Billy M. Donley

Partner

Houston
T +1.713.646.1382
F +1.713.751.1717

"Billy is an expert in his field and he's responsive and strategic in his counseling…he's a very thorough litigator who gives good, practical advice."

— Chambers USA 2022

Overview

Billy Donley maintains an active litigation, corporate and appellate practice, with an emphasis on motor vehicle manufacturer franchise litigation, motor vehicle manufacturer business and corporate issues and complex commercial litigation. He represents numerous motor vehicle, motorcycle, ATV, boat, heavy truck and construction equipment manufacturers on all aspects of dealer franchise matters. He also serves as litigation counsel to a diversified oil field services company and a major oil company. 

Additionally, Billy has litigated antitrust issues under both the Sherman Act and the Robinson-Patman Act, and handled appeals in both state and federal appellate courts regarding antitrust issues.

  • Dealership terminations
  • Dealership dualing
  • Dealership transfers
  • Discount programs
  • Fraud
  • RICO
  • Federal Dealer Day in Court Act
  • State franchise laws and the constitutionality of certain state franchise laws
  • Related contract and tort claims

Recognitions and Memberships

Recognitions

  • Chambers USA: Nationwide Transportation: Road (Automotive) (2019 to 2023)
    • Band 2 (2023), Band 3 (2019 to 2022)
  • The Legal 500 United States (2018, 2020 to 2021)
    • Recommended in Industry Focus: Transport - Rail and Road – Litigation
  • BTI Client Service All-Star (2018)

Memberships

  • Texas Bar Association
  • Houston Bar Association

Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit, 1998
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas, 1993
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas, 1993
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, 1992
  • Texas

Education

  • J.D., South Texas College of Law, 1992
  • B.A., University of Houston, 1989