On August 1, 1978, four notable attorneys: Jim Cowles, Charlie Sorrells, Jay Patterson, and Hardy Thompson III founded the firm originally under the name “Cowles, Sorrells, Patterson & Thompson” before later adopting the current “Cowles Thompson” branding.
Founding Partners and Vision
Jim Cowles was a key visionary behind the firm’s creation. His trailblazing career set the tone for the firm’s culture and approach. Renowned for innovative trial work and fearless client representation, “Mr. Cowles” became a respected leader in the Texas legal community, earning honorifics such as “Lion of Texas Law,” and recognition as one of the greatest Texas lawyers of the past quarter century.
The firm’s philosophy focuses on delivering high-quality, client-focused representation in a transparent and professional manner, adhering to the pillars of core values established by its founders: character, competence, commitment, and courtesy.
Growth and Reputation
From humble beginnings, the firm experienced rapid growth, at one point expanding to 120 lawyers by the late 1990s. The firm has served clients in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, across Texas, and across the nation – and continues that outreach today, from its offices in Dallas, Texas and Plano, Texas.
Cowles Thompson attorneys and the firm as a whole have been recognized and ranked for commitment to the business and legal communities, in particular for excellence in legal practice areas of such as commercial litigation, personal injury litigation, legal malpractice defense, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, construction litigation, employment law, appellate practice, and family law.
Cowles Thompson is also known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The firm began hiring and promoting women and minority attorneys from its earliest days, with women holding equity shareholder positions since 1984 as well as active leadership roles in management.
Practice and Philosophy
As a full-service law firm, Cowles Thompson offers representation in commercial litigation, appellate law, business transactions, bankruptcy, construction, family law, employment law, real estate, and more.
Cowles Thompson thus stands out not only for its historic impact on the Dallas legal community but also for its ongoing leadership in legal innovation, diversity, and client service — for 47 years.
