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In his diverse and globe-spanning practice, Craig Ongley counsels clients in several industries, with a focus on corporate securities and business transactions work including debt and equity finance.

His clients consist primarily of exploration and production companies and mid-stream energy companies including oil field services and gas pipeline transportation. He also represents clients in the medical, high tech and bit coin fields.  On the private financing side of his practice, Craig advises clients in fund formation and operation, equity and debt financing, including initial public offerings, private placements, and Regulation A+ offerings. Public companies turn to Craig for his deep knowledge of and experience in SEC quarterly and annual compliance and other regulatory issues, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and Section 16.

He acts as bond counsel for both underwriters and issuers and he drafts SEC disclosure documents and bond/tax opinion letters. Craig also assists clients with broker/dealer creation and FINRA compliance. He provides guidance to clients who issue bonds including private companies and public finance with municipalities, school districts, counties, and other public entities, primarily helping these issuers with their initial bond offering and then their annual SEC compliance.

Representing U.S. business in a number of countries across Europe, Asia, and North and South America, Craig helps clients navigate the issues that arise in both inbound and outbound international business transactions primarily in export matters including LNG, foreign mergers and acquisitions, establishment of foreign business enterprises and operations, establishment of foreign franchises, and international arbitration.

Maintaining a deep appreciation for his entrepreneurial clients, Craig finds it gratifying to help companies grow from the ground floor up and eventually fulfill their potentials. Prior to starting his legal career, he was the vice president of finance and administration for a very large construction company that employed hundreds. His experience in the business world enhances his ability to serve clients.

Away from the Office

Craig enjoys woodworking, golfing, and spending time with his family, which now includes five grandchildren. He stays active in a number of organizations including Scouting USA where he has been an adult leader for 45 years and DSM, Inc. that brings Broadway shows to Dallas. Craig is an assisting minister at his church and with his wife sings in the church choir. He is also currently learning to sing opera.

Bar Admissions

  • State Bar of Texas (1988)
  • State Bar of Nebraska (1984)
  • State Bar of Iowa (1984)

Education

  • Drake University, J.D., with honors, 1983
  • Drake University, M.P.A., 1975
  • Iowa State University, B.S., 1972
  • Dallas Bar Association
  • Export Advisory Task Force for North Dallas and Fort Worth Chambers of Commerce, Former Chairman
  • International Comparative Law Center, Advisory Board Member
  • Institute for Transnational Arbitration, Advisory Board Member
  • Dallas Summer Musicals, Board of Directors
  • Boy Scouts of America, District, Council and National positions
  • Preston Meadow Lutheran Church, Assisting Minister and Choir
  • Instructor on International Trade Law, University of Texas at Dallas