I am a trial lawyer dedicated to helping executives and others protect their rights. You worked hard for your position, salary, and benefits (stock, health insurance, etc.), and I’ll work just as hard to protect them. Since 1994, our Firm has negotiated thousands of settlements, including severance packages, for executives, "c"-level officers, senior-level management, and others. You will want a seasoned trial lawyer handling your negotiations from the beginning so that you are fully protected in the event you find yourself in litigation — which is typically an avenue of last resort. You will also want an attorney undaunted by the people trampling your rights. I have taken the depositions of CEOs, judges, mayors, police chiefs, company owners, chairmen of boards of directors, and others who oftentimes act like they are above the law. This experience is a reality check for many when they are called to task under oath and the truth is exposed. Since graduating from South Texas College of Law in 1993, I’d say that, other than negotiating settlements, the cross-examination of witnesses (at trial and at deposition) is my favorite thing to do.

Of equal import, our Firm has a great reputation among employment defense lawyers in Texas and across the United States. We have worked hard since establishing the Firm in 1994 to earn and protect our good name, so we know what’s at stake when your employer attempts to take yours from you. Although some of our case successes are listed on this website, feel free to call me to discuss our Firm’s specific experience handling cases involving issues such as yours. For example, just recently I won a $3.2 million sexual harassment verdict against a former judge. For that victory, I was named "Litigator of the Week" by Texas Lawyer. I also have the honor of having handled a whistleblower lawsuit involving the City of Houston, Texas, which resulted in what I believe is the largest such jury verdict against the City. My client, Sam Levingston, was awarded in excess of $1.2 million, plus attorney’s fees. I have also successfully handled multi-state class action claims against Starbucks and Brinker International. These are not meant to be fully inclusive, nor as guarantees of success, but are a reflection of the commitment I make to each case I accept. Whether your issue involves Sarbanes-Oxley, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, state-enacted whistleblower laws, discrimination, breach of employment contracts, or wage violations (including class actions), I will dedicate the Firm’s resources to protect your rights.

Although I was born in Chicago, the fine State of Texas has been my home since 1977. I am licensed to practice law in Texas, and in other federal jurisdictions. If a case involves people or issues in other states, we’ll travel or retain local counsel to ensure we are on a level playing field. No matter what you decide, I want you to find counsel with whom you fit. You should select a law firm with deep, relevant experience. Please call or email me so that we can explore whether Shellist | Lazarz | Slobin, can be of assistance.

Martin A. Shellist

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