A founder of the firm, Daniel L. Bates pursues excellence in everything. Although he finds this exceptionally difficult on the golf course, he is truly an accomplished trial lawyer—with over 35 years in the courtroom and countless trials.  Mr. Bates is always prepared and never backs down. His clients count on him.  His adversaries comment that he is tough but always fair and professional.

Mr. Bates loves his wife, Shelli, their three adult children, and all the memories they built together as the “Fab Five,” especially snow skiing. A private pilot since 1985, Mr. Bates took pride in earning instrument and multi-engine ratings as matters of aviation professionalism. He has been honored to lead students for many years in Bible Study Fellowship. Most recently, Mr. and Mr. Bates have been Executive Directors of the Miss Fort Worth Scholarship Organization, a local to Miss America (the world’s largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women). He has focused on interview training with success, because one of their titleholders was crowned Miss Texas 2013.

Mr. Bates loves people.  He loves the law because it deals with the relationships among people.

Mr. Bates relishes the thrilling moment of a loud rap on the jury room door followed by the bailiff approaching the bench, verdict in hand. He is surprised that only a very small percentage of attorneys experience this with any regularity.  Mr. Bates considers it is a high privilege to be among that small group of lawyers.