James N. Higdon

Higdon, Hardy and Zuflacht, L.L.P.

Address:

12000 Huebner Road, Suite 200
San Antonio, Texas
78230-1210

Phone:

Fax:

Website:

(210) 349-9933

(210) 349-9988

www.texasfamilylawinfo.com & www.hhzlaw.com

Education

• B.A. (Math/Hist), University of Texas, Austin, TX (1967).
• M.B.A. (Econ/Mgmt), University of West Florida, Pensacola, FL (1973).
• J.D., St. Mary's University, School of Law, San Antonio, TX (1975).

Professional Activities and Certifications

• Partner, Higdon, Hardy & Zuflacht, L.L.P.
• State Bar of Texas (1976- ): Current Member, Sections on Family Law, Litigation, , Civil Appellate, Military Law (Chair 2005-06) and ADR; Member, Texas Bar Journal Committee (1980-96).
• Board Certified, Family Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization (1981; Recertified: 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001).
• Board Certified, Civil Appellate Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization (1996; Recertified: 2001).
• San Antonio Bar Association: Member (1976- ); Director (1992-94); Founding Chair, SABA Family Law Section (1992- ); Chair, CLE Committee (1990-1992).
• San Antonio Family Lawyers Association: Member (1982- ); President (1988-89); Officer/ Director (1986-1990).
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists: Member (1982- ).
• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow (1994- ) Matrimonial Arbitrator, AAML Trained & Certified (1995- ).
• International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Fellow (2010- ).
• San Antonio Bar Foundation, Life Fellow (1992- ).
• Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow (1996- ).
• Texas Family Law Foundation, Sustaining Life Fellow (2007- ).
• Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center, Member, Advisory Board (1997- ), Chair (2009-2011), Vice-Chair (2006-2009)
• Associate Member (Mediator), Society of Professionals in Dispute Resolution (SPIDR)(1993-2000).
• Member, Texas Association of Mediators (San Antonio Chapter) (2000- )
• Panel of Pre-Suit Mediators, San Antonio Bar Association (1992-1996).
• Member, Panel of Settlement Week Mediators, State District Courts in San Antonio (1988-).
• Marquis' Who's Who in American Law (1991-).
• Marquis' Who's Who in America (2004-).
• Marquis' Who's Who in the World (2004-).
• Marquis' Who's Who in Finance and Business (2007- ).
• "AV" Rating, Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (1992-).
• Texas Monthly Magazine, "Texas Super Lawyers," Nov. 2003, Oct 2004 (Selected by peers).
• Scene in SA Magazine "Best Family Lawyers in San Antonio," August 2005.
• National Registry of Who's Who, Selected as a Life Member (#138952) (2001-).
• National Register's Who's Who in Executive and Professionals, (2001, 2002, 2004, 2005).
• International Directory of Distinguished Leadership, Tenth Edition, Distinguished Leader, American Biographical Institute, Inc. (2002).
• Global Directory of Who's Who, (2006).
• American Bar Association Advisor to the Uniform State Laws Commission (f/k/a National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws) Drafting Committee on Deployed Parents Visitation and Custody Act (2009- )
• Mediator and Arbitrator Training: Matrimonial Arbitrator, AAML Trained & Certified (1995- ). Settlement Consultants, Inc. -- Mediator Training Managing Commercial Conflicts Through Mediation (40 hrs., 9/92). Family Dynamics (24 hrs., 10/93). Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center -- Mediator Family Dynamics - Participant/Speaker (40 hrs., 8/07).

Appellate Cases of James N. Higdon

Citations List

Download the full appellate case list

• 51. Hicks v. Hicks, ___ S.W.3d ___, 2011 WL 2566302 (Tex.App.-Houston [14th Dist.] June 30, 2011). (No. 14-10-00577) (Adele Hedges, Chief Justice -Affirmed in part [attorney's fees], Reversed and Remanded in part [military retired pay language]) (Kyle Edward Hicks* v. La'Kesha Marie Haynes Hicks)(Opposing Counsel: W. Leslie Shireman on appeal; Cecilia A. Brown in Trial Court; Appellant's Trial Court Counsel was Jamie L. Graham and Judith A. Saldana; Appellant's Brief filed by Judith A. Saldana; JNH was Expert Witness via Bill of Exception and Appellant's Counsel in filing Reply Brief).
• 50. In the Interest of T.J.W., 336 S.W.3d 267 (Tex.App.-San Antonio November 24, 2010). (No. 04-10-00010-CV) (Phyllis J. Speedlin, Justice - Reversed and Rendered and Suit Ordered Dismissed) (Interest of Timerlyn Janae Washington (Timothy J. Washington* v. Zina Walker Shellman) (Opposing Counsel: Gary A. Beahm on appeal; Timothy D. Walker in Trial Court. Appellant's Trial Court Counsel was Diane M. Rivera).
• 49. Jackson v. Jackson, 319 S.W.3d 76 (Tex.App.-San Antonio April 14, 2010), (No. 04-09-00117-CV) (Catherine Stone, Chief Justice - Affirmed) (Jacqueline Jackson v. Lugene Jackson*) (Opposing Counsel: Dawn Laubach).
• 48. Gillin v. Gillin, 307 S.W.3d 395 (Tex.App.-San Antonio December 2, 2009), (No. 04-09-00119-CV) (Steven C. Hilbig, Justice - Reversed and Remanded with instructions) (Kevin Scott v. Lori Ann Gillin*) (Opposing Counsel: Gary A. Beahm on appeal; Theresa M. Connolly (and Gary A. Beahm) in Trial Court. Appellant's trial counsel was Ashley C. Specia).
• 47. Erubiel H. Garcia, Sr. v. Amy A. Geistweidt, 2009 WL 1081064 (Tex.App.-San Antonio April 22, 2009). (No. 04-08-00251-CV) (Steven C. Hilbig, Justice - Affirmed; Memorandum Opinion) (Erubiel H. Garcia, Sr. v. Delores Lopez and Amy A. Geistweidt*) (Opposing Counsel: M. Dinorah Diaz.) (Represented both Defendants in Trial Court, but case against Attorney Amy A. Geistweidt severed so only her part appealed and considered in this appeal).
• 46. Stephen Craig Horne v. Joyce Bergstrom f/k/a Wanda Joyce Horne, 2008 WL 1882793 (Tex.App.-San Antonio April 30, 2008). (No. 4-07-00590-CV) (Per curiam; Unpublished.) (Settled by continued negotiation after mediation concluded on March 7, 2007 by Mediated Settlement Agreement on appeal; Jo Chris Lopez, Mediator.) (In the Matter of the Marriage of Stephen Craig Horne and Wanda Joyce Horne* and In the Interest of Stephen Craig Horne, Jr., An Adult Child), (Opposing Counsel: Brad LaMorgese on Appeal; Patrick Stolmeier in Trial Court.).
• 45. In re Genard McCauley, 2006 WL 1994526 (Tex.App.-San Antonio July 19, 2006). (No. 04-06-00363-CV). (Petition for Writ of Mandamus Denied without opinion - Unpublished.) (Per Curiam) (Genard McCauley v. Judge Rene Diaz (Linda McCauley Parsons)*) (Trial Court: Jodi Lopez Head; Opposing Counsel: Wallace T. Jacobs.).
• 44. Phillip Mack Murray v. Pamela Sue Murray, 2006 WL 1994449 (Tex.App.-San Antonio July 19, 2006). (No. 04-06-00044-CV). (Settled during Appellate Mediation on June 1, 2006 (Ben Chappell, Mediator.) (Phillip Mack Murray v. Pamela Sue Murray) (Opposing Counsel: Byron E. Barnett on Appeal and Remand; Dawn M. Laubach in Trial Court.).
• 43. In re Christopher Pate, 2005 WL 2756001, (Tex.App.-San Antonio Oct 26, 2005). (No. 04-05-00719-CV). (Per curiam - Petition for Writ of Mandamus - Denied without opinion - Unpublished.) (Christopher Pate v. Judge Karen Pozza (Nancy & Mark Eshelby)*) (Opposing Counsel: Robert E. Walsh.).
• 42. Wakako Chaisson Fagan f/k/a Wakako Chaisson v. Yoshiko Chaisson, 179 S.W.3d 35, 2005 WL 1629812 (Tex.App.-San Antonio July 13, 2005). (No. 04-04- 00437-CV). (Catherine Stone, J. -- Affirmed.) (Wakako Fagan v. Yoshiko Chaisson*) (Opposing Counsel: Robert Golden and Charles Jefferson (Argued Case) on Appeal; Randall Parker in Trial Court.).
• 41. In the Interest of V.C.T., 2005 WL 1397093 (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 15, 2005). (No. 04-03-00917-CV) Memorandum Opinion (Unpublished). (Duncan, Sarah, J. -- Affirmed.) (Gwendolyn Y. Treadwell v. Tracy T. Treadwell*) (Opposing Counsel: Gwendolyn Y. Treadwell, Pro se (Prior Counsel, Glen Deadman, Counsel in Trial Court, withdrew).)
• 40. Alice C. Guerrero v. Daniel E. Guerra, 165 S.W.3d 778 (Tex.App.-San Antonio April 20, 2005). (No. 04-04-0097-CV). (Phyllis Speedlin, J. -- Affirmed.) (Alice C. Guerrero v. Daniel E. Guerra*) (Opposing Counsel: Gary L. Beahm.)
• 39. In re Jo Donel Brunin, 2005 WL 839531 (Tex.App.-San Antonio April 13, 2005). (No. 04-04-00893-CV). (Alma L. Lopez, C.J. - Petition for Writ of Mandamus Granted On Motion for Reconsideration-Memorandum Opinion - Unpublished.) (Jo Donel Brunin* v. Judge Michael Peden (Steven Brunin)) (Opposing Counsel: Randy Gathany.). Original opinion denying mandamus on December 29, 2004 at 2004 WL 2997908.
• 38. In re Katherine E. Beaumont, 2005 WL 711599 (Tex.App.-San Antonio March 30, 2005). (No. 04-05-00173-CV). (Per Curiam (Alma L. Lopez, C.J., Catherine Stone, J. and Sandee Bryan Marion, J.) - Petition for Writ of Mandamus Denied - Unpublished.) (Katherine E. Beaumont v. Judge Karen H. Pozza (Lee G. Beaumont)*) (Opposing Counsel: Charles H. Sierra on Appeal; Sarah Herrmann in Trial Court.).
• 37. Carl J. Santora, Jr. v. G. E. Harrington and G. E. Harrington Builders, Inc., 2004 WL 2715405 (Tex.App.-San Antonio December 1, 2004). (No. 04-04-00149- CV). (Per curiam. - Settled and dismissed by Agreement, Unpublished.) (Carl J. Santora, Jr. v. G. E. Harrington and G. E. Harrington Builders, Inc.) (Opposing Counsel: Daniel E. Kustoff and Melanie Phipps.) - Settled and Appeal dismissed.
• 36. Edward L. Preston, Jr. v. Lelia Stone (Preston), 2004 WL 1835765, 2004 Tex. App. LEXIS 7376 (Tex.App.-San Antonio August 18, 2004, Memorandum Opinion -- Unpublished.). (No. 04-03-00333-CV). (Karen Angelini, J. - Affirmed; Motion to Strike Granted.) (Edward L. Preston, Jr. v. Lelia Stone*) (Opposing Counsel: Randall A. Parker and Carmen A. Rojo.) See also 15.
• 35. In re Emily Albrink Fowler Hartigan, 2003 Tex. LEXIS 216 (Tex.Sup.Ct. August 14, 2003). (No. 03-0560) (Per Curiam -- Petition for Writ of Mandamus Denied - summarily without opinion.) Emily Albrink Fowler Hartigan v. Judge Stephen Ables (Christina M1tchell-Tomasini and Ralph E. Williamson and James N. Higdon, Higdon, Hardy & Zuflacht L.L.P. and Amy Geistweidt*) (Opposing Counsel: Emily Albrink Fowler Hartigan, pro se.).
• 34. In re Emily Albrink Fowler Hartigan, 107 S.W.3d 684 (Tex.App.-San Antonio April 9, 2003). (No. 04-03-00086-CV) (Catherine Stone, J. - Petition for Writ of Mandamus denied in part and conditionally granted in part - Denied as to issues affecting HHZ Defendants.) Emily Albrink Fowler Hartigan v. Judge Stephen Ables (Christina M1tchell-Tomasini and Ralph E. Williamson and James N. Higdon, Higdon, Hardy & Zuflacht L.L.P. and Amy Geistweidt*) (Opposing Counsel: Emily Albrink Fowler Hartigan, pro se.).
• 33. In re Yoshiko Chaisson, 2001 WL 1588126, 2001 Tex. App. Lexis 8266 (Tex. App.-Austin December 13, 2001). (No. 03-01-00481-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (Per Curiam -- Application for Writ of Mandamus and Prohibition denied.) Yoshiko Chaisson v. Judge Brenda Freeman Chapman* (Patti Wilk, Admrix, Est. of Aubin Joseph Chaisson, Jr., Dec'd.) (Opposing Counsel: Paul Finley, New Braunfels.).
• 32. Rouch v. Continental Airlines, Inc. and Joe Delpero, 70 S.W.3d 170 (Tex.App.- San Antonio November 7, 2001), pet. denied (No. 04-00-00280-CV). (Karen Angelini, J. - Affirmed.) Cindy Rouch v. Continental Airlines*. (Trial and Appellate Co-Counsel: John Hohman and John Gehring; Opposing Appellate Counsel: George P. Parker, Jr.) - (Did not choose to appeal to Tex.Sup.Ct., but Hohman/Gehring did and it was denied.).
• 31. Ex parte Bonnie Olson Harper, (Tex.App.-Austin November 1, 2001). (No. 03- 01-00577-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (Per Curiam -- Application for Writ of Habeas Corpus-denied without opinion.) Bonnie Olson Harper v. Judge Brenda Freeman Chapman* (James Scott Harper). (Opposing Counsel: Edwin J. "Ted" Terry, Jr. and Karl E. Hays, Austin.).
• 30. Charles T. Riedel v. Patricia A. Riedel, 2001 WL 303319 (Tex.App.-San Antonio March 30, 2001). (No. 4-99-00759-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (Charles T. Riedel v. Patricia A. Riedel.*) (Paul Green, J. - Dismissed in part for want of jurisdiction, but otherwise affirmed.) (Opposing Counsel: S. Preston Douglass, Kerrville.).
• 29. Marriage of Karen Broom and Hans Erik Arvidson, 2001 WL 220058 (Tex.App.-San Antonio March 7, 2001). (No. 04-00-00214-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (Karen Broom v. Hans Erik Arvidson.*) (Karen Angelini, J. - Affirmed as Modified-Appellee recovers court costs as prevailing party.) (Opposing Counsel: Ralph E. Williamson.).
• 28. In the Interest of Nichols Children, 51 S.W.3d 303, 2000 WL 1877121 (Tex.App.-San Antonio October 18, 2000, no pet.). (No. 04-99-00926-CV) (Jessica Sue Scott f/k/a Jessica Sue Lowe* v. Rayford Arthur Nichols, Jr.) (Phil Hardberger, C.J. -- Reversed and rendered in part, reversed and remanded in part to determine attorney's fees.) (Opposing Counsel: Rayford A. Nichols, Jr., pro se.).
• 27. Deborah D. Koch v. Anthony H. Koch, 27 S.W.3d 93, 2000 WL 867633 (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 30, 2000, no pet.). (No. 04-99-00602-CV) (Deborah D. Koch* v. Anthony H. Koch) (Alma Lopez, J. - Reversed and remanded with instructions.) (Opposing Counsel: Lawrence Macon.) (See also 20.).
• 26. In re Marriage of Reinauer, 2000 WL 377837 (Tex.App.-Amarillo April 10, 2000). (No. 07-99-0348-CV, no pet.) (Not designated for publication.). (Margaret Ann Cowan v. James Richard Reinauer*) (John T. Boyd, C. J. -- Affirmed.) (Opposing Counsel: James E. Wester, Amarillo.) (See also 16.).
• 25. Havlen v. McDougall, 22 SW3d 343, 24 Employee Benefits Cas. 1529, 43 Tex.Sup.Ct.J. 323, 2000 WL 19028 (Tex. January 13, 2000), rev'g sub nom. 980 SW2d 767 (Tex.App.-San Antonio 1998). (No. 98-1220). (James A. Baker, J. -- Reversed and trial court judgment reinstated.) (Vivian L. McDougall v. Harold Havlen*) (Opposing Counsel: Gary L. Beahm.) (See also 18.).
• 24. Maberry v. Maberry, __ S.W.3d ___, 1999 WL 1072568 (Tenn.Ct.App. November 30, 1999). (M1999-01322-COA-R3-CV) (William B. Cain, J.) (Affirmed as modified; remanded for further necessary proceedings.) (Tina Nong Maberry v. Ricky Wayne Maberry.*) (Counsel for Tina (in trial court: James N. Higdon and Steven A. Cassetty of Gainesboro, TN): Richard M. Brooks of Carthage, TN; Opposing Counsel: Bobby J. Ellis of Gainesboro, TN.)
• 23. Schneider v. Schneider, 5 S.W.3d 925, 1999 WL 1040199 (Tex.App.-Austin November 18, 1999, no pet.). (No. 03-99-00060-CV). (Mack Kidd, J. -- Affirmed. (Karl E. Schneider v. Kay L. Schneider*) (Opposing Counsel: Gary A. Calabrese.).
• 22. In re Koch, 1999 WL 624461 (Tex.App.-San Antonio August 12, 1999, orig. proceeding) (No. 4-99-00586-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (Per Curiam - - Application for Writ of Mandamus-Denied without opinion. (Deborah K. Koch v. Anthony H. Koch*) (Opposing Counsel: Lawrence Macon.). (See also 25.).
• 21. In re C.G.C., 1999 WL 391880 (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 16, 1999, pet. for review denied Dec 23, 1999). (No. 04-99-00011-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (Phil Hardberger, C.J. -- Affirmed.) (Alan Robert Cohen v. Charles Graham Cohen and Robert Ethan Cohen*) (Opposing Counsel: Byron E. Barnett.).
• 20. Vivian L. McDougall v. Harold Havlen, 980 SW2d 767, 1998 WL 568716 (Tex.App.-San Antonio September 9, 1998), rev'd, 43 Tex.Sup.Ct.J. 323, 22 SW3d 343, 2000 WL 19028, 24 Employee Benefits Cas. 1529, 43 Tex.Sup.Ct.J. 323 (Tex. 2000). (No. 04-97-00413-CV). (Tom Rickoff, J. -- Reversed.) (Vivian L. McDougall* v. Harold Havlen) (Opposing Counsel: Gary L. Beahm.) (See also 23.).
• 19. Chambers v. Bonner -- (Tex.App.-El Paso May 1, 1997, no pet.) (No. 08-96- 00123-CV) (Not designated for publication.). (David W. Chew, J. -- Reversed and remanded for new trial.) (Sandra Lorraine (Perryman) Chambers* v. Richard Andrew Bonner) (Opposing Counsel: Edwin J. "Ted" Terry, Jr., Austin.).
• 18. Matter of Marriage of Reinauer, 946 S.W.2d 853 (Tex.App.-Amarillo March 13, 1997, pet. for review denied December 04, 1997, reh'g of pet. for rev. overruled February 19, 1998). (No. 07-96-0013-CV). (Brian Quinn, J. -- Affirmed in part and reversed and cause remanded in part.) (James Richard Reinauer v. Margaret Ann Cowan) (Opposing Counsel: James E. Wester, Amarillo.) (See also 24.).
• 17. Bloomer v. Bloomer, 927 S.W.2d 118 (Tex.App.-Houston [1st Dist.] June 13, 1996, writ ref'd n.r.e.). (No. 01-91-01428-CV). (Davie L Wilson, J. -- Reversed and remanded with instructions.) (David A. Bloomer* v. Patricia Anne Bloomer) (Opposing Counsel: Ronald R. Pope, Houston.).
• 16. Moore v. Moore, 898 S.W.2d 355 (Tex.App.-San Antonio March 22, 1995, no writ) (No. 04-94-00071-CV) (Roger Steven Moore* v. Tammy LuAnn Moore) (Phil Hardberger, J. - Affirmed.) (Opposing Counsel: Bill Jolly.).
• 15. Preston v. Preston -- (Tex.App.-San Antonio August 25, 1993, no writ) (No. 04- 93-00047-CV).(Fred Biery, J. - Affirmed.) (Not designated for publication.). (Edward John Preston, Jr. v. Lelia Stone Preston*) (Opposing Counsel: Michael D. Bowles.).
• 14. Parliament v. Parliament, 860 S.W.2d 144 (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 30, 1993, writ refused n.r.e.). (No. 04-92-00594-CV). (Ralph E. Parliament* v. Dottie Parliament) (Fred Biery, J. - Affirmed in part; reversed and rendered in part; reversed and remanded in part.) (Opposing Counsel: Eileen Flume.).
• 13. Scholl v. Home Owners Warranty Corp., 810 S.W.2d 464 (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 05, 1991, no writ) (No. 04-90-00558-CV) (Alfonso Chapa, J. - Affirmed as modified.) (Michael A. Scholl v. Home Owners Warranty Corp.*) (Opposing Counsel: Adam Poncio and Joel Pullen.).
• 12. Thiel v. Thiel, 780 S.W.2d 930 (Tex.App.-San Antonio November 22, 1989, no writ). (No. 04-89-00064-CV). (Blair Reeves, J. - Appellee's motion to not abate Appellant's appeal granted.) (John Thiel v. Eileen Thiel*) (Opposing Counsel: John E. Curney.).
• 11. Jordan v. Middleton, 762 S.W.2d 339, 119 Lab.Cas. P 56,651 (Tex.App.-San Antonio December 14, 1988, no writ) (No. 04-88-00140-CV). (Alfonso Chapa, J. -- Reversed with instructions.) (Kenneth R. Jordan* v. Eileen Sandra Middleton) (Opposing Counsel: Byron E. Barnett.).
• 10. United States of America, For the Use and Benefit of Howell Crane Service v. U.S. Fidelity & Guaranty Company, 861 F.2d 110, 35 Cont.Cas.Fed. (CCH) P 75,601 (5th Cir. November 30, 1988) (No. 88-5531). (Jerre S. Williams, Circuit Judge - Reversed.) (Howell Crane Service v. U.S. Fidelity & Guaranty Company*) (Opposing Counsel: Susan M. Linden, Gregory J. Johansen, Kansas City, Mo.).
• 9. Perma Stone-Surfa Shield Co. v. Merideth, 752 S.W.2d 224 (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 15, 1988, no writ) (No. 04-87-00195-CV) (Blair Reeves, J. - Affirmed in part, reversed and rendered in part.) (Perma Stone-Surfa Shield Co.* v. James and Dixie Merideth) (Opposing Counsel: Thomas F. Adkisson.).
• 8. Techcraft, Inc. v. Van Houten, 709 S.W.2d 688 (Tex.App.-San Antonio February 19, 1986, no writ) (No. 04-85-00152-CV). (Pete Tijerina, J. -- Affirmed.) (Techcraft, Inc. v. Steven Van Houten*) (Opposing Counsel: William W. Sommers.).
• 7. Breen v. Breen, 693 S.W.2d 495 (Tex.App.-San Antonio March 13, 1985, no writ) (No. 04-83-00322-CV). (Shirley Butts, J. - Reversed and ordered dismissed.) (Jerry Breen* v. Elizabeth Breen) (Opposing Counsel: Roger W. Wooldridge.).
• 6. Benson v. Benson, (Tex.App.-San Antonio June 29, 1984, no writ) (No. 04-82- 00391-CV). (Not designated for publication.). (Shirley Butts, J. - Affirmed.) (William Dow "Doc" Benson v. Georgia Fay Benson*) (Opposing Counsel: F.B. Lloyd, Jr., Alice.)
• 5. Texas Paper Stock Co. v. Corpus Christi Food City, Inc., 609 S.W.2d 259 (Tex.Civ.App.-Corpus Christi October 16, 1980, no writ) (No. 1597). (Nye, C.J. - Affirmed.) (Texas Paper Stock Co. v. Corpus Christi Food City, Inc.*) (Opposing Counsel: Darrell L. Barger and James W. Wray, Jr., Corpus Christi.).
• 4. Cherry Springs Ranch Inv., Ltd. v. Graham, 599 S.W.2d 355 (Tex.Civ.App.-Waco April 30, 1980, no writ) (No. 6104) (McDonald, C.J. - Reversed and remanded.) (Cherry Springs Ranch Inv., Ltd. v. Phillip H. Graham) (Opposing Counsel: Samuel L. Boyd, Kerrville.).
• 3. Lawrence v. Hardy, 583 S.W.2d 795 (Tex.Civ.App.-San Antonio November 22, 1978, writ denied n.r.e.) (No. 15984). (Carlos C. Cadena, J. - Affirmed.) (Burnis K. Lawrence v. W.T. Hardy*) (Opposing Counsel: None; no brief filed.).
• 2. Travelers Indem. Co. v. Landrum, 572 S.W.2d 567 (Tex.Civ.App.-Austin October 04, 1978, no writ) (No. 12755) (Shannon, J. - Reversed and judgment rendered that plaintiff take nothing.) (Travelers Indem. Co.* v. Phillip W. Landrum and wife and American National Bank of Austin, Texas) (Opposing Counsel: James Y. Bryce, Austin.).
• 1. Dillard Department Stores, Inc. v. The Honorable Fred Shannon, Jr., Judge, District Court for the 131st Judicial District of Texas, Bexar County, Texas and Alma W. Thieme and Richard R. Thieme, (Tex.Civ.App.-San Antonio March __, 1978) (No. B-7423) Application for Writ of Mandamus-Denied without opinion. (Dillard Department Stores, Inc. v. The Honorable Fred Shannon, Jr. and Alma W. Thieme and Richard R. Thieme*.) (Opposing Counsel: F. Terry Callahan.).

Speaking and/or Published Professional Legal Articles

• Author and Speaker: American Bar Association, State Bar of Texas (Family Law and Military Law Sections) ; Naval Justice School, Texas Tech Law School, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, San Antonio, Travis County, Val Verde County, Victoria County and Lubbock Bar Associations; San Antonio Family Lawyers Association; San Antonio College; public school classes, military, civic and other groups, including, but not limited to, the following:
• Post-Divorce Medical Benefits (Now You See It, Now You Don't), 37th Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 1-4, 2011, San Antonio, Texas.
• Primer: The Military Client, Things the Practitioner Should Know, 10th Annual Family Law on the Front Lines, July 1-2, 2010, University of Texas Continuing Legal Education, Hyatt Hill Country Resort & Spa, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Retirement Benefits - Things The Practitioner Should Be Aware Of, 33rd Annual Marriage Dissolution Institute, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, May 6-7, 2010, JW Marriott Resort & Spa, San Antonio, Texas.
• Texas Family Law, Texas National Guard SJA Conference, State Staff Judge Advocate of the Texas Military Forces, May 1-2, 2010, Lackland AFB, Texas.
• Texas Family Law, 18th Biennial Institute on Texas Law for Military Attorneys, Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, April 22-23, 2010 (Speaker/presenter of Article written by John Compere, Jo Chris Lopez and Charla M. Davies), Sam Houston Club, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
• Texas Family Law Issues Unique to the Military, West Texas Military Law Symposium, Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas and Texas Tech Law School, February 19-20, 2010, Speaker, Texas Tech Law School, Lubbock, Texas.
• Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists Trial Institute, Mock Trial Participant and Speaker, February 12-13, 2010, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Hotel Santa Fe, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
• The Survivor Benefit Plan: Its History, Idiosyncrasies, Coverages, Cost, and Applications, Higdon, ABA Family Law Quarterly, Vol. 43, No. 3, Fall 2009, pp. 439-488, American Bar Association Section on Family Law (Published January 2010).
• Military Pension Division 2009: Pitfalls & Problems and Child Support and Service Members and Family Law Panelist, Speaker/presenter, September 2-4, 2009, Consumer and Family Law Course, Naval Justice School, Newport, Rhode Island.
• Military Retirement and Divorce (part of Retirement Panel Discussion), 35th Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 3-6, 2009, Dallas, Texas.
• Texas Family Law in the Military Combat Zone, Webcast Panelist (1 of 4), State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, July 7, 2009, Broadcast from Texas Law Center, Austin, Texas.
• Texas Family Law, 20th Annual Community Property States Symposium, March 26-28, 2009 (Speaker/presenter of Article written by John Compere, Jo Chris Lopez and Charla M. Davies), State Bar Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
• Drafting Issues for Military Families and Spouses, Advanced Family Law Drafting Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, December 4-5, 2008, Austin, Texas.
• Military Divorce and Deployment Family Law Issues, Texas Advanced Paralegal Seminar, Paralegal Division of State Bar of Texas, September 17, 2008, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Divorce, SCRA and Related Military Family Law Issues, Texas Center for the Judiciary, September 16, 2008, Dallas, Texas.
• Texas Family Law, 17th Biennial Institute on Texas Law for Military Attorneys, Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, April 24-25, 2008 (Speaker/presenter of Article written by John Compere, Jo Chris Lopez and Charla M. Davies), Sam Houston Club, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
• Military Retirement & Military Divorce - Things The Practitioner Should Be Aware Of, 31st Annual Marriage Dissolution Institute, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, April 17-18, 2008, Galveston, Texas.
• Military Pension Division 2009: Pitfalls & Problems and Child Support and Service Members, Speaker/presenter, Consumer and Family Law Course, April 1-2, 2008, Naval Justice School, Newport, Rhode Island.
• Child Support and Service Members, (Speaker/presenter), Consumer and Family Law Course, April 1-2, 2008, Naval Justice School, Newport, Rhode Island.
• A Primer on Drafting Military Retirement Division Orders, San Antonio Family Lawyers Association Monthly Meeting, October 2, 2007, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Retirement and Divorce (part of Retirement Panel Discussion), 33rd Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 6-9, 2007, San Antonio, Texas.
• When Parents Go To War with co-author, Stephanie J. Bandoske, 33rd Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 6-9, 2007, San Antonio, Texas.
• Pension Division Issues involving Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP) and Combat Related Special Compensation (CRSC), ABA Legal Assistance to Military Personnel (LAMP) Committee and Texas Military Law Section Joint CLE and Meeting, November 17-18, 2006, Sam Houston Club, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas; (no written work; oral presentation in conjunction with B.Gen. Michael W. McCarthy, USAF (Ret.) of Phoenix, AZ.
• Military Issues in Family Law Cases, San Antonio Family Lawyers Association Monthly Meeting, November 2, 2006, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Issues in Family Law Cases, Lackland AFB Legal Assistance Attorneys' CLE Training, Lackland AFB, August 30, 2006, San Antonio, Texas.
• War and Peace, Military Benefit Issues in War Time with co-author, Stephanie J. Bandoske, 32nd Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 14--17, 2006, San Antonio, Texas. Selected by the College of the State Bar of Texas as its recipient of the Franklin Jones Outstanding CLE Article for 2006.
• Military Divorces (part of Retirement QDROs Panel Discussion), 32nd Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 14--17, 2006, San Antonio, Texas.
• Child Support and Service Members, A Short Court on Military Family Law Issues, American Bar Association Family Law Section, May 3, 2006, Henderson Hall, Arlington, Virginia.
• Texas Family Law, 16th Biennial Institute on Texas Law for Military Attorneys, Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, April 27-28, 2006 (Speaker/presenter of Article written by John Compere, Jo Chris Lopez and Charla M. Davies), Sam Houston Club, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
• Military Divorces, 29th Annual Marriage Dissolution Institute, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, April 20-21, 2006, Austin, Texas.
• Military Issues in Family Law Cases, Extreme Family Law Make Over IV, San Antonio Bar Association Family Law Section, March 3, 2006, San Antonio, Texas.
• Should Your Next Expert Be a Licensed Private Investigator, San Antonio Family Lawyers Association Monthly Meeting, January 5, 2006, San Antonio, Texas.
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and Amended New Benefits, 31st Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 8-11, 2005, Dallas, Texas.
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and Amended New Benefits, State Bar College Summer School, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, July 21-23, 2005, Galveston, Texas.
• Military Retirement-Temporary Orders, Types of Compensation, Collecting Child Support, Military Retirement Registration, and Survivor Benefit Registration Deadlines, 28th Annual Marriage Dissolution Institute, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, April 21-22, 2005, Galveston, Texas.
• The Law of Military Retirement and Military Retirement, Its Calculation and the Drafting of Orders Acceptable for Processing, Family Law and The Military Seminar, The University of Texas School of Law, El Paso Family
• Law Bar Association, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate and Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas,
• February 24-25, 2005, Briggs Army Airfield, Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas.
• Texas Family Law, 15th Biennial Institute on Texas Law for Military Attorneys, Military Law Section of the State
• Bar of Texas, April 22-23, 2004 (Speaker/presenter of Article written by John Compere, Jo Chris Lopez and Charla M. Davies), Fort Sam Houston NCO Club, San Antonio, Texas.
• Soldiers, Sailors & Military Divorces, Family Law and The Military Seminar, El Paso Family Law Bar Association,
• Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, El Paso Domestic Relations Office and El Paso County Family Court Judges, February 27-28, 2003, Briggs Army Airfield, Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas.
• Soldiers, Sailors & Military Divorces, 28th Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 5-8, 2002, Dallas, Texas.
• Texas Family Law, 15th Biennial Institute on Texas Law for Military Attorneys, Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, April 25-26, 2002 (Speaker/presenter of Article written by John Compere and Jo Chris Lopez), Fort Sam Houston NCO Club, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Marriage Dissolution, Separation Pension Division and DFAS QDROS, ABA Standing Committee on Legal Assistance to Military Personnel (LAMP) and Military Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, November 8, 2001, San Antonio, Texas (at St. Mary's University Law School) Handling the Federal Retirement Plans: Military Retirement and Civil Service Retirement, Including Survivor Benefits, 27th Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 6-9, 2001, San Antonio, Texas.
• The UCCJEA in Texas, Children's Records Law in Texas Seminar, Lorman Education Services, Inc., June 15, 2001, Austin, Texas; June 18, 2001, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military and Civil Service Retirement Plans, Family Law for General Practitioners and Legal Assistants, Stromar Educational Services, Inc., September 27, 2000, San Antonio, Texas.
• The UCCJEA in Texas, Children's Records Law in Texas Seminar, Lorman Education Services, Inc., June 8, 2000, San Antonio, Texas.
• QDROS, Military, and Other Benefits, 23rd Annual Marriage Dissolution Institute, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, May 11-12, 2000, Fort Worth, Texas.
• Military and Civil Service Retirement Plans, Family Law for General Practitioners and Legal Assistants, Stromar Educational Services, Inc., January 26, 2000, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military and Civil Service Retirement Plans, 25th Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 16-19, 1999, Dallas, Texas.
• Overview of Military Benefits, Basic Family Law Seminar, San Antonio Bar Association and SABA Family Law Section, June 19, 1997, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Retirement-An Update, 1997 20th Annual Marriage Dissolution Institute, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, May 8-9, 1997, Dallas, Texas.
• Military/Civil Service Family Law: Getting the QDRO's Right, American Bar Association 1997 Mid-Year Meeting, General Practice, Solo and Small Firm Section, Military Law Committee, January 31, 1997, San Antonio, Texas.
• Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act and Military Retirement, Val Verde County Bar Association, December 13, 1996, Del Rio, Texas.
• Drafting To Incorporate Changes in Military and Federal QDRO's, 1995 Advanced Family Law Drafting Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, December 14-15, 1995, San Antonio, Texas.
• Division of Military Retirement Benefits, San Antonio Bar Association Afternoon CLE, October 20, 1994, San Antonio, Texas.
• Voluntary Separation Benefit Programs, San Antonio Bar Association Military Law Section, February 25, 1993, San Antonio, Texas; Travis County Bar Association, May 5, 1993, Austin, Texas; as revised, presented to Victoria County Bar Association, May 17, 1993, Victoria, Tx, and published in 21 The SALSA Summons No. 2 at 26 (June 1993) (Publication of San Antonio Legal Secretary's Association).
• Using The Soldiers' And Sailors' Civil Relief Act To Stay Civil Proceedings, American Bar Association's Legal Assistance for Military Personnel (LAMP) Seminar, January 21, 1993, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas.
• Survivor Benefit Plan And Other Military Benefits, San Antonio Family Lawyers Association, January 14, 1993, San Antonio, Texas; also published in 20 The SALSA Summons No. 9 at 9 (February 1993).
• Military/Fringe Benefits, How Retirement/Employee Benefits Affect You and Your Clients Seminar, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, February 20-21, 1992, Austin/Dallas, Texas.
• Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act, 17th Annual Advanced Family Law Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, August 19, 1991, Dallas, Texas.
• Family Violence Protective Orders, Domestic Law in Texas Seminar, National Business Institute, Inc., May 16, 1991, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Retirement, Active and Reserve, Advanced Family Law Drafting Course, State Bar of Texas Professional Development Program, December 14, 1990, San Antonio, Texas.
• Military Retirement Notes, 1 Family Law Forum No. 3 (Dec. 1, 1988). (Method for calculation of Reserve Military Retirement.) (Publication of Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists).

Court Admissions

• Supreme Court of Texas (1976).
• U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas (1978).
• U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit (1979).
• U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas (1979).
• U.S. Supreme Court (1979).
• U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas (1980).

Military

• Captain, U. S. Naval Reserve (Ret.) - 24 years commissioned service (US Navy 1967-1973; US Naval Reserve 1973-1991); now drawing retired pay!.
• Designated Naval Aviator No. V-27972 (February 20, 1969).
• Last Billet before retirement: Commanding Officer, NR AVT-16 Lexington 1010, Naval Reserve Center and aboard USS Lexington (AVT-16), Pensacola, FL. (1990-1991).
• Naval Reserve Association: Life Member (1977-); Alamo Chapter (President, 1981-83; Officer, Director 1978-1983); Eighth District (Vice-President JAG 1989-93; Vice-President Chapter Activities 1980-1982).
• San Antonio Recruiting District Assistance Council (RDAC) (1980-1992), Chairman (1989-1991).
• Navy League of the United States, Life Member (2000-); Alamo Council (1989-).
• The Retired Officers Association, Life Member (1992-).
• San Antonio Retired Officers Association, (1992-), Life Member (1993-).
• Military Awards: Navy Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/ 1 silver star (5 campaigns), National Defense Service Medal, Pistol Expert Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (w/ 4 bronze stars), Navy Recruiting Ribbon, Rifle Sharpshooter Ribbon.

Civic/Community Organization Participation

• San Antonio, Texas Oak Hills Rotary Club: (01/05/1979- ); President (1991-92); Director (1986-93, 2010-11); Paul Harris Fellow (1987-); Paul Harris Benefactor (1991-); Paul Harris Major Donor (2010-- ).
• Rotary International District 5840: District Secretary (1992-1993).
• Alamo Masonic Cemetery Corporation: Member, Board of Directors (05/86- ): President (06/08- ); Vice-President (05/90-06/08); Treasurer (03/86-05/90).
• City of San Antonio, Texas AIDS/HIV Commission: Commissioner (1990-1993).
• San Antonio Public Library Foundation, Member, Board of Directors (1997-2001).
• UT NROTC Alumni Foundation, Member, Board of Directors (10/2009- ).
• National Sojourners, Inc., National Third Vice-President (Jun 2011-).
• The Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Texas: Sesquicentennial Grand Commander (State Presiding Officer) (2004-2005); Elected Progressive Grand Line Officer (1996-2005); Editor, Texas Page, Knight Templar Magazine (2004-2006, 2009-2010); Grand Prelate (2007-2008).
• The Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas, Appointed and Installed as Grand Orator (2010-2011). Scottish Rite Learning Center of South Texas [San Antonio], Member, Board of Directors (2000-2009). Lee Lockwood Scottish Rite Foundation of Texas, Member, Board of Directors (2000-2006).
• San Antonio, Texas Masonic Bodies: Member and Past Presiding Officer of: Alamo Lodge #44, A.F.&A.M. (Worshipful Master: 1980- 81)(Treasurer: 1985-1989; 2005- ); Blue Bonnet Chapter #470, R.A.M. (Most Excellent High Priest: 1983-84, 1999-2001) (Treasurer: 1985-1989; 2004- ); Blue Bonnet Council #409, R.&S.M. (Thrice Illustrious Master: 1984-85) (Treasurer: 1985-1989; 2004- ); San Antonio Commandery #7, K.T. (Eminent Commander: 1992); Texian York Rite College #60 (Preeminent Governor: 1994-95); San Antonio Council #261, Allied Masonic Degrees (Charter Member) (Sovereign Master: 1997-98); Alamo Camp, Heroes of '76, National Sojourners, Inc. (Camp Commander: 1999-2000); San Antonio Scottish Rite Bodies: San Antonio Consistory (Venerable Master: 2000-2001); Fort Sam Houston Chapter #17, National Sojourners, Inc. (President: 2001-2002); St. Anthony Conclave #50, Order of the Red Cross of Constantine (Puissant Sovereign: 2004-2005); Texas Council #45, Order of Knight Masons (Charter Member) (Excellent Chief: 2005-2006) Brownwood Commandery #22, K.T. (Boerne, Texas) (Eminent Commander: Jun 2010-Dec 2011).
• The Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America (Member by virtue of being a Past Grand Commander, The Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Texas): Grand Commandery Coordinator for The Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Texas (2009-2012).
• Also member of: Scottish Rite Bodies, Valley of San Antonio, Southern Jurisdiction; Alzafar Shrine; Texas Priory #23 and Texian Priory #78 (Elected Progressive Line Officer 2009-), Knights York Cross of Honour (KYCH); Nazareth Tabernacle No. XXXIV, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests (Elected Progressive Line Officer 2003-) and other appendant/related Masonic bodies.
• Endowed member of Lodge, Chapter, Council, Commandery (3), College, Scottish Rite Bodies and National Sojourners, Inc.(5).
• Member, Woodland Baptist Church, San Antonio, Texas (Mbr, Deacon Body 2000- ; Sanctuary Choir ).

Personal

• Born October 20, 1944, McAlester, Oklahoma.
• Married to former Barbara Ann Downing of Eagle Pass, Texas and have two sons, Travis, an entrepreneur, owner of and recording producer for Peek-A-Boo Records (longest running independent record label in Austin, TX, now located in Los Angeles, CA) and webpage developer/designer for Sapient, Los Angeles, CA; and Andrew, a certified public accountant with Apartment Investment and Management Company (AIMCO) of Denver, CO. All are graduates of The University of Texas at Austin. Grandfather of Riley, Haddon and Park.

Higdon, Hardy & Zuflacht, L.L.P.

12000 Huebner Road Ste. 200 San Antonio, Texas 78230

• Tel. (210) 349-9933
• Fax. (210) 349-9988

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