Hank
Stout
Hank Stout is the Managing Partner of Sutliff & Stout, a premier personal injury law firm serving Houston and the greater Texas Gulf Coast region. With over two decades of trial experience, Hank Stout has built a reputation for aggressive advocacy and compassionate client representation in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. Hank Stout has secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for injured Texans, focusing on cases involving catastrophic injuries, workplace accidents, and product liability.
Decades of trial experience fighting for injured Texans against negligent trucking companies and insurance carriers across Houston and the Gulf Coast.
Texas Super Lawyers, Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Best Lawyers in America, and Top 100 Trial Lawyers — recognized for catastrophic injury and wrongful death results.
Live intake around the clock — reach Sutliff & Stout the moment you need an attorney, day or night.
Meet
Hank Stout
Hank Stout is the Managing Partner of Sutliff & Stout, a premier personal injury law firm serving Houston and the greater Texas Gulf Coast region. With over two decades of trial experience, Hank Stout has built a reputation for aggressive advocacy and compassionate client representation in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. Hank Stout has secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for injured Texans, focusing on cases involving catastrophic injuries, workplace accidents, and product liability.
Hank Stout has dedicated his legal career to fighting for the rights of injured individuals and families throughout Houston and across Texas. As Managing Partner of Sutliff & Stout, Hank Stout leads a team of skilled trial attorneys who handle some of the most challenging personal injury cases in the region, including offshore and maritime accidents, trucking collisions, refinery explosions, and medical malpractice claims. Throughout his career, Hank Stout has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to holding negligent parties accountable, whether they are Fortune 500 corporations, insurance companies, or individual wrongdoers. His trial skills have been recognized by peers and opponents alike, and Hank Stout has been invited to speak at legal conferences throughout Texas on topics ranging from trial strategy to expert witness preparation. Beyond the courtroom, Hank Stout is deeply involved in the Houston legal community and serves as a mentor to young attorneys entering the field of personal injury law.
What Inspired Hank?
Hank Stout was inspired to become a personal injury attorney after witnessing the devastating impact that a workplace accident had on a family friend during his college years. The injured worker, who had been hurt due to inadequate safety protocols at a Houston-area industrial facility, struggled not only with physical recovery but also with mounting medical bills and an insurance company that seemed more interested in denying claims than providing justice. Watching this hardworking Texan fight for basic compensation while dealing with life-changing injuries left a profound impression on Hank Stout. He realized that injured workers and accident victims needed skilled advocates who would stand up to powerful corporations and insurance companies without backing down. This experience shaped Hank Stout's understanding that personal injury law is not just about legal arguments—it is about restoring dignity, securing futures, and ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable so that similar tragedies can be prevented.
Mission & Vision
The mission of Sutliff & Stout is to provide exceptional legal representation to individuals and families who have suffered serious injuries or lost loved ones due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others. Hank Stout and his team are committed to leveling the playing field between injured Houstonians and the well-funded corporations and insurance companies that often oppose them. The firm believes that every client deserves personalized attention, honest communication, and aggressive advocacy from attorneys who have the resources and trial experience to take cases all the way to verdict when necessary. Sutliff & Stout operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no attorney fees unless the firm recovers compensation on their behalf. This approach ensures that financial barriers never prevent injured Texans from accessing quality legal representation. Above all, Hank Stout and Sutliff & Stout are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of their clients during some of the most difficult times they will ever face.
Career History
Hank Stout began his legal career after earning his law degree and quickly developed a passion for trial advocacy and personal injury law. In his early years of practice, Hank Stout worked at a respected Houston litigation firm where he honed his skills handling a wide range of civil cases, from premises liability to automotive accidents. Recognizing the need for a law firm that would truly prioritize injured clients over insurance company interests, Hank Stout partnered with Greg Sutliff to establish Sutliff & Stout. Under their leadership, the firm has grown into one of Houston's most trusted personal injury practices, known for taking on complex cases that other firms might decline. Throughout his career, Hank Stout has handled hundreds of personal injury cases and has taken dozens of cases to trial, securing favorable verdicts for clients in state and federal courts across Texas. His experience spans the full spectrum of personal injury law, including maritime and offshore accidents, refinery and plant explosions, trucking accidents, construction site injuries, defective products, and nursing home abuse. Hank Stout has also developed particular expertise in cases involving catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, severe burns, and amputations. His track record of success has earned him recognition from legal organizations and the respect of fellow trial attorneys throughout the state.
Hank Stout began his legal career after earning his law degree and quickly developed a passion for trial advocacy and personal injury law. In his early years of practice, Hank Stout worked at a respected Houston litigation firm where he honed his skills handling a wide range of civil cases, from premises liability to automotive accidents. Recognizing the need for a law firm that would truly prioritize injured clients over insurance company interests, Hank Stout partnered with Greg Sutliff to establish Sutliff & Stout. Under their leadership, the firm has grown into one of Houston's most trusted personal injury practices, known for taking on complex cases that other firms might decline. Throughout his career, Hank Stout has handled hundreds of personal injury cases and has taken dozens of cases to trial, securing favorable verdicts for clients in state and federal courts across Texas. His experience spans the full spectrum of personal injury law, including maritime and offshore accidents, refinery and plant explosions, trucking accidents, construction site injuries, defective products, and nursing home abuse. Hank Stout has also developed particular expertise in cases involving catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, severe burns, and amputations. His track record of success has earned him recognition from legal organizations and the respect of fellow trial attorneys throughout the state.
University of Texas School of Law
Juris Doctor
Texas A&M University
Bachelor of Arts
Guiding Principles
Hank Stout believes that effective legal representation begins with truly understanding each client's unique situation, challenges, and goals. When someone contacts Sutliff & Stout after a serious accident, they are often dealing with physical pain, emotional trauma, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future. Hank Stout takes the time to listen carefully to each client's story, answer their questions thoroughly, and explain the legal process in clear, understandable terms. He recognizes that clients need more than just legal expertise—they need an advocate who genuinely cares about their well-being and recovery. Throughout the representation, Hank Stout maintains open lines of communication, providing regular updates and making himself available to address concerns as they arise. This client-centered approach has resulted in lasting relationships built on trust and has led to numerous referrals from satisfied clients who know that Hank Stout and Sutliff & Stout will treat their friends and family members with the same dedication and respect.
Client-Centered Advocacy
Hank Stout believes every client deserves personalized attention and direct communication with their attorney. He takes time to understand each client's unique circumstances and tailors legal strategies to achieve their specific goals and needs.
Trial-Ready Preparation
While many cases settle, Hank Stout prepares every case as if it will go to trial. This thorough preparation demonstrates to insurance companies and opposing counsel that he is ready and willing to fight for maximum compensation in the courtroom.
Integrity and Transparency
Hank Stout maintains the highest ethical standards and provides honest assessments of case strengths and challenges. Clients receive transparent communication about case developments, realistic expectations, and clear explanations of legal options throughout the process.
Aggressive Pursuit of Justice
When insurance companies and defendants attempt to minimize compensation or deny valid claims, Hank Stout responds with aggressive advocacy. He uses his extensive trial experience to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation his clients deserve.
Comprehensive Case Development
Hank Stout invests significant resources in building strong cases through thorough investigation, expert witness retention, and detailed documentation of damages. This comprehensive approach maximizes case value and positions clients for optimal outcomes.
“Insurance companies count on injured people giving up or accepting less than they deserve. We make sure our clients have the resources and determination to fight for full and fair compensation.”
Practice Areas
Hank Stout and Sutliff & Stout specialize in personal injury cases where another party caused the harm.
Truck Accident Claims
Hank Stout represents people hurt by 18-wheelers on Houston's freight corridors, including I-10, I-45, and the Sam Houston Tollway. Hank Stout builds claims around the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations covering hours-of-service logs, driver qualification files, and post-crash drug testing. Send a spoliation letter to preserve the truck's ECM data and dashcam footage if the carrier has not already pulled them.
Offshore and Maritime Injury
Hank Stout handles Jones Act and Longshore claims for crew members hurt in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Houston Ship Channel. Hank Stout pursues unseaworthiness damages and maintenance-and-cure benefits under 46 U.S.C. § 30104, filing in the Southern District of Texas when federal jurisdiction applies. Report the injury to the captain in writing before leaving the vessel if you are still on board.
Refinery and Plant Explosions
Hank Stout represents contract workers burned at petrochemical facilities along the Ship Channel, in Pasadena, Deer Park, and Baytown. Hank Stout works the cases under OSHA 1910.119 process safety management standards and Texas Chapter 95 contractor liability rules. Photograph the unit, the flare stack, and any visible MOC tags before the operator's investigators arrive.
Construction Site Accidents
Hank Stout handles falls, crane collapses, and trench cave-ins on Houston job sites in the Energy Corridor, the Medical Center, and along Buffalo Bayou. Hank Stout pleads claims under OSHA's Subpart M fall-protection rules and Texas Labor Code Chapter 406 for non-subscriber employers. Request the daily JHA, the toolbox talk sign-in, and the subcontractor agreement before evidence walks off the site.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Hank Stout represents drivers and passengers struck on the Katy Freeway, US-59, Beltway 8, and the Pierce Elevated. Hank Stout pursues claims under Texas Transportation Code § 545.062 following-distance rules and Texas Insurance Code Chapter 1952 uninsured-motorist provisions. Call 911 from the scene and request a CR-3 crash report if the police have not already been dispatched.
Premises Liability
Hank Stout files premises claims against Houston grocery stores, apartment complexes, and parking garages in Harris County. Hank Stout pleads the case under Texas's invitee duty rule from CMH Homes v. Daenen, which requires owners to inspect for and warn of unreasonable risks. Photograph the spill, the floor mat, and any wet-floor sign within minutes of the fall.
Wrongful Death
Hank Stout files wrongful-death suits for Houston spouses, children, and parents under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 71.004. Hank Stout pursues both the survival action for the decedent's pre-death pain and the statutory beneficiaries' loss of companionship and earnings. File within two years of the death if the at-fault party has not already accepted liability.
Product Liability
Hank Stout sues automakers, tire manufacturers, and industrial equipment companies for defects that injure Houston consumers and workers. Hank Stout pleads strict liability under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Chapter 82 covering manufacturing defects, design defects, and inadequate warnings. Preserve the product, the packaging, and the receipt before insurance adjusters or repair shops dispose of them.
Not sure if we handle your case type?
Call For Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Hank Stout represents clients throughout Houston in a wide range of personal injury matters, including motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, premises liability claims, and catastrophic injury cases. His extensive trial experience allows him to handle complex cases involving serious injuries and significant damages.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. However, certain exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances of your case. Hank Stout recommends contacting an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights and ensure critical evidence is not lost.
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms appear later. Document the scene with photos, gather witness information, and obtain a police report if applicable. Contact Hank Stout promptly to discuss your case before speaking with insurance adjusters, as early legal guidance can significantly impact your claim's outcome.
Hank Stout handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no upfront fees or costs. Attorney fees are only collected if compensation is successfully recovered for the client. This arrangement ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
The timeline varies significantly based on case complexity, injury severity, and whether settlement negotiations or trial is required. Some cases settle within months, while complex litigation may take a year or longer. Hank Stout works diligently to resolve cases efficiently while ensuring clients receive maximum compensation for their injuries.
Hank Stout brings decades of trial experience and a reputation for aggressive advocacy on behalf of injured clients. The firm's personalized approach means clients work directly with experienced attorneys, not paralegals or case managers. Sutliff & Stout has recovered millions for Houston-area clients and maintains a track record of successful verdicts and settlements.
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, allowing recovery if you are less than 51% responsible for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Hank Stout carefully evaluates liability issues and works to minimize any alleged fault to maximize your recovery.
Injured parties may recover economic damages including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving gross negligence, punitive damages may also be available. Hank Stout thoroughly evaluates all damages to ensure comprehensive compensation.
Our Locations
Serving clients across Texas State Courts with offices strategically located for your convenience.
Houston
Texas
Austin
Texas
Marble Falls
Texas
San Angelo
Texas
Cypress
Texas
Licensed Jurisdictions
Free Case
Evaluation
Scheduling a consultation with Hank Stout and Sutliff & Stout is straightforward and completely free. Potential clients can call the firm directly at (713) 987-7111 to speak with a knowledgeable team member who will gather basic information about the accident or injury and schedule a convenient time to meet with an attorney. Alternatively, individuals can visit the firm's website at sutliffstout.com to complete a confidential contact form, and a member of the Sutliff & Stout team will respond promptly. During the initial consultation, Hank Stout or one of his experienced attorneys will review the details of the case, answer questions about the legal process, and provide an honest assessment of the potential claims. There is never any obligation to hire the firm after a consultation, and all discussions are completely confidential. Because Sutliff & Stout handles cases on a contingency fee basis, clients who choose to move forward with representation pay no upfront costs and no attorney fees unless the firm successfully recovers compensation on their behalf.
- Available 24/7
- No fees unless we win
- Virtual consultations available