Our Firm

From past decades, renowned attorneys, H. E. Lasseter, Gordon Simpson, Zeb Spruiell and Charles Potter, one of the preeminent trial attorneys of his day, had a dominant influence on the success and reputation of the firm. In 1909, John McIlwaine joined the firm. A brilliant lawyer and author, he was acclaimed for his widely used McIlwaine Digest, a textbook that became the standard for law students across the country. McIlwaine had talents in many areas of law and brought distinction to the firm.

In 1930, "Dad Joiner's" Daisy Bradford Number 3 well struck "black gold," and the future of Tyler and the entire region changed forever. This discovery marked the beginning of the East Texas Oil Field, which was to become the largest oil field in North America. The onset of the oil boom stimulated the growth of the law firm to meet the increasing demands of a prospering economy. Many of the major oil companies flocked to East Texas, and many established administrative offices in Tyler. Oil and gas, real estate, and litigation work was plentiful.

East Texas grew and prospered in the 40s, 50s, and 60s, and with the emergence of several major industries, Tyler developed into the hub for business and commerce. The firm also grew and diversified, becoming skilled in the full spectrum of legal specialties.

For the next twenty years, expertise in both business law and civil trial law brought together more than twenty attorneys with a versatility to attract a diverse client base and to meet the variety of legal needs in East Texas.

The average tenure for personnel is more than 20 years, which provides stable, effective working relationships among firm members and for long-term clients. Our attorneys and staff share a commitment to their careers, to the firm’s standards and goals, and to vigorous representation of our clients’ interests. In return, we provide an environment in which that commitment is supported and is allowed to flourish.

Today, POTTER MINTON is proud of its history. The firm continues to value its relationships with people: attorneys, staff, clients and community as its most valuable asset; and, providing professional service of the highest standard as its continued mission for the future.

POTTER MINTON recognizes the importance of community service and encourages all of our attorneys to become active in charitable, community, and professional organizations. Many of our attorneys are actively involved with local and state bar associations, regularly speak to business, legal and trade groups, serve on a number of civic and academic boards, and participate in a variety of professional associations. POTTER MINTON believes that a well-rounded attorney is one who not only invests in the development of a long-term practice with the Firm, but also who enjoys a fulfilling life outside the practice of law. Likewise, members of the staff at POTTER MINTON give of their time and talents to their community, church activities and professional organizations.

From our ranks have come mayors and commissioners, Chamber of Commerce presidents, and trustees on public and private school boards. POTTER MINTON attorneys have been selected to serve on numerous boards of colleges, universities and foundations, and appointed to state boards and commissions. Attorneys and staff serve as volunteers for: non-profit organizations; church activities; social-services organizations; schools; and children’s recreational and sports activities. Our financial support includes donations to the arts and education, and charitable contributions that benefit the health and well-being of our community, children, the disabled, and the poor.