Hawkins Parnell Argues Trust and Estate Case Before Texas Supreme Court

October 30, 2026 (Dallas, TX) – Hawkins Parnell appellate chair Robert Gilbreath presented oral argument before the Supreme Court of Texas on October 7 in a closely watched dispute over how to interpret testamentary gifts to family trusts.

The case centers on whether trusts that terminated under their original terms can nevertheless receive distributions under a will based on subsequent agreements purporting to continue them. Representing the respondent, Gilbreath urged the Court to uphold the court of appeals’ decision enforcing the terms of the original trust instruments and the governing provisions of the Texas Estates Code and Trust Code.

The argument marks Gilbreath’s 12th appearance before the Supreme Court of Texas and his second this term. In September, he argued the Supreme Court's first case of the 2026–27 term in a dispute over governmental immunity and public officials' authority to enter performance-based contracts.

Gilbreath is board certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and regularly handles significant appeals in state and federal courts nationwide. He has handled more than 250 appeals and original proceedings.

About Hawkins Parnell & Young

Hawkins Parnell & Young is a national defense litigation firm that has represented many of the largest and most well-known companies in high-risk litigation and business disputes. The 250-strong litigation team works with clients to develop winning defense strategies and, if necessary, try cases to verdict in all 50 states.