When I reflect on my life and career, I see a journey driven by two powerful forces: empathy and ambition. Together, they’ve shaped everything I’ve built—both in my legal practice and in the broader world. People often ask how I’ve managed to build an empire worth upwards of $700 million. The answer is not as complicated as one might think. It’s about understanding people, working relentlessly, and using success as a platform to help others.
This journey hasn’t been about accumulating wealth for its own sake; it’s been about creating something meaningful, something that stands the test of time while making a positive impact. Every business decision, courtroom battle, and philanthropic endeavor is rooted in this vision.
A Foundation Built on Hard Work
Growing up on a farm in Atlanta, Texas, I learned the value of hard work early. There were no shortcuts—whether it was tending to the animals, mending fences, or helping my family keep things running smoothly. Those formative years instilled in me the discipline and work ethic that have carried me through every stage of my life.
When I eventually left home to attend Texas A&M University, I brought that same determination with me. I wasn’t handed anything on a silver platter. As the Battalion Commander of the NROTC Midshipman Battalion and a proud member of the Corps of Cadets, I developed leadership skills that would later define my career. Those experiences taught me how to inspire and motivate others, how to handle pressure, and how to stay focused on long-term goals—all traits essential for building a successful business.
The Drive to Advocate
Becoming a lawyer was never just about earning a paycheck. I’ve always been drawn to cases that represent more than just legal disputes—they’re about people fighting for justice in the face of overwhelming odds. Whether it’s a workplace accident, a breach of contract, or a case of gender discrimination, my goal has always been to level the playing field for the underdog.
Empathy is what allows me to truly connect with my clients. Their struggles become my struggles. I’ve seen how a single case can change someone’s life, restore their dignity, or bring them the closure they deserve. It’s this human connection that fuels my passion for what I do.
And yet, advocacy doesn’t stop at the courtroom door. As my career grew and my resources expanded, I realized that I could do even more for the community by stepping into the role of a philanthropist.
Using Success as a Platform
Building a $700 million empire isn’t just about ambition—it’s about using that ambition for good. My business success has afforded me the opportunity to support causes I’m passionate about and give back to the community that has given me so much.
One of my proudest moments was serving as Gala Chair for the Houston Children’s Charity in 2021, where we raised a record-breaking $2.8 million. Knowing that those funds would go toward helping children in need—providing them with essentials like clothing, school supplies, and medical care—was deeply rewarding.
Another highlight was donating my $3.5 million exotic car collection to The Jesse Tree, an organization that provides food, clothing, and job training to underserved populations. This wasn’t just a financial gesture; it was a way to take something I enjoyed and turn it into something that could make a real difference in people’s lives.
These experiences have taught me that wealth is not an endpoint—it’s a tool. It’s a means to amplify your values, to extend your reach, and to create meaningful change.
Balancing Ambition with Empathy
At the heart of everything I do is a balance between ambition and empathy. Ambition drives me to push boundaries, to take risks, and to continuously strive for excellence. Empathy keeps me grounded, reminding me of the human impact of every decision I make.
This balance has been the cornerstone of my leadership at the Buzbee Law Firm. I’ve worked hard to create a culture where success isn’t measured solely by financial gains or courtroom victories, but also by the positive impact we have on our clients and our community.
I’ve also applied this philosophy to my personal life. As a father of four, I want my children to understand that success isn’t just about what you achieve for yourself—it’s about what you give back. I strive to set an example for them by showing that kindness, generosity, and hard work can coexist with ambition and drive.
Building a Legacy
When people look at the empire I’ve built, I want them to see more than just numbers. I want them to see a story of perseverance, resilience, and compassion. I want them to see the lives that have been touched by the work we do—whether it’s a client who found justice in the courtroom or a family who received a helping hand through one of our philanthropic efforts.
At the end of the day, my goal is to leave a legacy that extends far beyond my lifetime. I want the Buzbee Law Firm to continue advocating for justice long after I’ve stepped away. I want the charitable organizations I’ve supported to thrive and expand their impact. And most of all, I want to inspire others to use their success as a platform for good.
Final Thoughts
The $700 million empire I’ve built didn’t happen overnight, nor did it happen by accident. It’s the result of decades of hard work, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to making a difference. But more than that, it’s a testament to the power of combining ambition with empathy.
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned along the way, it’s that success is most fulfilling when it’s shared. Whether you’re building a business, fighting for justice, or giving back to your community, the greatest rewards come from the impact you have on others.
And so, as I continue this journey, I remain focused on the vision that has guided me from the very beginning: to create a legacy of excellence, compassion, and meaningful change.