David E. Bernsen Honored by State Bar of Texas for 50 Years in the Legal Profession 

David E. Bernsen, founder of The Bernsen Law Firm, has been recognized by the State Bar of Texas in honor of 50 years in the legal profession. 

Bernsen was among 1,209 attorneys licensed in 1976 recognized during the 2026 State Bar of Texas Annual Meeting, held June 10–12 at the Marriott Marquis in Houston. The annual recognition honors attorneys whose careers have spanned five decades of dedicated service to the legal profession and the people of Texas. 

After earning his Juris Doctor from St. Mary’s University School of Law, Bernsen was licensed to practice law in Texas in 1976. Over the past five decades, he has represented clients in complex litigation in state and federal courts across the United States while building a distinguished trial practice in Southeast Texas. A former Lamar University baseball standout, he remains an active supporter of Cardinal Baseball and his alma mater. 

“Practicing law has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” said Bernsen. “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the State Bar of Texas. For 50 years, I’ve had the opportunity to represent clients, serve the people of Texas, and give back to the community that shaped me. It all began at Lamar University, where I came on a baseball scholarship. Today, I continue to practice law while supporting Lamar University and its baseball program. I’m grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey.” 

In addition to his legal career, Bernsen has devoted decades to public service. He served as chairman of the Texas Department of Transportation after being appointed by Governor Ann Richards and later became the first Lamar University graduate elected to the Texas Senate, where he co-authored landmark legislation, including the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Throughout his career, he has also supported numerous charitable and civic organizations, including The Gift of Life, Child Abuse & Forensic Services, CASA, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Support Group of Southeast Texas. 

Bernsen continues to practice law at The Bernsen Law Firm alongside a talented team of attorneys.