Mr William Benitez > Kirkland & Ellis LLP > Houston, United States > Lawyer Profile

Kirkland & Ellis LLP
609 Main Street
Houston, Tx 77002
TEXAS
United States
William Benitez photo

Position

Bill’s practice concentrates on complex business transactions in the energy and infrastructure sectors, including mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital investments, SPAC transactions, leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations, executive compensation and equity incentive arrangements, and related general corporate counseling. Bill has worked on transactions in a variety of industry segments, including clean energy and power generation, upstream, transportation and midstream, coal and other mining, chemicals and industrials, energy and industrial services, recycling and engineering and construction.

Career

Admitted to Illinois and Texas Bar.

Education

Louisiana State University, B.S., 1998; Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, M.B.A., Finance, 2009; Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, J.D., 2009

Lawyer Rankings

United States > Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas

(Leading partners)

William BenitezKirkland & Ellis LLP

Kirkland & Ellis LLP advises energy companies and private equity funds on M&A, asset transactions, private equity investments, and financing across the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors. With a substantial energy team on the ground across multiple states, the firm handles transactions involving shale plays, the Gulf of Mexico, and broader energy infrastructure, covering corporate, regulatory, and financing aspects. Andrew Calder is a key adviser to marquee infrastructure funds, guiding clients on investments, disposals, and corporate governance matters. David Castro’s recent workload spans oil and gas inventory acquisitions across multiple basins, non-operating interest acquisitions, midstream transactions, and full company takeovers. Christopher Heasley maintains a broad practice covering the entire oil and gas value chain, combining transactional and commercial expertise, while Chad Smith is highly regarded for his work in the upstream and midstream sectors. Anthony Speier provides comprehensive counsel to exploration and production companies across multiple basins. Operator clients continue to turn to Sean Wheeler  and William Benitez for their expertise in M&A, joint ventures, and equity investments. Lindsey Jaquillard is also a recommended name for upstream matters. All individuals are located in Houston.