since 1991. As someone who is interested in promoting the rights of employees, I have seen, over and over again, that a collective voice is stronger than a single one, and I value being part of the labor movement.

Areas of Practice
Public and private sector labor law; retaliation for protected activity including First Amendment claims; overtime and other wage and hour issues; equal pay for women; employment discrimination; sexual harassment.

Honors
Texas Super Lawyer, Labor and Employment 2003, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010
(Thomson Reuters, publishers)

Best Lawyers in America, Labor and Employment 1997 – present
(Woodward/White Inc., publishers)

Reginald Heber Smith Community Lawyer Fellowship 1982 – 1984

Experience
Partner Deats, Durst, Owen & Levy, P.L.L.C. 2004 to present
Partner Wiseman, Durst & Owen, P.C. 1994 – 2004
Partner Van Os & Owen, P.C. 1987 – 1994

Education
Juris Doctor, University of Texas School of Law, 1982
Bachelor of Arts, Plan II, with honors, University of Texas at Austin, 1979