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About Joe
As a board certified civil trial lawyer for over 15 years and having served as a judge in the 160th Judicial District Court of the State of Texas, Joe Cox is known for combining his skills of representing clients in a variety of industries with his straightforward approach, outgoing personality and deft courtroom demeanor. Clients appreciate the tactics he brings to jury and bench trials and appellate matters, representing them in complex financial and commercial disputes as well as class actions.
Joe represents both individuals and companies, including those in oil and gas, real estate, restaurants retail, financial and commercial industries. His work includes handling disputes pertaining to commercial, shareholder derivative, theft of trade secrets, government investigations and enforcement matters, product liability and personal injury matters. He also is adept at working with clients in disputes arising through partnerships, SPACs and joint ventures. Additionally, Joe works with clients dealing with non-compete issues, fraud and breach of contract matters, unfair debt collection practices, violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, ownership of stock options, guarantees and sequestration, repossession and destruction of collateral.
Over the years, Joe has made it a point to give back to his community. He has been recognized for his service, leadership, innovation and dedication to public service and the legal profession. He is proud of the pro bono work he continues to donate to others representing individuals in adoptions, custody disputes and a host of other family law issues.
Experience
Recent Notable Matters
In re SEC v. Arcturus Corporation et al, No. 17-10503 (5th Cir. 2019) — Retained by promoter of oil and gas ventures after trial court granted summary judgment in favor of the SEC for appeal to the Fifth Circuit. The SEC alleged this was not a joint venture, rather a security, and since the promoters were not licensed brokers, had a per se violation of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and were liable for disgorgement and civil penalties. In a unanimous decision, the Court reversed the summary judgment and sent back to the district court for trial.
Saudi Arabian investor — favorable arbitration award for a Saudi Arabian investor in a concession to drill for oil in Jordan (client was the defendant in the matter and was awarded his attorneys’ fees as well as a take-nothing judgment on all of plaintiff’s claims)*
Drilling firm — dispute over costs to build a platform and production line in the Gulf of Mexico
Closely held company — restaurant chain had a derivative action filed against it by its former founder
Investment firm — dispute over ownership rights to real property after foreclosure
Adoption — handled complicated adoption via pro bono with a very happy outcome
American Arbitration Association — arbitrator in numerous matters, as well as arbitrator in other forums
Court-appointed receiver — served as court-appointed receiver over a business enterprise
Court-appointed special master — served as court-appointed special master over a large products liability case
* Work completed prior to Bracewell
Publications and Speeches
“Supreme Court of Texas Update,” Texas Bar’s Advanced Civil Trial Seminar, July 2016 (San Antonio), August 2016 (Dallas), October 2016 (Houston).
"Candor with the Court: No Better Way to Proceed," Headnotes, Dallas Bar Association, September 2013.
"Arbitration for Dummies," Law 360, November 2013.
"Judicial and Governmental Perspectives on Appellate Practice," 5th Annual Appellate Corporate Counsel Seminar, July 2012.
Credentials
Education
Certifications
Board Certified, Civil Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization (2005 to the present)