James Muela joined Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC in 2023 representing individual, corporate, and institutional landowners in eminent domain and condemnation cases.

Prior to joining Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC, Mr. Muela served as an Associate Attorney at Lloyd Gosselink Rochelle & Townsend, P.C. where he was a member of the Water Practice Group and represented utility providers, municipalities, and other entities engaging in regulatory takings and major infrastructure projects. He also previously practiced at Winstead PC and Bell Nunnally & Martin LLP. 

Born and raised in Austin, Mr. Muela studied environmental science at Trinity University in San Antonio. He began his career as an environmental scientist conducting habitat surveys and assessing the ecological impacts of proposed roadways, pipelines, and other infrastructure projects. After developing an interest in land-use issues and landowner rights, Mr. Muela enrolled at the Baylor University School of Law where he graduated in 2017.

Accolades & Experience

In addition to his legal background, Mr. Muela serves as Board Treasurer for the Environmental Law Section of the Austin Bar Association and is a member of the advisory board at St. Louis Catholic School in Austin.

Speaking Engagements

  • Co-presenter, Case Law Update, Changing Face of Water Law Conference hosted by the Environmental & Natural Resources Law Section of the State Bar of Texas (Webcast, 2022)
  • Co-presenter, Case Law Update, Texas Water Conservation Association’s Annual Meeting (Fort Worth, 2022)
  • Co-presenter, Recent Case Law Developments, Texas Alliance of Groundwater Districts meeting (Austin, 2022)

Community Involvement

  • Austin Bar Association Environmental Law Section, Treasurer, 2023-Present
  • St. Louis Catholic School, Board, Member, 2023-Present