Litigation Support for Texas Trial Lawyers
Significant legal issues can shape a case long before an appeal. Pumarejo Law provides litigation support to trial lawyers in state and federal courts, including assistance analyzing claims, developing legal arguments, preparing motions, and preserving issues for appellate review.
Based in Austin, Ricardo Pumarejo works with solo practitioners and small firms throughout Texas. His involvement can range from behind-the-scenes research and ghostwriting to active participation as co-counsel. An engagement may focus on a particular assignment or extend through trial and post-judgment proceedings.
Additional support for the legal work a case demands
Litigation requires trial counsel to manage competing demands, from discovery and client communications to witness preparation and courtroom advocacy. Ricardo assists with the research, analysis, and writing needed to address important legal issues as the case develops.
He works with trial counsel to understand the record, identify the questions that require attention, and prepare arguments that fit the case’s broader strategy.
Identifying opportunities for early dismissal
For defendants, the outset of a lawsuit can present opportunities to dispose of all or part of a case through a motion under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 91a or Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b). These opportunities require prompt evaluation: filing deadlines and the sequence of motions and pleadings can affect whether a particular motion or defense remains available.
Involving appellate counsel at the start of a suit helps trial counsel identify potential grounds for dismissal, evaluate the applicable procedural requirements, and prepare timely motions. Ricardo works with defense counsel to pursue appropriate opportunities for early disposition before they are lost or the case progresses into more costly stages of litigation.
Litigation support services
Claim analysis and pleading preparation
Evaluation of potential claims and defenses, analysis of their legal requirements, and preparation of pleadings that reflect the facts and objectives of the case.
Legal research and advanced motion practice
Focused research and preparation of substantive motions and responses, including dispositive motions. The work may involve developing an argument from the outset or refining arguments trial counsel has already identified.
Preservation of error and jury-charge preparation
Assistance identifying issues that require a timely request, objection, or ruling, together with preparation and review of proposed jury questions, instructions, and definitions.
Trial and arbitration support
Assistance with legal issues arising in preparation for or during trial or arbitration, including research, written submissions, and coordination with trial counsel as proceedings unfold.
Post-judgment motions
Analysis and preparation of motions and responses following judgment, with attention to the relief sought, applicable deadlines, and potential appellate issues.
A defined assignment or continuing involvement
Some matters call for help with a single motion or a discrete legal question. Others benefit from continuing involvement as the pleadings, evidence, and disputed issues evolve.
Ricardo can work behind the scenes, researching legal issues and drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs for trial counsel’s review and submission. He can also participate as active co-counsel, appearing in the case and assisting with hearings, trial preparation, and courtroom advocacy.
The scope of his role—including responsibilities, deadlines, court appearances, and client communications—is established with trial counsel at the outset.
An appellate perspective during litigation
The arguments made and rulings obtained in the trial court help define the issues available on appeal. Ricardo brings an appellate perspective to litigation support, considering how a legal position is presented, what the record establishes, and whether further steps are needed to preserve an issue for review.
If an appeal follows, his involvement can provide continuity between the trial-court proceedings and the appellate work.
Experience supporting trial lawyers
Before founding Pumarejo Law in 2017, Ricardo handled the appellate and motion practice needs of litigation boutiques in South Texas. He has served as lead appellate counsel in approximately 150 state and federal appeals and continues to collaborate with trial lawyers on civil matters throughout Texas.
His experience includes commercial and contract disputes, real estate, employment and civil rights, personal injury and wrongful death, and family law.
Discuss a potential engagement
Contact Ricardo to inquire about availability and engagement terms for litigation support.
Legal services begin only after a written engagement agreement is signed and any required advance payment is received. Please do not send confidential information or documents before an engagement is established.