Jay Hughes > McGuireWoods LLP > Houston, United States > Lawyer Profile

A regular fixture on mid-market M&A deals across the US, McGuireWoods LLP handles a steady stream of transactions for public and private companies and private equity funds. Primarily recognized for its strength in the healthcare and energy areas, during 2023/24 the team additionally demonstrated strong activity in transactions involving the consumer, industrials, technology, financial services, and real estate spheres. From Richmond, Michael Woodard chairs the M&A and energy transactions areas and has a focus on representing buyers and sellers of energy assets. Pittsburgh-based Thomas Zahn spearheads the corporate and private equity department and maintains a broad transactional practice that spans deals in the healthcare, energy, infrastructure, consumer products, and technology spaces, among others. Other notable practitioners in Richmond include Joanne Katsantonis, who is recommended for energy-related M&A; Patrick De Ridder, who brings to bear significant cross-border experience; and Brian Hager, who specializes in advising private and public companies on corporate and M&A transactions. The team also includes transactional energy specialist Jay Hughes, who splits his time between Houston and Richmond, and Charlotte-based corporate and private equity partner Chris Scheurer.

McGuireWoods LLP advises major energy utilities and infrastructure funds on oil and gas transactions, including acquisitions, project development, and financings. The firm has a strong track record in midstream assets and regulatory matters, representing key industry players in complex deals and energy transition initiatives. Anthony Carna chairs the oil and gas practice from Pittsburgh. Co-leader of the firm’s Renewable Energy group Mike Woodard operates out of Richmond and has a broad practice that includes advising investors, developers and financial institutions on corporate transactions and financings. Co-head Breenen Keene, also in Richmond, is chiefly recognised for his real estate and development focused practice, while co-head Durham McCormick is a go-to for tax expertise in Houston. The San Francisco-based Evelyn Kim’s far-reaching offering combines both M&A and project finance capabilities. Pittsburgh’s Molleigh Thomas also comes recommended. Jay Hughes joined from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP in January 2024.