Overview
Kristi has been called an “excellent advocate for her client” by opposing counsel and considers this to be one of the best compliments any attorney can receive. Throughout her career she has handled the defense of general contractors and subcontractors on claims arising from job site injuries and deaths as well as complex commercial and residential construction defect claims. In addition to her representation of her construction clients, she also thrives on representing businesses and individuals on claims ranging from relatively minor personal injuries to substantial commercial disputes. She is an experienced litigator who has represented clients before courts and arbitrators throughout the state of Texas and has also been admitted to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and the United States Supreme Court to continue to represent her clients when appeals arise.
Whether she is consulted pre-suit to attempt to avoid litigation or is engaged to represent the client’s interest in litigation, Kristi’s focus is identifying and effectuating a defense strategy to obtain the best possible outcome for her client in the courtroom, before an arbitrator or arbitration panel, or at the bargaining table. Kristi’s achievements and skill in the representation of her clients have been recognized by multiple selections as a Texas Rising Star by Thomson Reuters. She is also a frequently requested speaker and has been honored to present multiple Continuing Education courses to fellow attorneys, adjusters, and risk managers throughout her career.
Kristi grew up in the Houston area and has made the DFW area her home since beginning her legal career. When not practicing law, Kristi enjoys spending time with her family and spoiling her dachshund.
Experience
Experience
Lizanetz v. St. Paul Insurance Co.; Northern District of Texas- jury verdict in favor of insurer in UIM case involving traumatic brain injury
Rodriguez v. Virginia Cook Realtors; 91st Judicial District Court; jury verdict in favor of property manager defendant in premises defect case
Hernandez v. Sims; 219th Judicial District Court; obtained summary judgment for client in auto accident case
Huffman v. Schotten; 401st Judicial District Court; directed verdict in jury trial in favor of defendant in dog attack case
Lamar v. Western Transportation, et al; County Court at Law of Panola County; obtained verdict in bench trial of less than 1/3rd of Plaintiffs’ prior demand in auto accident case involving significant medical; able to significantly reduce Plaintiffs’ alleged damages in pre-trial motion practice
Rodriguez v. Cappa Granite; 352nd District Court; jury trial involving alleged traumatic brain injury; successfully excluded substantial damages evidence sought by Plaintiff in pre-trial motion practice and obtained verdict for significantly less than amount offered to Plaintiff at mediation
Finch v. RLS Supermarkets; 162nd Judicial District Court; obtained summary judgment in favor of supermarket in slip and fall case
Penn v. Mercedes Benz Financial; Arbitration; Obtained arbitration award in favor of dealership and financing company in breach of lease claim
Huang v. Park Place; 429th Judicial District Court; obtained summary judgment in favor of auto dealership on negligence claim
Lozado v. Fassler; United State District Court for the Northern District of Texas; obtained summary judgment in favor of client on negligence and negligent entrustment claims.
Professional & Community
Honors & Recognitions
Texas Rising Star, Thomson Reuters 2016
Texas Rising Star, Thomson Reuters 2017
Community & Professional
State Bar of Texas
Dallas Bar Association
Collin County Bar Association
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Texas Exes, Life Member
The Bar Association for the Fifth Circuit
News & Events
News
Speaking Engagements
Publications & Presentations
Legislative Update; TADC Winter Seminar, Jan. 2022
Third Party Liability & Construction Indemnity; TADC Spring Seminar, May 2022
Practice Areas
Education
J.D., Baylor University School of Law, 2007
- Multiple Dean's List Selection
- Order of the Barristers
- Academic Excellence Scholarship Recipient
B.A., University of Texas at Austin, with honors, 2004
Admissions
- Texas, 2007
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas
- U.S. District Court Southern District of Texas
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Texas
- U.S. District Court Western District of Texas
- U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit
- United States Supreme Court