Mark Leeds Perlmutter

Born in June 1949 in Houston, Mark was a brilliant mind and a compassionate soul who spent his life bridging the gap between rigorous legal advocacy and deep human connection. After graduating from Northwestern University, where he worked in local politics, he pursued his passion for law at The University of Texas Law School, earning his degree and admission to the Texas State Bar in 1974.

Mark quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional civil trial attorney in Austin. He proudly started his career at Doggett & Jacks before spending the majority of his professional life at Perlmutter & Schuelke, PLLC, a firm he co-founded. There, he fought tirelessly for his clients in complex personal injury, business litigation, and product liability cases. Recognized by his peers as a "Super Lawyer" and a true "legal innovator," Mark approached the courtroom not just with strategic intellect, but with integrity. He later captured his insights in his book, Why Lawyers (And the Rest of Us) Lie & Engage in Other Repugnant Behavior.

He also shared his wealth of knowledge with the next generation of attorneys. He served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at both his alma mater, the University of Texas, and UC Hastings, and taught a popular class in UT Austin’s Plan II Honors program. He loved being a professor more than any other part of his career and always stayed deeply engaged in politics.

Later in life, Mark followed a calling to help people connect on a deeper personal level. He earned a Master's degree in psychology and transitioned into a fulfilling second career as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and relationship coach. His unique background allowed him to counsel individuals, couples, and law students through communication challenges and public speaking anxiety, transforming legal adversaries into partners in conflict resolution.

Beyond his immense professional achievements, Mark was known for his warmth, his love of family ski trips, his genuine interest in the stories of everyone he met, a lifelong penchant for personal growth, and his exceptional culinary expertise. Whether navigating a complex trial or bringing people together around his gourmet table—where everything was made completely from scratch—his guiding light was always empathy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernie and Adele Perlmutter; his brother, Billy Perlmutter; and his uncle and aunt, Larry Perlmutter and Arlene Brilliant.

Mark is survived by his loving family, including his wife, Lexi Perlmutter; his children, Eric Perlmutter (Ivy Ford), Lindsay Perlmutter (Kelly Edwards), Jillian Griffin (Andy Jordan), and Kenny Reams (Lala Reams); and his cherished grandchildren, Emma, Adam, Betsy, Teddy, Penny, and Griffin. He also leaves behind a large extended family, a community of devoted friends, grateful clients, and former students.

The family is incredibly thankful for the staff and friends at Westminster who wrapped him in great care, deep friendship, and kindness in his final years.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on Sunday, October 25, at 1:00 p.m. at Westminster’s Harris Bell Hall on Jackson Avenue. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your favorite Democratic candidate or Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas.