Catherine Baen is of counsel to the firm. Her practice is focused on defending individuals and corporations accused of criminal violations. She has the experience of handling a wide variety of criminal accusations, having tried more than 100 cases to jury verdicts.
Expertise Through Experience
Before becoming associated with the firm, Cat was an associate at Bracewell & Patterson (now Bracewell & Guiliani). While there, she worked in the general litigation section where she participated with particular interest in several white-collar criminal cases. Cat left Bracewell to join the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. After four years as a prosecutor, Cat joined the law firm of Williams Bailey. At Williams Bailey, she handled environmental and toxic tort cases involving injuries caused by benzene, asbestos, and tobacco. Cat opened her own practice in 1995, focusing on criminal defense. Cat has particular expertise in defending against alleged violations of federal and state environmental laws.
Dedication & Compassion
Catherine’s approach is marked by meticulous case preparation and a strong commitment to protecting her clients’ rights. She navigates complex legal challenges with finesse and precision, providing personalized legal strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. Whether representing individuals accused of misdemeanors or felonies, she is known for her strategic thinking and ability to build compelling defense narratives.
Throughout her career, she has developed a reputation as a fierce litigator in court and a compassionate counselor to those she represents. Her dedication to continuing education and staying abreast of evolving legal trends ensures that she remains at the forefront of her field. Catherine is not only a formidable presence in the courtroom but also a source of support and guidance for her clients, helping them navigate difficult legal landscapes.
Choosing Catherine Baen means opting for a dedicated legal partner who will fiercely defend your rights, navigate the complexities of the legal system, and provide unwavering support throughout your legal journey.
Career Highlights
- Defending CITGO Petroleum Corporation in the trial of an indictment alleging criminal violations of federal environmental regulations in Corpus Christi.
- Defending at trial Houstonian Dr. Michael Brown in the alleged assault of his wife. The jury acquitted Dr. Brown.
- Defending employees of Koch Industries (now Flint Hills) in a criminal environmental case in federal court in Corpus Christi. Cat’s clients were not charged.
- Defending several individuals charged with war crimes in the United Nations’ International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in The Hague, Netherlands.
Education
- Texas Tech University School of Law, J.D. 1988
- Texas Tech University, B.A. (with honors) 1985
Bar Admissions
- All State and Federal Courts in Texas
Notable Cases
Here are some past cases that handled by Catherine Baen with dispositions that reflect the level of dedicated and expert representation you can come to expect:
NOT CHARGED
Defending an upper-level employee for Huntsman Chemical in a criminal environmental case in the federal court in Beaumont.
NOT CHARGED
Defending employees of Valero in a criminal environmental case in state district court in Houston.
NOT CHARGED
Defending an individual in a federal mortgage fraud case involving the Small Business Administration (SBA).
NOT GUILTY
Assisting in the assault trial of Texas singer/songwriter Billy Joe Shaver.
NOT CHARGED
Representing several accountants in the prosecutions following Enron’s collapse.
NOT CHARGED
Defending employees of a refinery in a federal investigation concerning environmental (Leak Detection and Repair/”LDAR”) matters in Ohio.
NOT CHARGED
Defending an upper-level employee of a Delaware refinery in a state investigation concerning environmental matters.
CASE SETTLED
Representing a subsidiary of a major airline in a criminal environmental matter in state district court in Houston.
NOT CHARGED
Representing employees of BP in the federal investigation of an explosion in a refinery in Texas City.
Catherine's involvement in community initiatives demonstrates her broader commitment to justice. She is actively engaged in efforts that aim to improve the criminal justice system, making her an advocate for both her clients and the larger community.
Comprehensive Legal Expertise
Catherine brings a deep understanding of criminal law to her cases. Her thorough knowledge of legal precedents and statutes allows her to build strong defense strategies, ensuring her clients receive the best possible representation.
Strong Courtroom Presence
Catherine’s compelling courtroom demeanor and strategic thinking make her a formidable litigator. Her ability to cross-examine witnesses effectively and present persuasive arguments helps ensure that her clients’ voices are heard.
Respected Reputation
Her track record of successfully defending clients and her professional integrity have earned her the respect of peers, clients, and the community. Her reputation enhances her ability to negotiate favorable terms and defend cases vigorously.
