Christopher Ritter

Chief Legal Counsel at State Bar of Texas

Austin, Texas, United States

About

Experienced legal counsel and trial attorney with a strong background in representing governmental entities and businesses in civil litigation, regulatory compliance, employment law, open records and meetings, contract negotiations, insurance matters, workers’ compensation, and tort liability. Skilled in navigating complex legal frameworks at the state and federal levels to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.

Experience

  • State Bar of Texas (Full-time · 12 yrs 6 mos)
    • Chief Legal Counsel
      2023 - Present · 3 yrs 6 mos

      As Chief Legal Counsel for the State Bar, I oversee all aspects of litigation, contracts, employment and HR matters, open records compliance, and open meetings regulations. I provide strategic legal guidance to the executive team and leadership, draft policies and rules, and manage the Office of Legal Counsel along with several other important departments. Additionally, I collaborate with the board of directors, the Texas Supreme Court, and various State Bar committees on key governance and regulatory matters.

    • In-House Legal Counsel
      2021 - 2023 · 2 yrs

      As in-house legal counsel, I performed general legal work for the Bar and oversaw litigation and the Open Records Center, reviewed contracts, advised on open meetings compliance, drafted policy and rules, and assisted HR in employment law matters. I also provided legal counsel to the executive team and leadership, and worked with the board of directors, the Texas Supreme Court, and various State Bar committees to address a variety State Bar matters.

    • Director, Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program (and TLAP Attorney)
      2014 - 2021 · 7 yrs

      Director, November 2018-September 2021. Attorney, April 2014-October 2018. The Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) provides confidential help to lawyers, law students, and judges who have problems with substance use and other mental health disorders.

  • Assistant District Attorney - Civil Division at Lubbock County District Attorney's Office - Civil Division
    2012 - 2014 · 2 yrs

    Representing Lubbock County in civil litigation and providing counsel to the County's elected officials and department directors.

  • Partner at Liggett Law Group, P.C.
    2009 - 2012 · 3 yrs

    Civil litigation in the areas of personal injury, governmental entity, insurance, and commercial litigation.

  • Partner at Crenshaw Dupree & Milam LLP
    2001 - 2009 · 8 yrs

    Civil litigation, primarily defense, representing counties, cities, businesses, and individuals in personal injury, insurance, civil rights, contract, and commercial disputes. Substantial experience in jury trials and preparing pleadings, briefs, and discovery in state and federal lawsuits.

  • Associate at Hinkle, Cox, Eaton, Coffield & Hensley, LLP
    1998 - 2001 · 3 yrs

    Civil litigation and drafting pleadings and discovery in federal and state cases in the areas of personal injury, oil and gas, and public utilities.