Baker Botts L.L.P. > San Francisco, United States > Firm Profile

Baker Botts L.L.P. > The Legal 500 Rankings

Energy > Energy litigation: oil and gas Tier 1

Baker Botts L.L.P. stands out for its expertise in handling high-value litigation proceedings including litigation related to production sharing agreements, joint operating agreements, and gas gathering and processing agreements. An array of clients encompassing multinational corporations, service companies, pipelines, and major trade organizations routinely engage the team for advice on environmental contamination, emergency response, force majeures, and disputes related to energy shortages and price increases. Practice co-head William Kroger is noted for his track record in handling major oil and gas, power, and renewable energy disputes throughout the US, while fellow co-head Louie Layrisson has considerable expertise in commercial disputes in the oil and gas sectors, and Jason Newman is a specialist in disputes arising from horizontal development in all parts of Texas and throughout the United States. Other key contacts include Tina Nguyen, who frequently represents oil, gas, and renewable clients on pricing disputes and nuisance claims, and Benjamin Gonsoulin, whose broad practice spans energy litigation, environmental contamination claims, and toxic tort claims. Lawyers are based in Houston.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 1

Praised for its ‘unique’ longstanding presence in the market, Baker Botts L.L.P. fields a team of specialists able to cover the waterfront of energy transactions, both domestically and abroad. The firm combines capital markets expertise with top-end M&A and acquisition financing work, instructed by major utility players, multinational asset managers, and energy developers and producers. Particular mandates of note include the Champlain Hudson Power Express Project, the Texas Temple I and Temple II projects, and the Twin Oaks coal-fired power plant, whilst continued work in the energy transition space has seen an influx of battery storage, wind and solar transactions. Elaine Walsh and Michael Didriksen lead the team from Washington DC and New York respectively, with the former lauded by clients for her extensive understanding of the regulatory landscape – a competency honed from previous in-house industry experience – and the latter for his M&A and development capabilities that spans both conventional and renewable energy assets. Practice group chair of project finance and San Franciscan-based Dino Barajas has been the leading figure on gas-fired and solar energy mandates, operating in both North and Central America, while Houston’s Tim Taylor has been a crucial advisor to clients on their capital markets transactions. San Francisco-based senior counsel Vladimir Fet and Washington DC senior associate Carlos Marquez bring further project financing and debt financing between them, as well as possessing strong M&A capabilities. Eli Hinckley in Washington DC is focused on tax equity financing work. Jonathan Bobinger departed the practice in June 2023.

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 1

Strengthening capabilities on the funds side through the hire of Clay Brett who brings expertise and knowledge from previous in-house experience, as well as M&A, financing and capital markets proficiencies in the form of ex-Vinson & Elkins LLP duo Caitlin Lawrence and Andrew Schulte, Baker Botts L.L.P.‘s multidisciplinary team continues to be frequently sought out by a multitude of clients due to its reputation as a leading player in the oil and gas sector. Tax, regulatory, and environmental acumen underpin the group’s range of transactions that comprehensively encompass upstream, midstream and downstream, with an increased flow of mandates pertaining to carbon capture and gas gathering that sit alongside its multi-billion-dollar basin M&A and commercial agreement deals. The practice is led by three individuals who operate out of Houston, Austin and Dallas respectively: Jason Bennett, who has been predominantly active on CCUS and novel RNG ventures; Mike Bengston, who works closely with companies and investors on a wealth of M&A, private equity and capital markets transactions; and David Emmons, who is highly regarded for his corporate finance practice. Steven Miles' eminent sector reputation continues to generate significant activity for the group, while Larry Hall is a leading advisor to the firm’s most consequential oil investors and operators on M&A, possessing impressive geographical coverage. Scott Looper is recognized for his extensive work in the midstream space while also being an active presence on the firm’s gas gathering, treating and CO2 sequestration contractual work, whereas Erin Hopkins regularly engages with M&A and acquisition financing in the upstream space. Jonathan Platt is equally instructed by public and private companies on a range of transactions. Gerry Morton and Clint Rancher are further names of note in Houston.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: toxic tort Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P. generates a substantial amount of toxic tort and nuisance litigation work from clients in the energy sector, running the gamut from occupational exposure in relation to toxins released at manufacturing plants, personal injury and property damage caused by the alleged release of toxins and product liability claims regarding chemical products. The team also excels at defending companies following large-scale environmental incidents, including in crisis response, as well as to deal with the ensuing regulatory inquiries and in any follow-on class action litigation. Drawing upon a deep understanding of the operational issues and litigation risks facing companies in the energy and manufacturing industries, Houston-based Russell Lewis excels in handling these type of multi-faceted mandates, as well as regularly advising clients in the space from a risk management perspective. As well as handling toxic tort and class action litigation arising from environmental issues, Washington DC-based Kent Mayo also often assists clients on compliance and enforcement matters relating to environmental regulations including the Clean Air Act, adding deep insight, in part due to his previous tenure as a trial lawyer in the environmental section of the DOJ. Also based in Washington DC, Joshua Frank combines his legal and scientific background to good effect on behalf of clients seeking to prevail in the defense of citizen suits and government enforcement actions in relation to environmental statutes, as well as in conventional toxic tort matters. Mayo and Frank co-head the team alongside Houston-based Tynan Buthod.  

Energy > Energy litigation: electric power Tier 2

Equipped to handle both domestic and international energy litigation, Baker Botts L.L.P. is frequently engaged by generators, processors, service providers, transporters, distributors and marketers of electricity. The firm’s litigation practice works together with departments such as regulatory, environmental, appellate, and global projects to advise clients on all aspects of the development, production, distribution and marketing of energy products. Co-chair Bill Kroger has a track record of matters that involve the development of new energy projects and technologies, and has handled numerous disputes arising out of Winter Storm Uri, whereas co-chair Louie Layrisson is experienced in energy disputes related to supply chains, force majeure leases, power agreements and joint ventures. Washington DC-based Megan Berge specializes in matters related to environmental law, with her workload extending to civil litigation, permit appeals and advice on regulatory issues. Tina Nguyen‘s broad practice covers royalty obligations, pricing disputes, midstream agreements and nuisance claims. John Anaipakos departed in July 2023. Unless stated otherwise, all mentioned lawyers are based in Houston.

Energy > Energy regulation: electric power Tier 2

Praised for its ‘outstanding legal advocacy‘, Baker Botts L.L.P. sports a multi-faceted practice capable of advising electric power clients on all aspects of regulatory issues and ensuing litigation. In addition to standalone regulatory work for a diverse client base that includes multi-state utilities as well as generation and transmission portfolio companies, the practice also provides regulatory support in the framework of transactions and financings. Washington DC’s Michael Yuffee counts enforcement defense, transactions and regulatory work among his areas of expertise and focuses on matters relating to the wholesale energy markets; he leads the practice jointly with Andrea Stover in Austin, whose work focuses on Texas and includes appearances before agencies such as ERCOT and the Public Utility Commission of Texas. Also in Washington DC, Jay Ryan and Emil Barth field diverse regulatory energy portfolios involving extensive FERC expertise.

Energy > Energy regulation: oil and gas Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P.‘s broad energy practice includes representing clients in natural gas proceedings concerning the rates and terms of service for transportation and storage, advising on the permitting of regulated facilities, and negotiating a broad array of commercial agreements. The practice is headed jointly by Washington DC-based Michael Yuffee and Austin’s Andrea Stover; both routinely advise clients on enforcement and compliance matters before FERC and the CFTC. In Houston, Michelle Boudreaux has significant experience representing clients in contested proceedings regarding rates and terms of service, and obtaining regulatory approvals, while Jim Barkley is well-versed in advising on the regulation of common carrier, and utility oil and gas pipelines in Texas. In DC, Emil Barth supports a wide range of litigation and transactional matters, and Ryan Norfolk focuses his practice on work involving wholesale energy markets, including enforcement, compliance, and administrative litigation.

Environment > Environment: litigation Tier 2

Clients turn to the team at Baker Botts L.L.P. for its expertise handling toxic tort, natural resource damage claims, defending against class and individual lawsuits arising from air, water and land contamination. Scott Janoe leads the group from Houston, attracting a spread of clients from the energy, mining and manufacturing sectors seeking assistance with enforcement defense and crisis management. The Washington DC office fields Megan Berge, who is recommended for her experience handling climate change mandates, Steven Solow, who deals with environmental incidents within the maritime, chemicals, mining and utilities spheres, and Nadira Clarke, who has extensive white collar crime and civil trial experience. Shailesh Sahay joined the DC team in July 2023 from Foley Hoag LLP, bringing with him experience handling climate, environmental and sustainability issues at federal, state, and international levels.

Environment > Environment: regulatory Tier 2

The team at Baker Botts L.L.P., led by Houston’s Scott Janoe, offers clients coast-to-coast expertise, handling a spread of environmental challenges such as incident response, energy transition, contaminated sites, as well as air and water quality and supply. The Houston-based Scott Elliott works predominantly with chemical and energy clients, assisting with environmental health and safety issues and investigations. Over in Washington DC, Debra Jezouit is known by clients from across pharmaceutical and chemical industries for her experience dealing with Clean Air Act issues, whilst Alexandra Dunn, former member of the EPA’s Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention division, is well equipped to handle the gamut of risk management advice concerning contaminants and chemicals, particularly regarding PFOS. The team has also been bolstered by the recent acquisition of DC-based partner Shailesh Sahay from Foley Hoag LLP.

Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P. handles the full spectrum of licensing matters, fielding a team that is well-versed in advising on patent, copyright and trademark license agreements as well as on technology development, acquisition, distribution and research, and outsourcing agreements. The team also benefits from in-house IP litigation expertise, allowing it to handle all aspects of patent strategy and protection issues Christa Brown-Sanford co-heads the group from Dallas and focuses on patent procurement, litigation, and portfolio development, frequently handling licensing matters in related to telecommunications, electronics, and cutting-edge technologies. Co-head Jennifer Tempesta is based in New York and chiefly handles patent litigation. Luke Pedersen co-chairs the practice from Washington DC and covers a wide range of matters relating to intellectual property, placing a particular focus on technology transfers and patent portfolio management, while New York-based co-chair Paul Ragusa advises clients on patent litigation, inter-partes reviews, IP transactions, and licensing, including of standard-essential patents.

Intellectual property > Patents: prosecution (including re-examination and post-grant proceedings) Tier 2

An extensive team of specialists oversee Baker Botts L.L.P.‘s collective, which is noted for its ‘dedication to staying at the forefront of the legal landscape’. Christa Brown-Sanford, high-tech specialist Samir Bhavsar and Chad Walters at the Dallas office, life sciences specialist Sandra Lee and Jennifer Tempesta in the New York hub, and Eliot Williams who co-leads from Palo Alto. Walters and Williams are both on the PTAB board, while Lee and Bhavsar have a particular focus on the patent prosecution side of the practice. The team’s workload incorporates a notable number of PTAB trial cases, patent litigation cases, post-grant proceedings before the USPTO and portfolio management matters for its client roster which includes names such as Samsung, Mastercard and Bank of America. There is a range of IP expertise across the group and it is noted that ‘the team’s diversity contributes to a richness of perspectives’. The ‘exceptional’ Matthew Avery in San Francisco is noteworthy for his ‘deep expertise in navigating the intricacies of patent prosecution’, while David Wu in Palo Alto has a particular focus on assisting research and development investment clients in complex cases.

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P.’s Washington DC-based antitrust and competition law department is well regarded for its knowledge of the pharmaceutical, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, and TMT segments, and offers niche expertise in advising multinational online technology companies on topics such as FTC privacy order compliance. Praised by clients for providing ‘remarkably strategic, timely and thoughtful advice’, John Taladay leads the team and regularly acts in proceedings with involvement of the FTC, DOJ Antitrust Division and the European Commission with noteworthy capabilities in advising on allegations of price fixing, bid rigging, market allocation and unfair trade practices. Erik Koons’ practice extends to bet-the-company antitrust litigation and the whole gamut of related claims, including those related to tying, bundling and monopolization. Former co-head Maureen Ohlhausen and Taylor Owings left the firm in January 2024, while Joseph Ostoyich departed in April 2023.

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 3

Highly regarded for its strong track record advising defendants in large class actions in the life sciences and manufacturing sectors, the antitrust and competition practice at Baker Botts L.L.P. has recently seen an increase in activity relating to algorithmic price-fixing cases in the real estate industry. John Taladay heads the practice and is a seasoned antitrust specialist with an emphasis on merger clearances, bid-rigging, price-fixing, market allocation, and unfair trade practices, particularly in the pharma sector. Paul Cuomo focuses his practice on multijurisdictional merger reviews and litigation, while James Kress takes point on competitor-on-competitor disputes and has a notable track record advising on class certification issues. Erik Koons regularly represents clients in bet-the-company litigations spanning the full range of antitrust issues with a particular focus on price-fixing, market allocation, and monopolization; Koons also co-chairs the firm’s antitrust consumer products sub-group. Christopher Wilson was promoted to partner in March 2023 and focuses on the intersection of IP and antitrust work for clients in the telecoms, manufacturing, healthcare, and pharma sectors. All mentioned individuals are based in Washington DC. Maureen Ohlhausen left the practice in January 2024.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 3

Routinely involved in high-stakes mergers and merger-related litigation, Baker Botts L.L.P. continues to work for leading clients across the energy, tech, and pharma industries, representing them in DOJ and FTC investigations. Lauded for its ability to provide ‘cutting-edge advice’, the team possesses strong multijurisdictional capabilities, frequently collaborating with European teams on a host of business-critical mandates. Global antitrust chair John Taladay continues to enjoy success in major deal clearances, appearing frequently before the FTC and DOJ, as well as international antitrust enforcers. Mark Botti, praised as a ‘trusted advisor’, is noted for his ability to secure clearances for high-value mergers, as well as advising clients on government investigations, while Paul Cuomo is experienced in merger-related litigation. Matthew Adler is a key port of call for clients in the healthcare, chemicals, entertainment and energy sectors, providing specialist guidance on merger clearance matters and litigation. Former practice co-chair Maureen Ohlhausen has departed the firm.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

With his extensive experience handling investigations into fraud and FCPA violations, Kyle Clark heads the white-collar defense and corporate investigations team at Baker Botts L.L.P. Bridget Moore is skilled at navigating internal investigations relating to fraud, insider trading, and federal securities laws. Nardia Clarke has significant capabilities defending corporations as well as advising senior executives who are facing governmental investigations. Steven Solow focuses on business crimes and compliance programs. Another prominent member of the team is Michael Loesch, who routinely represents clients before the regulatory authorities such as the SEC, DOJ, and CFTC. The team acts for a diverse range of clients, including companies, audit committees, boards of directors, and senior management for large corporations across a variety of industries. All lawyers mentioned are based in Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 3

Primarily recognized for its strength in energy—primarily oil and gas—disputes, Baker Botts L.L.P.’s international arbitration group additionally shines in IP, construction, joint venture and general contractual cases. The firm’s continued investment in diversifying its practice was recently evidenced by the hire of two lawyers into its Washington DC office: seasoned investor-state specialist Jennifer Haworth McCandless and special counsel María Carolina Durán both joined from Sidley Austin LLP. The national department includes key names such as Houston-based senior counsel Michael Goldberg, who is a disputes veteran, and New York-based global practice co-head Andrew Behrman, who plays a lead role in many of the department’s most high-profile cases. Also recommended are New York-based special counsel Edward Schorr, who is sought after for energy disputes; and energy and TMT-focused Vern Cassin, whose practice is split between New York and Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > M&A litigation: defense Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. relies on ‘trial lawyers who are good on their feet, good writers, and good communicators‘. The firm is most active in matters in the technology and energy industries, though its work in big-ticket merger litigation in the financial services, healthcare and consumer products sectors continues to grow. Danny David in Houston, who ‘has the ability to see through complex issues and distil them to what matters‘ and is now the firm’s managing partner, leads the litigation practice along with co-chair Bridget Moore in Washington DC, while Jessica Pulliam in Dallas and ‘big picture thinker‘ Amy Hefley in Houston are co-chairs of the securities litigation group. Key partner Richard Harper in New York continues to represent John C. Malone, Greg B. Maffei, and Liberty Broadband Corporation in a shareholder derivative lawsuit in Delaware Chancery Court challenging a $5bn Liberty Broadband investment as part of the Charter Communications-Time Warner Cable-Bright House Networks merger.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. is a big name in the energy sector, acting for major clients including ConocoPhillips and Apache Corporation. Additionally, it is increasingly involved in high-stakes matters in the telecoms, real estate, and professional services sectors. Houston-based managing partner Danny David oversees the firm’s securities litigation work along with global litigation co-chair Bridget Moore in Washington DC., as well as co-chairs of the securities litigation practice Jessica Pulliam in Dallas and Houston-based Amy Hefley. Pulliam is handling two 10b5 cases for AT&T concerning the use of lead-clad cables in the telecom industry. Former head of litigation David Sterling recently worked with Hefley and up-and-coming New York partner Brian Kerr to defend Chicago Bridge & Iron Company in a notable class action case.

Energy > Renewable/alternative power Tier 3

Capable of assisting with the full range of matters over the life cycle of energy projects, the team at Baker Botts L.L.P. acts for a range of developers and investors on projects in the US and abroad. Elaine Walsh in Washington DC is accomplished in energy company mergers, asset acquisitions, divestitures and investments, and renewable energy project development. She co-leads the department with New York-based Michael Didriksen, who is experienced in major transactions in the field. Project financing expert Dino Barajas is a key figure at the San Francisco office, while Michael Bresson in Houston is the name to note for federal income tax matters in renewable energy transactions. Project finance lawyer Ellen Friedman (New York) is another senior figure to note, and February 2023 partner appointment John Papaspanos is an example of the strength in depth across levels of seniority.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings

Baker Botts L.L.P. remains best known for its work in the energy sector, drawing on its deep roots in Texas. The firm has also made significant inroads into underwriter-side engagements thanks to recent lateral hires and its growing reputation in the market. In addition, it is at the forefront of offerings by MLPs. Doug Getten has been instrumental in deepening the firm’s connections to major banks, leading the capital markets and MLP practice alongside Joshua Davidson, who is also rated for both issuer and underwriter-side engagements. Carina Antweil and Eileen Boyce are also key members of the team, alongside Preston Bernhisel in Dallas. Named partners are based in Houston unless stated otherwise.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings

Baker Botts L.L.P. has an established capital markets practice, driven to a large extent by energy sector offerings. It has achieved a significant market share in high-yield debt, representing issuers and gaining particular prominence in underwriter-side engagements in recent times. The firm has a number of senior practitioners that are recognised for their expertise in high-yield and has growing credibility in sustainability-linked offerings. Houston based Joshua Davidson and Douglas Getten co-head the capital markets and MLP practice group are particularly noted for high-yield debt transactions, both having a large stable of issuer and underwriter clients.

Finance > Project finance Tier 3

A firm that provides a ‘perfect understanding of client needs’ and a ‘deep knowledge of the business and market situations’, Baker Botts L.L.P. is dual-equipped to advise on a variety of debt and equity transactions as well as sophisticated tax equity financings. The group is witnessing an increased flow of both domestic and cross-border mandates across a number of different sectors such as oil and LNG, clean fuels, renewables and electric transmission, working with an esteemed roster of clients that includes multinational power producers and global asset managers. Dino Barajas spearheads the group from San Francisco who compliments his financing prowess with expert asset knowledge and an extensive cross-border practice that particularly focuses on Latin American projects. New York’s Ellen Friedman works with both developers and sponsors on renewable and energy transition ventures that includes, but is not limited to, solar, wind and battery storage projects as well as blue hydrogen and carbon capture and storage facilities. Houston-based Michael Bresson‘s federal income tax expertise ensures he is frequently sought out by a wealth of investors for their tax equity financing transactions, whereas New York’s John Papaspanos, while also possessing sharp tax acumen, has engaged with a breadth of M&A and debt financing structures over the past twelve months. Also based in New York, Frank Schoen is highlighted for his project finance, leveraged finance and acquisition finance work that spans both conventional and renewable energy sources. Vladimir Fet has advised on multiple high-value financings for various large sponsors and energy providers, operating out of San Francisco.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage) Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. has a full-service intellectual property litigation team with expertise litigating patent infringement disputes both at trial and appellate level for major tech clients such as Abbott, AT&T and Cisco. The IP litigation group is co-chaired by Douglas Kubehl in Dallas and Roger Fulghum in Houston as well as New York-based lawyer Jennifer Tempesta, who focuses on patent litigation in the district courts and at the International Trade Commission, and Dallas partner Christa Brown-Sanford, who focuses on licensing and patent prosecution in the energy and tech spaces. Robert Maier is knowledgeable in all types of IP litigation. The group also includes Sarah Guske, who has particular expertise in software and electronics patent litigation and is praised by clients as having ‘a unique ability to chart a course from the early stages all the way to trial‘, and patent litigator Katharine Burke in Washington DC.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (International Trade Commission) Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. has a team of ‘true experts on International Trade Commission litigation‘ capable of handling a broad variety of Section 337 proceedings for the likes of Motorola Solutions, DISH Network and CMC Materials. Lisa Kattan is hailed as an ‘ITC Superstar’ as well as a ‘fierce advocate and a good writer’ and has vast experience litigating before the ITC; Kattan co-chairs the team together with IP specialists Christa Brown-Sanford, based in Dallas, and Jennifer Tempesta, who practices from New York. Katharine Burke focuses on intellectual property litigation and licensing and handles patent infringement cases related to telecoms, mobile phone operating systems and medical devices. New York-based trial lawyer Robert Maier handles IP cases across a broad range of technologies. Patent and trade secret litigator Tommy Martin is also a key contact for the firm’s ITC practice.

Intellectual property > Trademarks: non-contentious (including prosecution, portfolio management and licensing) Tier 3

Praised for its ‘fast, to the point and comprehensive’ trademark practice, Baker Botts L.L.P. demonstrates considerable proficiencies in a diverse spectrum of sectors, ranging from electronics and financial services to entertainment and music. Leading the practice from the firm’s Dallas office is Paul Reilly is routinely entrusted by clients to assist with trademark clearance, domestic and international scale rebranding and global prosecution mandates, while Suzanne Hengl, who strengthens the practice with her expertise in prosecution, brand protection and enforcement, leads the team from New York. In Austin, Christopher Palermo is notably well-versed in handling mandates relating to various technologies, including AI, e-procurement, networking and robotics. In New York, Julie Albert fields a considerable workload across technology, media, entertainment, fashion, consumer products and beverage sectors.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 3

At Baker Botts L.L.P., the team handles a broad array of issues, ranging from tech-related venture capital transactions to outsourcing and development arrangements, as well as licensing matters. The team primarily works with clients in the digital infrastructure, energy tech, and life sciences sectors. The practice is jointly led by Dallas-based Samantha Hale Crispin, who handles corporate transactions, private equity deals, and strategic alliances for clients in the TMT sector, and New York-based Jonathan Gordon, who assists clients with both public and private M&A as well as with the acquisition and sale of digital assets. In Washington DC, Luke Pedersen offers know-how in cloud computing, SaaS agreements, and open-source software.

Tax > International tax Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. has expertise in all facets of federal income tax considerations facing both foreign and domestic corporations, routinely providing clients with tax advice in connection with M&A and capital market transactions. The firm has a notably strong energy tax practice often structuring and solving complex tax issues for upstream oil and gain transactions, midstream transactions, MLP, LNG projects, and electric transmission and distribution projects. The tax team is co-headed by Steve Marcus and Derek Green. Green advises international oil and gas companies, oil field services companies, and offshore drilling companies on US federal income tax matters in relation to cross-border transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and international joint ventures. Jon Lobb provides tax planning advice to clients in connection with cross-border investments and transactions, including intercompany restructurings and domestic and international energy projects. Katie McEvilly’s practice focuses on tax-efficient structures for domestic and international M&A, joint ventures, separations, restructurings, and other reorganizations.

Tax > US taxes: contentious Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. maintains longstanding expertise in the energy, technology, and financial services sectors and is highly active in both federal and SALT matters. The group, which demonstrates expertise in audits, appeals, and litigation, is additionally noted for its robust private client practice, which has expertise in estate and gift tax disputes. Houston-based SALT chair Renn Neilson covers disputes relating to sales tax, property tax, and income tax and is particularly sought out by clients in the energy sector. John Porter and Keri Brown work alongside Neilson in the Houston office and are both highly active on behalf of high net worth individuals and families. San Francisco’s Jon Feldhammer has a broad practice covering work for both individuals and public companies, while Ben Geslison, in Houston, is experienced as a trial and appellate litigator. William Gorrod left the firm in February 2024.

Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)

Arguably best known for its record in local intermediate and higher appellate courts, including the Texas Supreme Court, Baker Botts L.L.P.’s Texas-centered team also has experience arguing before all 13 Courts of Appeals, numerous state appellate courts and SCOTUS. The firm’s signature oil and gas expertise ensures that energy-related appeals are a strong suit, with the team recently securing a win for Vitol Americas Corp in the Fourteenth Court of Appeals in a case upholding a $147m breach-of-contract judgment against Targa Channelview. Houston-based Macey Reasoner Stokes heads the appellate practice and led on the Vitol Americas work. Also recommended are Houston’s Aaron Streett, who fronts the Supreme Court and constitutional law group, and Austin-based former Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice, Thomas Phillips.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 4

Baker Botts L.L.P. is recognized for its prowess when it comes to oil, gas, and energy-related disputes, though the national practice group’s caseload also encompasses a full range of complex commercial matters, including issues of contract and fiduciary duty, unfair competition, false advertising, as well as product and professional liability. Managing partner Danny David and ‘amazing talent’ Amy Hefley co-head the team from Houston alongside Washington DC’s Bridget Moore, who is noted for her expertise in securities litigation and white-collar investigations. Austin’s Stephanie Cagniart stands out for her experience arguing before multiple courts of appeals including the Texas Supreme Court.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

Baker Botts L.L.P. is best known for its work in the energy sector, frequently representing issuers and underwriters. It has maintained a solid pipeline of equity offering engagements from the energy sector and is at the forefront of Master Limited Partnership (MLP) IPOs and structured equity products. It has also continued to work on several headline SPAC transactions, while at-the-market offerings have been prevalent for the team. Houston based Joshua Davidson and Douglas Getten co-head the capital markets team and are prominent names in energy sector offerings.

Intellectual property > Trade secrets (litigation and non-contentious matters) Tier 4

The multidisciplinary practice at Baker Botts L.L.P. is formed of specialists in IP, employment, commercial and tech law, the range of which are channelled into its trade secrets offering.  The team is experienced defending its corporate clients in claims of misappropriation brought by competitors. Tech and energy are the key industry sectors of focus for the practice and it represents such names as Mastercard and Dell Technologies on an ongoing basis. Christa Brown-Sanford based in Dallas is the firm’s IP department chair, Jennifer Tempesta in New York is the IP group’s deputy chair, while David Wille, also in Dallas, co-chairs the trade secrets group alongside Cheryl Cauley in Palo Alto. Houston’s Danny David and Paul Morico are key trial lawyers in the team, and Katharine Burke in Washington DC is also a name to note.

Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 4

Baker Botts L.L.P. is renowned for its ‘sophisticated, practical advice’ on all aspects of compensation and employee benefit plans under the Internal Revenue Code and ERISA. The firm tackles emerging issues such as pay-versus-performance disclosure, clawback provisions, and non-compete clauses. New York-based Robin Melman, at the helm of the practice, addresses corporate governance matters, disclosure requirements, and tax implications associated with management transitions and transaction negotiations. Jason Loden in Dallas offers his expertise in qualified retirement plans, non-qualified deferred compensation plans, and welfare benefit schemes, and Houston’s Gail Stewart is well-versed in equity-based incentive plans, golden parachute arrangements, and designing executive compensation programs. Meanwhile, Katie Birnhak in New York advises both public and private firms on various executive compensation matters.

Labor and employment > ERISA litigation Tier 4

Baker Botts L.L.P. offers broad expertise in ERISA litigation encompassing single-plaintiffs, multi-action plaintiffs, benefits and executive compensation and caters to clients from business, pension systems and fiduciaries. Another specific area of expertise in the energy industry, such as many international energy companies such as ExxonMobil Corporation and Halliburton turn to the group for ERISA litigation and advisory services. The team is led by experienced trial lawyer Tina Nguyen and Christopher Rillo, who focuses on ERISA litigation and class action defense. Matthew Sheridan and Sarah Reeves are other names of note.

M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+) Tier 4

The ‘fantastic, sophisticated and client-friendly’ team at Baker Botts L.L.P. has in-depth expertise in the full gamut of corporate matters, spanning from cross-border M&A, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships. The practice is especially well regarded for its renewable energy and telecom specialism and maintains close relationships with leading American providers such as CenterPoint Energy and EnLink Midstream, with Dallas-based co-head Samantha Crispin specializing in capital markets and strategic business transactions. Energy M&A expert Natasha Khan co-heads the team from Houston, where Clint Rancher handles general corporate matters and both Carina Antweil and Jamie Yarbrough advise public and private corporations on securities issues. Operating out of New York, Jonathan Gordon focuses on spin-offs and Neil Torpey concentrates on leveraged buyouts since his arrival from Paul Hastings LLP in March 2023. Jonathan Bobinger left the firm in June 2023.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 4

Baker Botts L.L.P.’s non-contentious tax department, primarily operating out of Texas, has an excellent reputation for its expertise in the energy space, regularly advising on mergers, joint ventures, restructurings, and spin-offs, as well as for its SALT practice. Dallas-based practice head Steve Marcus has longstanding expertise advising a wide variety of clients, particularly in the real estate and energy sectors. His expertise covers private equity investments, MLPs and REITs transactions, qualified opportunity zone investments, corporate spinoffs, M&A, and joint ventures. Houston’s Michael Bresson specializes in matters involving renewable energy transactions, publicly traded partnerships, YieldCos, and MLPs. Derek Green, with considerable experience in the oil and gas space, is deputy chair of the practice in Houston. William Gorrod, dividing his time between the firm’s San Francisco and New York offices, advises corporate clients and flow-through entities across a wide range of industries, including tech, financial services, energy, real estate, retail, manufacturing, and pharma. Joshua Mandell and Jon Lobb both stand out for their contributions. Tamar Stanley left the firm in May 2023 for an in-house role.

Dispute resolution > Leading trial lawyers Tier 5

Real estate > Construction (including construction litigation) Tier 5

Based in Washington DC, Baker Botts L.L.P.’s construction and litigation practice is led by Connie Simmons Taylor, who assists a wide range of clients with documentation mandates and design negotiations, in addition to construction commissioning services. The team handles commercial and residential real estate matters, as well as advising US-based firms in large-scale, cross-border construction projects. ‘Exceptional’ Daniel Kruger handles EPC agreements, design defect claims, and LNG-related energy projects, while associate Sean O’Neill assists Kruger with various mandates for subcontractors and general contractors.

Real estate Tier 5

In addition to advising on all aspects of transactions, the real estate practice at Baker Botts L.L.P. regularly handles restructuring and workouts nationwide, with numerous recent mandates relating to office and mixed-use properties. The formation and representation of investment funds is another area of specialism, as is their wide-reaching experience that encompasses qualified opportunity zone projects, energy, industrial and infrastructure developments. Based in Houston, head of real estate and construction Connie Simmons Taylor possesses transaction and leasing experience across all asset classes, particularly on the developer side. Paul Landen, known for his joint venture and debt financing experience, is another key name in Houston, with Dallas-based Jeremy Gott also an active member of the team.

International trade > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions

Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection)

Media, technology and telecoms > Telecoms and broadcast: transactions

Latin America: International firms > City Focus - Houston

Baker Botts L.L.P.’s outstanding expertise is frequently employed in Latin America where it frequently advises US-based clients on their investments and interests in the region. Oil and gas, along with LNG, is core to the Houston office’s practice in Latin America, while renewables, including solar and wind, are growth areas for the team. The office is also well placed to target energy transition projects such as hydrogen and carbon capture. It is also becoming more active in private equity investments in Latin America. Carlos Solé has a long history in Latin America, particularly in LNG, upstream-and-downstream oil and gas, and renewable energy. David Jetter is another experienced figure in Latin America LNG and other energy infrastructure projects. Although not based in Houston, Dino Barajas, a San Francisco-based partner and firm-wide head of project finance, is helping the core Latin America team to develop its presence in renewable energy in key Latin American jurisdictions.

Latin America: International firms > Projects and energy

Baker Botts L.L.P. is a major player in energy projects, especially upstream and downstream oil, gas, LNG and renewables. It continues to advise a large number of US-based clients on their interests in the region, along with a growing number of Latin American corporates and Latin American subsidiaries of international businesses. The firm is also increasingly active in private equity investments into Latin American energy and infrastructure. Energy transition, including hydrogen and carbon capture, are also fortes for the firm. Carlos Solé is a true Latin American specialist, particularly in LNG, upstream and downstream oil and gas, and renewable energy. David Jetter provides further Latin America LNG experience and is also active in other energy infrastructure projects. San Francisco partner Dino Barajas, firm-wide head of project finance, is a leading name in renewable energy projects across Latin America, including Mexico, Central America and Brazil. Taylor López impresses at associate level. All named attorneys are based in Houston unless stated otherwise.