Rusty Hardin

Rusty Hardin is one of America’s most respected trial lawyers, with a legal career marked by high-profile victories, courtroom leadership, and unwavering client advocacy. His practice spans civil and criminal defense, representing corporations, public figures, and professionals in some of the nation’s most complex and publicized cases.

Rusty earned his Juris Doctor from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in 1975 and holds a Bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University. His deep understanding of prosecution and defense stems from his early years as a prosecutor, trying more than 100 felony cases—including 14 death penalty trials—without a single loss.

Rusty Hardin’s courtroom expertise has made him the lawyer of choice for Fortune 500 companies, major universities, and elite athletes. He has successfully defended clients like ExxonMobil, Rice University, and numerous sports figures, including Roger Clemens and Adrian Peterson. In 2023, he led the prosecution in the impeachment trial of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Before entering private practice, Rusty served as an assistant district attorney in Houston and later as Chief Trial Counsel for the Whitewater Independent Counsel’s Office. Since founding Rusty Hardin & Associates in 1996, he has tried over 85 jury trials, evenly split between civil and criminal matters.

Rusty impact on trial law has been widely recognized. Rusty Hardin has been honored by Best Lawyers, Chambers USA, Lawdragon, and the Texas Bar Foundation. He holds fellowships in the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and has been named among the “100 Most Influential Lawyers in America.”

Rusty Hardin’s strategic litigation skills and tireless advocacy have redefined courtroom standards in Texas and beyond. Whether defending the wrongly accused or pursuing justice in high-stakes corporate litigation, Rusty’s dedication to excellence has shaped a legacy of legal innovation and trust. Clients count on Rusty Hardin when everything is on the line.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Rusty Hardin & Associates, LLP
• Member, International Academy of Trial Lawyers
• Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
• Senior Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
• Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Wesleyan University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges