Samantha Shaps
Main image for Samantha Shaps

Samantha Shaps

Focused, diligent, and hands-on, I combine rigorous research with practical judgment to help clients navigate complex legal issues with clarity and purpose.

Samantha Shaps is an associate in the firm’s Employment and Litigation Groups, where she represents clients in a range of employment and commercial litigation matters. Her practice includes employment disputes, breach of contract claims, trade secret litigation, and professional liability matters. She works with clients across industries to address complex legal and business challenges.

Samantha assists clients through all stages of litigation, including case assessment, legal research, motion practice, discovery, and trial preparation. She brings a thoughtful, analytical approach to complex legal issues and works closely with clients to develop practical strategies tailored to their objectives.

Samantha earned her J.D. from SMU Dedman School of Law, cum laude, where she co-founded the Legal Analysis, Writing & Research Center. She received her undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin, graduating with high honors.

Areas of Focus

Education

Education

  • SMU Dedman School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 2025)
    • SMU Science and Technology Law Review, Editor-in-Chief
    • Legal Analysis, Writing & Research Center, Co-Founder, Student Director
    • Teaching Assistant for Legal Research, Writing, and Advocacy for Professor Heather Stobaugh
    • Jackson Walker Moot Court Competition, Best Brief Winner
    • Board of Advocates, Negotiation Champion
  • University of Texas at Austin (B.J., with high honors, 2021)

Clerkships

Honorable David L. Horan, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Judicial Extern

SMU Criminal Clinic, Associate Member of the State Bar of Texas and Clinic Chief

Mary Kay Inc., Corporate Legal Counsel Extern

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Law Clerk

Admissions

Bar Admissions
  • Texas, 2025
Court Admissions
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District, Texas, 2025

Outside of Work

Samantha enjoys horseback riding, traveling, creative writing, discovering new music, and brewing her own espresso.