Bruinooge, Thomas H

Robert Browning champions the cause of professionals who are being sued. Along with the other types of litigation he handles, Mr. Browning defends attorneys, accountants, real estate agents, insurance agents, pharmacists, doctors, and others against professional liability claims. These cases often require him to offer more than a vigorous defense against a lawsuit or grievance.

In one particular matter, he represented a solo attorney whose client filed a grievance after his case was dismissed and the attorney failed to inform him. After multiple confrontations with the client, the lawyer finally admitted that the case had been dismissed. The client then filed a grievance. The solo attorney subsequently sought Mr. Browning's counsel.

After reviewing the facts and considering the likely outcome before the grievance committee, Mr. Browning immediately referred the lawyer to the State Bar of Texas' Professional Enhancement Program and the Law Office Management Program to help evaluate his practice and change his office procedures. He also advised the lawyer to reimburse the original client for expenses.

In their response to the grievance committee, Mr. Browning argued that the attorney understood the severity of the actions and had taken remedial steps. The end result was that no penalty was assessed against the attorney/client.

Drawing upon his expertise at defending professionals, Mr. Browning authors many articles and edits a professional liability newsletter. He takes pride in writing on everyday issues that real professionals face in day-to-day practice.

Mr. Browning earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia in 1992 and his law degree from the University of Houston Law Center in 1996. He is a Member of the Texas Association of Defense Counsel; Defense Research Institute; and the Houston Bar Association, Fee Dispute Committee; and is a past President of the Eastwood Civic Association.