About Benton
Benton Sullivant was a prominent criminal defense attorney based in Galveston, Texas. He earned his Juris Doctor from St. Mary's University School of Law in 1996, following his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Midwestern State University in 1990. Admitted to the Texas State Bar in 1997, Sullivant quickly established himself as a dedicated advocate for clients facing complex criminal charges. His career spanned over two decades, during which he developed a reputation for his commitment to justice and the rights of the accused. From 2001 to 2010, Sullivant served as a felony chief prosecutor in the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office.
In this role, he handled numerous high-stakes cases, gaining invaluable trial experience that would later benefit his clients in private practice. In 2010, he made a significant transition by founding the Sullivant Law Office, where he represented clients until his untimely passing in 2021. His trial experience included many criminal matters, such as DWI, intoxication manslaughter, drug possession, murder, and aggravated assault, showcasing his versatility and depth of knowledge in criminal law. Sullivant was deeply involved in the Galveston County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (GCCDL). He served as its president from 2018 to 2019, where he played a crucial role in advancing the organization’s mission to support and educate criminal defense attorneys in the region. His leadership contributed to the professional development of many attorneys, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in the legal field.
This involvement underscored his dedication not only to his clients but also to the broader legal community in Galveston. Outside of his legal career, Sullivant had a focus on fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and was known for his culinary skills, particularly in local cook-offs. He participated in competitions featuring chili, BBQ, and wild game, reflecting his love for community and camaraderie. A loyal Dallas Cowboys fan, he often shared his enthusiasm for the team with friends and family. Additionally, he had a fondness for traveling, with New Orleans being a particular favorite destination. Benton Sullivant passed away on September 6, 2021, at the age of 52.
He is survived by his wife, Gayle Peters Sullivant, along with his father, William Sullivant; his mother, Elizabeth Harrison Sullivant; his stepmother, Deborah Shasteen Sullivant; and his siblings, Brent Sullivant, Katherine Sullivant, Page Sullivant Griffith. Amy Sullivant. Throughout his career, Sullivant was committed to providing dedicated legal representation to his clients. His contributions to the Galveston legal community and his legacy as a passionate advocate continue to be remembered by those he served and inspired.
