George “Trey” Gifford III joins Crain Caton & James as a new associate in the Fiduciary Litigation and Probate, Trust and Guardianship Practice Areas. Trey received his J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center and his B.A. in Economics and English from the University of Texas in Austin.  He recently passed the Texas Bar Exam and is licensed to practice in Texas.

While taking classes in trial advocacy and in wills, trusts, and estate law, Trey realized his passion for both litigation and probate. This journey led him to join the UHLC Mock Trial Team and Alternate Dispute Resolution Team, where he performed as a premier competitor. He also participated in the Civil Practice Clinic, where he represented clients seeking civil remedies. In that role, he drafted wills, wrote motions for summary judgment, and examined witnesses in an ad litem capacity.  At the recommendation of a law professor, Trey decided to join Crain Caton & James.

While in law school, Trey was a court intern for Judge Christopher Morales, Fort Bend County Court No. 1, where he handled probate, criminal and civil issues.  He was also a legal intern for the Fort Bend District Attorney’s Office, where he researched and wrote memoranda on asset forfeiture, constitutionality in vehicular stops, and other related matters.

Darlene Payne Smith, a shareholder in the Fiduciary Litigation and Probate, Trust and Guardianship Practice, is delighted with the addition of Trey.  She states, “With the addition of Trey, we have rounded out our practice area.  We now have attorneys who are starting their careers through senior attorneys with years of experience.  We appreciate the fellow law professor who suggested that Trey join Crain Caton & James and we look forward to watching him flourish and build his legal career at our Firm.”