About Thompson & Knight LLP: David W. Jones — Business Law Houston Texas
For clients seeking experienced business law Houston representation, Thompson & Knight LLP through attorney David W. Jones offers seasoned counsel on corporate matters, commercial transactions, and complex disputes. The firm serves clients across Harris County from its downtown Houston base. Because Houston anchors the nation’s energy corridor, the firm’s work often touches midstream, upstream, and service-sector companies.
Jones handles entity formation, contract negotiation, shareholder issues, and business litigation. For example, clients also come for help with the new Texas Business Court, which now covers commercial disputes above $5 million under H.B. 40 (effective September 1, 2025). In addition, the firm guides closely held businesses through succession planning and buy-sell agreements. Clients can reach the Houston attorney directory to compare additional options.
What Clients Say
Clients consistently describe the firm as responsive, well-prepared, and strategic. Reviewers highlight clear communication, patience explaining complex corporate issues, and steady follow-through on transaction timelines. In addition, many appreciate the firm’s willingness to coordinate with outside accountants and financial advisors to keep deals on track.
Business Law Houston — Practice Areas & Services
- Entity formation and governance: LLC, corporation, and partnership structures designed for Texas tax and liability rules.
- Commercial contracts: Drafting and review of service agreements, supply contracts, and licensing deals common in Houston’s energy and tech sectors.
- Business litigation: Representation in Harris County District Courts and the Eleventh Division of the Texas Business Court in Houston.
- Mergers and acquisitions: Due diligence, deal structuring, and closing support for small and mid-market transactions.
- Shareholder and partnership disputes: Negotiation and, when needed, litigation to resolve ownership conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does a Houston business dispute go to the Texas Business Court instead of Harris County District Court?
Under H.B. 40, effective September 1, 2025, qualifying commercial disputes with at least $5 million in controversy can be filed in the Texas Business Court. The Eleventh Division sits in Houston and handles many of these cases. For example, disputes involving trade secrets, arbitration, or intellectual property now also qualify.
How much does it cost to hire a business law Houston attorney?
Fees vary by matter. Transactional work is often billed hourly or flat rate, while litigation usually runs hourly with a retainer. In addition, many Houston firms offer fixed-fee entity formation packages for startups. Ask about scope and budget caps during the initial consultation.
Do I need a Texas lawyer if my LLC is registered in Delaware but operates in Houston?
Yes, because Texas treats a Delaware LLC doing business in Houston as a foreign entity that must register with the Texas Secretary of State. Therefore local counsel helps with franchise tax, registered agent requirements, and Harris County filings. A Houston attorney can also handle disputes in the Eleventh Division of the Texas Business Court.
Quick Facts: Business Law in Houston, Texas
- Texas Business Court expansion: H.B. 40 lowered the amount-in-controversy threshold to $5 million and added trade secrets and IP jurisdiction, effective September 1, 2025 — Texas Judicial Branch
- Houston sits in the Eleventh Division: The division began its first bench trial in November 2025 — Norton Rose Fulbright, 2026 update
- Harris County District Clerk jurisdiction: Filings and records are managed by the Harris County District Clerk’s office, serving roughly 4.8 million residents — Harris County District Clerk


