Brandy M. Austin

Managing Attorney

Location: Arlington, Texas
Phone: 817-841-9906
800-958-4948
Fax: 817-484-0280

As founder and managing attorney of Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC, Brandy Austin has worked hard to build an innovative law firm that caters to the legal needs of each client, provides professional growth opportunities for each team member, and gives back to the community. She strives to create a diverse team of legal professionals that provides innovative, high-quality, and cost-effective legal services to the everyday person and small business. Brandy frequently represents the underdog against big businesses and insurance companies. She also represents small businesses and business owners who are taken advantage of or who often give more than they receive. As a business owner herself, she shares a special connection and understanding with small business owners and their families.

Brandy Austin manages all the business, financial, marketing, and administrative aspects of the firm. She also supervises client accounts and each department’s case assignments and assists in more complex matters. Committed to the success of happy employees and a positive work-life balance, Brandy has created an inclusive team culture that celebrates individuality and promotes diversity.

Brandy Austin focuses her personal legal practice on multiple types of litigation, including personal injury, business disputes, probate, and contested family law. Brandy has tried multiple cases to verdict and is the lead member of the firm trial team.

Educated clients is one of the founding principles of the firm. Brandy Austin strives to simplify the legal process, automate the routine office tasks, and streamline the typical case process. One way Brandy educates her clients is by hosting a weekly Facebook and YouTube Live show – Disclosure: Live with Brandy Austin Law. Each episode is dedicated to a legal topic or question that may be in the news or that may be a frequent question or topic presented by clients. The show generally begins with a fun segment and local news headline segment before diving into the topic of the week. The show focuses on educating people on Texas law and the rights of its citizens, and even those who are not citizens.

Brandy is involved in the community and instills this principle into the firm culture. Each department and all members of the firm have the opportunity and are encouraged to become active members of the local community, as well as non-profit organizations that directly support the local community.

Born and raised in the small-town Salisbury, North Carolina, Brandy Austin is the first college graduate of her family. Neither of her parents graduated from college and she defied the odds to attain a high level of education. Following law school, she worked on medical malpractice and medical device cases, initially, on behalf of insurance companies. Soon after, Brandy transitioned to representing insured drivers of a non-standard insurance company. This position lacked the client interaction Brandy needed. She also married and became a mom during this time. Work-life balance become the highest priority after having her first child.

Realizing the need for a firm that creates, even encourages, a family-friendly environment, along with a place legal professionals could find value in the day to day work within the field of law, Brandy Austin started her own firm May of 2013. She worked only part-time in the beginning and only had a total initial investment of $300, which was the firm’s business registration fee with the state of Texas. The first year, with only a small number of clients, Brandy continually reinvested in herself and the firm to help it grow. The next few years were a building period. As with most businesses, some decisions were effective and helpful, some failed miserably. Creating a team of people with a shared vision and excitement for each day is a difficult task. People change, lives change. Brandy has worked diligently to find a group of people committed to providing quality, ethical legal services to a diverse community. The goal of the organization is to share differing views in an environment supportive enough to analyze them in a legal context and apply those ideas with the community and the profession of law.

Her life is a testament to what you can achieve through hard work, perseverance, determination, and resilience. She has an entrepreneurial drive that constantly moves her forward in the face of obstacles.

Notable Accomplishments

• Rising Star, Super Lawyers 2015-2018
• Fort Worth Magazine 2015-2018
• Top 10 Attorney Award Under 40, National Academy Of Personal Injury Attorneys
• AVVO Top Attorney Award
• Top Attorney, Ft. Worth Magazine 2015-2016
• 10 Best Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Legal Counsel
• Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation
• Associate Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
• Reversal of existing law: Terry Revell v. Morrison Supply Company, LLC, No. 02-15-00195-CV
• Judgment awarded for over $1,000,000 for dog bite injuries

Bar Admissions

• Texas, 2008
• U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas, 2013
• U.S. District Court Eastern District of Texas, 2014
• U.S. District Court Southern District of Texas, 2014

Education

Baylor University School of Law, Waco, Texas

• J.D. – 2008
• Honors: Dean’s List
• Honors: Chair of the Alumni Committee for Phi Alpha Delta
• Honors: Finalist of Naman Howell Smith and Lee Interscholastic Client Counseling Competition
• Honors: Coach of National Client Counseling Team
• Honors: High A; Family Rights Litigation
• Honors: Participant in Strasburger & Price Moot Court Competition

East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina

• B.A. magna cum laude – 2005
• Honors: Dean’s List, Chancellor’s List
• Honors: First Generation College Graduate
• Honors: Recipient of Carlton-Troutman Scholarship for Political Science
• Honors: Attorney General of the East Carolina University Judicial Board
• Honors: Scholar for Council on Legal Education Opportunity
• Honors: Treasurer of Phi Alpha Delta
• Honors: Member of Gamma Beta Phi
• Honors: National Society of Collegiate Scholars
• Honors: Member of East Carolina Honors Organization
• Honors: Chancellor’s List
• Honors: Top 10% of Graduating Class
• Major: English & Political Science

Published Works

• Quarterly Family Law Newsletter, April, 2009
• Cemetery of Roses, Nonfiction, Rebel: 47., 2005
• Uneaten Birthday Cake, Fiction, Rebel: 47., 2005
• At the End of the Dirt Road, Original play performed at Emerge Art Gallery, 2005

Professional Associations and Memberships

• Tarrant County Trial Lawyers, President-Elect
• Tarrant County Bar Association
• Trial Law Institute
• Diversity Law Institute
• Arlington Chamber of Commerce
• Professionals Serving Seniors
• Tarrant County Probate Bar Association
• Arlington Bar Association
• BNI, Lake Arlington

Ancillary Businesses

• Mediation

Sharon Feemster

I was born on January 18, 1961, in Port Arthur, Texas. I have lived in the Port Arthur area all my life. I was blessed with amazing parents, Horace and Lois Bullion. I have two brothers, who still live in that area. All my life my parents were so supportive, loving, and always there for us. I will be forever blessed with them in my life. I pride myself in trying to live my life the way I was so beautifully taught by them.

Growing up I attended Catholic school. In 1979 I graduated from Bishop Byrne High School and was one of the top-ten students and was in the National Honor Society. Even though I was heavily involved in sports, I made sure not to let my academics ever suffer. From a very young age, I was involved in sports, especially softball. During the years, I played on league teams and also traveling teams. My Dad coached some of the teams and my Mom enjoyed being the team mom. I cannot remember a time that my Dad and Mom were not at one of my games. Every day after I got home from school, the first thing my Dad had me do was practice pitching (fast-pitch) with him. I excelled in it and also was a very good hitter. I made the All-Star team every year and in high school our team won the State Championship. I was selected as the All-State Fast Pitch Pitcher. These are some memories for which I will always cherish.

After high school, I went to Lamar in Port Arthur, Texas and graduated in 1980 with an Associate of Applied Science-Paralegal degree. It was not easy, but I did a two-year degree fast by taking classes in the summers and also day and night classes. But once again, even with the heavy schedule, I did not let my grades suffer. In college, I was also a member of the National Honor Society.

In 1980 I started working for Hugh O’Fiel, Attorney At Law, in Beaumont. I worked for Hugh from 1980 to 1995. Learning in school is one thing, but hands on experience is invaluable. Hugh definitely taught me a lot. In August 1995 I went to work at Packard LaPray for the Senior Partner, Bernard Packard. In 2019, the firm separated and I continued to work for Mr. Packard at Packard & Packard until December 2020, when he retired. Mr. Packard is a very special person of whom I am very thankful to know and to have worked for. I was responsible for the handling of the family, criminal, and probate cases from start to finish, with the primary focus in family law. I love what I do and had amazing bosses, who became my dear friends.

I married in 1981 and divorced in 2011. From that marriage I had two amazing children, Jason and Lori. My son, Jason, was born in 1983 and is employed in the medical field. My daughter, Lori, was born in 1989 and is a Paralegal in Dallas. Lori married Brandon in 2011, and he is an attorney in Fort Worth. They gave me the most special, beautiful blessings, two grandchildren, Emma who was born in 2016 and Levi who was born in 2020. They truly make my heart full. I never had thoughts of remarrying, but I met a wonderful man, James, and we married in July of 2018. We took a cruise to the Panama Canal, it was an amazing adventure. We love to travel, and in 2019 took a family trip to Disney World in Florida

My Dad passed away in October of 2016 and that same month I found out that I had breast cancer. It was a very difficult time in my life. I was a “Daddy’s girl” and was so close to him. Having to go through this diagnosis and surgery without him was almost unbearable. Thankfully, I was blessed with amazing support from my mother, children, family, and friends. As a tribute to me, in October 2018, my kids organized our participation in the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Race for the Cure. It was special doing this with them.

My Mom passed away in March of 2020. To this day, it does not seem real. We definitely had a special mother-daughter bond. I miss my parents every day. In their elder years, they depended on me a lot, so I would not have moved out of the Port Arthur area while they were still living. With my parents having both passed away, my husband and I decided it was time to be closer to our children and grandchildren. So in October 2020 we made the move to Fort Worth and bought a house.

One of life’s greatest blessings to me is to be able to see and spoil my grandbabies. Emma loves to play soccer and to dance. We go to her soccer games every week. I cannot wait to see what interests Levi has and to be able to attend those games or activities. My husband’s daughter and family are moving to Fort Worth in January 2021, so more family will be even closer to us.

If I had to summarize myself, it would be “extremely family orientated” nothing means more than family to me. I also am an avid animal lover. We have always had a dog in our family, sometimes two. I look forward to the next stages of our lives here in Fort Worth.

Sylvester “Trey” Spencer, III

Sylvester Spencer III, also known as “Trey,” is a legal assistant and attorney liaison at the Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC. As the legal assistant, Trey assists in drafting various case-related documents and directly communicating with the clients and Courts. He is not only responsible for the client’s case progression but also ensuring the attorney’s equipped with all the necessary tools for success. He is responsible for schedule coordinating and inquiry screening but also efficiently managing the client intake process. The attorney liaison is imperative for the law firm’s success. In both positions, the individual needs to possess specific characteristics, such as self-motivation, detail-oriented, and highly organized, while managing high client demand. For Trey, this is indicative of the lifestyle he’s accustomed to from growing up on a ranch.

Trey grew up in Wills Point, a small, quiet town, located about 55 miles east of the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. He graduated from Wills Point High School in 2007 in which participated in numerous extracurricular activities. These activities ranged from sports (fall and spring), marching band, student council, and academic societies. Mr. Spencer received a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth. Similar to his high school tenure, Trey quickly became engaged in campus organizations, for example, Model Arab League, Mock Model United Nations, Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl, Student Veterans Organization, and Mortar Board Senior National Honor Society. For Trey, you must possess the mindset of capitalizing on the advantages that each organization provides. The organizations not only educate but also exemplify unparalleled practices in critical thinking, international knowledge, leadership activities, and diplomacy. Trey utilized the involvement to expand his global perspective and learn about cultural differences.

In addition to his involvement with academia, Trey spent multiple occasions assisting his aunt, Joyce Ann Brown, with her nonprofit organization, Mothers (Fathers) for the Advancement of Social Systems (MASS, Inc). After serving nearly ten years in prison, his aunt founded the organization after her wrongful conviction. This event sparked not only his initial interest in judicial reform but also the desire for societal unification. The wrongful conviction of his aunt was an unusual obstacle and hardship that his family faced. The particular circumstance does not occur in every family, so first-hand witnessing the improvement of the United States legal system was inspirational.

When Trey isn’t busy with work and preparing for law school, you can find him providing for the agriculture economy. As a third-generation rancher, the Spencer Boyz Ranch in
Wills Point prides itself as an efficient operation. Annually, the Spencer Boyz Ranch manages roughly 80-100 head of cattle and harvest the hay that feeds them throughout the colder months. By doing so, this allows them to save money on purchasing hay from an outside source. They are a family that loves their Ford trucks, Kubota Tractors, and John Deere hay equipment. In other words, if it isn’t broke then don’t fix it. His passions are to continue the ranching operation while advocating for more societal participation in agriculture.

As for his leisure time, Trey enjoys pretty much anything that requires him to be outdoors. When the weather is beautiful, he loves attending country concerts at venues around the state of Texas. Some of his favorite singers, preferably Texas country artists, include Turnpike Troubadours, THE King himself aka George Strait, Wade Bowen, the Randy Rogers Band, and Kasey Musgraves. One thing he loves about being from a small town is the space and quietness away from the big city. In the country, one factor that everyone loathes is the seclusion. For Trey, the isolation allows him to roam the country streets on his horses or ATV’s, but most importantly, it will enable him to spend time with his hometown friends. He also enjoys putting a pole in the water. In the Spencer family, fishing was a way of relaxing and bonding with each other. He still fishes today when given the opportunity, whether it is on a boat with his uncles or on land with his grandmother. During football season, you can find him rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers and cheering for the Oklahoma Sooners (Boomer Sooner!). To him, there isn’t a sport he doesn’t enjoy watching. Wholeheartedly, Trey considers himself as a small-town kid who’s devoted to God, his enormous family, future career, and the agriculture community.

Like many individuals worldwide, the pandemic inspired Trey to find additional activities to help pass the time. Recently, he has channeled his inner-green thumb and became obsessed with plants. The plant’s primary function focuses on assisting with air pollution and helps with allergies. Allergies are a constant battle every year, primarily while residing in an apartment. You cannot have plants and not give them names. As an agriculture member, it is common for them to be extremely personable with creatures, considered their “children.” Trey joined the club and named a few of his first plants. Their names are “RiRi” for Rihanna (Ivy), Black Betty (Majesty Palm Tree), Ole Lucille (Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree), and Adele (Aloe Vera).

In light of his favorite teacher’s passing, he has decided to read more books. A message the teacher always advocated for that “we [humans] need to educate our minds constantly,” and he has been doing just that. He’s currently reading novels, such as Crime and Punishment, Color of Law, and Sense and Sensibility, and relaxing while lounging next to his plants.

A few quotes that exemplify Trey’s outlook on life:

● “There is no greater honor than to sacrifice for a brother (sister). That should encapsulate your mindset on how you operate throughout life.” – As a sports fanatic, this quote from the Sam Houston State University head baseball coach portrays Trey’s mindset when working in a team atmosphere. When there is a strong team dynamic, it can strengthen the weaker areas.

● “Give people their ‘flowers’ while they are still alive and get the chance to enjoy them.” – This quote from his dad illustrates how too often we overlook the magnitude of a small gesture and the impact it can make on someone’s day.

● “One exceptional aspect of being an agriculture member is the fact that we not only provide for our family and friends but also the people who consider you an enemy.” – This quote from his grandpa represents the foundation of Trey’s philosophy on life. Growing up, his grandpa reiterated this quote for just about any scenario, from complaining about stringing a mile worth of barbed wire to missing friend’s birthday celebrations because we had to bale hay before it rained. He’d recount this quote to explain the hatred throughout society despite being born around the “The Red Summer” period in the United States of America. He instilled how even your biggest adversary relies on our agricultural contribution.

● “The grass is not greener on the other side of the fence; it is greener where you most water it.” – To Trey, this quote represents the temptation of comparing and desiring another’s life to yours. Everyone must walk their journey. Once you believe in your mission and who you are and the importance of loving something greater than yourself, you will understand your real purpose.

Bryant Surley-Strong is the Personal Injury Litigation Paralegal at the Brandy Austin Law Firm. As a litigation paralegal, Bryant assists the Personal Injury attorneys with managing cases in litigation. He works closely with clients to help make their lawsuit move forward as smoothly as possible.

Bryant grew up in the DFW metroplex and graduated from Mansfield-Summit High School in 2005. During his senior year of high school, Bryant had the incredible opportunity to attend President George W. Bush’s second inauguration as a part of the National Youth Leadership Institute. This event helped foster his passion for politics and civic engagement. Bryant received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in German from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. At UNT, Bryant quickly became involved with student leadership, becoming a resident assistant at Kerr Hall and chairman of the North Texas College Republicans. As College Republican chairman, Bryant honed his skills as a student leader, participating in numerous televised student debates, campus political demonstrations, and campaign volunteer events. Bryant’s first job after graduating was with the College Republican National Committee. As a field representative for the CRNC, Bryant worked with College Republican chapters at colleges and universities across the commonwealth of Pennsylvania to grow their memberships and volunteer in campaigns in the 2010 midterm elections. He is proud of the work he did helping Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) and former Governor Tom Corbett (R-PA) win their elections. Bryant then returned home to DFW to work as a campaign representative for local Republican candidates. Two years later, Bryant returned to Pennsylvania to serve as the digital director for Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign. Working on a presidential campaign was the opportunity of a lifetime, and although Mitt Romney did not win, Bryant is incredibly grateful for the time he spent working during such an important moment in our nation’s history.

Although politics will always remain a personal passion and pastime for Bryant, the life of a traveling campaign consultant had started to lose its appeal. In 2013, Bryant decided to leave Washington, DC and return home to Texas. After leaving politics, Bryant briefly pursued a career as a teacher. He taught 7th grade Texas history and 11th grade SAT English prep at a charter school in south Dallas. Although teaching was an incredibly rewarding experience, he ultimately decided that it was not for him. He entered the legal profession in 2016, working for a boutique family law practice in Dallas. When that firm dissolved, Bryant joined a civil rights firm in Arlington as a legal assistant. It was at this job that he discovered a passion for law Working in civil rights law was deeply rewarding, and Bryant especially enjoyed working with clients to defend their rights.

In 2018, Bryant was thrilled when he received an offer to join the Brandy Austin Law Firm as a personal injury paralegal. New to personal injury law and a passionate lifelong learner, Bryant loved delving into the art of personal injury law. When working in pre-litigation, he loved taking all the disparate facts and figures from complicated cases and carefully crystalizing them into a single, easily understood narrative. Now as the litigation paralegal, Bryant loves working closely with clients to help them navigate the tricky waters of litigation. He is honored to work with such dedicated and exceptional team of attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and attorney liaisons. Joining the litigation side of personal injury has been an exciting and rewarding experience.

Bryant has a passion for Personal Injury. In college, Bryant was once rear ended while waiting at a red light by an uninsured, unlicensed driver. He understands how difficult and
devastating a car accident can be, particularly when you are not at fault. While he is forever thankful that neither he nor his passenger were injured, losing his car hundreds of miles away from home was a disaster. Bryant takes pride in helping others navigate through stressful situations like the one he had to endure years before. He firmly believes that no one should have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence.

In the Fall of 2013, Bryant met the man who would become his husband. After dating for a few months, Bryant knew that if he was going to make a life with his boyfriend, he would have to find a career with the stability that campaigns could not offer. Leaving professional politics was an easy choice when compared to the happiness that he had found with his boyfriend. Two years into their relationship, Bryant planned a trip for the two of them to visit the Grand Canyon. After a long day of hiking, he suggested that they stay at the park until after dark to gaze at the stars, where he then proposed. They married in the summer of 2016 and have been happily together ever since. In March of 2020, they adopted a precious baby girl, and they could not be happier! As a new parent, he cannot thank Brandy Austin and all of his coworkers enough for all the love and support they have shown him and his family.

When not working, Bryant loves spending time with his family and friends, watching movies with his husband, going to the theater, playing video games, cooking, and traveling. Bryant has had the opportunity to travel abroad to countries such as Canada, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the Czech Republic, England, and Wales. He and his husband hope to add France, Japan, and Norway to that list soon. Bryant became an Episcopalian in college, and he and his husband are active members of their church. Bryant and his husband also have three cats: Freddy, Jason, and Michael.

Loren Denney

Office Manager

Loren grew up in East Boston, Massachusetts. She has an older brother and sister and was happily surrounded by both parents’ sides of the family. After both of her parents received jobs at American Airlines, they decided to move to Arlington, Texas.

Her sister, who was in college, stayed in Boston, along with the rest of her family, who are still currently residing in the New England Area.

Loren lost her father after his struggle with Emphysema. They were very close. He taught her how to love music and enjoy the little things. Because of her father, Loren developed a love for Elvis Presley. They travelled to Graceland together when she was about 9 years old, and he shared his stories of his experiences of his love for Elvis.

One of her favorite stories her shared was the one of her parents first date. Her father chose to attend Elvis’ funeral instead of meeting her, she forgave him pretty quickly and they were married for 28 years before he passed away in 2001.

During high school Loren was active in sports and events at school. She was on the volleyball team and ran track and cross country. She was also in the marching band and played the Tuba, being the shortest tuba player on the field. During high school, the band received awards for the performances and the tuba line was considered one of the best around. Getting up early in the morning and practicing late into the evening in rain or shine taught Loren how to keep with something and push for what you believe in, no matter how hard the work.

Years after graduating high school, Loren began a family of her own and got married.

While she was married, her husband was placed on active duty and served a tour in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.  She lived on the army post in Ft Hood Texas, where it was just her and her son. Loren was an active member of the military family clubs, mother and child groups and enjoyed the comfort of knowing she was so close with the other mothers on the army base.

Loren loves her children, but now that they are older, she loves spending most of her free time with them. Together, they enjoy hiking, exploring and creating family meals together.  Loren enjoys the closeness that they share.  She also enjoys playing classic arcade games and pinball games. She enjoys them so much in fact, that she has an arcade at her house that includes 15 pinball machines and about 16 arcade machines is a member of a woman’s pinball league in the area and has attended festivals and events specifically dedicated to pinball. A few of her favorite games include Blackout, Gorgar and the classic arcade game Mortal Kombat.  Her son also shares her joy of classic arcades. He has participated in a few pinball tournaments, placing higher than anyone his age group.  More things that Loren enjoys is history especially WW2 and learning about the past presidents, reading, watching movies and listening to true crime podcasts. Loren is also a believer in the paranormal. She enjoys going on ghost tours in all of the cities or towns that she visits. Along with the ghost tours, Loren has visited numerous cemeteries.

When she got a bit older, she decided to go back to school, and she enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at Tarrant County College. As a double major, Loren decided to incorporate Nutrition to add to her degree plan.

Loren found her true passion with healthy concepts of creating wonderful, delicious meals. She felt confident learning that the meals also helped people add the best form of nutrients, which made her feel fulfilled knowing that she was making people happy and healthy by her dishes, especially her family.

During her studies in culinary arts, Loren traveled with a small group of fellow students, to Italy for a study program. They attended courses in Parma, Rome, Venice, Florence and Ferrara.

Spending time in a foreign country while enjoying the views and studies, Loren learned first-hand the detailed more in-depth style of Italian cuisine and received a certificate specializing in Italian Cuisine from an Italian cooking school in Rome. She hopes one day to go back, as well as to travel to India, Cambodia and Egypt to learn the cuisines and cultures.

Loren worked in the restaurant industry for years after college, starting in the front of the house as a server, to server trainer then trying her hand in the back of the house as a cook and even a dishwasher. Sticking with the hospitality industry, Loren has been a health coach and was a private chef for a while. With her skills and knowledge of food, she was also an instructor at a coffee school teaching people the history, extraction methods and different styles of coffee.

Since moving past the hospitality industry, she decided to continue her education. She is currently pursuing her degree to become a Holistic Health and Wellness Nutrition Practitioner as well as her master herbalist certification. Her dream one day is to open her own apothecary that offers nutrition classes, as well as natural handmade body products. She is not only passionate knowing about what goes in the body, but also what is put on the body.

After working in the hospitality industry for years, Loren decided that for the benefit of her family, she wanted to not only continue with her education, but find a more suitable position for herself and her family.

She always found an interest in law, which led her to the position she is now in, the Attorney Liaison. With the years of customer service skills from the hospitality industry, she enjoys helping people with anything customer service related.

Loren is still very passionate about her sports teams from New England and continues to stick with the east coast Italian family traditions that she grew up with as well as her love for Elvis.

Darian Berryman

Assistant Attorney Liaison

Darian, known as Dare by those closest to her, is an outgoing, confident and curious young woman. As the middle child of a large ever evolving family, Dare became comfortable with being everyone’s confidant. She may not be the favorite child, but every sibling would call her their favorite sister. The practice of holding space for people to vent or be themselves became second nature to her. She grew up in the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex although her family moved often. Once a year to be more forthcoming. There had to be close to 7 elementary schools and 3 middle school as least that Darian attended. Whether it was a new job or husband for mom, life happened, and often. Fortunately, by the time high school began, Darian’s family began to put down roots in Arlington. Darian has since developed a sense of resiliency that she carries with her in her educational, personal and professional life. It didn’t take long for her to realize that life’s disappointments are more often redirecting her to something more suitable for her.

College for instance, was a slow but steady trek for her as she searched for her passion amidst her basic studies at Tarrant County College. Math certainly wasn’t her strong suite, but Darian is not one to be easily discouraged. What she lacked in mathematical skills she made up for in her English, Philosophy, and History lectures; soaking up as much of humanity as the books and discussions had to offer.  It was an outside source that directed her purpose though. In 2013, she rescued a neglected Saint Bernard, Daisie Mae, prompting her to evaluate her eating habits. It was this unique creature that profoundly motivated Darian to stop eating animals and instead appreciate them for the beings they are and not the convenient sustenance they provide. This lifestyle change, in particular, is what lead to Darian’s pursute of a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Texas Woman’s University. A love of food, particularly exploring new foods and plant-based alternatives to her family favorite recipes, developed effortlessly over the years. She may not be considered the best cook, but she is certainly the most thoughtful. A sense of self-awareness arose in her as well and she’s since come to understand that her actions can have a profound impact on those around her. Darian’s often fantasized about writing a book or two on this notion alone.

This idea was proven true when Darian found her church home at Northgate Pentecostals in January of 2017. It’s at this modest church in North Richland Hills that Darian loves to stay involved with the youth group as a chaperone and with the children’s ministry as a Sunday school teacher. It’s in this intimate community of whole-hearted believers that she was able to really hone her character for the first time in her life. There just wasn’t enough spare time in childhood for her parents or guardians to concern themselves with instilling sound morals in her. Instead, Darian has found mentor after mentor in the men and women, more fondly referred to as brothers and sisters, at this church. Because of them, Darian has learned that the simplest way to serve the Lord daily is by treating people with kindness and respect. The desire to be of service has been close to Darian’s heart for many years. Therefore, volunteer work has practically been a hobby of her since she was a teenager. Apart from the countless hours she spends volunteering at church, Darian makes it a point to spend one week each summer at The Parenting Center of Fort Worth working closely with young children and their siblings, grandparents, and or parents to find the best way to thrive in their family dynamic.

Darian was fortunate enough to meet the love of her life, Hunter Berryman, in the Fall of 2019. She went into Lazy Dog, the dog friendly restaurant in Arlington TX, with Daisie Mae just looking for a quick bite to eat. She didn’t expect to find such a rare man that shares all of her values and quirks. Hunter approached her as her waiter and instantly won her over with his charm. They began courting almost immediately after that day. Verily, they fell in love. He quickly found his place at Northgate as well and they were married there in a roaring twenties fashion in December of 2020. They honeymooned in Cancun Mexico, exploring the Mayan jungle together. They wasted no time starting their family. Darian and her husband are expecting Baby Berryman in late October of 2021. Good timing too, because Daisie Mae had puppies of her own in January of 2020. Ironically there had been a male Saint Bernard at the restaurant that day. The day Darian met the love of her life and father of her children, Daisie Mae did as well. After much debate, Darian let Hunter talk her into keeping two puppies of their litter. Their household now consists of three 130-pound dogs, including Daisie Mae’s son Bear and daughter Bella Rose.

It was Albert Einstein who said, “I have no special talents, I am only passionately curious” and that resonates entirely with Darian. Talent isn’t important to her. It’s about the degree of determination and consistency a person has that really makes all the difference in the world. It’s the lack thereof that has cost many people around Darian to not succeed. Inadvertently, this method has proven tried and true. It’s not important to Darian to be the best at everything, however, it is important to do her best at everything. As the newest Attorney Liaison of the Brandy Austin Law Firm its Darian means to come in and learn by example and experience. Iron sharpens iron, as they say, and the team at the firm is iron clad. Darian feel’s confident that she was made to fit this role. It’s her intention to make such a difference for clients’ experience here at the firm that life won’t be the same without her.

2021 Family Law

A born and raised Texan who loves tacos, animals, singing, drawing and helping people.

My name is Ana Laura Ledesma Rivera. I was born in Dallas, Texas on May 22 of 1995. I was raised by two loving and amazing hardworking individuals: Agustin and Olga Ledesma, my parents emigrated from Guanajuato, Mexico to give my siblings and I a better future and a chance at a life they never had. Thanks to them, I am the person I am today. I have two beautiful sisters, I’m the second oldest out of the three, and of course the funniest one.

My sisters are very dear to me. My eldest sister, Maria, is a selfless and strong mother of three. She was the first to graduate High School in our family as well as get her degree in Nursing and as a Dental Assistant. She showed us how to pave our own way in life. My younger sister, Isabel, is a passionate and diligent individual. She’s extremely intelligent and always gives me the best advice. She shows me every day that age doesn’t define maturity or wisdom. She’s currently studying to become an English teacher. Seeing my sisters reach their goals and be the best versions of themselves inspire me to try to be a better person everyday.

As for me, I would describe myself as a very creative and outgoing person who is always on the go. I have tried to relax and do nothing for just one day, and I failed miserably. I can’t help but to seek adventure and new experiences.
My hobbies include anything where I can be creative, show my dancing skills or eat! I love to travel, draw, dance, sing, read, and help animals in need. I have a healthy obsession with greek mythology. Discovering new restaurants or amazing views is another one of my expertise. Nothing beats a Texas sunset or a good steak, in my opinion.

My favorite hobby, however, would definitely be walking and playing with my pup, Sunny. He truly is the most adorable, yet wild Germen Shepard I’ve ever met. He has been my best friend for 3 years and being his owner has encouraged me to become an animal activist. When I can, I help foster dogs and cats who are in need of rescue, and help them find their forever home. Being an animal activist means we try our best to be the voice for voiceless innocent creatures, edifying those who view them as worthless or inferior, and fighting against barbaric beliefs and practices. I am a firm believer that silence is complicity, and we must always fight for what’s right.

After graduating from Grand Prairie High School in 2013 (Go Gophers!) I was able to work in the customer service field for 4 years. I was a manager for two retail stores where my creativity came in great use since I was head of the visual team responsible for redesigning the stores’ floor designs, and setting up the merchandise in an attractive manner in order to promote new items and catch potential costumer’s attention. During my time in customer service, I was able to meet a lot of interesting people and enjoyed the artistic aspect of it. Most importantly, during this time I realized that my innate passion had always been helping others. Whether it was helping a frustrated mother tending to her toddler’s meltdown in my store or picking up an old beaten dog who was never shown any love, I always gravitated towards situations where I could lend a healing hand. This realization gave me a sense of purpose and I knew I just needed the proper career that would allow me to exercise that passion. Working in customer service taught me that with a great attitude and dedication you can excel in whatever field you choose to be in.

Growing up in an immigrant household, I became familiar with laws at a very young age. Since the news were always on in my house, words like laws, lawyers, judges and activism were always being thrown around. I believe my interest for the legal field was born then. My closeness to immigration and my passion for helping people lead me to landing a job at The Law Office of Dapo Adebayo where I worked, under attorney supervision, preparing documentation on behalf of clients and sending it to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services department and the National Visa Center for processing. As a legal assistant, part of my job was also to keep the office running smoothly and efficiently, addressing any questions or concerns clients had regarding their cases, and preparing them for what seemed to be the longest years of their lives. I got to be part of many successful cases and witnessed life changing moments when clients who had been waiting for a permanent residence, Visa or citizenship finally received the good news that their cases were approved. One of my favorite memories was that of a client who had not seen his parents in over two decades. The excitement, pure joy and disbelief in their voice when I announced to them that they could travel back to their hometown after 26 years is something that I will remember forever. After the first year, the attorney allowed me to aide him in personal injury and Family Law cases. This introduced me to a much more complicated side of the legal field. I learned that Family Law can be an emotionally charged area of law and it can be challenging to navigate without the right legal assistance. This is why I’m extremely grateful to have the chance to work with the Brandy Austin Law Firm team. Having prior experience with Family Law, I can understand the importance of compassion, empathy and achieving fair and equitable results for all members involved. I am excited for the chance to work alongside some of best professionals in this field. I will work tirelessly to be an efficient asset to the Brandy Austin Law Firm. I hope I can continue to show the firm and its’ clients my skills and passion to help others.

Growing up my parents taught me the definition of hard work and dedication. Being Texan taught me the importance of hospitality and kindness. The legal field is teaching me true altruism.

I am determined to keep expanding my knowledge in Family Law. I am planning on obtaining a degree in Paralegal Studies to continue to assist our attorneys as they work tirelessly to help those who are in need of legal advice. I am more than prepared to assist all of you in any way I can. I am here to help.

Dora James

Legal Assistant

I am Dora Marie James, proud mother and wife of 14 years. Let me not forget to mention an addition to our growing family, my fur baby Precious, our miniature Maltipoo. I enjoy the simple things in life, making sure that my family is safe and happy. I originated from a small town of Vicksburg, Mississippi. I was born to the late Joseph C. Brown and Delphine Brown of Vicksburg, MS, as the second child of four children, I am the wise and witty sibling. My older sister is my protector , my younger brother J. Brown is the grill master and my youngest sister L. Brown is famous around town for delicious cooking. We don’t always see eye to eye on things, however, they are my besties and life would not be the same without them. In addition, I am blessed to have half siblings from my father, who I love dearly. My dad served in the United States Military for several years. He instilled core values and respect early on in life to myself and siblings. He was a great dad and I love and miss him dearly. My mother was a licensed cosmetologist, where she owned her own beauty salon. I guess that’s where my daughter and I received our love for styling hair and braids.

I am a high school graduate from Warren Central High, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi. I followed in my aunt and sister footsteps who were both band members. I was part of the Big Blue Marching Band where I played trombone which was one of the most enjoyable times of my life. I also participated in JROTC in hopes to follow in my father’s footsteps and join the military after high school, but after four years of ROTC I came to the realization, military was not for me. Instead, I branched off and attended junior college, before leaving and developing my place in the workforce.

During my down-time, I enjoyed watching football with family and friends. My husband and I are die heart Pittsburgh Steelers fans. Yes, I said Steelers! I love to travel, shop and engage with friends and family over dinner. Just the little things in life excite me and give me a thrill, there is nothing better than being able to do all the things you love, with the people you love, even if it’s just for a moment. I enjoy partaking at different restaurants, while exploring the different entrees. One of my greatest memories as a child was spending those unforgettable moments with my aunt and grandmother. I learned at an early age how to prepare family meals by watching my grandmother cook. The word we use is “soul food”! It’s how we described grandma’s basic, down-home cooking that’s been passed down through many generations, with its roots in the rural South. If you have never eaten “soul food” you have never eaten good food. Unfortunately, I am not able to prepare those meals daily like my auntie and grandmother, but I do cook quick meals sometimes, and there are days that I have to add a touch of love in those meals.

My great-grandmother and aunt took part in raising me and my siblings. They both taught us the meaning of love, respect and to believe in Jesus Christ. My grandmother was a strong lady who loved the Lord and lived until she was 96 years with no illness. I grew up in the church, when the doors were opened, grandma made sure I was in it. My aunt is currently living in Vicksburg, MS at the age of 80 years old, and she has continuously been an inspiration and the backbone that held the pieces together in our family.

I am currently a new Texas resident since September 2020. I moved from Vicksburg, Mississippi, where I was employed at one of the city’s casinos. I worked as a blackjack dealer for 16 years as well as a legal assistant/ secretary for 2.5 years with a background in family law. I enjoyed working with the firm and I learned so much. I was inspired and eager to learn more so I enrolled back into school. I am a graduate from Hinds Community College, with an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies. College was challenging, but it was also where I found what I enjoyed and where I decided this is what I want to do. I believe this is a career where I can develop as well as help so many people. I found it meaningful and I have discovered, this is where I can give back and make a difference in so many lives. Due to the nature of the pandemic, the law office I was employed through, closed its door for good. So, I stepped out on faith and moved to Texas. It was scary, but in my heart, I knew it was something that had to be done, if I intended to reach my full potential. My best friend, who is my aunt, also encouraged me. She guides me and assists me with staying focused when the chips are down. Most of all, I know that she truly, genuinely loves me and my children. I am fully confident and believe that life is what you make it and how far you are willing to reach out and grab it. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful team here at Brandy Austin’s Law firm where I grow professionally.

The Quote I live by mostly is P.U.S.H!!!
Push until something happens!!!

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”~ Maya Angelou

“ Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”~ Maya Angelou

“ When you learn, teach. When you get, give.”
~ Maya Angelou

“If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased.”~ Maya Angelou

Christine Wilson

Attorney Liaisons

Hello! My name is Christine, and I am one of the Attorney Liaisons here at the Brandy Austin Law Firm. I’m 29 years old and a Texas native. I was born in Fort Worth but ended up moving around quite a bit during my childhood to my early twenties, all over the DFW area. Fun fact: I have lived in every city/town from Godley to North Richland Hills.

Growing up, I was blessed with not two but three, wonderful parents. My mother Stephanie and my father Gary, who unfortunately divorced when I was very young. She then met the man I would later call my stepfather, Justin. Or as I like to call him, my bonus dad. Each of them still very active in my life and I don’t know what I would do without them. I am the oldest of two children. My sister Jordan, who also happens to be my best friend, impresses me every day with the person she’s come to be and continues to teach me more about life than I feel I teach her. How is that?! I am extremely family-oriented and I truly cherish the quality time we are frequently able to spend together. We are constantly laughing, teasing and cutting up with one another.

I attended Godley School District the first half of my life and then transferred to good ol’ Joshua come middle school. If you don’t know where either of those towns are, it’s okay, most people don’t. I’ll just say, I’m a small-town, downhome country girl. I did stay put long enough to graduate from Joshua High. Throughout the school years, I tried a variety of sports, just about all of them in fact. I guess you could say I was trying to figure out where I thought I belonged. Always being an active child and looking for something challenging, I never seemed to stay put with any one thing for too long. Therefore, I had to try everything…softball, basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball and track. I also found an early fascination with dance, so my parents sought out a dance studio close to home and I enrolled. Of course, in true Christine fashion, I had to take every class they offered! That fascination quickly turned into a passion, because while sports never really leave you, dance is the one thing I still actively participate in today. Whether it’s trying to cheer someone up, out on the dancefloor or just enjoying my food.

Upon graduating high school, I decided to attend Tarrant County College to become a Registered Dental Assistant. Like most teenagers, I fell victim to the dreaded brace face stage in life. However, unlike most teens, I enjoyed having braces and became infatuated with the orthodontic process. Which led to my interest and career in dentistry. I have been working in the dental field for the last ten years, jumping back and forth between pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. I finally made the decision to go in a different direction though, because I felt it was time for a change. After seeking new opportunities for months, I happened to stumble upon the law firm. Having an ongoing obsession with anything criminal justice related as I do, this felt like a dream come true!

One of my greatest and most followed passions has been fitness. I purchased my first gym membership and started working out in late 2009, toward the end of my senior year in high school. At first it was just something to keep me active, something to get me out of the house. Little did I know that after years of countless gym memberships, sometimes having multiple at one time, I would eventually discover what has become my second home and a new love. I finally found Metroflex in Fort Worth, otherwise known as The Castle, in 2016. Much like everything else, you guessed it, I couldn’t commit to only one style of training. I had to explore a few and this was the perfect gym to do so. Bodybuilding, CrossFit and conditioning would have to be my favorites! Most of my workouts consist of a good mixture between the three. Fitness has doubled as my source of therapy over the years as well and has helped me through so much. Not a bad hobby to have I suppose, one that pushes you, keeps you healthy and sane? I’m still constantly learning new things in the gym and that is one of my favorite things about fitness. Since finding Metro, one of my biggest accomplishments while putting my hobby to use would have to be competing for my first time in the Hyrox. A grueling, strength and conditioning obstacle course that takes major mental and physical strength. One of my favorite quotes that I feel fits not only my fitness journey but also life in general is, “Strength is overcoming the things you once thought that you couldn’t”, and I continuously show myself just how true this is every day.

Remaining so active in the gym eventually led me to meet someone who would become of much importance, my boyfriend! Yes, it was one of those typical “we met at the gym” stories but we knew not long after meeting that it was something special. I met my forever gym partner, Martese, in 2019. We currently live in Burleson with our fur baby, Koda. Although we share a love for fitness since that’s what brought us together, you can usually find us binge watching our favorite drama or crime TV shows on Netflix, spending time with the pup or whipping something delicious in the kitchen. You may even catch us out on the dancefloor on the weekends, country dancing. He’s my handsome Maryland born man, but he just might be a true Texan after all.

Being given this opportunity is such an excitement for me and I’m so thankful to finally be here. While most of the TV shows are not realistic, it did initially spark my interest in criminal justice. I’m not sure just yet what it is specifically about law that intrigues me but I’m certain this will help me find out. I’m eager and ready to discover all I can while being a part of this team and seeing where it might lead me in the future. Even though it is a new field for me and completely different than my routine the last decade, I have a good feeling about this new adventure. I look forward to meeting and working with all of our new and existing clients.