Michael E. Richardson - Partner

Michael Richardson joined Beck, Redden & Secrest L.L.P. in March, 1999, becoming a partner in January 1, 2008. Mr. Richardson’s practice focuses on complex commercial litigation and he has represented clients in a wide range of disputes involving contracts, professional liability, products liability, class actions, securities fraud, intellectual property, real estate, oil and gas, and a variety of business matters.  Prior to joining the firm, he was an associate at Cenatiempo & Garder in Houston, Texas where his practice focused on complex probate and trust litigation.

Educational Background

• 1997 – J.D. – University of Houston Law Center (magna cum laude)
  • Order of the Coif
  • Order of the Barrons
• 1993 – B.A. – Michigan State University

Professional Activities and Memberships

• State Bar of Texas
• United States District Courts for the Eastern, Southern and Western Districts of Texas
• United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
• Houston Bar Association
• Texas Association of Defense Counsel
• Houston Young Lawyers Association

Professional Honors

• Named “Rising Star” in business litigation, Texas Monthly magazine (2008).

Representative Cases

• Defended brokerage firm in a fraud case brought by former customer.  The case was arbitrated before the NASD, which ruled in our client’s favor and awarded our client its attorney’s fees.
• Defended bank officer and director in case involving allegations of fraud brought by former shareholder.  The matter was tried to a jury, which returned a verdict in our client’s favor.
• Defended natural gas company in contractual dispute involving coal bed methane gas wells.  The case was arbitrated before a three person panel which ruled in our client’s favor.
• Pursued breach of contract claims on behalf of software design company.  The case settled favorably during trial.
• Pursued claims on behalf of a parts supply company for unpaid invoices against a maquiladora and also defended against counterclaims of fraud.  The case settled following two weeks of trial.
• Defended offshore drilling company in class action involving claims of antitrust violations.  Obtained dismissal of client.
• Represented home warranty company in class action involving allegations of breach of contract, fraud and violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices–Consumer Protection Act.  Obtained dismissal of client.