Dean Omar Branham Shirley Elevates 5 Attorneys to Partner

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DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan 20, 2026--

Nationally recognized plaintiffs firm Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP, is pleased to announce the elevation of five dedicated attorneys to partner: Todd Barnes,Aaron Chapman, Kathy Farinas, Ka’Leya Hardin and Cori Kapusta.

“These five attorneys embody the standards of excellence and integrity that define our firm,” said partner Trey Branham. “Each has earned this promotion through outstanding advocacy, deep commitment to our clients and the kind of work ethic that strengthens our team every day.”

Mr. Barnes, based in Indianapolis, is a veteran litigator known for successfully arguing landmark cases before the Indiana Supreme Court, including decisions that restored the rights of individuals to hold toxic product manufacturers accountable.

Dallas-based Mr. Chapman has played a key role in several high-profile talc litigation victories and has been named to the Lawdragon X – Next Generation list of top emerging lawyers two years in a row.

Ms. Farinas, a National Trial Lawyers Association Top 100 Trial Lawyer, leads the firm’s Indianapolis office and has built her career representing victims of toxic exposure injuries, securing multimillion-dollar recoveries for those harmed by asbestos.

A Mississippi native, Ms. Hardin is deeply committed to advocating for the underdog and is an integral part of the firm’s appellate team. She is a member of the American Association for Justice.

Ms. Kapusta leads the firm’s Pittsburgh office and is consistently recognized as a Super Lawyer and focuses her practice on asbestos litigation and toxic torts. She also serves as a frequent contributor to the mesothelioma advocacy community through panels and thought leadership.

2025 was a banner year for the firm, which secured verdicts of $1.5 billion, $966 million, $65.5 million, $42 million, $10.25 million and $6 million on behalf of clients suffering from mesothelioma. The firm was also named to the Best Law Firms list for the first time for its significant contributions to corporate accountability and consumer protection.

About Dean Omar Branham Shirley

Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP, is a nationally recognized trial firm that handles cases across the country for individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries or have died as a result of irresponsible conduct of others. For more information, please visit http://www.dobslegal.com.

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KEYWORD: TEXAS UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA

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SOURCE: Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP

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PUB: 01/20/2026 12:08 PM/DISC: 01/20/2026 12:08 PM

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