About
Paul D. Schoonover is a highly accomplished attorney with a distinguished career spanning litigation, corporate transactions, and sports and entertainment law. He began his legal practice at Vial, Hamilton, Koch & Knox, LLP, where he eventually served on the management committee and as general counsel. Following the firm’s dissolution, he continued his practice alongside former colleagues in a smaller, client-focused firm.
Mr. Schoonover earned his Juris Doctor in 1972 from Southern Methodist University, where he was Editor in Chief of the Southwestern Law Journal (now SMU Law Review). He holds a Bachelor of Arts with honors from Texas Tech University, conferred in 1969. His education laid the groundwork for a versatile and impactful legal career.
Mr. Schoonover’s litigation expertise covers a broad spectrum of commercial and insurance disputes, including cases involving antitrust, securities, mergers, and professional negligence. He has represented both plaintiffs and defendants, providing strategic counsel and courtroom advocacy. His role as insurance defense counsel includes representing professionals in complex malpractice claims and advising insurers in high-stakes coverage issues.
In transactional law, Mr. Schoonover has managed corporate deals, such as mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and commercial financing. He notably represented major manufacturers through leveraged buyouts and multimillion-dollar sales to international corporations, serving as principal outside counsel.
Paul D. Schoonover also has a well-established practice in sports and entertainment law. He has negotiated contracts for professional athletes, franchise owners, and media personalities. His longstanding certification as an NFL Players Association Contract Advisor and his academic roles at SMU underscore his authority in this field.
Admitted to all Texas state courts and multiple federal jurisdictions, including the U.S. Supreme Court, Mr. Schoonover has earned honors such as “Texas Super Lawyer” and listings in The Best Lawyers in America for over 15 years. He remains a respected leader and educator in legal and professional communities across Texas.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attroney, S. McCorquodale P.C.
- Member, State Bar of Texas
- Member, Dallas Bar Association
Licensed State
- Texas
Education
- Southern Methodist University
Juris Doctor (JD) - Texas Tech University
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges


- Health care
- Insurance
- Litigation
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Securities and investment fraud