Baker Botts L.L.P. > Washington DC, United States > Firm Profile

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

Energy > Energy litigation: electric power Tier 1

Baker Botts L.L.P. is notable firm for tackling highly contentious litigation and arbitration cases for top multinational companies in the electric power industry. The firm also has a strong bench of attorneys specialising in disputes related to innovative projects at the intersection of the technology and energy industries. William Kroger leads the group alongside Louie Layrisson in the firm's Houston headquarters. Kroger has vast experience representing clients in state and federal courts across the country as well as appearing before several energy regulatory agencies. Layrisson has a broad trial practice involving commercial disputes for major electrical power industry players and advising on risk mitigation for energy transition projects. Tina Nguyen is also a skilled litigator in high-stakes commercial matters, particularly for renewable energy clients.

Energy > Energy litigation: oil and gas Tier 1

Baker Botts L.L.P. maintains a premier oil and gas litigation practice, representing a broad client base spanning multinational energy giants, privately held operators, service companies, pipelines, refiners, and key industry trade organizations. The firm is a go-to for high-stakes disputes across major US onshore and offshore shale plays, handling infrastructure, services, environmental, and intellectual property litigation of national significance. With deep experience in federal and state courts, as well as before administrative and regulatory bodies and international arbitration forums, the team is well-equipped to tackle the industry’s most complex legal challenges. The practice covers a diverse range of disputes, including those arising from production-sharing agreements, joint operating agreements, gas gathering and processing agreements, price reviews under long-term contracts, drilling, royalties, and pipelines. It integrates seamlessly with the firm’s antitrust, environmental, bankruptcy, and regulatory practices to provide comprehensive representation. Co-heads William Kroger and Louie Layrisson bring extensive energy litigation experience, while Jason Newman adds expertise in cutting-edge legal issues linked to horizontal drilling and Amy Hefley brings extensive experience in energy litigation including in lease termination claims, midstream agreements, and title disputes. Laura Shoemaker McGonagill handles energy litigation in federal and state courts as well as international arbitration. The group further strengthened its capabilities with the 2024 arrival of David Applebaum from Jones Day. All referenced team members are based in Houston.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 1

With expertise handling utility mergers, power project development, and retail energy transactions, the power, utilities, and renewables department at Baker Botts L.L.P. remains a powerhouse in the US energy market. It covers a wide array of energy transactions including capital markets transactions, bankruptcy restructuring, and auctions for power assets, as well as power and utility investments, and financing.  The team’s extensive experience leading on high-profile and high-value transactions continues to attract new and impressive clients to its roster which is comprised of notable names from the banking and finance and energy sectors, alongside governmental entities. Leading the group in Washington DC is Elaine Walsh who specialises in energy company mergers, energy asset acquisitions, and divestitures and investments, while in New York Michael Didriksen heads up the practice and concentrates on M&A and project development relating to alternative and renewable power, transmission lines, and conventional power. Another notable name in the firm is San Francisco-based Dino Barajas who is a go-to for all finance-related matters for infrastructure projects in Latin America. In Washington DC, Carlos Marquez is recognised for his prowess representing private equity companies on both domestic and cross-border project financing, development, M&A transactions, and divestitures.

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 1

Baker Botts L.L.P. remains a top-tier choice for high-stakes oil and gas transactions, offering a full-service, multidisciplinary approach across upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors. Co-head Jason Bennett, based in Houston, oversees development and financing instructions across a range of assets, including oil, LNG, hydrogen, ammonia, and water. Also in Houston, Carlos Solé leads the team and focuses on both corporate and finance transactions. In Washington, Steven Miles maintains an extensive cross-border practice and is highly sought after for his experience in LNG projects, while Houston-based Erin Hopkins provides commercial and transactional advice to sponsors and foreign investors. Scott Looper, also in Houston, is well regarded for his expertise in commercial, construction, and midstream development matters. From Dallas, Jon Platt offers further transactional support.

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

Baker Botts L.L.P. continues to advise global corporations in a wide variety of services related to class action, product liability and toxic tort litigation, with specialisms in defending tort and nuisance litigation claims arising from a full range of environmental events, claimed exposure to a large variety of alleged toxins and residential contamination of dwellings and neighborhoods. Heading the Houston office, Russell Lewis has litigated for a variety of clients dealing with government investigations and environmental matters, while Benjamin Gonsoulin , also in Houston, covers the full spectrum of defense with regards to tort and nuisance litigation. Gonsoulin is also noted for his assistance provided to energy based clients in crisis responses for major environmental incidents including leaks, spills and explosions. Washington DC-based Joshua Frank handles environmental litigation matters under environmental statutes and regulatory program including the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. Houston based Kevin Jacobs’ energy space practice covers renewables, power, mid-stream and downstream disputes before courts and regulatory bodies. With prior experience working as a trial lawyer for the environmental department of the Department of Justice, Kent Mayo, who is situated in Washington DC, represents clients in compliance and enforcement matters related to statutes including the Clean Air Act.

Energy > Energy regulation: electric power Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P. excels in energy regulation, helping clients navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the U.S. electricity market. The firm represents a broad range of industry stakeholders, including large multi-state utilities, private-equity-backed generation and transmission companies, investors, and developers of renewable energy and storage assets. The team handles traditional electric energy regulation, litigation, and transactional regulatory counseling, while also advising on the development of major infrastructure projects. The practice extends to niche regulatory matters, such as hydroelectric licensing and enforcement before FERC and other agencies, and covers the full range of electricity assets, from conventional power and renewables to battery storage, hydroelectric, retail, and transmission assets. The team is led by Michael Yuffee, who focuses on wholesale market design, interconnection, ratemaking, compliance, and FERC representation. Jay Ryan specializes in project development and regulatory matters, Emil Barth focuses on transmission and RTO/ISO market rules, and David Applebaum brings deep expertise in enforcement, compliance, and internal investigations.

Energy > Energy regulation: oil and gas Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P. maintains a strong reputation in oil and gas regulation, representing a high-profile client roster across a wide range of regulatory, litigation, and compliance matters. The firm is well-positioned to guide clients through regulatory challenges, including energy transition issues, and regularly advises on natural gas transportation and storage rates, facility permitting, and regulatory developments. The team also represents natural gas and oil shippers in proceedings before FERC and state regulators, handling cases from initiation through judicial review. The team is also active in compliance and enforcement related to natural gas and oil trading. Practice head Michael Yuffee focuses on regulatory compliance, enforcement defense, and wholesale energy market transactions. Emil Barth advises major natural gas and oil companies on regulatory, litigation, and infrastructure matters, while Houston-based David Applebaum specializes in enforcement, compliance, and internal investigations, frequently advising on energy market transactions to mitigate regulatory risks before FERC, NERC, and state agencies. Unless otherwise stated all individuals mentioned are based in Washington D.C.

Energy > Renewable/alternative power Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P. has seen impressive growth over the past year with the addition of new clients including notable energy companies and government entities, as well as new practitioners such as Veronica Relea who joined in March 2024 from Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP. The group’s expansion can be attributed to its deep expertise in the renewable and alternative energy sector and broad capabilities which cover transactions, regulatory, environmental, and advisory. With an expansive offering, the department is sought after by impressive clients from the financial services and renewable energy sectors to assist with investments, project structuring, financing, and investments, and acquisitions and divestitures, as well as tax structuring, power purchase agreements, and environmental and real estate issues. Heading up the practice is Michael Didriksen who concentrates on M&A, project development, and power purchase agreements. San Francisco’s Dino Barajas is an asset to the team as a result of his aptitude handling acquisitions, dispositions, and divestitures while Houston-based Michael Bresson is the main contact for all tax-related matters such as tax credit monetization transactions and tax equity partnerships. Another key name in the group is John Papaspanos who focuses on debt and equity financings. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

Environment > Environment: litigation Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P.  works across litigation and high-states advisory matters, 0ffering standout environmental regulatory expertise. The team’s comprehensive practice covers air, water, waste, and environmental statutes, providing crisis response, litigation defense, and expertise in climate change, remediation, and natural resource damage claims Scott Janoe, based in Houston, has stellar experience leading major climate tort cases and defending TPC after plant explosions in Texas, and advises clients in energy, mining, and manufacturing on environmental, health, safety, and regulatory issues, with a focus on oil and gas exploration. Martha Thomsen, based in Washington DC, is an emerging leader in environmental litigation and regulatory compliance, with a strong record in CERCLA cases and clean-up disputes.

Environment > Environment: regulatory Tier 2

Under the leadership of Houston’s Scott Janoe, Baker Botts L.L.P.  offers a wide-ranging practice encompassing energy transition, incident response, contaminated sites, as well as air and water quality. In Washington DC, Debra Jezouit offers clients spanning from energy to pharmaceutical a wealth of experience in the Clean Air Act, while for climate change matters at the state and federal level, Megan Berge is a key name, advising clients of permitting and the EPA rulemaking process. The team in Austin includes Derek R. McDonald, who focuses on the permitting of projects and infrastructure, and Stephanie Bergeron Perdue and Paulina Williams, who advise clients on water quality and rights, air quality, and natural resource mandates. With a broad practice across environmental health and safety issues and investigations, Houston-based Scott Elliott is a key advisor to the chemical and energy industries. Alexandra Dunn departed from the team in March 2024.  

Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 2

Baker Botts L.L.P. operates across an array of licensing matters, with a team possessing capabilities in traditional patent, copyright and trademark license agreements to complex multiparty technology development, acquisition, distribution, research and outsourcing agreements. The team is capable of acting in various industries, including tech, pharma, education, semiconductor and life sciences. Adept in a wide range of IP matters, Christa Sanford co-heads the team, bringing expertise in procurement, development, litigation and licensing to clients within telecoms, electronics and other tech. In Washington DC, Luke Pedersen co-chairs the tech transitions practice group, frequently acting in tech transfers and portfolio matters for clients involved with emerging tech. New York co-chair Paul Ragusa leverages her diverse technical experience to advise on patent litigation, portfolio management and licensing, including standard-essential patents. Also in New York, Carolyn Pirraglia, utilizes her background in Biochemistry and is noted for expertise in life science patent prosecution and counseling. This past year the team welcomed Wendy Wang, Robert Benson and Jeffrey Johnson.  

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

The group at Baker Botts L.L.P. is noted for its capabilities to handle the a host of patent matters, advising its varied client portfolio on complex matters involving licensing, portfolio development, and patent analysis. The team also advises clients on general patent strategy. Christa Brown-Sanford heads up the team from Dallas, drawing on key expertise in tech, particularly in the telecoms and electronics sectors. The other co-heads are Samir Bhavsar, who handles patent mining, preparation, and prosecution at the same office, as well as Jennifer Tempesta and Sandra Lee —both based in New York—noted for their experience in pharmaceutical, chemical, medical device, and consumer products matters. Eliot Williams (Washington DC) and Chad Walters (Dallas) are both standout practitioners with PTAB trial specialisms. Natalie Gonzales left to join Yetter Coleman LLP in May 2024.

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 3

Lauded as ‘strategic and client-focused’, the cartel group at Baker Botts L.L.P. is renowned for its expertise across industries such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, and TMT. The team handles all aspects of cartel investigations, from dawn raids and leniency applications to plea negotiations and government subpoena responses, with expertise in follow-on class actions. Spearheading the team is John Taladay, who regularly represents clients in proceedings involving the FTC, DOJ Antitrust Division, and the European Commission, with a strong focus on cases involving price fixing, bid rigging, market allocation, and unfair trade practices. Erik Koons handles high-profile antitrust litigation, including cases related to tying, bundling, and monopolization. The San Francisco team was bolstered in February 2025 by the addition of Matthew Jacobs, formerly of DLA Piper LLP (US). All mentioned attorneys are based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. maintains a robust presence in complex antitrust litigation, frequently leading critical defenses for clients involved in cartel, class action, and collusion cases. Paul Cuomo’s practice emphasizes U.S. and multijurisdictional antitrust litigation and investigations, with appearances before numerous international competition enforcement agencies. Erik Koons brings deep experience handling cases involving price-fixing, market allocation, monopolization, and sham patent litigation. James Kress has extensive experience managing competitor and class actions across diverse industries, alongside an active counseling and compliance practice. John Taladay leads the practice, offering specialized expertise in merger clearances and regularly appearing before the FTC, DOJ, and European Commission to facilitate high-profile M&A transactions. Thomas Carter applies his strong understanding of DOJ and FTC regulatory processes to assist with merger clearance matters. All mentioned lawyers are based in Washington DC.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. fields a ‘deep and talented collection of antitrust lawyers’ as its antitrust and competition team, regularly instructed to handle the merger review elements of high stakes deals and consequent litigation. Its sector strengths span the healthcare, telecoms, and media and entertainment industries. Team head John Taladay is praised for his practice of ‘continuously analyzing the risk derived from the regulator’s view’, advising domestic and international companies in their merger, cartel, litigation and dominance matters. Matthew Adler regularly supports clients through complex, challenged transactions before the Department of Justice and FTC, with notable experience of the chemicals, healthcare, entertainment, and energy sectors, and Jody Boudreault counsels clients on antitrust risk from HSR filing through to agency investigations. International matters are regularly handled by Jeffrey Oliver. Mark Botti departed the team in December 2024. All attorneys based in Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

Dispute resolution > M&A litigation: defense Tier 3

The ‘great commercial litigators’ at Baker Botts L.L.P. are active across a number of sectors, notably energy, defending corporate clients and their directors and officers facing merger-related suits in Delaware, Texas and the federal courts, in addition to offering assistance in related securities and derivative disputes. In Houston, managing partner Danny David and Amy Hefley lead on high-value disputes for clients and in 2024 defended Camber Energy, Inc. in a suit arising out of its 2023 merger with Viking Energy Group, with a former shareholder of the latter accusing Camber’s CEO of breach of fiduciary duties. Securities litigation and white collar matters form the core of head of the litigation team Bridget Moore‘s Washington DC-based practice. Richard Harper, who heads the firm’s New York office, is sought after by TMT sector clients facing M&A suits, including assisting Liberty Media in settling a shareholder derivative action related to the buyback of $2bn-worth of SiriusXM shares, of which Liberty is the controlling shareholder, alleging that Liberty directors had breached their fiduciary duties and effected a short term merger.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 3

Primarily centered from its Texas heartland, the ‘hardworking and very experienced’ team at Baker Botts L.L.P. has a strong reputation defending corporates, and directors and officers, facing a wide range of securities fraud and shareholder derivative cases. While the team regularly secures success at a motion to dismiss stage, leveraging the expertise of a number of first-rate trial advocates it is also willing and able to try cases, of particular benefit given the overall uptick in opt-out cases in state courts. Although by no means limited to work in the sector, the firm’s overarching prowess in the energy space accounts for a significant proportion of the mandates, including for the ‘very impressive’ David Sterling, who is leading on a number of 10b-5 class actions brought against the likes of Apache and Concho Resources. Amy Hefley is also very active within the energy sector, and alongside Sterling and Dallas-based John Lawrence, recently secured a notable class certification win for Apache against allegations that it made misleading statements about the company’s large oil and gas resource in the Permian Basin. Danny David, who co-heads the team alongside Hefley and Washington DC-based Bridget Moore, is also a key member of the team, combining his duties as managing partner with a vibrant fee-earning practice. All named practitioners are based in Houston unless otherwise indicated.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings

Baker Botts L.L.P.’ capital markets team continues to handle high-value investment-grade offerings on both the issuer and underwriter side. The team is particularly strong in the energy sector, though is also active in the transport, retail, and distribution sectors. Senior counsel Joshua Davidson has extensive experience advising pipeline, midstream, oil and gas, coal, renewable energy, shipping, and refining companies on public and private debt offerings as well as liability management. He is also noted for his work on transactions involving master limited partnerships. Doug Getten has a strong track record advising exploration and production companies and midstream businesses as well as in the oil field services sector. The two partners jointly lead the practice, which sits within the firm’s corporate department, led by Samantha Hale Crispin in Dallas. Travis Wofford is well versed in securitization bonds. All lawyers mentioned are based in Houston, unless otherwise noted.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

Demonstrating extensive expertise in complex private placements and senior notes offerings, Baker Botts L.L.P. is highly regarded by both issuers and underwriters within the energy and environmental industries. The firm’s capital markets team is regularly engaged by companies, financial advisors, and special committees, drawing upon its cross-border knowledge with European and North American jurisdictions. The two Houston-based joint heads Joshua Davidson and Doug Getten each specialize in refinancings of unsecured notes and common stock offerings. Samantha Hale Crispin also leads from Dallas, while New York’s Adorys Velazquez concentrates on securities law matters. Houston-based Travis Wofford and Carina Antweil are also highlighted as key.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings

Displaying extensive expertise in senior notes offerings and upsized private placements, Baker Botts L.L.P. routinely acts on behalf of both issuers and underwriters within the finance, energy, and waste management fields. The team has experience in advising foreign investors in redemptions of Series A preferred stock shares, leveraging its solid multi-jurisdictional capabilities across North America and Europe. The division is headed by the trio of Samantha Hale Crispin, Josh Davidson, and Doug Getten, with the Dallas-based former being a capital markets specialist, while in Houston, Davidson and Getten frequently represent initial purchasers and dealer managers.

Finance > Project finance Tier 3

In the energy sector Baker Botts L.L.P. is a robust choice for sophisticated tax equity financings, as well as a variety of debt and equity transactions. The group is accomplished in both domestic and cross-border mandates spanning a range of energy sector projects, including oil and gas, clean fuels, renewables and electric transmission. Clients of the practice include multinationals in power production and global asset management. In San Francisco, Dino Barajas leads the department and has a focus on domestic and international project development and finance, with particular emphasis on Latin American infrastructure projects. At the firm’s New York office, Ellen Friedman is reliable counsel for both developers and sponsors seeking assistance with clean energy transition projects. Mona Dajani has strength in tax equity deals involving solar and energy storage. John Papaspanos has broad experience across M&A, tax, and debt financing structures, and Frank Schoen is the name to note for project finance, leveraged finance and acquisition finance for conventional and renewable energy projects. Federal income tax is the standout strength for Michael Bresson in Houston.

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

Baker Botts L.L.P.’s practice boasts a ‘deep bench of talented lawyers covering all aspects of IP litigation’ who are trusted counsel to leading technology companies like AT&T, Samsung and Mastercard. The team excels in cases before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) and is led by four experienced attorneys. In Dallas, Christa Brown-Sanford specializes in electrical patent disputes, while Douglas Kubehl is adept at complex patent litigation in the telecommunications sector. In New York, Jennifer Tempesta regularly represents multinational companies and is particularly skilled in appellate proceedings. Katharine Burke, based in Washington DC, rounds out the team’s leadership, bringing expertise in patents related to electronics, telecommunications and medical devices. Robert Fulghum is a key contact in Houston for patent and trade secret disputes in federal and state courts. Additionally, New York’s Robert Maier can handle all phases of patent litigation. Robert Benson and Jeffrey Johnson joined from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP in February 2024. Sarah Guske left the firm in October 2024.

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

The team at Baker Botts L.L.P. possess a ‘sophisticated understanding of what distinguishes an ITC investigation’ and is highly skilled at competitor disputes for clients across the electronic, tech and telecoms industries. Lisa Kattan, praised by clients as ‘a terrific resource and advocate’, frequently leads high-profile ITC investigations and is based in Washington DC. Kattan co-chairs the practice with Dallas-based Christa Brown-Sanford and New York-based Jennifer Tempesta, both experienced IP litigators trusted by multinational clients. Also in New York, Robert Maier is sought after for his expertise in semiconductors, smartphones and stem cells. Other key practitioners in Washington DC include Katharine Burke, an experienced ITC litigator for a wide range of technologies, and Tommy Martin, who focuses on complex patent and trade secret litigation. Robert Benson and Jeffrey Johnson joined from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP in February 2024.  

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

Counting start-ups through to Fortune 100 companies, Baker Botts L.L.P. is well-versed in an array of trademark mandates arising from the sectors of financial services, telecoms, retail and entertainment, to name a few. The practice is helmed by four key players: in Dallas, Christa Brown-Sanford and Paul Reilly operate at the forefront, the latter being particularly well-versed in clearance, rebranding and licensing, and in New York, Jennifer Tempesta and Suzanne Hengl are the names to note, the latter is routinely entrusted with brand protection and enforcement strategies for a diverse host of clients. Austin-based veteran practitioner Christopher Palermo bolsters the practice with his notable tech capabilities.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. advises clients ranging from emerging startups to global giants across sectors like Digital Infrastructure, Life Sciences, and Energy Tech. With expertise in venture capital, M&A, AI, and cybersecurity, the firm offers a full spectrum of services, led by Jonathan Gordon, global head of the tech and M&A teams, and Samantha Hale Crispin , chair of the corporate department. Based in New York and Dallas, respectively, Gordon specializes in cross-border acquisitions, joint ventures, and partnerships, while Crispin focuses on complex M&A, capital markets, and strategic transactions.

Tax > International tax Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. specializes in advising on energy-related tax issues, assisting clients with obtaining tax incentives concerning, clean energy transactions and projects and energy technology transactions, and outside of energy the team shows capabilities in connection with all manner of M&A and capital markets transactions, including investments in projects, joint ventures, mergers, and spin-offs. The tax team is co-headed by Steve Marcus and Derek Green. Green, sits in Houston and advises on cross-border transactions, mergers and acquisitions, international joint ventures and securities offerings. Jon Lobb regularly advises multinational companies in the energy and telecommunications sectors focusing on on maximizing the tax efficiency of cross-border investment structures and transactions. Joining the firm from Baker McKenzie LLP, Jason Graham handles international transactions related to mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, dispositions, and reorganizations.

Tax > US taxes: contentious Tier 3

At Baker Botts L.L.P., the SALT team is ‘exceptionally knowledgeable, influential and caters to their clients needs’, praised for the ‘insight, professionalism, flexibility, availability, and thoroughly crafted and well thought-out legal advice’ provided by the tax group led by Stephen Marcus in Dallas. Best known for its work in the energy, techn and financial service industries, the firm is also highly regarded for its estate and gift tax controversy practice, which is sought after by high-net-worth individuals across the US. Keri Brown, Renn Neilson, and John Porter are the key names in Houston. Neilson recently acted for Cheniere Energy, Inc. in matters arising from a sales tax audit of Corpus Christi Liquefaction LLC, which had constructed a large LNG processing plant. Brown and Porter are frequently involved in high-value private client matters, alongside Jon Feldhammer in San Francisco, who also handles high-value real estate tax audits and energy infrastructure matters.

Transport > Aviation and air travel: finance Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. is home to an experienced corporate aviation department, led by Samantha Crispin and Luke Weedon in Dallas, Natasha Khan in Houston, and Johnathan Goldstein in New York. Goldstein is a reference in the aviation finance sector. He regularly acts for both sponsors and lendors on offerings for enhanced equipment trust certificates, syndications, and warehouse facilities.The practice has considerable multijurisdictional experience. The practice also advises international corporations such as British Petroleum, Walkers LLP, and Petrus Aviation on a host of corporate matters, ranging from portfolio acquisition and credit facility management to securitization transactions and loan facilities.

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

The ‘exceptional’ and ‘very strategic-minded’ team at Baker Botts L.L.P. is noted for its work arguing before state courts of appeals, the Texas Supreme Court, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Macey Reasoner Stokes steers the practice and recently represented Calpine Corporation as intervenor in three major appellate cases arising from Winter Storm Uri, two before the Fifth Circuit and one before the Texas Supreme Court. Additional key contacts include ‘authoritative, trustworthy, convincing and credible advocate’ Aaron Streett; ‘gifted writer’ Anthony Lucisano; and Austin-based former Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Phillips. All named attorneys are based in Houston unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 4

Boasting a strong background in trade secrets, breach of contract and product liability disputes, Baker Botts L.L.P.’s broad litigation practice spans the gamut of commercial disputes. Based in Houston, Danny David is a go to for high-stakes disputes, including class actions, political crises and investigations. Richard Harper in New York spearheads the team’s involvement in business tort and contractual disputes, regularly called upon by tech, media and entertainment clients. Houston-based Amy Hefley co-chairs the litigation department and leads the firm’s securities litigation team. Linda Martin joined the team in New York from Freshfields in April 2025.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 4

The international arbitration practice at Baker Botts L.L.P. is heralded as the ‘best one in investment international arbitration’, with extensive experience in headline-grabbing, complex arbitrations worldwide. The team has particular expertise in arbitrations including energy, intellectual property, construction, and contractual disputes, acting on complex US seated and international arbitrations. New York-based Andrew Behrman heads the practice that recently represented the Republic of Peru in dismissing a 20-year-dispute and including $1 billion in damages. In Washington DC, Jennifer Haworth McCandless is key to the practice, along with María Carolina Durán. McCandless takes a ‘meticulous, hands-on approach to every aspect of a case’, while Durán has ‘remarkably quick litigation reflexes that allow her to pivot and handle any twist and turn that a case may present’. In Houston, Michael Goldberg is of note, as well as Ben Love, who joined the Houston office from Boies Schiller Flexner LLP in January 2025.

Finance > Commercial lending Tier 4

A strong choice for financial institutions, capital providers, and corporate borrowers on liability management transactions, Baker Botts L.L.P. is experienced in energy, infrastructure, and technology financing. The practice is jointly led by Samantha Crispin and Luke Weedon, both of whom operate in Dallas, as well as Houston-based Natasha Khan. Weedon is highly proficient in secured and unsecured syndicated bank financing, debt restructuring, mezzanine investments, and high-yield debt offerings. Located in Dallas, Shad Sumrow is well-versed in asset-based transactions, derivative transactions, and restructuring. Working out of Houston, Caitlin Lawrence is informed in acquisition financing, sustainability-linked facilities, and tax equity financing. Jonathan Goldstein is well-regarded in the aviation, energy, and shipping sectors and is knowledgeable of hedge transactions, structured financing, as well as secured and unsecured public securities offerings. Other key members of the practice include Houston-based Alexander Kamel.

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

The offering at Baker Botts L.L.P. is well regarded for its abilities to assist its varied client roster in both contentious and non-contentious work, covering trade secret theft, and employment-related disputes in particular, including contract breaches. Dallas-based Christa Sanford co-runs the practice alongside IP and tech specialist David Wille at the same office, while other co-heads are New York-based Jennifer Tempesta, and Cheryl Cauley, who works from the Palo Alto office. Cauley and Wille also co-lead the firmwide trade secret group. Scott Nelson and Liz Flannery are key names to note at the firm’s Houston hub, while Katharine Burke stands out in the Washington DC office.

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

Baker Botts L.L.P. advises clients on executive compensation and employee benefits, particularly in the face of regulatory scrutiny and evolving disclosure requirements. The firm navigates compensation design, shareholder approval processes, and compliance with SEC and stock exchange regulations. Its expertise extends to M&A, private equity, ERISA compliance, and litigation. Robin Melman , chair of the firmwide practice, counsels boards, committees, and executives on high-stakes compensation issues, particularly during management transitions. Jason Loden, based in Dallas, focuses on plan administration and ERISA compliance, guiding clients through mergers and acquisitions. In Houston, Gail Stewart blends legal expertise with negotiation skills, advising on equity incentives and executive contracts. Dallas-based David Schiller brings deep transactional and litigation experience, covering matters ranging from golden parachutes to pension plans.

Labor and employment > ERISA litigation Tier 4

Baker Botts L.L.P. combines its trial expertise with its knowledge and experience in ERISA litigation, employee benefits and executive compensation matters to aid fiduciaries of ERISA plans and fiduciaries across the US in a range of matters. The firm has been active in representing clients in single-plaintiff, multi-plaintiff and class action matters across a variety of services, including breach of fiduciary duty claims, benefit entitlement claims and medical provider claims against employer plans. The firm benefits from its history working with energy companies to undertake ERISA litigation and advisory services for energy companies. In San Francisco, Christopher Rillo is an experienced ERISA litigator focused on all areas of benefits litigation, including benefit issues involving ESOPs, plan fee litigation and retiree health litigation. Houston-based trial lawyer Tina Nguyen focuses on pension and ERISA matters including lease and power purchase agreements. Earl Austin, in Dallas, is a key name, and Scott Nelson, based in Houston, joined the team from Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in February 2024.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 4

Baker Botts L.L.P.  focuses on conventional and renewable energy clients, providing ‘expert analysis’ on the tax implications of debt financings, m&a deals, corporate reorganizations, and restructurings. The practice is spearheaded by Derek Green in Houston, who is very active in the renewable energy industry, and Steve Marcus in Dallas, who excels at tax planning for American and international companies. Another key figure in the practice is Houston’s Michael Bresson who advises public and private companies on tax structuring for REITS, MNP’s, and joint ventures. Renn Neilson in Dallas has a strong record in state and local taxation work.

Healthcare > Life sciences Tier 5

Baker Botts L.L.P. advises pharma and medical device companies on IP, corporate matters, and antitrust investigations. Its IP practice covers strategy counselling, prosecution, due diligence, and litigation. The firm also handles corporate transactions such as M&A, financing, joint ventures, and licensing and collaboration agreements, with New York’s Avner Bengera being a prominent figure in this space. The practice is led by New York-based Steve Lendaris, who advises clients on a wide range of biotech-related IP matters. Also in this office, Carolyn Pirraglia – who was promoted to partner in March 2024 – focuses on patent prosecution and counseling.

M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+) Tier 5

At Baker Botts L.L.P., the M&A department’s scope of work includes private equity investments, strategic partnerships, and M&A in relation to TMT and energy transition initiatives. The group lies under the leadership of Dallas-based Samantha Crispin, who handles transaction financing, corporate governance, and related tax concerns, and Natasha Khan, who operates out of the firm’s Houston office and focuses on joint development agreements and collaborations in the life sciences sector. In New York, Jonathan Gordon advises public and private sector clients on cross-border M&A and joint ventures, while Neil Torpey is adept in securities offerings and venture capital transactions. Also in Houston is Carina Antweil, a key advisor for investment banking firms, and Jamie Yarbrough, who handles securities compliance issues.

Real estate > Construction (including construction litigation) Tier 5

Baker Botts L.L.P. is prolific in the energy and infrastructure industries and assists its clients with projects spanning railroads, wind and solar turbines, natural gas pipelines, and refineries. The firm also assists with commercial, industrial and residential developments. Houston-based Connie Simmons Taylor chairs the real estate and construction department. In Washington DC, Daniel Kruger, alongside associate Sean O’Neill, advises on the construction and development of projects involving nascent technologies and renewable energy, such as battery storage and gas turbine power generation projects.

Real estate Tier 5

The real estate and construction team at Baker Botts L.L.P. specializes in commercial real estate developments, joint ventures, acquisitions, and dispositions. With an active team, the firm has a developed practice of handling workouts and restructuring arrangements, particularly focused on office projects, condominiums, and mixed-use assets. The firm also represents energy clients in the development of industrial projects, data centers, and other infrastructure projects. Based out of the Houston office, Connie Simmons Taylor is the firmwide chair of the real estate and construction section, with particular expertise in representing developers of major tenant office leases and retail leases. Outside of Texas, Daniel Kruger acts out of the Washington office and focuses on industrial facility developments.

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 6

Baker Botts L.L.P. has a significant presence in the restructuring and bankruptcy field, particularly in the energy and natural resources sector. The firm has worked on a series of chapter 11 bankruptcies, with its Dallas, Houston and New York offices having roles on a number of major engagements. Distressed and bankruptcy acquisitions are another forte for the team, along with cases that involve mass tort litigation claims. It represents a variety of debtors, creditors, acquirers and investors. Amongst a number of headline engagements, the team advised the special committee of the board of directors of Enviva in the restructuring of $2.63bn in debt. Dallas based Jim Prince chairs the financial restructuring practice, with Scott Bowling leading many of the firm’s key engagements from New York. Travis McRoberts has joined the Dallas office from Squire Patton Boggs.

Finance > Structured finance: securitization

M&A/corporate and commercial > Venture capital and emerging companies

Latin America: International firms > International arbitration Tier 3

Baker Botts L.L.P. cemented its position in the international arbitration field by hiring Jennifer Haworth McCandless and special counsel María Carolina Durán, 'two of the best lawyers in the field', along with a broader Washington DC-based team from Sidley Austin LLP in 2023. Featuring a number of native and fluent Spanish speakers, the new group brings further credibility - particularly as regards investor-state arbitration; current mandates include the ongoing representation of the Republic of Peru in a series of ICSID and other arbitrations; the team has also acted for a number of other Latin American states. Beyond sovereign governments, the firm represents a range of investors and Latin American corporates. The practice continues to be recognised for energy and infrastructure disputes, with further growth in technology, mining, ESG and energy transition cases. The wider Latin America-focused department is largely spread across  the firm's Washington DC, New York and London offices, the latter housing key partner Alejandro Escobar ('an outstanding lawyer who works to the highest standards') is located. London senior associate Ernesto Féliz De Jesús ('critical thinking and assertiveness in understanding aspects of technical complexity') specialises in Latin America cases, including public international law matters, and commercial and construction arbitration.

Latin America: International firms > Projects and energy

Baker Botts L.L.P. has a strong foothold in the LNG and renewables market in Latin America. This includes M&A transactions, project development and project finance engagements. It is gaining further ground in energy transition matters, especially green hydrogen projects in the region; recent mandates include adviseing HIF Global on its development of a green hydrogen to e-fuels project in Chile. The firm has extensive experience in project development and structuring, and has represented clients in projects across the region - most notably in Mexico. It has primarily focused on representing sponsors and developers, although the March-2024 hire of Veronica Relea (from Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP), brings the firm additional credibility in New York and further connections to sponsors and lenders; her arrival follows that of Mona Dajani to the New York office from A&O Shearman the previous year. The firm’s heartland remains Houston where Carlos Solé is a prominent figure in LNG and renewables matters, especially in Mexico. Houston-based David Jetter is another LNG expert and is increasingly prominent in energy transition matters. San Francisco’s Dino Barajas has led power and renewables projects across Latin America for decades and is also noted for his experience in Mexico.