February 18, 2026

Hicks Thomas Expands Presence on Lawdragon’s ‘Green 500’

By Hicks Thomas LLP


Seven firm attorneys recognized for excellence in environmental litigation 

Hicks Thomas has doubled its presence on Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Environmental Lawyers, with seven names on the 2026 list. 

Partners John B. Thomas, John J. Deis, and Courtney E. Ervin are repeat honorees on the 2026 “Green 500.” All are being recognized for excellence in environmental litigation. 

They are joined by partners Katherine Kunz, Allen H. Rustay, Colin Watterson, and senior counsel Allison Fisher, who are acknowledged for environmental and natural resources litigation. 

“Our growing presence on the Green 500 represents our breadth of experience in dealing with federal and state environmental matters,” said Mr. Thomas. “We are proud of the expertise we provide our clients.” 

Mr. Thomas has represented clients for more than 25 years in environmental and toxic tort claims nationwide. Like other firm honorees, he has been honored by Lawdragon, The Best Lawyers in America, and Texas Super Lawyers. 

Mr. Deis has defended clients against environmental contamination claims and state and federal agency claims in Texas and California and consults on litigation risks involving contaminated property. 

Ms. Ervin has represented insurance companies in environmental pollution cases as part of a caseload that includes energy, construction, real estate, information technology, and healthcare.  

Ms. Kunz has handled cases involving EPA remediation plans, decommissioned oil and gas assets in the Gulf of Mexico, and other litigation involving utilities and energy firms. 

Mr. Rustay represents plaintiffs and defendants in a wide range of cases involving commercial litigation, energy, and maritime disputes.  

Mr. Watterson deals with a wide variety of cases on behalf of plaintiffs and defendants, with particular focus on the use of artificial intelligence technology. 

Ms. Fisher has helped defend a client before courts in three states, drafting pleadings and motions, conducting discovery, taking depositions, and preparing trial strategy.   

To view the complete Lawdragon Green 500 list, click here. 

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