Daniel Charest is an accomplished litigator with extensive experience in high-stakes litigation across federal and state courts, as well as international arbitration. Daniel engages confidently with juries, executives, and witnesses alike, utilizing a blend of experience, intellect, grit, and compassion to meet his clients' goals.
Daniel's diverse practice includes antitrust, breach of contract, fraud, oil and gas disputes, class actions, and wrongful death, among others. He has successfully navigated complex procedural challenges such as removal, class certification, and appeals, among many others.
Recognized for his exceptional work, Daniel is routinely recognized by peers and publications, including being named “Attorney of the Year” by Texas Lawyer in 2020 and highlighted as a “Winning Litigator” by the National Law Journal for his high-profile trial wins and significant settlements. Daniel has reinforced his distinction by most recently earning jury verdicts of $30,718,873 in Dallas County for a fraud claim and $41,000,000 in Denver District Court for an oil and gas matter.
Daniel currently serves as lead trial attorney for Upstream Plaintiffs before the U.S. Court of Federal Claims asserting claims against the federal governmental for flooding that devasted homes and businesses during Hurricane Harvey. Described as the largest takings claim in U.S. history, the ruling will allow more than 10,000 Houston-area property owners to recover compensation. Daniel led the trial team that won two trials to achieve a just compensation for bellwether plaintiffs.
Meanwhile, Daniel is leading other trial teams to pursue claims of environmental injustice. Whether against giants like BP or Chevron or in connection with massive refineries, Daniel represents his clients in their fight for justice.
In 2015, Daniel co-founded Burns Charest with the mission of building a team of skilled, trial-ready lawyers focused on efficiency and effectiveness. His success – and that of the firm he built – shows that he is achieving that mission.
Updated Sep 2024
