The firm was founded by James B. Blackburn, Jr. in 1977. Over the years, Mr. Blackburn has served a variety of clients in the field of environmental law and environmental planning. Mary W. Carter joined Mr. Blackburn as an associate in 1986. The firm changed its name to Blackburn & Carter, P.C. in January 1990.

The firm's practice focuses on dealing with agencies on issues such as permitting, enforcement, and regulatory issues. Recent participation in state administrative hearings includes representation before the TCEQ on issues of waste water discharge, reclamation, hazardous waste permits, municipal solid waste permitting, issues of construction permitting, and representation before the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission.

The firm also goes to court on issues such as citizen's suits, common law, and toxic torts. Blackburn & Carter has a heavy commitment to representation in citizens suits and interventions under the provisions of the Clean Water Act, RCRA, CERCLA, SARA, HSWA, Civil Rights and common and statutory law, in an effort to abate pollution and seek damages.

Blackburn Carter also provides environmental consultation and advisory services and environmental negotiation services.