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diverse docket of commercial disputes and personal injury cases. Her commercial experience includes defending clients in cases involving claims of misappropriation of trade secrets, tortious interference with contracts, fraud, breach of representations and warranties, and breach of non-compete agreements. Her representation in personal injury cases includes claims resulting from alleged premises liability, products liability (including pharmaceuticals) and medical malpractice. Sylvia has first chair trial and arbitration experience and has handled cases in both federal and state courts.
REPRESENTATIVE EXPERIENCE
Defended a public entity and its employees against claims of Civil Rights Act violations, RICO violations and misappropriation of trade secrets, among others. On defendants' motion, the Court dismissed many of the claims. The case subsequently settled on favorable terms.
Served as lead counsel in federal court representing a Swedish company that allegedly misappropriated trade secrets of a Texas company. The court dismissed the complaint after finding that there was no general or specific jurisdiction over the Swedish company.
Represented an oilfield tool manufacturer as lead counsel before a three person arbitration panel involving claims of misappropriation of trade secrets following an acquisition of a new product line.
Acted as lead counsel in trial court and on appeal involving commercial dispute over breach of contract where patent rights and royalties were at issue. The Court granted summary judgment in favor of our client and the judgment was affirmed on appeal.
Defended health care providers in medical malpractice claims in which plaintiffs suffered a variety of permanent injuries.
Served as lead counsel in defending company and its employees in breach of contract claims involving non-compete clauses.
Acted as lead counsel in defending company in disputes that arose with foreign agents following acquisition of international company.
BRIEFINGS, SEMINARS & SPEECHES
Recent CLE Presentations
"Electronic Discovery: Preservation and Spoliation," El Paso Corporation (April 2005)
"Client Discovery and Spoliation (Lessons Learned from Zubulake v. UBS Warburg)," Andrews Kurth Executive Women's Retreat (November 2004)
"Trade Secrets Litigation," Andrews Kurth in-house presentation (February 2003)
"Trade Secrets Litigation," University of Houston Law Foundation, Advanced Business Litigation (August 15 & 22, 2002)
PROFESSIONAL / CIVIC AFFILIATIONS
Member
Houston Bar Association
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Defense Research Institute
Leadership Texas, Class of 2005
Advisory Board Member - Main Street Theater, 2004 to present
Life Fellow - Texas Bar Foundation
Fellow - Houston Bar Foundation | 