About Us
Founded in 1912 and proudly rooted in Houston, Crain Caton & James is a distinguished law firm with a rich history and a forward-thinking approach. With a team of 44 talented attorneys, we provide exceptional legal services while fostering a collegial and supportive environment.
Our Culture
At Crain Caton & James, we believe that a strong sense of client service and community are the backbone of our success. Our attorneys are empowered to prioritize the needs of our clients while also being entrepreneurial in their practices. We value collaboration, respect, and mutual support, making our firm a great place to grow your career.
Empowerment And
Innovation
We encourage our attorneys to think creatively in their approach to legal challenges and client service. You will have the freedom to innovate in billing and practice areas, allowing you to make a real impact in your field while ensuring our clients receive top-notch representation.
Work-Life Balance
We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our firm is committed to supporting our attorneys’ well-being, offering flexible work arrangements and a supportive environment that prioritizes both professional and personal fulfillment.
Exceptional Support Staff
Our administrative staff is second to none. With superior management and dedicated support, our attorneys can focus on what they do best—practicing law. This enables you to serve clients effectively and efficiently, backed by an excellent support system.
Firm Culture
At Crain Caton & James, we believe firm culture matters. We’ve built a collegial, collaborative environment where people enjoy coming to work—because when you spend a significant part of your life at the office, it should be a place that supports you professionally and personally. Over 40% of our staff have been with the firm for more than a decade, a testament to the value we place on respect, support, and long-term relationships. Our attorneys, too, tend to build lasting careers here drawn by meaningful work, the freedom to shape their own practices, and a culture that genuinely cares.
Objective Compensation
We believe in transparency and fairness. Our compensation structure is objective, ensuring that your contributions are recognized and rewarded appropriately.
Why Choose Us?
At Crain Caton & James, we offer more than just a job, we offer a place to build a rewarding legal career. Our culture is built on respect, trust, and meaningful work, with a strong emphasis on professional growth, work-life balance, and long-term career development.
- Heritage of Excellence: Join a firm with over a century of experience in the legal field.
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside talented colleagues who are committed to each other’s success.
- Growth Opportunities: Take advantage of professional development programs and monthly CLE programs.
- Community Focus: Engage in community service initiatives that reflect our Texas pride.
- Innovative Practice: Leverage modern technology and industry leading software to deliver efficient, high-quality results.
- Outstanding Support: Work with an exceptional team of professional staff who bring years of experience and a deep commitment to supporting our attorneys’ success and client service excellence.
Open Positions
Candidates should be able to handle hearings independently, take and defend depositions, prepare and respond to written discovery, as well as draft pleadings, motions, and other legal briefing. Candidates will also be expected to assist with trial preparation and may be asked to participate in trial as second or third chair. Excellent research and writing skills are required. Handling a case from start to finish would be a plus. Candidates will need to learn probate law if no experience.
This position requires excellent writing and verbal abilities, attention to detail, working independently, and good judgment. At least 2-3 years of litigation experience
Please send salary requirement, resume, cover letter and writing sample to employment@craincaton.com
Submissions without a salary requirement will not be considered.
Crain Caton & James is actively seeking a litigation group to join our firm in Houston. This opportunity is well suited for an established team—up to three attorneys and a paralegal—interested in transitioning their practice to a multi-practice firm with deep roots in the Houston legal community.
For the right group, this is not a lateral move—it is a platform.
Why Crain Caton & James?
Founded more than a century ago, Crain Caton & James offers the infrastructure, reputation, and support of a well-established firm while preserving an entrepreneurial culture that values autonomy and growth. The firm has also invested in Thomson Reuters AI-powered legal research and drafting tools, which are integrated into our litigation practices to improve efficiency, enhance analytical rigor, and elevate the quality and consistency of work product delivered to clients.
We are open to a range of litigation specialties, including commercial, business, banking, fiduciary, employment, and related litigation matters.
Key advantages include:
- Professional Environment
A collegial, high-caliber practice environment that emphasizes quality work, ethical standards, and long-term client relationships. - Modern legal technology
Firm-wide access to advanced Thomson Reuters’ Westlaw Advantage and CoCounsel AI-infused legal research which supports efficient legal research, strong written advocacy, and consistent, high-quality work product—enabling litigators to devote more time to strategy, client service, and courtroom advocacy. - Experienced Management and Administrative Support
Our attorneys are supported by a seasoned management team and skilled administrative staff, allowing lawyers to focus on practicing law rather than law office management. - Entrepreneurial Culture and Attorney Autonomy
We value initiative, business development, and practice growth. The firm respects existing client relationships and supports attorneys in maintaining and expanding their practices within the firm structure. - Objective Compensation Structure
Compensation is determined using objective criteria that reward performance, productivity, and growth and cooperation, providing transparency and predictability for attorneys and their teams. - Financial Stability
Crain Caton & James is debt-free, providing long-term stability and flexibility in decision-making—an increasingly rare advantage in today’s legal market. - Seamless Transition and Long-Term Opportunity
For groups currently operating as a small office, joining our firm can eliminate administrative burdens while preserving professional independence. This opportunity may be particularly attractive to groups seeking long-term growth, succession planning, or a stable platform for the next generation of their practice.
Explore the Possibilities
We invite interested groups to explore our firm and culture at craincaton.com and consider how joining Crain Caton & James could support the next phase of your practice.
Interested parties should contact us at employment@craincaton.com.
All inquiries will be handled discreetly and confidentially.
Crain Caton & James is an equal opportunity employer and encourages inquiries from diverse backgrounds.
10 plus year attorney needed to work in the probate, guardianship and trust litigation with experience in related administration of estates, trusts and guardianships.
Candidates should be an experienced litigator having first chaired trials and one who enjoys the courtroom. Having worked in probate/fiduciary litigation is preferred. A small book of business is needed along with the willingness to help others in the probate/fiduciary litigation section.
Excellent research and writing skills are required. Please send cover letter and resume to:
Established, financially strong law firm with 40+ lawyers in downtown Houston is seeking corporate/commercial transactions attorney to fill growing client demands.
Qualified candidates must have:
- At least 10 years (partners) of legal experience (law firm experience preferred) in the following areas:
- Forming and organizing business entities and joint ventures, including limited liability companies, limited partnerships, corporations, series LLCs and professional entities
- Experience drafting governing documents, buy-sell agreements, resolutions and other operating documents for business entities is essential
- Merging, converting, winding up and terminating business entities, including drafting of all required filing and internal documents, such as merger/conversion/termination plans
- Drafting and negotiating asset and entity purchases and sales for clients in various industries, including drafting of purchase agreements, financing agreements and related transaction documents
- Drafting and negotiating real estate investment and professional partnerships (including background in deal structure and tax matters) and real estate private placement/exempt offerings
- A wide range of corporate, M&A or commercial transactions, including strategic analysis, due diligence and negotiations
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of complex commercial contracts, including NDAs, MSAs, RE purchase agreements, leases, purchase agreements for products and services, and software license and services agreements
- Hands-on (lead counsel) experience in the areas listed above is essential
- Superb verbal and written communication skills
- Superior judgment and business acumen, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work independently
- Some portable business
Qualified candidates who are interested in learning more about this opportunity are encouraged to send a resume and cover letter to employment@craincaton.com. All inquiries will be held in strictest confidence.
This position requires a minimum of 15 years of experience. Fewer years’ experience may be acceptable for well-qualified candidates.
We are looking for a dedicated candidate with well-developed legal and client management skills.
Must have excellent drafting skills.
Portable business is a requirement. A former in-house counsel may be a good fit if the candidate is coming from a private law firm with a book of business.
Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and be able to manage and meet deadlines.
The position involves:
- Drafting and negotiating complex retail / shopping center leases.
- Drafting and negotiating complex purchase and sale agreements for retail and other real estate.
- Drafting complex real estate documents, including easements and restrictive covenants.
- Advising clients on strategy on leasing, acquisition and real estate litigation matters
At least 10 years of experience in Bankruptcy Practice
Candidates must demonstrate:
- Proficiency in handling cases in Bankruptcy Courts
- Exceptional knowledge of Chapter 7 and 11 bankruptcies
- Willingness to collaborate with attorneys in practice areas which could contribute to servicing clients involved in a variety of bankruptcy matters; e.g., banking law, real estate law.
- Attention to detail and excellent organizational abilities
- Outstanding verbal and written skills
Candidates will:
- Have extensive experience in bankruptcy procedure, litigation, work-outs, distressed debts, and sale of distressed assets, etc.
- Be proficient in handling Chapter 11 matters, including calculation and filing of claims, adversarial proceedings, contested matters, and confirmation proceedings and related bankruptcy disputes
- Develop appropriate legal analysis and strategy for client’s situation
- Represent clients from a wide variety of industries
- Have substantial knowledge of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, financing and financial transactions, mechanics liens and debt collection
- Have some experience in commercial litigation
- Be licensed in the State of Texas and in the Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western Districts
- Bring portable business to complement Firm-generated business
Depending on candidate, hybrid work arrangement will be considered. Compensation will be commensurate with experience.
What We Seek
We welcome applications from talented attorneys who share our values and commitment to excellence. Ideal candidates will:
- Demonstrate exceptional legal skills and dedication to client service.
- Be innovative thinkers with a collaborative mindset.
- Value a supportive workplace culture.
- Contribute to the firm’s and their success.
How To Apply
If you are ready to take the next step in your legal career, we want to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and why you would be a great fit for our team to employment@craincaton.com. All resumes will be strictly confidential.
Testimonials
This firm offers a path for career development, allowing attorneys to expand their expertise and take on meaningful responsibilities based on their abilities and not years of practice.
Darlene Payne Smith
Shareholder & Mediator
Crain Caton & James benefits from a collaborative environment where colleagues readily share ideas, insight, and encouragement to form stronger relationships and produce unparalleled results.
William P. Jensen
Shareholder
We empower our attorneys and staff to take initiative, contribute ideas, and develop their skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Thomas Ivey
Executive Director
This firm gives attorneys the tools, support, and flexibility to build a rewarding career without sacrificing what matters most in life.
Greg S. DeVries
Associate
As a parent, having the option to work reduced hours so I can spend more time with our children has been invaluable. This is a place that truly respects both career and family.
Lisa K. Lowenstein
Associate
We recruit for the client team, looking for personnel who will collaborate to meet the different aspects of the each client’s goals, whether as team leader or as a new team member.
James E. Hudson III
Shareholder
How We Support The Community
Houston Marathon – Crain Caton & James is proud of Brant Kotch’s leadership and enduring support of the Houston Marathon, one of the city’s most iconic athletic and civic events. For more than 30 years, Brant—Senior Counsel at the firm—has played a central role in shaping the Marathon’s growth, visibility, and charitable reach.
From his early days as a volunteer to serving as Race Director and longtime Board President, Brant has helped elevate the event to international prominence. His leadership has also advanced community-focused initiatives like the Run for a Reason Charity Program, which has raised nearly $40 million for local nonprofits.
Brant’s upcoming induction into the 2026 Houston Marathon Committee Hall of Fame is a testament to his vision, dedication, and impact. We are honored to celebrate this achievement and support his continued commitment to the Marathon and the Houston community.
Adopt-an-Angel – This past holiday season, under the leadership of Trey Gifford, Crain Caton & James proudly joined the Houston Young Lawyers Foundation (HYLF) in bringing holiday magic to children across the Houston area through the Adopt-an-Angel Program. Embracing the true spirit of giving, the firm adopted 69 angels—local children in need—each one with a holiday wish list in hand and hope in their hearts.
The firm’s team of generous “elves,” made up of attorneys and staff, rallied together to make those wishes a reality. From shopping for toys and clothing to wrapping gifts with care, every package delivered was filled with joy, warmth, and the message that someone cares.
This effort was part of a larger movement across Houston’s legal community. Last year, law firms came together to adopt an incredible 3,600 angels. With the need growing—HISD requested help for 10,000 children this year, Crain Caton & James adopted 67.
At Crain Caton & James, community service isn’t just a tradition—it’s a core value. Supporting the Adopt-an-Angel Program reflects the firm’s commitment to making a difference, one child, one wish, and one smile at a time.
First Community Cares Program – Crain Caton & James was delighted to support the First Community Cares Foundation’s inaugural golf tournament! At First Community Credit Union, community care is at the core of everything they do. From supporting education initiatives to empowering families, First Community Cares Foundation ‘s mission is to uplift and engage our communities. With the assistance of sponsors like Crain Caton & James, they can continue making a meaningful impact and helping our community reach new heights.
Cherish Our Children – is a Houston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children of incarcerated parents. With an estimated 92,000 children in Harris County affected by parental incarceration, COCI focuses on creating sustainable solutions to support these vulnerable youth. Their programs, such as GEMS (Gaining Empowerment in Middle School), provide social, emotional, and academic support to help break the cycle of intergenerational.
Rob Wisner, Advisor of the COCI Board of Directors, formerly Board Chairman, was instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission. Under his leadership, COCI has expanded its reach within Houston, offering programs that serve middle and high school students experiencing the trauma of parental incarceration. Wisner’s commitment to the cause has been recognized by the organization’s Executive Director, who extended special appreciation for his efforts in supporting the staff and board.
Through the combined efforts of COCI and dedicated individuals like Rob Wisner, children of incarcerated parents in Houston are receiving the support they need to overcome challenges and build brighter futures.
Lawyers for Literacy – Crain Caton & James proudly supported the Houston Bar Association’s Lawyers for Literacy Book Drive, an initiative dedicated to promoting literacy throughout the Houston community. This year’s drive focused on collecting new and gently used books for readers of all ages, with special emphasis on children’s books for infants through teens. The donated books were distributed to local charitable organizations, including shelters and hospitals. Mindy Riseden, a shareholder in the firm’s litigation practice, led the program on behalf of the Houston Bar, encouraging broad participation from law firms, legal departments, and individuals across the city.
Friends of Fondren Library -Rice University – proudly recognized Karen and Larry George for their extraordinary dedication to the mission of strengthening Fondren Library—Rice University’s intellectual heart. Through years of service, leadership, and philanthropy, the Georges have played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s efforts to enhance the library’s spaces, programs, and collections in support of students, faculty, and researchers.
As champions of the library’s mission, Karen and Larry have made a lasting impact. Karen George, a Rice trustee emeritus and longtime university advocate, has contributed her time and insight across a wide range of advisory roles at Rice. Her leadership has helped shape academic programs, support women’s athletics, and promote the arts. She has also been a devoted voice for the resources and learning environment Fondren Library offers the Rice community.
Larry George, an estate planning attorney and shareholder at Crain Caton & James, has served on the Board of Directors of Friends of Fondren Library, where he has worked to further the organization’s goal of enriching Fondren’s ability to serve as a dynamic, inclusive center for learning. Together, Karen and Larry co-chaired the 2016 Friends of Fondren Gala, mobilizing support and raising funds to ensure the library continues to grow and evolve.
Their recognition is a reflection of the deep appreciation the organization holds for their years of service. Their contributions underscore the essential role private support plays in preserving and expanding the university’s library system.
Crain Caton & James is honored to celebrate Larry and Karen George’s remarkable commitment to Rice University and the Friends of Fondren Library. Their example is a testament to the lasting power of generosity, leadership, and love of learning.
Ready to take the next step?
At Crain Caton & James, we offer more than a career—we offer a place to grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact. Our firm combines challenging legal work with a supportive, collegial culture where attorneys and staff are truly valued. We recognize and appreciate all of our attorneys and administrative personnel for their unique contributions, perspectives, and strengths. With a strong tradition of excellence, opportunities for advancement, and a team that cares about your success, Crain Caton & James is where you can build the career you’ve been working toward.
Explore our current opportunities and see why so many professionals choose to grow with us.
