Christopher Norris attorney Dawson Sodd
Christopher R. Norris

Associate Attorney

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Christopher R. Norris

Christopher R. Norris recently joined Dawson & Sodd, bringing a wealth of civil litigation experience to the firm’s eminent domain practice. With 16 years focused on handling all areas of insurance defense, Chris has a strong background in large-scale litigation and multi-party cases in both Federal and State courts throughout Texas.

He now applies his considerable trial and appellate skills to advocate for Texas landowners, working alongside the firm’s partners to protect property rights and pursue fair outcomes in condemnation matters.

Leveraging Litigation Experience for Property Owners

Chris’s extensive background defending complex cases provides him with a unique perspective and a robust skill set now dedicated to representing property owners. His deep understanding of trial strategy, evidence presentation, and navigating the intricacies of Texas court procedures is a valuable asset in eminent domain disputes.

He is committed to assisting clients through every stage of the condemnation process, from initial case assessment and negotiation support to rigorous courtroom representation if a trial becomes necessary.

Extensive Trial and Appellate Background

Throughout his career prior to joining Dawson & Sodd, Chris gained significant first-chair trial experience, personally handling dozens of trials through verdict in courts across Texas. This hands-on courtroom experience is critical when advocating for landowners whose cases may proceed to litigation.

Furthermore, Chris has substantial appellate experience. He has drafted numerous appellate briefs and participated in oral arguments before several appellate courts, including:

  • The United States Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • The Texas Supreme Court
  • The Texas Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth
  • The Texas Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas
  • The Texas Seventh Court of Appeals in Amarillo

This appellate work demonstrates his ability to handle complex legal arguments and preserve issues for review at the highest levels.

Presentations & Reported Decisions

Selected Presentations

  • “Practical Effects of “Paid or Incurred” Statute on Plaintiff’s Recoverable Medical Expenses” – Texas Young Lawyer’s Association Ten Minute Mentor Video
  • “Defending Your Case Before the Lawsuit is Filed” – Independent Electrical Contractors Presentation
  • “Advanced Issues for Casualty Professionals” – State Farm Insurance Company Continuing Education Presentation (Co-presenter)
  • “Special Circumstances Affecting the Insured-Insurer Relationship” – Dallas Claims Association Presentation (Co-presenter)

Reported Decisions

  • Boenig v. StarnAir, Inc., 283 S.W.3d 444 (Tex.App.—Ft. Worth 2009, no pet.)
  • JTW Medical Products, Inc. v. Swindell, 329 S.W.3d 70 (Tex.App.—Dallas 2010, pet. denied)

Credentials

Education

  • Texas Tech University School of Law, J.D., 2001
  • Midwestern State University, B.B.A. – Finance, magna cum laude, 1997
  • University of Texas at Austin, (Attended 1995-1996)

Bar Admissions

  • Texas, 2001

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, 2010
  • U.S. District Court – Western District of Texas, 2002
  • U.S. District Court – Northern District of Texas, 2003
  • U.S. District Court – Eastern District of Texas, 2003
  • U.S. District Court – Southern District of Texas, 2009

Outside the Office

Chris and his wife, Mandy, are proud parents to two sons. He and his family are active members of Highland Park Presbyterian Church. When he’s not trying to keep up with his boys, Chris also enjoys golf, running, and traveling with his wife.

Connect with Chris

To learn more about how Christopher R. Norris’s litigation experience can benefit your Texas eminent domain case, please use the contact information above or reach out to Dawson & Sodd.

Request a Free Consultation
(903) 872 – 8181