R. Stephen Earnest
Dallas
214-880-2605
Stephen Earnest is an associate in the professional liability practice group. He represents a variety of professionals, including attorneys, insurance and real estate agents, private contractors, and engineers, in pre-suit negotiations, litigation, and administrative proceedings before state and municipal regulatory agencies. Before joining Thompson Coe, he worked as an assistant city attorney in the Saint Paul City Attorney’s Office.
Background
Stephen is originally from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Outside of work, he enjoys a busy life with his wife, Rachael, and two sons, Nolan and Nathaniel.
Representative Experience
Successfully obtained summary judgment for the former owner of a defunct professional sports league on common law and statutory fraud claims regarding the sale of that league to an investor. The court held that the investor lacked Article III standing to pursue its claims and failed to demonstrate justifiable reliance as a matter of law.
Successfully obtained summary judgment for an insurance agency on contractual and extracontractual claims in a dispute regarding property damage from Winter Storm Uri. The court held that the insured failed to produce any competent summary judgment evidence that the agency misrepresented the insured’s property insurance coverage.
Successfully obtained dismissal of a federal complaint filed against a private contractor for the United States Drug Enforcement Administration on the grounds that the complaint failed to allege a cognizable Bivens claim. The court’s holding was subsequently affirmed on appeal by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
Successfully obtained dismissal of a federal civil rights complaint filed by a homeowner against a homeowner’s association in a case involving the association’s promulgation of certain rules and regulations. The court held that the homeowner failed to state a claim under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 or the Texas Constitution.
Successfully obtained summary judgment for a law firm and its attorney on legal malpractice claims arising out of the attorney’s representation with respect to a motion to unseal hearing. The court held the plaintiff’s claims were barred by the statute of limitations.
Successfully obtained summary judgment for an insurance agent on contractual and extracontractual claims in a contentious dispute regarding fire damage to a commercial property. The court held that the plaintiff’s claims were barred by the statute of limitations.
Successfully obtained dismissals of multiple administrative complaints and grievances filed against property management companies, real estate and insurance agents, and attorneys.
Related Services
Publications & Speaking Engagements
Education, Admissions & Activities
Education
University of Minnesota Law School
J.D., 2021
Saeks Public Interest Fellow
Coastal Carolina University
B.A., cum laude, 2017
Pi Sigma Alpha
Bar Admissions
Texas
2023
Minnesota
2021
Court Admissions
United States District Court of Texas
Northern, Eastern and Southern