Alan P. Baden

Alan is a very experienced corporate attorney with a very clear understanding of deal terms, and, with his outstanding support team, he can effect a transaction quickly and efficiently.

Anonymous

Billy Coe Dyer

Billy Coe Dyer is a great communicator and his responses timely. He is a man of integrity.

Anonymous

Carol C. Payne

Carol Payne consistently earns the respect of the in-house counsel and business clients who hire her. Among the qualities that put Carol at the top of our preferred litigator list are her exceptional levels of expertise, creative/analytical thinking, responsiveness, ethical and work product standards, accountability, and keen guidance and communication. Her strong staff and supporting colleagues also help to ensure quality deliverables. Carol's reliable, diligent work is credited with producing numerous best-case outcomes for our companies and has the rare effect of minimizing stress and burden on her in-house counterparts. She deserves our highest recommendation.

Anonymous

Carol Payne is a top-notch legal malpractice defense lawyer. She understands the strain put on the wrongly accused lawyers and is very responsive to them. She handles difficult litigation situations with professionalism and grace.

Anonymous

Clifford Thau

Cliff is a great lawyer. He is very smart and experienced in commercial litigation. He always makes himself available and is easy to communicate with. Cliff is also very respectful of the client's business relationships, and is all about finding legal solutions that best benefit the client.

Anonymous

Cliff is one of the best lawyers with whom I have worked. He is intelligent and diligent, and he is as good an advocate as you could ask for.

Anonymous

Constance S. Huttner

Constance Huttner is a brilliant attorney. She is adept at finding winning pathways through difficult situations and is closely attuned to client interests and cost management. She and her team provide deep and diverse skills focused on, and effective at, maximizing client results. We have benefitted from spot-on and cost-effective transactional and litigation services.

Bruce Anderson
Alliant Techsystems, Inc. 

Craig D. Margolis

Craig Margolis is a good lawyer and very easy to work with on matters. He communicates well.

Anonymous

Craig W. Murray

Craig Murray has a proactive approach in dealing with legal issues. He is a consensus builder who works to facilitate solutions, rather than just highlighting issues. He is very responsive to requests and time limitations. He understands his role of pointing out the legal issues and allowing the client to make the business decision.

James Kipp
Wachovia Bank N.A.

Craig Murray is our "go-to" lawyer at Vinson & Elkins for our most significant transactions. He has the uncanny ability not only to predict the problems or issues that we may encounter, but also to come up with commercially reasonable solutions, which makes for much smoother negotiating sessions.

Anonymous

Denis F. Cronin

No one is better than Denis Cronin in this area.

Anonymous

Douglas E. Hamel

I have known Mr. Hamel for over 30 years and I've seen him work in many different and difficult situations during that period. I would recommend him to anyone who elects to have the best professional represent their company.

Anonymous

Douglas S. Bland

Douglas Bland is a very talented lawyer. He is sharp and articulate. He is very good at thinking through issues from a broad perspective. He has a good business sense in addition to legal knowledge.

Anonymous

Eric Groten

Eric has set the bar for national PSD activity with our project. He leads the field.

Frank Rotondi
White Stallion Energy Center, LLC

Fielding B. Cochran III

Mr. Cochran is a terrific lawyer, with great judgment, knowledge, and experience. He can always be counted on to achieve the optimal results.

Anonymous

George Matthew Gerachis

George Gerachis has vast knowledge and experience. He is always responsive to our questions and concerns about issues. George also always brings a high quality team to the table to provide solutions. He communicates in a way that makes it easy to understand the issues as well as the steps needed to resolve them. It has always been my observation that George is highly thought of within the tax and legal community.

Janet Wilson
Halliburton Company

In working with Mr. George Gerachis on an IRS controversy case, I found him to be extremely knowledgeable and effective. His experience working on IRS controversies shows through his ability to quickly and competently resolve disputes. He communicated difficult issues well with my professional team in addition to the IRS representatives. He took the time to properly educate all involved and worked diligently on the case at hand. He is a very personable attorney while maintaining the highest level of professionalism.

Anonymous

George Gerachis is professional, personable, realistic, practical, and a great negotiator. George is an amazing service professional. He provides the highest quality of service with the appropriate level of advice. We trust George and know that he is always looking out for our best interests.

Anonymous

Guy Stanford Lipe

Guy Lipe is an excellent attorney and very knowledgeable.

Anonymous

James Daniel Thompson III

Jim Thompson is an excellent attorney and is very knowledgeable.

Anonymous

James J. Lee

Jim Lee is a masterful courtroom attorney whose performance reflects an intense knowledge and understanding of the company and the various facets of its operations. He has been sensitive to the owners and the emotional traumas they are experiencing throughout this process. Outside of the courtroom, he remains a trusted advisor.

Melvin Lack
Lack's Furniture Stores

Mr. Lee is our go-to guy for all bet-the-company litigation. We have found him to be very practical and he delivers results. He is not a process guy; he thinks creatively and has a good head for business, much better than the typical big firm guy we have employed. I would recommend him for any important litigation, particularly in Texas federal court where he is well respected and incredibly well regarded and well received by the bench. We spent several million dollars around here in 2006 on litigation and he was far and away the best of our outside litigation counsel.

John Jenkins
Comtel Telecom Assets

Jim Lee has a high degree of expertise in the bankruptcy litigation arena. I have noted that many bankruptcy counsels and many litigation counsels believe that they can effectively handle bankruptcy litigation. This is untrue. It is clear, when you have a real expert in the area, the way that the unique litigation environment can be best managed for an effective result. Jim has a calm and easy demeanor that helps in-house counsel to effectively use Jim to explain to concerned internal clients the issues that will be faced and the likely results. I would highly recommend Jim Lee for any company facing litigation or desiring to pursue litigation in the bankruptcy arena.

Curt Warnock
Integrated Electrical Services, Inc.

Jim quickly dissects a situation and gets to the real issues; he is able to persuasively make his points and build consensus.

Adam Dunayer
Houlihan Lokey

In my prior position with VarTec Telecom/Excel Telecommunications, I had the pleasure of working with Jim Lee on a variety of mission critical disputes, both in the context of the company's bankruptcy and thereafter with the entity that acquired the company's assets. Jim has an uncanny ability to anticipate the next steps our opposition was likely to take and to structure a competitive game plan accordingly in order to maximize results. He's unflappable in high-pressure situations and takes the high road when the opposition gets dirty. For this reason, Jim has an immense amount of credibility with judges, clients, and opposing counsel alike. This level of credibility has made the difference in the rulings we obtained from the bench and in negotiations with opposing counsel during pivotal settlement talks. Jim's someone you want in your corner!

Melissa Drennan
Securus Techonologies, Inc.

Jim is an incredibly bright, articulate, and effective attorney who can deliver excellent results for his clients. He is easy to work with and is capable of quickly understanding even the most complex of situations and navigating through complex waters to achieve his client's objectives. Jim makes himself extremely available and accessible to his clients. He is a skilled and experienced professional who is well-respected by all those with whom he works for and against, as well as by the bench.

Michael Hoffman
VarTec Telecom, Inc.

Our Board of Directors initially retained Jim to work on a very complex case that involved a number of vested interests. Jim came highly recommended by a number of references. Jim's practical and methodical approach to the case resulted in a very favorable outcome for our company. I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Jim (in my capacity as General Counsel) on a number of other matters. Jim continues to exceed our expectations and has successfully represented the company with respect to each endeavor. He consistently remains focused on the best interests of the client and is responsive and highly effective. In addition, he is an affable individual.

Tania King
Advantage Sales & Marketing

Jim Lee is the best bankruptcy litigator I have ever seen in a courtroom.

Anonymous

Jim is that rare combination of being both a very good bankruptcy lawyer and a very good trial lawyer. Jim is smartly aggressive. He understands how to be an advocate in the context of commercial objectives.

Anonymous

James S. Meyer

Jim has been a great resource for the dealings we have had with V&E and is always available for counsel on the deal at hand. He is always willing to listen to whatever crazy idea I may throw at him and not jump to conclusions prematurely.

Anonymous

James Meyer is a great client service person.

Anonymous

Jeffery Burton Floyd

Jeff is as high quality as they come. He is extremely bright and talented. We look to his judgment every time on complex or sensitive matters.

Troy Keller
Huntsman Corporation

Jo Ann Biggs

Jo Ann Biggs is an outstanding regulatory lawyer. JoAnn understands the Texas electric energy market and all of the nuances associated with the market, as well as or better than any lawyer in the state.

Rob Trimble
Oncor Electric Delivery Company

John B. Connally IV

Mr. Connally is a rising star in the energy transactional arena. He has exceptional skills and exemplary diplomacy with both counterparties and his own clients. Mr. Connally should be on the short list of anyone needing significant energy representation for significant transactions.

Paul Owen
StatoilHydro ASA

John L. Carter

John Carter is one of the most professional and personable attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with.

Stuart Paulson
American National Property & Casualty Co 

John Carter is a highly dedicated litigator with an unerring memory for details and a keen intellect. While dogged in his efforts to win, he also has the company's trust when he has to advise us of a significant risk. John has a command of highly technical areas of the law, such as ERISA, and can hold his own with non-litigating experts on those fields. As a result, he helps our company predict not just trial risk, but also the appellate strength of our cases. I would strongly recommend John as one of the small group of go-to lawyers in Texas for complex commercial litigation.

Anonymous

John Carter is a gentleman and a polished litigator. He's the one you go to when you can't afford to make a mistake; the one who will reassure your board that there's a steady hand on the wheel. I would recommend John for the most complicated cases because he has the intellect to capture them and the ability to explain them to everyone else.

Anonymous

Karl S. Stern

I would hire Karl Stern any time to represent the company in complex litigation or arbitration proceedings. He is the consummate professional, tenacious and determined to win, but also a pleasure to work with. His knowledge of the energy business is without par. I especially appreciate his understanding that litigation costs (and the budgeting thereof) are an issue for corporate clients.

Anonymous

Keith Fullenweider

Keith Fullenweider can pull the entire firm's resources together to complete complex transactions. He is a good negotiator that can help get complex deals to the finish line.

Anonymous

Kevin Paul Lewis

Kevin has assisted us over the years on a broad range of topics, including corporate governance and securities law issues. Kevin and the rest of the talented lawyers at Vinson & Elkins we work with on a regular basis have always provided expert, common-sense advice on a timely basis.

Mark Shaw
Southwest Airlines Co.

Kevin Lewis has been one of Continental's lead attorneys for over a decade. Whether it's a routine compliance question or a complex financing, Kevin approaches every matter with excellent judgment and professionalism. However, what truly sets him apart is his ability to match the legal solution to the business needs of Continental.

Jennifer Vogel
Continental Airlines, Inc.

I have always appreciated working with Mr. Lewis. He is extremely knowledgeable and professional. Furthermore, he is timely and reliable, and he makes himself available around the clock (which is very important when assistance is required with securities and corporate governance matters). He also has a great personality and sense of humor, so he is enjoyable to work with, even in high-pressure situations.

Anonymous

Kevin is effective not only because of his legal acumen, but because he understands the working relationships and dynamics of his clients as well. We know we can rely on his advice because he's always thinking several steps ahead, knowing how we operate and knowing what our expectations are in any deal. We enjoy working with him and appreciate his sage counsel.

Anonymous

Larry A. Oday

Larry Oday is one of the finest lawyers I know in Washington, D.C. I have found that his advice -- as it applies to my firm's regulatory compliance, legal strategy and government relations -- is simply first-rate and I rely on him daily. As a former senior official with the Medicare agency, he brings to his clients the perspective of someone who knows both the virtues and shortcomings in numerous regulatory offices. He is the best of the best.

William Walters
Acute Long-Term Hospital Association

Larry G. Barbour

Larry Barbour is very efficient in resource allocation to engagements -- he doesn't attempt to "reinvent the wheel". He utilizes knowledge and experience from previous assignments to structure transactions that are concise and time tested. He is a strong advocate for the client in negotiating legal docs to ensure client's interests are protected. He exhibits strong legal expertise and business judgment. He is a strong "closer".

James Kipp
Wachovia Bank N.A.

Marcia E. Backus

Marcia Backus and her colleagues provide an unsurpassed depth of understanding of oil and gas law and the industry. We have sought her counsel on many complex transactions over the years and she has always delivered practical and valuable guidance.

Anonymous

Mark R. Spivak

Mark Spivak is very responsive and very experienced in project finance transactions -- both on domestic and international projects. He has a very practical approach to addressing and resolving challenges. He has a great understanding of market practice.

Anonymous

Michael D. Wortley

Mike has a high level of experience and is an effective leader, both within his firm and in dealing with deal teams. He is also highly regarded within the Dallas business/legal community.

John Muse
HM Capital Partners LLC

Michael Wortley is the finest attorney I have ever known during 26 plus years of practicing law. He is exceptionally intelligent, knows the law, is cost-effective, and is an excellent communicator of complex issues and proposed solutions to lay persons. He is also one of the most sophisticated members of boards of directors.

Anonymous

Michael V. McKay

Michael McKay gives solid advice, great responsiveness and is thoughtful in his preparation and delivery of advice.

Jason Dubchak
Niska Gas Storage 

Michael McKay has great technical ability and is an excellent draftsman. He is very cost effective.

Anonymous

Michael McKay is a very strong finance lawyer who is effective in getting deals done.

Anonymous

Molly J. Cagle

Molly Cagle is outstanding.

William West, Jr.
Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority

Molly Cagle is an absolutely extraordinary lawyer. The strategy and knowledge of the law that Molly exhibits is truly meritorious. The perspective, commitment, and strategy offered by Molly to my firm were invaluable in every matter. I was very impressed with her steadfast work ethic, experience, and effectiveness in each matter presented.

Anonymous

Nicole E. Clark

Nicole Clark is an excellent, trusted advisor.

Anonymous

Nicole has advised us on dozens if not hundreds of M&A transactions and dealt with any number of corporate issues. She is of valued counsel to our firm, and we anticipate continuing to use her, as well as other V&E attorneys, in the future.

Anonymous

Patricia Hunt Holmes

Pat is an outstanding lawyer and is always my first choice for bond counsel.

James Johnson
CHRISTUS Health 

Pat Holmes is a "top notch" bond attorney. She is very well versed in the law. She is excellent in leading the team, solving and proposing solutions to difficult issues.

Anonymous

Pat Holmes has served effectively over the years in complex deals and at times has made the financing deal happen. She is skilled and brings a great team to the table.

Anonymous

Paula W. Hinton

Paula Hinton is one of the best attorneys I've worked with. She is knowledgeable, incredibly responsive, and attuned to the client's needs.

Cesar Arreaza
Shell Oil Company

Paula Hinton is an excellent advocate for the company. She takes the business needs into consideration and consults with the in-house counsel throughout the case.

Mark Solls
Concentra Inc.

Paula is one of the best trial attorneys I have worked with. She easily grasps complex issues and is able to explain them to the fact finder in simple, effective terms. Additionally, Paula has the fantastic ability to make the business clients feel at ease. That's a true gift.

Cesar Arreaza
Shell Oil Company

Paula has represented Concentra for several years. During the time I have known her, she has provided the highest level of professional representation. She has a broad knowledge of the law and a clear handle on the practical aspects of litigation so that she is able to achieve the best result in the most efficient manner. I have been particularly impressed with Paula's excellent customer service - she is very responsive and is mindful of my time as well as hers. Paula is bright, articulate, and effective in making complex matters understandable - thereby allowing her client to analyze the company's position and make an informed decision about the matter. I highly recommend Paula Hinton.

Mark Solls
Concentra Inc.

Working with Paula is an in-house counsel's dream. She is smart, tenacious, feisty when she needs to be, and "sweet as Southern sugar" when that works best! She achieved a great result for my company and I look forward to future collaborations!

Anonymous

Phillip Bruce Dye, Jr.

Phillip Dye is extremely well-versed in his subject matter, but nevertheless is a down-to-earth practitioner who does not bill every minute of a discussion with the client. I would recommend Phillip to any client looking for an honest, realistic assessment of his case and a worthy advocate in court who reflects the values/ethics of the client. His track record is unblemished.

Anonymous

Robert L. Kimball

Robert is the most knowledgeable outside securities/M&A lawyer I have used on a transaction. He is great at spotting issues, problem solving, and building relationships of trust with other parties to the transaction. He gives good, practical business advice.

Anonymous

Sanford A. Weiner

Sandy has always worked diligently on behalf of our company, understanding our needs to help us achieve the maximum results, often within an expeditious time frame.

Darryl Burman
Group One Automotive

Stephen Angle

Steve Angle has always been extremely helpful with respect to national transmission policy. Steve's knowledge of both the political and practical realities involved when attempting to effectuate change at a national level, combined with his extensive working knowledge of FERC, are invaluable.

Denise Hill
Horizon Wind Energy, LLC

Stephen C. Tarry

Steve Tarry is an excellent lawyer. His work product is excellent, and he is extremely responsive to client requests. He also has a very effective negotiating style, which has worked to our benefit during several extremely tough negotiations.

Anonymous

Thomas S. Leatherbury

Tom is an excellent lawyer who provides informed and practical advice.

Katherine Trager
Random House, Inc.

Tom brings a great combination of legal and people skills to his clients. We found him to be an expert at synthesizing many different viewpoints and contributions on how our appeal should be handled, briefed, and argued. Tom's advocacy skills are also first rate.

Anonymous

Tom Leatherbury is an excellent First Amendment lawyer and a terrific litigator. He assembles first rate teams on his cases and is very responsive to clients. He is a pleasure to work with and is very good at getting along with even the most difficult clients.

Anonymous

Timothy J. Devetski

Timothy Devetski is very responsive and a quality technician.

Anonymous

Tracey B. Davies

Tracey is responsive, knowledgeable, and creative in her approaches to complex legal issues. She is a great go-to person for tough problems and can simultaneously manage budget constraints.

Laurie Hill
MedImmune, LLC

Vanessa Máire Griffith

Vanessa Griffith is extremely competent. She is always thoroughly prepared.

Anonymous

William L. LaFuze

William LaFuze is a very good individual IP lawyer. He is also very connected in the field.

Anonymous