John R. Nelson

John R. Nelson, Member and Litigation West Region Practice Group Chair, has represented businesses and individuals across Texas for more than 25 years. His practice covers complex business litigation, intellectual property disputes, construction matters, product liability, and personal injury cases. Nelson is known for his ability to evaluate disputes quickly and craft early resolutions that are cost-effective, while also serving as a skilled trial lawyer when litigation cannot be avoided.

Nelson earned his B.A., cum laude, from Louisiana Tech University in 1993 and his J.D. from Baylor Law School in 1996. Licensed in Texas, he is admitted before all four federal district courts in the state, as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. His strong academic background, paired with decades of courtroom experience, has equipped him to manage disputes involving high-value contracts, fraud, fiduciary duty, and securities law.

Nelson has a proven track record representing clients across key industries, including telecommunications, consumer products, higher education, and healthcare. He defends employers against wrongful termination and discrimination claims, handles complex trademark and copyright disputes for international brands, and represents universities and public agencies in high-stakes breach of contract cases. With successful results on both the defense and plaintiff side, Nelson has tried and argued significant matters in state and federal courts throughout Texas.

John R. Nelson has been consistently recognized by Best Lawyers in America®, Texas Super Lawyers®, and The Legal 500 United States for his work in business and construction litigation. He is active in the State Bar of Texas Litigation Section and Litigation Counsel of America. Outside of his legal work, he is committed to his community and has served as a youth basketball coach with the YMCA.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Dickinson Wright PLLC
• Member, State Bar of Texas, Litigation Section
• Member, Litigation Counsel of America

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• Baylor Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Louisiana Tech University
  BA with Cum Laude

Awards & Badges