Following the success of the Dallas Roundtable Symposium, Galloway Johnson Tompkins Burr & Smith hosted its inaugural Houston Roundtable Symposium on September 18, 2025 in The Woodlands. The event brought together industry professionals and defense counsel for lively conversation and collaboration, spotlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by corporations and their legal teams in Texas.
Claims Handling and Litigation Strategies
Attendees shared their common pain points and best practices in claims management with a particular focus on strengthening communication and preparing for litigation from budgeting to deposition. The group agreed that getting everyone comfortable and on the same page immediately to develop a case plan sets the tone for successful outcomes. Approaching mediation as a target just like approaching trial and the value of settling bad cases aggressively and early was discussed.
A recurring theme was the “art” of defense, noting that it takes skill and talent to deconstruct a case and to minimize expenses, exposure, and time. Defense counsel like Galloway attorneys precisely balance strategies and long-term planning.
Understanding and Responding to Client Needs
The conversation turned to client expectations and communication. Knowing clients’ brand and enterprise perspective is critical, particularly with the impact of social media, reputational awareness, and the rise of nuclear verdicts. Strategies must reflect brand concerns and how to communicate facts positively and early.
AI: Uses, Challenges, and Concerns
Artificial intelligence was a major topic, with participants exploring practical applications such as deposition summaries, medical information, and jury research. The group also raised concerns about biases, privilege, privacy, and whether AI can successfully capture the subtle nuances that people know. Businesses that are not leveraging AI may fall behind, and technology is both a tool and a strategic consideration.
Jury Verdicts and Legal Trends
The roundtable explored the multiple factors that shape verdicts. Some noted that social media is changing the way people view lawsuits, and that nuclear verdicts continue to drive litigation caution. Despite rising challenges, attendees observed that the legal environment is tough and unpredictable.
Takeaways and Connections
Overall, the Houston Roundtable Symposium offered a space for honest dialogue on the science and art of defense, sharing actionable strategies and building professional connections. Kelly Hartmann, Adraon Greene, Tommy Smith, Madeline Smith Hebert, and Nadia Savo steered the roundtable discussions and strengthened relationships while setting the stage for future conversations and collaboration.
For more information on this event, and Galloway’s client services, please contact us today.
