by Helen Emerson
August, 2020

Courtney Capshaw was recruited to the DAYL Judicial Intern Committee (JIC) shortly after graduating (cum laude, just saying) from SMU Dedman School of Law.  Since then, she has been a dedicated member and co-chair, who has put the team on her back more than once.  That’s why she is August’s One to Watch.

While Courtney (probably) didn’t run 99 yards for a touchdown with a broken leg, she did keep the Judicial Intern Program alive through the COVID-19 crisis with a bun in the oven.  If you know anything about pregnancy, you know it ain’t easy, but Courtney wouldn’t have been the one to tell you that.  Like the great Greg Jennings, she powered through all the “miracles” involved in creating new life, taking on more responsibilities for the JIC without hesitation or even a sigh—until 15 days after her due date (when the little boss finally arrived).

A Dallas native, Courtney is the daughter of two lawyers.  She and her mom volunteer for CASA.  She and her dad practice law together at Capshaw & Associates.  Courtney is a civil trial attorney, who handles a variety of matters, including (but not limited to) construction, contracts, personal injury, products liability, and guardian ad litem work.  Before joining her father in private practice, Courtney served as Briefing Attorney to Justice Douglas S. Lang at the Fifth District Court of Appeals of Texas.

Once Courtney returns from her hard-earned leave, you can catch her coaching moot court at SMU or at a meeting of the William “Mac” Taylor Inn of Court, Women’s Mentoring Circles, or the Construction Law Section.  In the meantime, please send her virtual or spiritual congratulatory vibes on being this month’s One to Watch!  And a brand-new mom to a beautiful baby girl!