MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Tahira Khan Merritt
Attorney, The Fortenberry Firm
Tahira Khan Merritt is a civil trial lawyer with The Fortenberry Firm, representing victims of sexual abuse, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. She previously served as an Associate Judge for the Civil District Courts of Dallas County, becoming the first Judge of South Asian descent and the first Muslim in that role.
Tahira has been recognized as an Outstanding Minority Attorney by Texas Lawyer (2015), Best Lawyer by D Magazine (2019–2022), and a Texas Super Lawyer (2020–2022, 2024–2025). She also holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
A proud mother of two—Zack, a student at the University of Texas at Dallas, and Alia, a third-year law student at the University of Mississippi School of Law—Tahira enjoys spending time with her German Shepherd, Sherlock, on walks and watching crime shows.
DAABA’S MISSION IS TO PROMOTE THE AAPI LEGAL COMMUNITY THROUGH MENTORSHIP, NETWORKING, AND COMMUNITY SERVICE.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mentorship
Our commitment to promote the meaningful participation of Asian American Pacific Islanders in the legal field is largely advanced through our mentorship initiatives catered to both law students and practicing attorneys.
Networking
Through DAABA, our members are provided numerous opportunities to connect with other attorneys and judges at happy hours, cultural events, and service opportunities.
Community service
As we aim to advance our legal professionals, we simultaneously work towards serving our community through fundraising initiatives, charity drives, and other service opportunities.