This month, West Mermis PLLC proudly marks its 9th anniversary serving the construction and business communities in Houston and across Texas. What began as a vision shared by founding partners Lawrence West and Joshua W. Mermis has grown into a trusted law firm recognized for its dedication to excellence, client-focused advocacy, and results-driven approach. Over nearly a decade, the firm has remained committed to delivering exceptional legal counsel in construction law and commercial litigation—areas that are vital to the growth and success of Houston’s economy.
To commemorate this important milestone, the firm hosted a happy hour celebration with colleagues, clients, and friends of West Mermis. The event was both a celebration of the firm’s achievements and a welcome for the talented new attorneys who recently joined the team. Their addition represents the continued growth of the firm and ensures that West Mermis is prepared to meet the evolving needs of the construction and business communities.
The happy hour provided a chance to reflect on how far the firm has come since its founding. What began as a small, entrepreneurial venture is now a respected Houston law firm known for successfully guiding clients through high-stakes disputes and complex legal challenges.
Founding Partner Joshua W. Mermis shared his candid reflections on the firm’s journey and the leap of faith required to start something new:
“You have to be a little crazy to start your own law firm (or any company, for that matter). There is a lot of uncertainty and risk. Goodbye regular pay checks! But I’m so glad Lawrence West and I (along with our associate at the time and now partner, Francis McWilliams) took the plunge eight years ago. For anyone thinking about starting your own company, I have this piece of advice: DO IT. Who dares wins!”
His words capture the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience that shaped the early years of West Mermis and continue to inspire its culture today. By embracing risk and focusing on client service, the firm has thrived in an increasingly competitive legal market.
The success of West Mermis would not be possible without the trust and support of its clients. Over the past nine years, the firm has represented companies and individuals across the construction industry and beyond, handling disputes that range from multimillion-dollar claims to everyday business conflicts. Whether advocating in courtrooms or negotiating solutions outside of litigation, the attorneys at West Mermis consistently place their clients’ goals at the forefront.
The firm extends its deepest gratitude to:
Clients, for trusting us with their most important legal matters.
Peers, for recognizing our commitment to excellence in construction and commercial law.
Our team, for their dedication, professionalism, and collaborative spirit.
This support has been the foundation of the firm’s success and will continue to drive its growth in the years to come.
From the start, West Mermis has been more than just a law firm—it has been a trusted partner to the construction and business communities. The firm’s attorneys have earned recognition in leading publications, presented at national and regional industry conferences, and resolved disputes that helped shape the Texas construction landscape.
As West Mermis looks toward the future, its focus remains clear:
Providing top-tier legal solutions in construction and commercial litigation.
Supporting the professional development of its growing team of attorneys.
Deepening relationships with Houston’s construction and business leaders.
With nearly a decade behind it and many more ahead, West Mermis is poised for continued success built on the same entrepreneurial drive, client-centered approach, and teamwork that have defined its first nine years.
The 9th anniversary of West Mermis is more than a celebration of time—it is a recognition of the relationships and results that make the firm what it is today. The attorneys and staff are proud of what has been accomplished and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.
Here’s to 9 years of growth, resilience, and excellence—and to the future we are building together.
