It is with profound sadness that Beck Redden LLP shares the heartbreaking news of the sudden and unexpected passing of our dear partner, colleague, and friend, Alistair Byrne Dawson, on August 30, 2025. His departure leaves a void not only within our firm, but also throughout the Houston legal community and the many lives he touched through his service, mentorship, and friendship.

Alistair was widely recognized as one of the preeminent trial lawyers of his generation, a consummate professional whose legal skill and unwavering dedication to justice earned him the respect and admiration of peers across Texas and the nation. Throughout his distinguished career, Alistair exemplified integrity, compassion, and courage, balancing sharp advocacy with a steadfast commitment to fairness.

His professional accomplishments were vast and deeply impactful. Alistair served with honor as President of the Houston Bar Association, where he worked tirelessly to advance the profession and to support fellow lawyers in their callings. He also served as Chairman of the Texas Bar Foundation, one of the state’s leading organizations dedicated to supporting charitable programs that improve access to justice. Alistair’s professional excellence was further recognized through his selection as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the most prestigious associations of trial lawyers in North America, as well as his membership in the American Board of Trial Advocates.

Yet, Alistair’s contributions extended far beyond the courtroom and professional boards. He was deeply devoted to ensuring equal access to legal representation for all, regardless of means. He gave generously of his time and talents to pro bono matters and community causes. His service included terms on the Board of Directors for Houston Volunteer Lawyers, Lone Star Legal Aid, and as a Commissioner on the Texas Equal Access to Justice Commission. Through this work, Alistair advocated passionately for the voiceless and underserved, ensuring that the legal system remained a place of fairness and hope. His enduring legacy will be felt through the countless individuals and families whose lives were touched by his dedication to justice and service.

While his professional and civic accomplishments are remarkable, Alistair will be remembered most of all for the person he was in his private life. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Wendy, whose partnership was the foundation of his life. As a father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, Alistair cherished his family and found his greatest joy in their love and company. He was equally a loyal friend and trusted mentor, someone who gave generously of his time, his wisdom, and his encouragement. His presence brought warmth, humor, and guidance to all who knew him.

Within Beck Redden LLP, Alistair was not only a brilliant lawyer but also a treasured partner whose leadership, generosity, and friendship enriched the lives of everyone in the firm. He cared deeply for his colleagues and invested wholeheartedly in the future of the profession, mentoring countless young lawyers who will continue to carry forward his lessons of excellence, humility, and service.

Alistair’s passing is a profound loss to his family, to our firm, to the legal community, and to the many organizations and individuals who benefitted from his dedication. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of professional achievement, public service, and personal devotion that will inspire generations to come.

Memorial arrangements will be shared as soon as they are available. In the meantime, Beck Redden LLP invites all who knew Alistair to keep his wife Wendy, his family, and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this time of deep mourning.

Though he has left us far too soon, the life of Alistair Byrne Dawson will remain a shining example of what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and love. His memory will forever be cherished, and his impact will endure.