KOONSFULLER - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- American Inn of Court ( Master ), Founding Member
- Inn of Court, Member, 2014 - Present
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Denton
Bonny Haynes has been licensed for over 28 years and has focused her law practice in family law for the past 15 years after gaining extensive knowledge and experience as a trial attorney in mass tort litigation, insurance defense, probate and guardianship. She has dedicated a significant part of her practice representing both parents and children in CPS cases involving sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, abandonment and drug issues as well as representing grandparents and other relatives as intervenors. Bonny is uniquely qualified to handle the most challenging child custody disputes, child support and possession issues as well as very complex property and business asset divisions that arise in divorces and modifications. Bonny is empathetic, yet aggressive and creative, in obtaining the best possible outcomes for her clients during an extremely difficult time in their lives. Bonny was admitted to the State Bar of Texas to practice before all Texas State Courts in 1995.
She is a member of the Texas Bar Association, the State Bar of Texas Family Law Section, Child-Welfare Section, Women Lawyers section, Probate Section (REPTL), and the Texas Association of Family Defense Attorneys. She continues to maintain her Guardianship Ad Litem Certification. Bonny currently serves on the Executive Board of Directors of the Denton County Bar Association and is the chairperson of the Women Lawyers Section and serves on the Communications Committee.
As a life-long advocate of public service and giving back to her community, Bonny served two terms as a board member for Tarrant County Child Protective Services. She served on the Argyle Town Council from 2004-2013 and was elected by the council to serve as Mayor Pro-Tem from 2009-2013. She has volunteered for many causes benefitting worthy organizations including but not limited to the Denton County Bar Foundation, Denton County Friends of the Family, National Charity League, Community Partners of Tarrant County, Partners Together for Health, White's Chapel United Methodist Church, Keep Argyle Beautiful, Keep Texas Beautiful, Argyle Education Foundation and the Argyle Parks & Arts Board.
Brian Loughmiller has been practicing civil litigation and family law for 36 years with the primary focus on family law litigation for the past 25 years. Brian has received local and national recognition for his trial skills both in jury trials and trials before the Court and is board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in both Civil Trial and Family Law. In addition to his experience as a Family Law Attorney, with friends and family members having experienced divorce in their lives, Brian is empathetic to the impact of divorce on children and works to reach resolution in cases that will prioritize effective co-parenting by divorced parents.
Brian has also been active in his community serving on various boards and on City Council from 2001 to 2008 and as Mayor of the City of McKinney, Texas from 2009 to 2017. During his public service, Brian received numerous leadership awards and recognition related to the growth and development of McKinney. Outside the practice of law and civic involvement, Brian participates in endurance events including Ironman Triathlons and Marathons having completed 21 Ironman events and 10 marathons. Brian has been married to his wife Donna for 35 years and has three adult children.
Charla Bradshaw is a highly accomplished and compassionate family law attorney who knows what it takes to guide clients to effective outcomes in the most challenging family law cases, including divorce and child custody cases. While a Denton family law attorney, Charla represents clients all over Texas both in and out of the courtroom. She helps clients with diverse needs, ranging from bitterly-contested property and division issues, to spouses, parents and grandparents who need an experienced negotiator and/or litigator.
A Denton native and Managing Shareholder of the 2019 Best Divorce Law Firm in Denton (Best of Denton County), Charla is devoted to serving her community and putting clients' needs and comfort level above all else during a difficult chapter in their lives. With her extensive education in marriage and family therapy, Charla brings a counselor's perspective and empathy to her practice that clients likely won't find at other Denton family law firms. This background helps Charla understand the unique dynamics of her clients' family relationships and identify alternatives to litigation that other attorneys may overlook.
With 26 years of experience handling complex divorce and custody cases, Charla is a go-to and natural commentator for local and national media when unique family law issues capture the headlines. She appeared on NBC5-TV in Fort Worth to discuss her significant role in foiling an international kidnapping case and was also a guest on Dallas radio station KLIF to explain the pros and cons of "nesting" - the practice of parents taking turns living with the children in the marital residence during the divorce process.
Dedicated to giving back to the legal community, Charla has served on the Texas Family Law Council Legislative Committee since 2009, playing an important role in shaping Texas family law legislation. She also previously served as chair of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists and the State Bar of Texas District 14 Grievance Committee. In 2016, Charla was elected by peers as a member of the highly selective Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation based on her outstanding professional achievements and steadfast commitment to improving the Texas justice system. In addition, Charla is a Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. She is also a certified mediator and a member of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas.
Charla is counted among the top family law attorneys in peer review publications year after year, including The Best Lawyers in America® in family law and family law mediation (Best Lawyers, LLC) since 2011 and Texas Super Lawyers (Thomson Reuters) since 2003. She has also been honored as one of the Top 100 Super Lawyers in Dallas-Fort Worth (Thomson Reuters) and the Top 50 Female Attorneys in Texas (Thomson Reuters) on several occasions. She is also named the Best Divorce Attorney in 2019 by the Best of Denton County. Charla is Martindale-Hubbell AV® Peer Review Rated - the highest level rating - and is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Charla is in high demand as a speaker and author as well. She is a regular presenter at State Bar continuing legal education programs and previously served as director of the Advanced Family Law Course, one of the largest CLE courses in Texas. In addition to writing numerous articles in legal publications, Charla co-authored the latest edition of Protecting Your Assets from A Texas Divorce with KoonsFuller CEO, Ike Vanden Eykel, and fellow Managing Shareholders, Rick Robertson and Heather King.
With extensive experience in cases involving divorce, custody and marital property agreements, Chris is comfortable in the chaos that comes with family law. No issue is too big or too small for Chris and his team to handle. As a skilled litigation and collaborative family law attorney, clients find comfort in knowing that Chris will be there guiding them through each step of their case with the knowledge and expertise needed to achieve the best possible outcome.
Just as no two families are the same, no two family law cases are exactly alike, and Chris zealously works to find creative solutions for each client he represents. And Chris enjoys strongly advocating for his clients, taking the route that best meets that individual client's needs.
As a recent client of Chris' put it, "I highly recommend Chris to anyone going through a complex case or going up against an army of lawyers on the other side. His calm demeanor and genuine concern to resolve the issues amicably are beyond compare, and should the issue proceed further, he is absolutely outstanding in delivering a positive outcome."
Chris also prioritizes keeping his clients regularly informed on their case progress. One of the most important aspects of good representation is effective communication between the lawyer and client. Chris makes a point of ensuring each of his client's calls and emails are promptly answered and that his client knows exactly what is going on in their case at any given time.
Chris is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has been regularly recognized by his peers and reviewers as one of the top Texas family law attorneys.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Southlake
Courtney Walker was raised in Keller, Texas. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with her Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and Anthropology in 2011 and her Juris Doctorate from Texas A&M School of Law in 2014. While at the University of Oklahoma she participated in the Pride of Oklahoma Marching Band, the Oklahoma University Drumline, and the University of Oklahoma Wind Symphony.
Courtney has practiced family law in Tarrant County since 2014. She has worked in offices throughout the greater Fort Worth area gaining valuable experience in family law, family formation, and assisted reproduction. Courtney's goal for all of her clients is, at the end of the case, to leave every person in the best place they can be. Her compassion and understanding for people coupled with her avid representation in the Courtroom allows her to accomplish that goal for her clients.
Courtney is on the boards for both the Tarrant County Bar Association and Parker County Bar Association. She is a member of the Texas Bar Association, the Family Law and Collaborative Law sections of the Texas Bar, the Tarrant County Bar Association, the Eldon B. Mahon Inns of Court, and Parker County Bar Association. From 2014-Present Fort Worth Magazine has recognized her as one of the area's Top Attorneys, and from 2018-Present she has been recognized by 360 West Magazine for the same.
Job Titles:
- Attorney Program, Volunteer Attorney, 2010 - Present
Job Titles:
- Lawyers Association, Member
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Dana Manry received her B.A. in history from the University of Georgia and her law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law. It's easy to see that she comes by her southern charm honestly. Dana has practiced law in Georgia, Illinois, and she is now an attorney in KoonsFuller's Southlake office.
"I was delighted to be offered a position at KoonsFuller," said Dana. "The firm has a stellar national reputation. The depth of experience, resources and support KoonsFuller offers attorneys and clients alike is unprecedented."
Dana has experience in just about every aspect of family law but has shown a particular affinity for child custody litigation. "In family law, we often deal with broken relationships. I think this has given me an appreciation for the importance of relationships that work-and that's what I try to bring to each case and each client. An honest, open relationship helps make the legal process smoother and less traumatic for the people I serve," she says. "I can be tough when opponents force me to be. With my years of experience, I know the legal weapons I have at my disposal-and I will use them, if necessary, to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients."
Speaking of relationships, Dana is the past President of the Tarrant County Family Law Bar and an active member of the Texas State Bar Association. "These organizations link me to a vast network of professional resources and other family law attorneys," Dana says. "Day in and day out, these connections help me achieve the best results for my clients."
And Dana is achieving results: she is a multiple Texas Super Lawyer honoree.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Denton
David Thompson has spent the last 13 years successfully advocating on behalf of hundreds of clients. A U.S. Army veteran, David is proud and excited to fight alongside the attorneys of KoonsFuller, P.C., in their efforts to protect and advance clients' critical family law interests.
Prior to joining KoonsFuller, P.C. David served on active duty in the U.S. Army for twelve years as a Judge Advocate (i.e. military lawyer). In addition to deploying to Afghanistan, where he earned a Bronze Star medal, David served in multiple capacities, including advocate to Soldiers and their families, advisor to commanders on the law of war, and prosecutor in courts-martial. He also served as a military defense counsel, where he zealously advocated for his soldier clients, and attorney for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. After years of trial experience in these various roles, David was selected by the highest ranking attorney in the U.S. Army to teach trial advocacy and procedure to lawyers and paralegals at The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School-the only ABA accredited school in the U.S. military. David's legal writing skills have been recognized in scholarly publications such as the Army Lawyer and University of Texas Law Review. David continues to serve in the U.S. Army reserves as a Senior Defense Counsel and has obtained the rank of Major.
David is married to his wife, Kate, and has two children, Vivienne and Alexander. In his free time, David enjoys running, singing karaoke and spending time with family and friends.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Plano
Deron Sugg has been practicing family law for more than 20 years. Admitted to the bar in 2000, he is licensed to practice in both Texas and Missouri.
In his first decade of practicing, Deron handled cases in nearly all areas of law including civil, criminal, real estate, personal injury and juvenile, but devoted his career to family law after realizing he was most passionate about advocating for family law clients. He often describes his role as being a "Sherpa" because he takes pride in going above and beyond to ensure his clients receive the best possible result. He values communication, honesty, and makes sure his clients never lose sight of the big picture during the litigation process.
In 2012, anticipating national trends in the practice of family law, Deron completed his mediation certification at Saint Louis University and developed one of the most active mediation practices in the county where he officed, settling more than 95 percent of the cases he mediated. In 2020, he became certified in Collaborative Law.
Deron has proven success in handling complex and high-net worth divorces as he's been personally involved in dividing well over a quarter billion dollars in marital assets for his clients since arriving in Texas. More importantly, Deron believes children are the highest priority in any divorce and understands strong advocacy often means preserving and protecting parental relationships to minimize the divorce's impact on kids as much as possible.
As a family law attorney in KoonsFuller's Southlake office, Drew Williamson's practice focuses on divorce, child custody litigation, child support matters, protective orders and domestic violence. He successfully defends and prosecutes applications for protective orders and family violence allegations. Supported by his experience in business management prior to attending law school, Drew is able to develop creative strategies and provide practical guidance on the best method to proceed.
With the understanding that every client's situation is unique, Drew approaches each case by first getting to know his client, including familiarizing himself with the facts, gaining a full understanding of the problem and discussing his client's goals. His overall objective is to protect his clients' interests and optimize results through the implementation and execution of a distinctive litigation strategy, and when possible, a solution that allows the family to move forward in a positive direction after the case concludes. His passion for protecting children and preserving assets in cases of divorce coupled with his skill and strong presence in the courtroom drive results for his clients.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Dallas
Eniya's passion for family law began prior to law school, while earning her bachelor's degree from Baylor University. While there, she had the chance to speak with a local family law attorney who reframed her idea of practicing law. Since declaring as a young freshman that she would be a family law attorney, Eniya has devoted herself to the practice of family law.
Eniya is a graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law where she excelled both academically and with her extracurricular activities including serving as Chief Counsel of SMU's W.W. Caruth, Jr. Child Advocacy Clinic and serving on the executive board of Women-in-law and Black Law Student Association. She also volunteered with the Dallas Volunteer Attorneys Program, where she was a bridge of access to those who historically were unable to obtain an attorney.
Through all her education and varied experiences, Eniya has gained not only an appreciation but also an understanding of the complexities of family law. Eniya recognizes that her clients are going through difficult times and aims to be the consistency that they need during the process. She strives to help her clients resolve issues by focusing on practical solutions and client goals. Her overall objective is to help her clients reach the light at the end of the tunnel.
Eniya has been lucky to call Dallas home for most of her life. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, and coaching her youth volleyball team.
Job Titles:
- Shareholder
- Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
Fred Adams has practiced family law in Dallas for over 30 years and has extensive experience in all types of family law matters. Listed among The Best Lawyers in America® in family law as recognized by Best Lawyers, LLC, he is also certified as a mediator and family law arbitrator. "I have a knack for finding resolution with even the most complex family matters. Developing a partnership with my clients is something I take pride in. My approach is simple; we are in this together and my goal is to help you get the best possible outcome."
Fred is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a member of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists. Fred is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Dallas
Grant Gosser was born and raised in Lewisville, Texas and attended Prestonwood Christian Academy high school. He graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2020 and went on to earn his J.D. from Baylor Law School in 2023.
During his time at Baylor Law School, Grant was a member of the Order of the Barristers, a distinction earned by advancing to the Post-Break Rounds of the Dawson & Sodd Moot Court Competition. Grant also actively participated in the Baylor Law Veterans Clinic, assisting volunteer attorneys at legal advice clinics for veterans in Central Texas, and assumed responsibilities as a Form Grader for the Legal Analysis, Research, and Communications Department.
While at Baylor University, Grant showcased his dedication to advocacy as a Senator in Student Government, advocating on behalf of the student body. Additionally, Grant served as a member of Baylor Ambassadors advocating for the university's concerns and interests to local, state, and federal officials.
In his free time, Grant enjoys watching Baylor football, playing volleyball, and spending time with his family and friends.
Heather King is the complete family lawyer, one of the few family law attorneys with extensive experience from the beginning of a case, through trial or settlement, to the handling of an appeal. Because of her range of talents, she is called upon to handle trials and appeals throughout Texas.
Heather is especially adept at handling appeals of divorce cases. Recently, a reporter for WBAP Radio in Fort Worth spoke to her about the challenges involved in appealing a divorce case.
Heather joined KoonsFuller in 2007 as a Shareholder and manager of the firm's Southlake Office. She is past President of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists and a former President of the Tarrant County Bar Association and the Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association. Heather was also voted ‘2013 Top Rated Lawyer in ‘Appellate Law' by Martindale-Hubbell™.
Heather was recognized as a 2019 Texas Trailblazer by Texas Lawyer and D Magazine selected her as one of the Best Women Lawyers in North Texas (2010). Fort Worth Magazine has recognized her as one of the area's Top Attorneys and The Best Lawyers in America honored her as one of Texas' Best Lawyers from 2009 to present. She has been named to the list of the Top 50 Women Lawyers in the state and a Texas Super Lawyers honoree as published by Thomson Reuters.
Heather began her association with the legal profession as a receptionist for a Fort Worth firm while an undergraduate at Texas Christian University, where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in 1987. She earned her Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law in 1995.
Heather is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She is a member of the Family Law Council of the State Bar of Texas and a fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
She is especially proud of her published appellate cases, many of which are found in the annotations to the Texas Family Code. While her practice is evenly divided between appellate and trial work, she believes the fine sense of detail that leads to a successful appeal makes her better in the courtroom or in a settlement conference.
"In most divorce cases, a client will have just one attorney," she says. "But every so often, a case is so large and complex that you need expertise in such areas as tax law, real estate and business valuation. At KoonsFuller, I can call upon the necessary resources to be successful in a case of any size."
Job Titles:
- Shareholder
- Member of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists
Ike Vanden Eykel is known nationwide as one of the most renowned family law attorneys and continues to be named the #1 Family Law Texas Super Lawyer by Thomson Reuters. He has an ability to craft complex property settlements or take a large case to court. In an issue of Town & Country magazine (February 2011), Ike Vanden Eykel was the only Texas attorney featured among the nation's 15 most effective family law attorneys for wealthy, famous clients.
He has been described as the "reigning king" of Texas divorce and the "divorce law jedi" by The Dallas Morning News (2007) and is counted among the Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine (2008-2019).
Ike Vanden Eykel is a Past President of the Dallas Bar Association. He served on the board of directors of the State Bar of Texas and was a commissioner of the Texas Equal Access to Justice Commission.
As CEO and Managing Shareholder of KoonsFuller, P.C., he has grown the firm into one of the nation's largest that handles exclusively family law cases in five Texas locations.
Ike Vanden Eykel is often a commentator on local television and radio. Recently, he discussed Divorce and the Economy nationally on the Fox Business Network and on Good Day Dallas, the most-watched morning show in Dallas-Fort Worth. He also appears regularly on Good Morning Texas.
He came to prominence during the 1980s as a champion of fathers' rights. But in 2003, Vogue magazine named him one of the Top Lawyers for Women in Texas.
After he represented a Park Cities housewife, Ike Vanden Eykel was depicted in the book, My Husband Is Trying to Kill Me, and a television movie, Dead Before Dawn.
He wrote the book on Texas family law, Successful Lone Star Divorce, and co-authored the Texas Family Law Practice Guide and a book written with fellow KoonsFuller attorney Rick Robertson, Protecting Your Assets From A Texas Divorce.
He and attorney Sharla Fuller have collaborated on another book, Lone Star Divorce: The NEW Edition. He is co-author of a new edition of the assets book with shareholders, Heather King, Charla H. Bradshaw and Rick Robertson.
Born March 25, 1949 in Slayton, Minnesota, he graduated from Drake University (B.S., 1971) and Baylor University School of Law (J.D., 1973).
Ike Vanden Eykel is a member of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, a Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a Diplomate in the American College of Family Trial Lawyers.
Active in civic and community affairs in Dallas, he dedicates much of his time to increasing legal aid to the poor of Dallas, and in 2018, Ike established the KoonsFuller Family Law Foundation that provides grants and charitable funds to local and statewide non-profits. He and his wife previously served on the board of directors of the Family Compass and the Dallas Bar Foundation.
Jessica Janicek is a divorce attorney in Texas with a flourishing appellate practice. She has been named a "Top Attorney" by Fort Worth Magazine and 360 West Magazine and is a Texas Rising Stars honoree by Thomson Reuters. Jessica Janicek is an accomplished family law attorney, experienced in both litigation and appellate law.
In just a few short years, Jessica has been a part of three Texas Supreme Court victories as part of her appellate practice.
For her leadership skills, appellate advocacy, and talent in the courtroom, Jessica was honored as a "2013 Legal Leader on the Rise" by Texas Lawyer, an award given to only 25 attorneys in Texas. She is the youngest attorney to ever receive the award. In addition, Jessica was named in 2012 by her peers as a "Top Attorney" in Fort Worth Magazine.
Jessica has a Bachelor's of Business Administration from Baylor University, and graduated cum laude with her Juris Doctor from Texas Wesleyan School of Law.
Her business knowledge gives her a competitive edge in the courtroom and in her appellate practice, frequently litigating highly complex property disputes. "My number one priority in each case is to establish a plan from the get go, and to build a set of steps and goals to assist my client in achieving the desired end result. And at this firm, we have all of the resources available to litigate a matter from child support to the characterization of a complex business entity. We have some of the most knowledgeable family law attorneys in Texas, that can save our clients time and money, even for the most complex cases."
Although an avid litigator for her clients in the courtroom, Jessica has an accomplished appellate practice. She has argued cases in front of several different courts of appeal. Recently, she argued, and won, a case before the Texas Supreme Court. The case, In re the Office of the Attorney General, involves the statutory interpretation regarding child support.
In addition to her litigation experience and her appellate practice, Jessica is a frequent author on family law matters. She often writes on electronic evidence and discovery issues, topics frequently occurring in almost every family law case. She has also completed training at the Family Law Trial Institute in Houston, Texas.
Before coming to KoonsFuller, she taught with several high school marching band programs in Central and North Texas, teaching color guard and competitive winter guard to high school students, ran her own PR and Marketing firm and trained and rehabilitated abused and neglected horses.
She is a member of the Texas Bar Association, the Family Law and Appellate Practice sections of the Texas Bar, the Tarrant County Bar Association, serving on the Board of Directors for the Women Attorney's section, a Board Member for the Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, the Eldon B. Mahon Inns of Court, the Houston Bar Association and the Family Law Section of the Houston Bar. Janicek is a member of the Kappa Delta Alumni Society, the Baylor Alumni Association, the Baylor University Golden Wave Band Association and the Texas Wesleyan Alumni Association.
Jessica is a shareholder in the KoonsFuller Plano office. Her current practice focuses on divorce, child custody and the enforcement and modification of current orders.
Jessica has experience handling a full range of family law issues, including high conflict custody disputes, the relevance of substance abuse and mental health in parenting plans, jurisdictional complexities, child support, termination of parental rights, the effects of family violence in divorce and custody matters, complex property divisions, the intricacies of businesses and trusts in divorce and the importance of tracing and preserving property owned before marriage and gifted or inherited during the marriage. Jessica is adept at negotiating settlements and also formulating strategic, litigation approaches, and advising her clients on the delicate balance between the two. Jessica also has experience handling the nuances of parallel parenting, co-parenting and the fiduciary dynamics between spouses.
Prior to joining KoonsFuller, Jessica was an attorney at a nationally recognized plaintiffs' law firm before founding her own practice dedicated solely to family law matters.
Julie Crawford is a self-assured Plano family law attorney whose abilities in the courtroom and at settlement have been acknowledged by her selection as one of The Best Lawyers in America® in family law as recognized by Best Lawyers, LLC .
She is recognized on the Texas Rising Stars list (2003-2012) and as a Texas Super Lawyer, published by Thomson Reuters since 2013. She was selected one of the Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine, August 26, 2019.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Dallas
Justin Whiddon was born and raised in Plano, Texas. Prior to graduating from the University of Arkansas' Sam M. Walton School of Business in 2009 and earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration, he attended the University of North Texas.
Following his graduation from the University of Arkansas, Justin attended the Texas Wesleyan University School of Law (now Texas A&M University School of Law) and earned his Juris Doctor degree. During law school, Justin interned and was later employed by a Dallas-based sports agency that represented over 50 NFL athletes. Through this experience, Justin found his calling. Many of the individuals that he worked with were faced with co-parenting challenges, marital disputes and financial crises that needed someone that they could not only trust, but relate to. It was then that Justin began devoting his legal career to the practice of family law, and he has not looked back.
Justin has been practicing family law since 2014 primarily in Dallas County, but does not hesitate to assist clients in the surrounding counties as needed. Justin strives to represent each and every client as though they are his last and is never afraid to put on the most important cap during the stresses of the litigation process - his counseling cap.
In 2021, Justin was recognized by his peers as a Texas Rising Star in the area of Family Law by Super Lawyers, and is also a member of the prestigious Dallas-based Annette Stewart Inn of Court. Justin is a member of the Family Law Section of the Dallas Bar Association and the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers.
Justin resides in Dallas, Texas with his wife and son, and apart from his practice, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing golf and watching America's Team - the Dallas Cowboys.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Plano
Katelyn Kaske was raised in McKinney, Texas. She graduated with a degree in Criminology from Richardson's own University of Texas at Dallas and went on to earn her J.D. from UNT Dallas College of Law, located in the heart of downtown Dallas. During law school, Katelyn was on the executive board of The American Constitution Society and Women in Law Student Association. Additionally, she oversaw an organization, Enhancing Child Education and Success, which aimed to empower young adults aging out of Foster Care and entering college for the first time. Moreover, Katelyn received a Community Engagement Honor at graduation for being in the top 10% of students who volunteered the most community service hours during her time in law school. Currently, Katelyn is a Board Member of Friends Investing in Foster Kids, a nonprofit organization with a goal to support foster children in Dallas County.
Before becoming a lawyer, Katelyn worked as a Child Protective Services Investigator in Collin County for over six years working tirelessly to prevent child abuse and neglect and ensure the safety of children in the community. Katelyn has a passion for helping children and families.
Katelyn is a mother to her teenage son. When she is not reporting for mom duties or to court, you can catch her playing co-ed soccer on one of her two teams or snuggling with her two english bulldogs!
Kevin is a skilled family lawyer both in and out of the courtroom. He is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has dealt with a wide variety of family law matters across the State of Texas. Kevin approaches his cases with the philosophy that from the start of the case you plan and prepare to win in the courtroom but hope that going to court is unnecessary. "Usually, it is ideal to resolve cases prior to trial because it can save money, time and prevent further destruction of family relationships or business interests. By being prepared to win in court, we are also prepared to win in the conference room. And, of course, if going to trial is required, then we are ready to make the strongest case to the judge or jury." Whether it is a unique child custody arrangement or a complex property division, Kevin enjoys crafting creative and practical solutions to resolve the issues at hand.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Southlake
Kimberly Stoner was raised in Arlington, Texas. Kimberly is passionate about family law, which has been her primary focus in her two decades of practicing law. She is experienced in all areas of family law, including litigation, divorce, suits affecting the parent-child relationship, modifications, collaborative divorce, adoptions and mediation.
Kimberly is a former adjunct professor at Texas A&M University, School of Law, Legal Clinics and she was the developing staff attorney for the law school's Medical Legal Partnership Program where she assisted Cook Children's families with family law matters, guardianships, social security appeals and housing matters.
Laura S. Hayes is an aggressive yet compassionate board-certified family law attorney. She is also named among The Best Lawyers In America by Best Lawyers, LLC. Licensed to practice in four states (Texas, Arizona, Georgia and Florida), she regularly crafts unique custody and parenting time arrangements across state lines. As a single mom and former military wife, Laura understands that the cookie-cutter possession schedules in various state's family codes do not always fit each family's unique situation. Laura carefully works with clients to understand the family dynamics to create a child-centered outcome, especially when parents and children live in different states. As an active member of the Hague Convention Attorney Referral Network, Laura litigates international custody matters.
Laura represents a diverse array of clients. She provides legal representation at every level, frequently representing high-net-worth individuals, professional athletes, franchise owners, corporate executives, professionals and business owners. She handles all areas of complex and sophisticated family law matters, from the negotiation of prenuptial agreements to separation and divorce proceedings, mediations and arbitrations, trials and post-judgment matters as well as appeals.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Plano
Lauren Harris was born and raised in Flower Mound, Texas. In her ten years of practice, Lauren has built a thriving family law practice, serving clients in divorce, child custody, modifications, protective orders, martial agreements and adoptions, both foreign and domestic. Advocating for the well-being of families and children has been Lauren Harris' passion since earning her social work undergraduate degree at the University of North Texas, where she also volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for abused and neglected children.
Lauren is an accomplished advocate in the courtroom-zealously working to achieve the best possible results for her clients. Outside of the courtroom, Lauren is an experienced counselor-advising her clients through highly complex and emotional issues and working to guide them towards lasting and effective resolutions. Lauren earns her clients' trust by offering unique and honest insights, and never shies away from tactfully explaining the realities and hard truths of a given situation.
Lauren is one of few attorneys in DFW specializing in both family law litigation and adoptions. Her wide array of experience has prepared her to handle any client's needs.
Since joining KoonsFuller's Plano office, Lauren has primarily practiced in Collin County. She does, however, handle cases in all surrounding counties and across the State of Texas. In her personal time, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband, Taylor, and her son, Hawkins.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Dallas
As a Dallas family law attorney, Lauren Shaw is equipped to handle a wide array of divorce and child custody issues, including complex property divisions, pre- and post-marital agreements and suits to modify or enforce possession schedules and child support. Lauren currently represents clients in all stages of litigation, with a special emphasis on family law appeals. Lauren strives to diligently protect her clients' best interests by focusing on their individual emotional and financial needs and creating a personalized case strategy to help them achieve their goals.
Before joining KoonsFuller, Lauren served as a judicial law clerk for the Eleventh District Court of Appeals in Texas. While working at the court, Lauren developed a passion for upholding the integrity of the judicial system, and that passion continues to fuel her thriving appellate practice. Lauren has handled appeals involving a variety of family law matters, including disproportionate property divisions, conservatorship and possession determinations, terminations of parental rights and habeas corpus and mandamus proceedings. Lauren frequently uses her appellate experience to protect her clients' interests throughout their case and often assists other attorneys with developing effective trial strategies as well as researching and briefing complex issues.
As an Aggie Lawyer, Lauren recognizes the importance of excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect and selfless service, and is committed to these values in her career and personal life.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Associate / Dallas
- Member of the Dallas Bar Association
Lindsey is a passionate advocate for her clients and has a high aptitude for understanding the complex details of her cases and developing creative solutions. She has successfully handled high net-worth estates and high-profile clients, sometimes involving cross-over legal issues related to trust, bankruptcy and criminal law. She understands the emotional aspect of family law matters and seeks to empower her clients to reclaim control over their own destinies. Lindsey has represented clients across various professional backgrounds, including professional athletes, doctors, lawyers, dentists and real estate investors and developers. She also specializes in drafting premarital and post-marital agreements, representing grandparents in custody cases related to their grandchildren and developing creative solutions to paternity and termination cases.
Prior to becoming an attorney, Lindsey was an International Elite Gymnast and a member of the US National Team for three years. As a two-time National Champion, she represented the USA in numerous competitions all over the world. Thereafter, she not only competed for UCLA but was also the team's undergraduate assistant coach and a member of the UCLA Bruin Athletic Council.
Notwithstanding her athletic success - academic success has always been her main focus. In high school, she was elected secretary of both her Student Council and National Honor Society, and ultimately graduated valedictorian of her class. Thereafter, Lindsey attended UCLA and became a recipient of UCLA's Golden Paw Award for academic and athletic excellence. Continuing in her academic success, she was a member of the Order of the Barristers and excelled in Baylor Law School's Dawson & Sodd, P.C., Moot Court Competition where she and her teammate won best first-year team and second-place team overall, thereby showcasing their appellate advocacy skills. As a result of this competition, Lindsey was chosen to compete in the Harold & Joyce Green National Security Law Competition in Washington, D.C.
Currently, Lindsey is a member of the Dallas Bar Association and the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers. With regards to her long-term goals, Lindsey admires and respects her father, Ike Vanden Eykel, and hopes to follow in his footsteps as a valued and highly regarded member of the Texas law community.
Dallas divorce attorney, Liz Porter, is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She is a shareholder at KoonsFuller, P.C., which is one of the Southwest's largest law firms handling exclusively family law cases. Liz is a member of the family law sections of the American Bar Association, State Bar of Texas and the Dallas Bar Association. She is also a member of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists and Dallas Young Lawyers Association and has been elected to the Annette Stewart American Inn of Court. In addition to litigation, Liz also is trained and practices Collaborative Law and is a member of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas.
Liz has earned selection to the list of Texas Super Lawyers and earned recognition as a Texas Rising Star from 2008-2011. She was also named a "Best Lawyer" by D Magazine in 2019 and 2020 and has written articles and spoken to various organizations relating to current family law issues.
"She isn't just a Dallas divorce attorney, I always introduce Liz as our child custody expert," says Ike Vanden Eykel, CEO and managing partner of KoonsFuller, P.C. "She is a powerhouse when it comes to a wide range of family law matters, but her success when it comes to resolving parent-child issues, both in and out of the courtroom, is where she makes her mark." Liz is known and respected across the state for her expertise in managing high-conflict custody disputes dealing with significant issues; family violence, child support enforcement actions, modifications of previous orders, grandparent rights, termination and paternity issues.
In addition to custody issues, Liz's family law expertise includes divorce litigation, both contested and non-contested divorces, high-net-worth client representation, complex property divisions, asset tracing, pre and post-marital agreements, and collaborative law. Liz handles all types and sizes of divorce cases and is a strong advocate for mediation. However, she has a great deal of experience in the courtroom when settlement is no longer an option. "It is my commitment to every client I represent to provide them with the highest quality, and personalized legal representation through sincere compassion for their individual circumstance, yet passionately advocate for their goals. I realize the decisions a client makes today can and will have a long and lasting effect not only on their future but also their family. That is why it is so important to have the best lawyer and team with you throughout the divorce process."
Job Titles:
- City Council Representative, 2004 - 2007