Summer Chappell: Paralegal And CFO, Texas Family Law
Summer Chappell is a seasoned legal professional with more than a decade of experience in Texas family law. She joined The Harris Law Firm in 2012 after earning her paralegal certification from Arlington Career College. Since then, she has supported attorneys at every stage of a case – from the first consultation to the final trial. Summer focuses on guiding clients through divorce, custody and other family law matters with both legal skill and empathy.
Dedication To Family Law And Firm Leadership
Summer studied business and marketing at Tarrant County College and Western Governors University. Her education and experience led to her appointment as Chief Financial Officer of The Harris Law Firm. In this role, she strengthens the firm’s operations and improves its client services. She also holds certifications as a divorce and family law life coach, high conflict coach, and divorce transition and recovery coach. Since 2011, she has served as a Certified Community Supervisor, creating safe settings for parent-child visits during custody disputes.
Professional Memberships And Roles
Summer is an active member of:
- Tarrant County Bar Association
- Tarrant County Family Law Association
- Association of Family and Conciliation Courts
- American Bar Association
- State Bar of Texas Paralegal Division
- Texas Bar College
- Fort Worth Paralegal Association
Awards And Recognition
Her work has earned notable honors, including:
- 2023 Pro Bono Award, Tarrant County Bar Foundation & Fort Worth Paralegal Association
- 2022 Fort Worth Paralegal of the Year
- President-Elect (2025), Fort Worth Paralegal Association
- Board Member (since 2019), State Bar of Texas Paralegal Division
- Board Member (since 2019), Fort Worth Paralegal Association
Commitment To Community
Summer advocates for survivors of domestic violence and supports many charitable causes. She views her work in family law as a calling and uses her personal experiences to guide clients through life’s most difficult transitions.
Life Outside Work
In her free time, Summer enjoys horseback riding, traveling, relaxing on the patio and practicing at the gun range. She values time with her children, Trenton and Montana, and her rescue German Shepherd, Layla – the firm’s mascot.