Sean R. Burns
Associate

As a former chef turned bankruptcy lawyer, I utilize a unique blend of the precision, efficiency and creativity I learned in my former profession with complex financial and legal analysis in order to help clients navigate complex financial challenges. My background in the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of professional kitchens means I thrive in situations that demand quick thinking and meticulous execution.

Sean Burns brings a unique blend of legal acumen and business insight to safeguard client interests and navigate the intricacies of the restructuring process. After graduating from Southern Methodist University with his J.D./M.B.A., Sean clerked for Judge Michelle V. Larson at the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas, gaining valuable insight into judicial decision-making and the nuances of bankruptcy proceedings.

During law school, Sean worked with various aspects of bankruptcy and commercial law, including an internship with the Department of Justice's Office of the U.S. Trustee and a judicial externship for Judge Harlin D. Hale, further deepening his understanding of bankruptcy court operations.

As a dedicated advocate, Sean actively contributes to the bankruptcy community through his involvement in organizations such as the Dallas Bar Association's Bankruptcy & Commercial Law Section and the State Bar of Texas Bankruptcy Law Section, Young Lawyers Committee.

Thought Leadership / News
Fall/Winter 2024 
 Thought Leadership
A Force for Change, A Model for Service

State Bar of Texas – Bankruptcy Law Section Bi-Annual Newsletter 

Fall/Winter 2024 
 Thought Leadership
A House Divided Cannot Stand: The Complexities of Texas Homestead Exemptions in Bankruptcy, Especially After a Divorce

State Bar of Texas – Bankruptcy Law Section Bi-Annual Newsletter 

October 9, 2024 
 Speeches and Presentations
Nuts and Bolts of Bankruptcy Appeals

Dallas Bar Association - Bankruptcy and Commercial Law Section

Organizational Involvement
  • Dallas Bar Association - Bankruptcy & Commercial Law Section
    • Panelist, Generative AI in Bankruptcy Law (2023)
    • Moderator, Judicial Law Clerk Panel (2023)
  • State Bar of Texas Bankruptcy Law Section Young Lawyers Committee
    • Secretary (2024 - present)
    • Law Clerk Subcommittee Chair (2023 - 2024)
  • Dallas/Fort Worth Association of Young Bankruptcy Lawyers — “Lunches with Judges”
    • Committee Chair (2023)
  • John C. Ford American Inn of Court
    • Associate Member (2024)
    • Law Clerk Member (2022 - 2023)
Education
  • J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
  • M.B.A., Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business
  • B.A., Humboldt State University
Judicial Clerkships
  • Honorable Michelle V. Larson, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas (2022-2024)
Bar Admission
  • Texas (2023)
Court Admission
  • United States Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas
When I Feel Most At Home
  • Spending time with my wife, Amanda, and our three boys: Brayden, Benjamin and Christopher
  • Cooking - especially Spanish and Cuban food
  • Reading - mostly sci-fi and fantasy with some historical fiction
  • Outdoors - hiking, camping and fishing