Austin Franco

Austin Franco is a dynamic trial attorney known for his strategic acumen and fierce advocacy in complex commercial litigation and arbitration. A proven entrepreneur who built and scaled multiple businesses to successful exits before pursuing law, Austin strives to deliver a compelling blend of calculated legal understanding and real-world business expertise to every case he works on.

His practice focuses on business litigation, construction litigation, intellectual property, and business formation and drafting, where he delivers exceptional outcomes for diverse clients ranging from small businesses to publicly traded companies. His ability to blend entrepreneurial insight with legal knowledge drives transformative results for clients across the state.

Austin’s representative achievements, with the help of others, include:

Notable Achievements

Trial Victories in Complex Litigation: Austin has obtained multiple trial victories as lead counsel across the State of Texas, including a notable victory in a multi-day, complex breach of contract, fraud, and deceptive trade practices act case where he obtained a directed verdict on multiple causes of action, and an eventual take-nothing judgment on every other cause of action for the client.
Emergency Relief for Clients: Austin has obtained emergency relief, including Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) and Temporary Injunctions in emergency situations on behalf of business clients throughout Texas, including a memorable case involving the improper transfer/theft of a multi-million-dollar property in Tarrant County, Texas. His responsiveness and deep knowledge of Texas law allow Austin to move quickly to resolve emergency situations on behalf of businesses around Texas.
Secured Multiple Large Arbitration Awards: Austin has obtained multiple large arbitration awards in complex construction disputes with the American Arbitration Association, including a significant award for a disabled veteran in a breach of contract and Deceptive Trade Practices case.
Successfully Litigated High-Stakes Disputes: Austin has handled complex “bet-the-business” types of cases involving millions of dollars in controversy obtaining favorable outcomes in cases critical to his clients’ financial and operational success. His strategic approach and meticulous preparation have proven instrumental in navigating these high-value matters, delivering results that safeguard clients’ interests in oil and gas, construction, real estate, and other commercial disputes.
Successfully Crafted High-Value Contracts: Austin has skillfully drafted and negotiated business contracts collectively valued at over $75,000,000.00, ensuring precision and strategic alignment for clients in construction, real estate, and technology sectors. His meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of business dynamics enable him to create robust agreements that protect client interests and drive successful outcomes.
Trademark and Intellectual Property Advocacy: Austin has successfully prosecuted a wide range of trademarks with the USPTO, achieving a remarkable success rate in challenging and overturning office actions to obtain trademark registration for major clients throughout Texas. His deep knowledge of intellectual property law and persuasive advocacy deliver strong brand protection in high-stakes markets.

Background

Austin was awarded a full-ride scholarship to attend Texas A&M University School of Law, where he earned his law degree with a concentration in Business Law. While in law school, Austin interned with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) examining business practices and corporate filings of hedge funds and private equity funds. Austin also worked in the Texas A&M Entrepreneurship Clinic where he helped business owners in Dallas and Fort Worth with various needs from formation to complex contract drafting and review.

While these experiences provided Austin with valuable knowledge and hard skills that he uses daily in his practice, Austin discovered a deep affinity for the courtroom during his clerkship with the Honorable Judge Jim Johnson in the 431st District Court. His experience with Judge Johnson gave him valuable insight into judicial processes and the behind-the-scenes workings of a Texas court. Austin regularly uses these valuable insights to better represent his clients.

Outside the office, Austin enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children. Although work and family keep Austin very busy, he enjoys golfing, hunting, fishing, and competitive chess where time allows.

Education

Angelo State University

B.B.A., Accounting, cum laude, 2018.

Texas A&M University School of Law

J.D., Business Law Concentration, 2022.

Bar Admissions

Supreme Court of Texas
Admitted to practice before all Texas state courts
Admitted to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

Awards and Recognitions

Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America (2026)
Texas Super Lawyers: Rising Stars in Texas (2024, 2025)