Christopher Burwell is a Principal at the San Antonio office of Cokinos | Young. Since 2009, Christopher has represented general contractors and subcontractors with respect to commercial, private, and public works, both at the state and federal levels. Christopher’s practice particularly focuses on drafting, filing, and defending construction claims against public entities as well as private commercial entities, and preparation of mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens on a public and private commercial project level. Christopher continually advises and educates clients as well as assists in filing and prosecuting claims against private and public payment and performance bonds at the state and federal levels. Finally, a good portion of Christopher’s work focuses on review, comment, and interpretation of public and private commercial contracts, pre- and post- procurement and commencement. Christopher has been board-certified in Texas Construction law since 2016 and has held office for the Construction Law Section of the San Antonio Bar Association. As a son of a public school teacher and farmer, Christopher uses his experience and small town upbringing to provide a hardening, resilient, analytical, yet common-sense approach to his practice and his clients’ everyday legal issues.
Education
St. Mary’s University School of Law – J.D., 2009
Syracuse University at Utica – B.A. Government & Politics, magna cum laude, 2006
Certifications
Board Certified in Construction Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (inaugural year)
Recognitions and Distinctions
Past chair of the San Antonio Bar Association Construction Section
Board Member of the San Antonio Bar Association, Construction Section
Speaking Engagements & Presentations
“Negotiating Contracts” Basic Course in Construction Law, Austin, Texas 2022
Presenter on Texas Lien Law, San Antonio Chapter of the Associated General Contractors, San Antonio, Texas 2024
“Lien on Me” San Antonio Chapter of the Associated General Contractors, San Antonio, Texas, 2025
“Killer Contract Clauses” Panel Discussion, San Antonio, Texas 2026
Memberships and Affiliations
Federal Bar Association
San Antonio Bar Association
Construction Section
Board Certification in Construction Law
Adjunct Professor at the Klesse College for Construction Management (University of Texas at San Antonio)
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Courts: Northern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth and Federal Circuits
United States Court of Federal Claims
State of Texas Fourth Court of Appeals
Certifications
Board Certified in Construction Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (inaugural year)
Matthew J. Longoria is a skilled attorney specializing in complex commercial litigation and construction disputes, with a robust background in both trial advocacy and transactional law. Matthew leverages his diverse legal experience to deliver strategic solutions for clients facing high-stakes disputes. Matthew represents businesses in contract disputes,breach of warranty claims,and commercialtorts providing aggressive advocacy and pragmatic resolution strategies.
Prior to joining Cokinos | Young, Matthew was a municipal attorney representing governmental entities where he provided legal guidance on a wide range of issues, including complex land use and zoning decisions, personnel and employment matters, and water and wastewater utility disputes. In his criminal prosecution practice as city attorney, Matthew was lead attorney on more than two dozen jury and bench trials that resulted in successful verdicts.
Matthew has deep roots in the local community, with a diverse professional background spanning both legal and creative industries. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Film and Digital Media from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and his Juris Doctor from St. Mary’s University School of Law. He also studied intellectual property law at Beihang University in Beijing, China, with a focus on emerging Chinese copyright and trademark law.
Matthew’s unique blend of trial experience, transactional insight,and creative problem-solving enables him to effectively navigate complex commercial litigation and construction disputes, delivering results for clients in and out of the courtroom.
Education
St. Mary’s University School of Law – J.D., 2016
University of California – B.A. Film and Digital Media, Production, 2008
Recognitions & Distinctions
Recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, and Litigation – Construction (2025–2026)
Speaking Engagements & Presentations
Alamo Area Council of Governments – Newly Elected Officials Workshop (June 2021)
Balancing Enforcement with Compliance in Municipal Court
Alamo Area Council of Governments – Workshop for Planning and Zoning Commissioners and Elected Officials (April 2021)
Special Zoning Tools: Special Use Permits, Conditional Use Permits, Planned Development Districts
Alamo Area Council of Governments – Newly Elected Officials Workshop (December 2020)
A Roadmap of CARES Act Relief Funds
Alamo Area Council of Governments – Newly Elected Officials Workshop (July 2020)
Navigating Religious-Based Zoning Protests
Memberships & Affiliations
Texas State Bar
Litigation Section
Government Law Section
Administrative and Public Law Section
Construction Law Section
San Antonio Bar Association
Construction Law Section
Urban Land Institute – San Antonio
South Texas Business Partnership, Member
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Court: Western District of Texas
An aggressive and tactical litigator, Chance Decker focuses on resolving high-stakes disputes for businesses in the real estate, construction, and energy industries. Chance also represents clients in a variety of employment litigation matters, including non-competition and trade secret disputes. He enjoys working on cases with challenging issues and helping his clients navigate the legal system boldly and efficiently.
Education
University of Houston Law Center – J.D., 2009
Texas A&M University – B.S. Geography: GIS Specialization, 2006
Recognitions & Distinctions
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Commercial Litigation (2025–2026)
Named a Texas Super Lawyer in Business Litigation by Thomson Reuters (2024–2025)
Fewer than 5% of attorneys in the state are selected annually
Named a Texas Super Lawyers® Rising Star in Business Litigation by Thomson Reuters (2018–2023)
The top 2.5% of attorneys in the state who are 40 or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less
Named a Houstonia Magazine Top Lawyer in Houston (2018–2020)
Representative Experience
Obtained summary judgment and complete attorneys’ fee award in dispute over alleged easement and public road through a family heritage ranch in the Texas Hill Country.
Obtained dismissal of interstate pipeline company from lawsuit seeking twelve million dollars in engineering fees under an alter ego and common law partnership claim.
Obtained favorable settlement in a dispute over allegedly fraudulent purchase orders issued for over twelve million dollars of steel tubing.
Successfully defended a Houston energy brokerage firm at trial, alleging discrimination under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act by a former employee.
Successfully defended a commercial flatbed trailer manufacturer in a multi-million-dollar lawsuit by its Chinese supplier.
Successfully defended two Houston area automobile dealerships in multi-million dollar lawsuits by their former floorplan finance providers.
Played a pivotal role in obtaining a jury verdict on behalf of Jani-King International, Inc. in a suit against a New York franchisee.
Obtained summary judgment and case dismissal for home builder accused of race discrimination, violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and breach of construction contract.
Successfully defended a commercial tenant in a multi-property eviction and tortious interference case.
Obtained a complete judgment on behalf of a major oilfield services manufacturing company for the nonpayment of several hundred thousand dollars of unpaid equipment.
Obtained a favorable judgment against former employees of a Houston energy brokerage firm who breached the non-competition and non-disclosure provisions of their employment agreements.
Speaking Engagements & Presentations
A Primer on Texas Property Code Section 53.026, the “Sham Contract” Statute.” January 18, 2024
“Executive Rights: Texas Outfitters v. Nicholson,” Gas & Mineral Title Examination Course, TexasBarCLE Oil, June 19, 2020
“Top 10 Texas Oil & Gas Cases of 2019,” East Texas Association of Petroleum Landmen, January 16, 2020
“Concerning Self-Interest: The Executive Duty After Texas Outfitters v. Nicholson,” Energy Law Institute, August 28, 2019
“Top 10 Cases of 2018,” Fort Worth Association of Professional Landmen, February 28, 2019
“Top 10 Cases of 2018,” East Texas Association of Petroleum Landmen, January 17, 2019
“Top 10 Cases Texas Energy Cases from the Past Twelve Months,” Dallas Bar Association’s Energy Law: Review of Oil & Gas Law XXXIII, August 2, 2018
“Top 10 Texas O&G Cases of 2017 (So Far),” Lunch and Learn Series, Next Generation Landmen (DAPL) & Young Professionals in Energy, December 4, 2017
“Top 10 Texas O&G Cases of 2017 (So Far),” AAPL Southwest Land Institute, September 25, 2017
“The Slow Death of the Handshake: Best Practices from a Litigator’s Perspective,” National Association of Steel Pipe Distributors 2017 Summer Conference, June 15, 2017
Publications
“OSHA’s New Guidance for the Energy Arena,” ALTAPL Register, September 1, 2020
“OSHA’s New Guidance for the Energy Arena,” Houston Association of Professional Landmen Newsletter, August 2020
“OSHA’s New Guidance for the Energy Arena,” Gray Reed Legal Alert, July 22, 2020
“Top 10 Texas Oil and Gas Cases of 2019,” Landman Magazine, March/April 2020
“Top 10 Texas Oil & Gas Cases of 2019,” Various publications, 2020
“Top Ten Texas Oil and Gas Cases of 2018,” Texas Association of Defense Counsel Magazine, Summer 2019
“Top Texas Oil and Gas Cases of 2018,” Landman Magazine, January/February 2019
“Top 10 Texas Oil and Gas Cases of 2018,” Various Publications, 2018/2019
“Texas Court Divides On Offset Well Case,” The American Oil & Gas Reporter, August 2018
“Must an Offset Well Clause be Reasonably Calculated to Prevent Drainage? Not in the Eagle Ford, According to the Texas Supreme Court,” Gray Reed Legal Alert, June 28, 2018
“Show Me the Money!”: Who is a “Payor” Under the Texas Natural Resources Code?” Gray Reed Legal Alert, May 25, 2018
“Top 10 Texas O&G Cases in the First 11 Months of 2017,” Landman Magazine, January/February 2018
“Top 10 Texas Oil and Gas Cases of 2017,” Various Publications, 2017/2018
“Texas Supreme Court Ruling Requires Careful Analysis of Mineral Deeds,” Gray Reed Legal Alert, August 9, 2017
Memberships & Affiliations
State Bar of Texas
Litigation Section
Houston Bar Association
American Bar Association
Texas Young Lawyers Association
San Antonio Bar Association
Real Estate Council of San Antonio
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
United States District Courts: Southern and Western Districts of Texas
Community Involvement
Calf Scramble Committee Member, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Kevin Moczygemba helps clients in commercial litigation and in the defense of serious personal injury cases. He has extensive experience handling matters involving breach of contract, construction defect, fraud, and other business torts, mechanics liens, and personal injury.
Kevin also has significant experience working with government contracts. After law school, he served as a Presidential Management Fellow with the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile System Center where he gained invaluable insights into the government’s contracting process. Subsequently, Kevin served as an Assistant Attorney General with the Texas Attorney General’s Office where he brought cases against government contractors for fraud, kickbacks, and other regulatory violations.
Kevin was born and raised in San Antonio. He proudly served in the United States Army as an infantryman and twice deployed to Iraq before becoming an attorney. This experience taught him there is no substitute for careful planning and extensive preparation.
Education
St. Mary’s University School of Law – J.D., 2011
First Place and Best Speaker, Larry G. Hyden Mock Trial Tournament
University of Texas at Austin – B.A, 2002
Recognitions and Distinctions
Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America (2024 – 2025): Commercial Litigation and Construction Law
Presidential Management Fellow, U.S. Air Force Space & Missile Systems Center
Past Co-Chair, American Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division Health Law Committee
Past Vice Chair, American Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division Health Law Committee
Memberships and Affiliations
San Antonio Bar Association
State Bar of Texas
Construction Law Section
Litigation Section
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Courts: Eastern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
Christian C. Trevino is an attorney in Cokinos | Young’s San Antonio office. Raised around his family’s construction business, Christian brings a unique background and firsthand experience of construction law. His practice focuses primarily on construction law and commercial litigation. Christian’s experience covers a variety of areas including mechanic’s liens, construction defect cases, contract and payment disputes, and contract negotiations.
Christian received his bachelor’s degree in Economics from Texas A&M University and his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law, where he was President of the Texas Business Law Society, an editor for the Texas Journal of Oil, Gas, and Energy Law, and a leader in the Texas Law Society and Dean’s Fellow Program.
Education
University of Texas School of Law – J.D., 2020
Texas Business Law Society, President
Texas Journal of Oil, Gas, and Energy Law, Staff Editor
Texas Law Society and Dean’s Fellow Program, Society Leader
Texas A&M University – B.S. Economics, magna cum laude, 2017
12th Man Student Foundation, President
Texas A&M Student Senate, Senator
Transportation Services Advisory Committee
Recognitions & Distinctions
Recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, and Litigation – Construction (2024–2026)
Named a Texas Super Lawyers® Rising Star in Construction Litigation by Thomson Reuters (2023–2025)
The top 2.5% of attorneys in the state who are 40 or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less
Dean’s Achievement Award in Texas Venture Labs Practicum
Memberships & Affiliations
Austin Bar Association
Construction Law Section
Austin Young Lawyers Association
State Bar of Texas
Construction Law Section
Litigation Section
University of Texas School of Law Steering Committee
Associated Builders and Contractors South Texas, Governmental Affairs Chair
A principal in the San Antonio office, Alec is a skilled litigator who represents businesses and individuals alike in lawsuits and/or arbitration. His practice includes disputes involving corporate governance, breaches of fiduciary duty, real property rights, commercial construction, residential construction, deceptive trade practices, lease agreements, and the exercise of First Amendment rights. Alec is experienced in post-judgment/collection matters, including fraudulent transfer and creditor rights actions. Alec also has experience drafting and negotiating corporate governance documents, construction contracts, lease agreements, and real property transfers.
Alec serves as counsel to many businesses who utilize his expertise for many of the legal issues that arise during the course of their operations, including drafting and negotiating contracts, resolving disputes before they escalate to litigation, drafting and filing liens, filing and prosecuting lawsuits, defending lawsuits, collecting unpaid balances, and addressing internal conflicts. Alec is also an instrument-rated commercial pilot and has utilized his experience in and knowledge of aviation in representing companies within the aviation industry.
Education
St. Mary’s University School of Law – J.D., magna cum laude, 2018
Managing Executive Editor, St. Mary’s Law Journal, 2017-2018
Phi Delta Phi International Legal Honor Society
The John M. Harlan Society
St. Mary’s University – B.A., summa cum laude, 2014
Recognitions & Distinctions
Recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, Litigation – Construction and Real Estate Law (2022–2026).
Recognized in Top Verdicts® for obtaining the largest jury verdict in Bexar County for real property/construction disputes in 2023 (68th largest jury verdict overall in the State of Texas for 2023).
Rising Star Lawyer by Scene in S.A. (2020-2025).
Representative Experience
Represented a large fixed base operator in the aviation industry in a multi-million dollar lease dispute against a large municipality and ultimately negotiated a favorable high value lease agreement for the client.
Served as lead counsel in obtaining the largest jury verdict for a construction and/or property lawsuit in Bexar County in 2023 (68 largest jury verdict in the State overall for 2023).
Successfully represented a general contractor in a bet-the-company wrongful termination and delay case, including defense of a multi-million-dollar claim for liquidated damages.
Successfully defended a large Texas based general contractor in a breach of contract claim against a subcontractor, ultimately prevailing on a counterclaim for the client and thereafter enforcing and collecting on the judgment through a fraudulent transfer action.
Successfully represented a commercial developer in a million dollar construction defect lawsuit against a large general contractor, all while successfully navigating complex real property issues/disputes with the development’s new owners.
Represented an insurance brokerage firm in a fiduciary duty dispute against a former co-owner in federal court, ultimately recovering 100% of the client’s damages.
Successfully defended business and individuals in claims involving the exercise of First Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution and Texas Constitution.
Successfully represented numerous post-judgment creditors, including large corporations, in collecting their judgments, including prosecuting fraudulent transfer claims.
Defended large general contractors in complex multi-million dollar construction defect cases against various school districts.
Memberships & Affiliations
Texas Bar Association
Texas Bar College
Lawyer-Pilots Bar Association
State Bar of Texas
Construction Law Section
San Antonio Bar Association
San Antonio Young Lawyers’ Association
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Court: Western District of Texas
Michael has extensive experience representing property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers, material suppliers, and design professionals (architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, and MEP engineers) in complex construction and commercial litigation matters. Michael regularly represents general contractors and subcontractors against claims of improper workmanship and defective construction in connection with the development and construction of office buildings, shopping centers, resorts/hotels, apartment complexes, condominium properties, hospitals/medical centers, schools, restaurants, and other commercial properties.
Michael also has extensive experience representing individuals and businesses in personal injury, premises liability, products liability, wrongful death, and other catastrophic loss cases (automobile accidents, trucking accidents, heavy machinery and equipment accidents, workplace accidents, and various other incidents resulting in serious personal injury and death). Michael also has substantial experience handling first-party and third-party claims and lawsuits for insurance companies and their insureds in both property and casualty matters (personal injury claims, storm damage claims, fire losses, personal property claims, uninsured and underinsured motorist claims, and various other losses claimed by commercial and residential policyholders).
Education
St. Mary’s University School of Law – J.D., 2005
University of Innsbruck – Summer 2003
Texas State University – B.A., 2002
Recognitions & Distinctions
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Commercial Litigation and Construction Law (2024–2026)
San Antonio Magazine Top Attorneys – Civil Law Litigation
Scene in S.A. Best Lawyers – Construction Litigation, Business Litigation, and Civil Litigation Defense
Representative Experience
Represented glass panel balcony installer in complex construction defect lawsuit involving a major high-rise hotel property in downtown Austin (owner claimed damages in excess of $10 million resulting from glass panel balcony failure).
Represented paving contractor in construction defect lawsuit concerning the installation of concrete parking lots and bays at a luxury RV and golf resort (owner claimed damages in excess of $8 million for concrete failure).
Represented steel fabricator and erector in construction defect and delay case involving the construction of two large apartment complexes in Austin (owner claimed damages in excess of $5 million resulting from construction delays).
Represented HVAC installer in construction defect lawsuit involving major convention center hotel and resort property in downtown Austin (owner claimed damages in excess of $5 million resulting from claimed construction defects).
Represented commercial tenant in landlord-tenant dispute concerning the lease of a bariatric medical facility in San Antonio (landlord claimed damages in excess of $5 million resulting from tenant’s breach of 15-year commercial lease).
Represented apartment complex owner in insurance coverage lawsuit with commercial insurer concerning extent of covered storm damage at apartment complex property (which consisted of more than 50 buildings and 300+ units). Successfully negotiated a multi-million dollar settlement in favor of the client.
Represented commercial contractor and lumber company in insurance coverage dispute with commercial insurer concerning extent of covered storm damage at corporate headquarters and lumberyard (30 buildings and structures over 15 acres of land). Negotiated substantial settlement in favor of client.
Represented insurance companies in countless first-party insurance claims and lawsuits filed by commercial and residential policyholders concerning the handling and payment of property damage and casualty claims in Texas.
Represented restaurants and bars in various high-profile and widely publicized Dram Shop lawsuits involving claims of serious personal injury and death.
Represented property owners and construction companies in numerous workplace injury lawsuits involving claims of serious injury and death.
Memberships & Affiliations
San Antonio Bar Association
SABA Construction Law Section
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Associated Builders and Contractors
Associated General Contractors
Greater San Antonio Builders Association
Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Courts: Southern and Western Districts of Texas
Kyle A. Zunker focuses on construction law and civil appeals. He has represented contractors, owners, suppliers, and engineers across a wide range of legal, factual, and technical issues on EPC, industrial, and commercial construction projects. He has tried numerous bet-the-company cases to final award for contractors seeking payment and has handled all manner of construction issues, including non-payment, wrongful termination, standard of care, complex project accounting, delays and impacts, liquidated damages, design and construction defects, personal injury and property damage, liens and bonds, con-torts, and more.
As a lawyer who regularly drafts contracts, tries cases in arbitration and court, and handles jury charges and appeals, Kyle advocates with a holistic, cradle-to-grave perspective. He takes ownership over his clients’ problems and works relentlessly to find the best bottom-line solution. When an early resolution is not possible, Kyle is a go-to lawyer in complicated and high-pressure disputes because of his ability to distill voluminous facts and complex issues into succinct and persuasive arguments.
Kyle is a proud husband and father of two boys. He is a published author and writes regularly on Christian apologetics, drawing on his legal training and experience.
Education
Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law – J.D., magna cum laude, 2015
SMU Law Review Association, Staff Editor
Texas Lutheran University – B.A., magna cum laude, 2012
Triple Major in Philosophy, English (Writing Specialization), and Spanish Studies
Recognitions & Distinctions
Recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for Construction Law (2024–2025)
Named a Texas Super Lawyers® Rising Star in Construction Litigation by Thomson Reuters (2024–2025)
The top 2.5% of attorneys in the state who are 40 or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less
Order of the Coif, Southern Methodist University Chapter
Hutchison Scholarship: merit-based, full-tuition scholarship awarded to three students per year at Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law
Representative Experience
Represented Spanish EPCM contractor in multi-party, multi-million-dollar international construction arbitration involving non-payment, delay, quality, and logistics issues arising from $800-million, multi-prime industrial project.
Represented California-based installation subcontractor in multi-million-dollar arbitration regarding contract interpretation and delay and impact claims arising from an industrial construction project.
Represented Texas-based general contractor in bet-the-company wrongful termination and non-payment case, including defense of multi-million-dollar claim for liquidated damages.
Represented Louisiana-based pipeline contractor in multi-million-dollar arbitration regarding delay and additional-cost claims regarding numerous issues, including impact of several major storms that hit a Gulf Coast pipeline project.
Represented Texas-based industrial contractor in multi-million-dollar lawsuit and arbitration regarding complex project accounting and credit application issues arising from a tank-farm project.
Represented California-based industrial contractor in multi-million-dollar claim for increased costs and disputed mid-project contract novation arising from cement plant project.
Represented Texas-based general contractor on appeal, which resulted in reversal of adverse, seven-figure jury verdict and rendition of take-nothing defensive judgment in favor of client. 2021 WL 4754835.
Represented hospital district in multi-million-dollar claims for design deficiencies in new hospital tower project.
Represented religious order in multi-million-dollar claims for design deficiencies and construction defects in new priory.
Has repeatedly represented preeminent general contractors in numerous subcontractor defaults and related performance bond claims.
Has repeatedly represented preeminent general contractors and subcontractors in worksite personal injury and property damage claims.
Speaking Engagements & Presentations
Who Decides Who Decides Who Decides? The Dawn of Fourth-Order Arbitration Disputes, ABA Forum on Construction Law, Division 5, April 21, 2026
Project Documents: Telling the Story, Basic Course in Construction Law, November 21, 2024
Host of The Basic Course in Texas Construction Law, 2022 and 2023
Liens: How to Get Paid, AGC’s The Basics 2020, February 18, 2020
AIA Contract Document Workshop, HalfMoon Education Inc., March 27, 2019
Legal and Insurance Tips for Small Businesses, MAESTRO Entrepreneur Center, November 13, 2018
Contracting & Risk Management, Hispanic Contractors Association, October 12, 2016
Publications
“Construction: the Noisiest Litigation,” ABA Litigation Journal, forthcoming
“Who Decides Who Decides Who Decides? The Dawn of Fourth-Order Arbitration Disputes,” Texas Construction Law Journal, Volume 20, Number 2
“What’s in Your Arbitration Clause?” Construction News, July 2025
“What the construction industry should know about the new Texas Business Court,” Construction News, October 2024
“Don’t “Waive” Goodbye to Your Rights,” Construction News, October 2022
“Design Defects: a New Law and an Old Rule,” Construction News, August 2021
“Can a GC sue an architect for bad plans?” Construction News, December 2015
Memberships & Affiliations
State Bar of Texas
Construction Section
Young Lawyer Representative (statewide) (2022–2024)
Chairperson on Young Lawyer Committee (San Antonio) (2019–2020, 2022–2024)
Appellate Section
American Bar Association
Forum on Construction Law
Litigation Section
San Antonio Bar Association
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
United States District Courts: Southern and Western Districts of Texas
Other Languages
Spanish
Community Involvement
Pearl Street Church, Advisory Board (2017 – current)
Associated Builders and Contractors, South Texas Chapter, Future Leaders’ Initiative, Chair (2021)
United Way of San Antonio, Emerging Leaders Council (2018 – 2020)
Kerry Sonsino is a seasoned attorney in civil practice. She has substantial experience in all aspects of litigation, with a focus on first-party and third-party insurance defense, general liability, construction, consumer law, and personal injury and wrongful death defense. Kerry is a valued asset to Cokinos | Young, with a diverse legal background, having worked on a broad scope of cases involving governmental entities, landlord/tenant disputes, deceptive trade-consumer law, and business entities, as well as bankruptcy, probate, and appellate law. Kerry was the Head Articles Editor of the Houston Journal of International Law and a published author in the journal prior to her editorship.
Education
University of Houston College of Law – J.D., 1988
Head Articles Editor
Houston Journal of International Law
The University of Wisconsin at Madison – B.A. International Relations, 1985
Recognitions & Distinctions
AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating possible
Recipient of the Mike Levy Young Leadership Award
Publications
Author: “Legal Obstacles to Combating State-Sponsored Terrorism,” 10 Hou. J. Int’l Law 159 (1987)
Memberships & Affiliations
State Bar of Texas, Member
Federal Bar Association, Member
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Court: Western District of Texas
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
United States Supreme Court
Community Involvement
Jewish Community Center, Board of Directors
American-Israel Public Affairs Committee, Member and San Antonio Council Co-Chair
National Conference of Synagogue Youth, San Antonio Parent Committee
Stephanie O’Rourke is a member of the firm’s litigation practice group and manages the firm’s San Antonio office. Her practice focuses on representing general contractors and industrial contractors in construction disputes, as well as businesses in complex disputes. She has a wealth of litigation experience and is consistently asked to present at workshops and seminars on contracts, liens, and bonds. Stephanie’s expertise in construction litigation has earned her recognition from numerous publications and organizations. Stephanie is Board Certified in Construction Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Stephanie is a member of the American College of Construction Lawyers and was the first lawyer from San Antonio inducted into this invitation-only organization. Stephanie is the Past Chair of the State Bar of Texas Construction Law Section and currently serves on the Board of Directors of Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) – San Antonio. Stephanie is ranked by Chambers USA.
Education
St. Mary’s University – J.D., 1988
University of South Carolina – B.A., 1984
Certifications
Board Certified in Construction Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Recognitions & Distinctions
American College of Construction Lawyers Fellow
First San Antonio attorney selected and inducted into the prestigious American College of Construction Lawyers, an invitation-only association of the top 1% of construction lawyers in North America
Named as one of San Antonio’s 2023 and 2024 Top Attorneys – San Antonio Magazine
Named as one of San Antonio’s 2023 Outstanding Women in Law – Scene in SA Magazine
Named as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of San Antonio for 2022 & 2023 by Women We Admire
Named as one of the Top Women Leaders of San Antonio for 2024
Named as one of the Women in the Law Top Peer-Nominated Lawyers for 2022 by Best Lawyers
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, and Litigation – Construction (2018–2026)
Recognized by Best Lawyers® as the “Lawyer of the Year” for Construction Law in San Antonio in 2026
Recognized by Best Lawyers® as the “Lawyer of the Year” for Construction Litigation in San Antonio in 2022
Texas Diversity Council – 2022 Texas Legal Diversity Summit Top Women Award, 2022
America’s Most Honored Lawyers 2020-2023 (Top 1% of lawyers in the United States receive the award)
Named as one of San Antonio’s Outstanding Women in Law in 2021 – Construction Litigation by S.A. Scene magazine
Chambers USA: Ranked Lawyer in Texas Construction Law (2020–2025)
Named a Texas Super Lawyer in Construction Litigation by Thomson Reuters (2012–2025)
Fewer than 5% of attorneys in the state are selected annually
Named by her peers as one of San Antonio’s Best Lawyers by S.A. Scene magazine (2010, 2012–2014, 2016–2020)
1st Annual Best S.A. Female Lawyer by Scene in S.A.
Texas Top Attorneys – Texas Monthly – November 2020
AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating possible
2019 Trademark Women of Distinction
Named Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation (2018–2019)
Honoree for the Outstanding Lawyers Awards 2019, presented by the San Antonio Business Journal
Lawyer of Distinction, Construction Law (2019–2023)
Lawyer of Distinction, Civil Litigation (2020–2023)
Litigator of the Year, American Institute of Trial Lawyers
Honoree for the Outstanding Lawyers Awards 2019, presented by the San Antonio Business Journal
National Alliance of Attorneys – “Attorney of the Year 2021 – Civil Litigation”
District 10 Nominating Committee, Texas Bar Foundation
Member, AGC Consulting Constructors’ Council of America
American Institute of Legal Professionals, Lawyer of the Year, Civil Litigation 2021
American Academy of Attorneys, Top 100 2021, Civil Litigation
Representative Experience
Represented general contractor in South Texas against claims of defective work and liquidated damages in excess of $15 million. Successfully defeated claims and prevailed on client’s claims.
Represented international EPC contractor against claims of liquidated damages and defective equipment.
Represented EPC contractor in AAA dispute. Successfully defended claim in excess of $12 million and prevailed on client’s contract claims.
Represented general contractor in arbitration against claims of liquidated damages in excess of $15 million. Successfully prevailed against the owner’s claims and prevailed on general contractor’s claims.
Represented international company in ICC dispute. Successfully defended against claims in excess of $20 million and prevailed on client’s contract claims.
Determined the validity and priority of liens in a large construction dispute between owner, general contractor, and subcontractors.
Drafted, reviewed, and advised on all contract documents with suppliers and general contractors for a multimillion-dollar, statewide concrete contractor.
Filed mechanics and materialman liens for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers throughout Texas. Represent lien claimant in foreclosure and collection proceedings.
Represent multiple real estate developers in various aspects, including contract resolution and disputes.
Represented a partner of a limited liability company against allegations of breach of fiduciary duty brought by remaining partners of an automotive service company.
Represented a nursing home facility against a claim of breach of fiduciary duty against an individual whose partnership rights were terminated.
Represent insurance companies in statewide first and third-party cases.
Represent a childcare facility on all labor & employment matters, EEOC rules, as well as general policy and legal matters.
Act as counsel for a multimillion-dollar commercial real estate developer. Handle all real estate transactions and contracts as well as litigation matters.
In 2013 alone, tried 3 significant arbitrations and prevailed against the City of Edinburg, a Zachary entity, and against a multi-million dollar claim.
Represent industrial contractor in all claims across the United States.
Represent general contractors throughout Texas on construction defect claims.
Speaking Engagements & Presentations
“The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Insurance: bad exclusions and best practices,” Associated General Contractors (February 2026)
“Texas Lien and Bond Claims: An Overview,” Associated General Contractors (November 2025)
“Killer Contracts Provisions: Recognizing, Evaluating and Managing Contract Risk (With An Emphasis on Tariffs),” Associated General Contractors (August 2025)
“Texas Lien and Bond Claims: An Overview,” Associated Builders and Contractors (May 2025)
“Killer Contracts Provisions: Recognizing, Evaluating and Managing Contract Risk,” Associated General Contractors (July 2024)
“Killer Contract Provisions,” Associated General Contractors (August 2023)
“Construction Contracts,” Associated General Contractors (September 2022)
“Texas Lien Laws,” Associated General Contractors (June 2022)
“Killer Contract Provisions: Recognizing, Evaluating and Managing Contract Risk,” Associated General Contractors (April 2022)
“Legislative Update,” Associated General Contractors-Rio Grande Valley Chapter (January 2022)
“Modernizing Commercial Liens – Is HB 2237 Better?” Associated General Contractors – Texas Building Branch (July 2021)
“The Pitfalls of Factoring; The Do’s and Don’ts,” Associated Builders and Contractors (January 2021)
“COVID-19 is Changing Everything – Including Contracts and Insurance Policies,” CFMA (December 2020)
“The Impact of COVID-19 and How to Prepare,” Associated General Contractors (March 2020)
“Force Majeure Clauses,” Associated Builders and Contractors (March 2020)
“Construction Law and Risk Mitigation,” I-LinCp Risk Management Seminar (June 2019)
“Effective Client Counseling,” Bexar County Women’s Bar Annual Retreat (June 2019)
“Construction Contract Clauses: What the CPA Needs to Understand, ” CICPAC Webinar (January 2018)
“They Creak, They Crack, They Crumble: A Review of Spooky Construction Projects,” Texas A&M University (October 2017)
“Navigating Construction Contracts & Legal Updates,” Eilan Hotel (September 2017)
“Unforeseen Conditions and the Unexpected,” Texas A&M COCSI Law (December 2016)
“Killer Contract Clauses,” Hispanic Contractors Association (September 2016)
“Lien and Construction Contract Updates,” sponsored by The Construction Zone (San Antonio, Texas, January 2014)
“Killer Contract Clauses and Case Law Update on Ewing v Amerisure,” Insource Insurance (June 2014)
“Texas Legislative Session,” seminar sponsored by Guaranty Insurance Services (San Antonio, Texas, November 2011)
“Construction Contracts: How to Negotiate Key Contract Provisions,” sponsored by Guaranty Insurance (San Antonio, Texas, 2010)
Publications
S.L. O’Rourke and C.C. Trevino, “TEXAS: An Introduction to Construction,” Chambers and Partners (April 2022)
S.L. O’Rourke, “The Duality and Burdens of Substantial Performance,” (February 2021)
S.L. O’Rourke, “You’re insured against the big-ticket rip and tear damages, right?” Construction News – Legal Column (October 2015)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Supreme Court Revitalizes Strength of Forum-Selection Clauses,” ABC’s Construction Executive Magazine (2014, June)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Negotiating Construction Contracts,” Institute for Strategic Negotiations – National Webinar (January 2012)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Texas Legislative Updates,” paper presented at the 24thAnnual Construction Law Conference (San Antonio, Texas, December 2011)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Collecting the Judgment: Collection Law From Start to Finish,” paper presented at the National Business Institute (San Antonio, Texas, October 2010)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Multi-Party Property Damage Claims from the General Contractor’s Perspective,” paper presented at the 22nd Annual Construction Law Conference (San Antonio, Texas, 2009)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Can the Insured Forfeit Coverage?” State Bar of Texas – CLE (2004)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Basic’s mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens; The use and Abuse of Article 21.55,” South Texas College of Law (Houston, Texas, 2004)
S.L. O’Rourke, “Dealing with Counterclaims and Defenses,” State Bar of Texas Advanced Creditors’ Rights Course (1996)
Memberships & Affiliations
San Antonio Bar Association Construction Law Section
Chair (2022–2024)
Secretary (2021–2022)
Board Member
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) South Texas Chapter
Chair Elect (2022–2023)
Board of Directors: Executive Committee Secretary
Chairman for Political Action Committee
Chairman for Governmental Affairs Committee (2011–2013)
Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) San Antonio
Board of Directors
State Bar of Texas: Litigation and Construction Law Sections
Chair (2021–2022)
Appointed Council Member (2009–2012)
Secretary of Construction Law Section (2018)
Treasurer of Construction Law Section (2019)
Texas Board of Legal Specialization: Construction Law Advisory Commission
American College of Construction Lawyers
Consulting Constructors’ Council of America
Kendall County Bar Association
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Defense Research Institution: San Antonio Construction Law Section
Associated General Contractors
TADC Nominating Committee (2014–2015)
CFMA Board of Directors (Past)
Admissions
State Bar of Texas
United States District Courts: Northern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
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