The Wisdom to Know the Difference

A modern trial firm built by lawyers who have tried hundreds of cases. We know when to fight, when to settle, and why that difference can define outcomes worth millions.

Built for the Courtroom.
Trusted for the Boardroom.

Merkley Jones Eastham exists because as trial-tested advocates, we have built something purpose-made for high-stakes litigation.

To solve problems and fight when necessary through litigation across many sectors.

When big money is at stake, our clients need more than competent defense. They need lawyers who see the verdict before discovery begins, who prepare every case for trial, and who possess the judgment to know which battles demand a jury and which demand resolution.

Elite Trial Experience Without the Megafirm Overhead

Trial Ready

We don't inherit reputations. We earn them in courtrooms. With hundreds of jury trials under our belt, we welcome the challenge of a difficult case where a trial on the merits may be the only option. 

Strategic Clarity

We work aggressively to identify true exposure, key defenses, and the anticipated endgame within the first 60 days. No surprises. No case drift. We give a fair evaluation and stick with it, so clients can make informed decisions about their business risk.

Selective Focus

We don't chase volume. We're selective about our clients and our cases because we're often defending matters with eight and nine-figure exposure. Clients receive senior lawyer attention on every file.

Deep Expertise in High-Exposure Litigation

Energy Litigation

Refinery incidents, catastrophic events, regulatory disputes, and high-stakes claims involving oil and gas operations.

Admiralty and Maritime Law

Personal injury defense, vessel collisions/allisions, pollution/environmental, and regulatory matters along the Gulf Coast and beyond.

Transportation

Catastrophic accidents involving commercial trucking, pipeline operations, freight brokers, and industrial transport.

Commercial Litigation

Complex disputes, fiduciary litigation, guardianships, probate, multi-district litigation, employment matters, and cases generally where reputation and balance sheets are at stake.

New Name. Deep Roots.

Merkley Jones Eastham brings together decades of trial experience and a maritime legacy spanning nearly a century.

Our partners have been national counsel to Fortune 500 companies, handling cases across the country and representing clients based throughout the United States, Western Europe, and Asia.

We're based in Texas with a longstanding presence along the entire Gulf Coast, serving as Correspondents for major P&I clubs in all Texas ports, and as complex counsel for excess insurers. Our reach extends nationally—we've handled cases in courts from coast to coast.

This is a new firm built on a foundation of proven results and enduring client relationships, many extending several decades.

Read About the Eastham Legacy

While many prepare to settle, we prepare for trial.

There's a crisis in civil litigation. Many lawyers build careers on billable hours and negotiated exits, never developing the experience to take a case the full distance. When trial is inevitable, we don't believe in pressuring clients into unfavorable settlements.

We're different. We're passionate about the practice of law and the art of trial advocacy. We don't "work to live," we love what we do.

That commitment shows in our preparation, our case strategy, and our willingness to stand before a jury when our clients' interests demand it.

Trusted by Industry Leaders

We represent national and international clients in many sectors. Our client relationships often span decades because we deliver results in the cases that matter most.

Our clients have come to rely on our judgment, our trial skills, and our ability to see around corners before problems become crises.

From a risk management perspective, Bob Klawetter and Christina Schovajsa have been invaluable partners to our organization. Their deep expertise in maritime and Jones Act matters paired with exceptional responsiveness and a strategic, detail-oriented approach truly distinguishes them. They consistently provide clear, practical counsel that safeguards our operations and enhances our company’s reputation.

–– Risk Manager for a major harbor tug operator

As a large Fortune 500 company, it is critical that we have trusted and highly capable legal resources ready to respond when significant events occur. Within our Energy Construction segment, Sarah and David consistently serve as our primary partners during these moments. They routinely spearhead our legal investigations, defense strategies, and negotiations as matters develop. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and deep subject‑matter expertise have become key performance indicators for our leadership team.

We are extremely pleased with their continued efforts and the high‑quality representation they provide. Their dedication and effectiveness make a meaningful difference to our organization, and we greatly value their partnership.

–– Vice President, Risk Management
in the Energy and Construction sector

I have had the privilege of working with Bob Klawetter and Christina Schovajsa for many years and hold them in the highest regard. Their strategic approach, deep legal knowledge, and steady counsel in complex matters consistently deliver outstanding results. They are responsive, practical, and always focused on protecting their clients’ interests with integrity and professionalism.

–– Account Executive for a major insurance broker

I have worked with David and Sarah for more than 12 years. They are exceptional trial lawyers with an impressive presence in the courtroom. We have gone to verdict together in difficult cases with company money on the line, and I have seen them treat the witnesses respectfully, the court with dignity, and win the jury along the way. I also appreciate their attention to matters early on, and trust that they know when to recommend that a case be resolved before things become entrenched in heavy litigation.

–– Director of Risk Management for a billion-dollar privately held company

We Go the Distance

Unlike firms that talk trial readiness, we've actually done it. Hundreds of times. We're regularly hired to replace counsel who lost their nerve or to step in when a matter is heading to a jury trial.

We Think Outside the Box

Our lawyers identify case-defining issues early. We solve problems other firms miss because we've seen how cases end before they begin. That foresight protects your interests and your budget.

We Work Nationally

While our home base is Houston, Texas, we serve as national counsel to multiple Fortune 100 companies and maintain a strong presence across the Gulf Coast and key jurisdictions nationwide.

When the Stakes Don't Allow for Second Chances

When facing high-exposure litigation, we have the wisdom to know the difference between fighting and resolving, and the experience to go the distance when necessary.