TEX.People moves
Tyson & Mendes opens Austin office led by Jennifer Akre
Insurance defense trial firm Tyson & Mendes opened an office in Austin, Texas, led by branch office managing partner Jennifer Akre, with incoming partners Barrie Beer and Allison Vann and senior counsel Amber Dunten, the firm announced October 12, 2026. Law360 Pulse reported the opening adds three attorneys from Chartwell. The firm also named new leaders for its Dallas and Lubbock offices.
Announcement (Tyson & Mendes) → · Law360 Pulse
Key points
- Akre, who joined in 2023 and previously led the Houston, Dallas and Lubbock offices, heads Austin and continues to lead Houston.Tyson & Mendes
- Barrie Beer and Allison Vann join as partners and Amber Dunten as senior counsel in Austin.Tyson & Mendes
- Law360 Pulse reported the Austin launch brings three attorneys from Chartwell to the firm.Law360 Pulse
- Thera Cooper was elevated to Dallas branch office managing partner and Brennon Gamblin to Lubbock branch office managing partner.Tyson & Mendes
- The firm tied the expansion to the complexity of Texas litigation and increasing client demand.Tyson & Mendes