Claire Schindler
Attorney
Coming from a family of attorneys, Claire knew that she wanted to be a lawyer at a young age. Since she was 19 years old, Claire began working in law firms to gain valuable experience in the industry and learn how to advocate for future clients effectively.
“I understand that getting hurt turns your world upside-down and makes you feel powerless. My passion for assisting clients in these situations comes from wanting to help people make things right again, one day at a time."
Biography
As a Louisiana native, Claire began her secondary education at Louisiana State University, where she majored in political science and was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Claire’s passion for advocacy was solidified when she was hit by a drunk driver during her senior year of college. The incident sparked her interest in personal injury law, and she vowed to help others in her situation.
Upon graduation, Claire continued her education at Louisiana State University’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center where she received the Chancellor’s Scholarship and was a Dean’s List student. Claire earned the CALI Excellence Award in Legal Research and Writing, an award given to the top student in the class.
After her first year of law school, Claire studied abroad in Lyon, France, studying comparative law and gaining experience from a U.S. District Judge, Chief Judge Shelly Dick for the Middle District of Louisiana.
While at LSU Law, Claire participated in various trial competitions, including the Vinson Elkins week-long trial advocacy program where she learned from experienced trial attorneys and judges.
Prior to joining Arnold & Itkin, Claire worked for several talented trial attorneys and externed for U.S. District Magistrate Judge Richard L. Bourgeois, Jr. for the Middle District of Louisiana.
Claire graduated with a Juris Doctorate, a degree in comparative law, and a graduate certificate in energy law and policy. After moving to Houston, Claire joined Arnold & Itkin as a law clerk and was hired as an attorney upon passing the bar exam. In Claire’s short time with our firm, she has participated in hundreds of depositions and has tried 7 cases to verdict—most during a global pandemic. She has obtained nearly $113,000,000.00 in settlements for her clients over the last four years. She also was part of the trial team on a plant explosion case against Exxon Mobil in Harris County with Kurt Arnold, which resulted in a favorable settlement after nearly three weeks of trial. Claire has received several awards and is recognized amongst her peers as a formidable opponent. Claire helps our team fight for the future that clients deserve by refusing to back down, even when the other side won’t cooperate.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and friends, and new golden retriever puppy. As a two-time LSU alumnus, Claire is an avid LSU football fan and attends as many games as possible (Geaux Tigers!).