Victor Burnette

Victor Burnette is a Houston partner with more than a decade of legal experience. His practice focuses on admiralty and maritime law, insurance defense, labor and employment, and federal workers’ compensation. He handles claims involving the Defense Base Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, the Non-Appropriated Funds Instrumentalities Act, and the War Hazards Compensation Act. His work helps insurers and employers address complex claims arising under specialized federal compensation programs.

Burnette earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law Houston in 2011 and his B.A. from The University of Texas at Austin in 2004. His legal education established a foundation for analyzing federal statutes, insurance issues, and contested claims. This training supports his ability to evaluate detailed records, identify legal and procedural risks, and develop practical strategies for matters involving maritime employment and workers’ compensation.

Before beginning his current role in October 2023, Burnette served as in-house counsel for AIG. That experience gave him direct insight into insurance operations and client needs. He also provided internal training on Defense Base Act and War Hazards Compensation Act matters, as well as the use of social media investigations in insurance defense claims. His representative experience includes contested claims before administrative law judges and the Benefits Review Board.

Victor Burnette is admitted to the State Bar of Texas and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. He was selected for the 2026 Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation. His combination of in-house insurance experience, federal workers’ compensation knowledge, and litigation background enables him to approach complex claims with practical judgment, focused preparation, and a clear understanding of the legal and business issues affecting clients.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Schouest, Bamdas, Soshea & BenMaier PLLC
• Member, State Bar of Texas

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• South Texas College of Law Houston
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• The University of Texas
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges