Jackson Walker is pleased to announce that Chambers and Partners has selected 40 attorneys and 14 departments for inclusion in the 2021 edition of the Global and USA guides.
In the Chambers USA Guide, Jackson Walker was ranked among the top firms nationwide for First Amendment Litigation. In addition, the Firm was ranked in Texas in the areas of Bankruptcy/Restructuring, Construction, Corporate/M&A, Energy: State Regulatory & Litigation (Electricity), Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Real Estate, Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use, and Technology: Corporate & Commercial.
Firm Rankings  |  Lawyer Rankings
Each year, Chambers and Partners identifies leading practitioners and law firms in the United States and around the world through the culmination of thousands of interviews with attorneys and clients conducted by over 200 research analysts. Criteria for selection include recommendations by clients, the attorney’s visibility in his or her area of law, and the volume, complexity, and size of work undertaken. For more information, visit the Chambers and Partners website.
Jackson Walker’s ranked departments received the following commentary featured in the 2021 Chambers USA Guide:
USA – Nationwide
First Amendment Litigation
What the team is known for
Respected Texas-based litigation practice with a wealth of experience handling First Amendment claims. Renowned for advising major media and entertainment companies on the defense of defamation claims, at the trial and appellate stages.
Strengths
A client reports: “The team is super responsive, practical, and able to explain complex legal concepts and strategies.”
Another source notes that “it is a great team to work with.”
Texas
Bankruptcy/Restructuring
What the team is known for
Represents a diverse client base across sectors including energy, real estate and healthcare. Frequently engaged on reorganizations, Chapter 11 cases and bankruptcy litigation. Able to handle fraudulent conveyance matters. Caseload ranges from complex corporate cases to liquidation proceedings for small businesses and individuals. Acts on behalf of creditors, debtors and asset purchasers, among others.
Strengths
“I am very impressed with the firm,” says a client.
Another client remarks: “You can’t beat its service and expertise.”
Construction
What the team is known for
Held in high regard for notable capabilities in various construction matters including contract negotiation and drafting. Also offers capable handling of the full range of construction disputes. It assists energy sector clients, as well as design and architecture firms.
Strengths
A source notes: “Its lawyers are dedicated to their clients.”
“It is an outstanding firm with a solid construction law practice,” states a commentator.
Corporate/M&A: The Elite
What the team is known for
Diverse practice with experience in a range of industries, including telecommunications, energy, healthcare and technology. Regularly works with investment funds in midmarket transactions, with additional experience handling cross-border deals. Client base is comprised of public and private companies, and various funds.
Strengths
Clients say the team provides “great advice in transactions” and that “it understands what we are negotiating for and gets a good outcome.”
Sources say: “The firm has a good approach to work in that they are efficient and exercise good judgment on the work being done.”
Energy: State Regulatory & Litigation (Electricity)
What the team is known for
Has experience across the full range of regulatory and litigation matters involving the electricity market. Frequently appears in complex PUCT and ERCOT proceedings, as well as advising on regulatory concerns arising in transactions. Regularly provides due diligence support and state regulatory counsel to financing parties and project developers in power project development. Acts for transmission, generation and renewable energy clients, among others.
Strengths
Interviewees say: “Its lawyers stay very even-keeled and are respected by the Commission for being straightforward.”
A client comments: “Each team member brings their individual strengths, unique experiences, and a positive personal demeanor that has validated our good impression of them.”
Sources state: “The firm has good knowledge of various jurisdictions and is very connected to government organizations.”
Environment
What the team is known for
Strong team fielding experience across a range of litigation and regulatory matters such as Superfund cleanup, water permitting and air issues. Advises on due diligence in relation to corporate and real estate transactions. Maintains a notable focus on environmental concerns affecting the electric power industry, as well as matters arising from renewable energy and water projects. Also well-versed serving clients from the financial services sector.
Strengths
“The whole team works together to achieve client satisfaction,” according to sources.
Clients say: “The firm’s expertise in environmental law applied to business is first-rate.”
Clients report: “Its environmental expertise and experience is top-notch in Texas; the team understands risk and has a good knowledge of environmental regulations.”
Healthcare
What the team is known for
Advises clients on a broad range of transactional and regulatory healthcare issues including joint ventures, M&A and the formation of health networks. Clients include clinical laboratories, hospitals, health systems and telemedicine providers. Highly experienced with matters concerning radiology clinics and departments. Also possesses particular experience in reimbursement matters.
Strengths
Clients observe that “all of the team members work together in a coordinated, effective, and efficient manner to achieve proper and successful results.”
“The healthcare team at Jackson Walker is highly competent and easy to work with, and it seeks out solutions,” say commentators.
Labor & Employment
What the team is known for
Respected provision of a broad range of labor and employment advice, with a large team handling matters such as labor relations and the employment implications of M&A. Also noted for its strength in employment litigation. Acts on behalf of prominent names in a number of sectors, including financial institutions and hospitality companies.
Strengths
Interviewees state: “They are very balanced in their approach, confident, and strategic. They give good advice on when to litigate, how far to litigate, and when to stop.”
Sources report that the team is “very practical and able to assess each case individually, bearing in mind the best interests of the company and gaining an amicable resolution.”
A client says: “They are great listeners, give great advice, tell us the risks of what we want to do, and are very much on top of their game and up-to-date with knowledge.”
Real Estate
What the team is known for
Advises an array of clients, including investors, owners and developers, in connection with a range of sophisticated real estate transactions, including acquisitions, leasings, and capital markets matters. Also houses significant capabilities in land use and zoning. Further experience in the real estate finance space, advising both borrowers and lenders in connection with transactions across the USA. Maintains offices throughout the state, including in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.
Strengths
One client praises the team’s “knowledge of the law, problem-solving skills, experience and ability to meet client deadlines no matter what.”
“The market knowledge the group brings to the table is exceptional,” reports one client.
Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use
What the team is known for
Advises an array of clients, including investors, owners and developers, in connection with a range of sophisticated real estate transactions, including acquisitions, leasings, and capital markets matters. Also houses significant capabilities in land use and zoning. Further experience in the real estate finance space, advising both borrowers and lenders in connection with transactions across the USA. Maintains offices throughout the state, including in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.
Strengths
A client says: “The team has the depth to meet all of our needs; we haven’t had to go outside Jackson Walker to find someone to help with what we do in terms of real estate.”
Another source “would always pick Jackson Walker for Texas-based deals.”
Technology: Corporate & Commercial
What the team is known for
Well placed to advise technology sector companies at every level of maturity, from startups to public businesses, along with investors and other sources of funding. Work varies from the development, licensing, and distribution of technology to corporate matters such as venture finance, acquisitions, and joint ventures.
Strengths
A client observes that “the team is very deep in expertise and I can’t think of an issue that they did not have an expert to handle,” praising “their seamless approach to getting the right attorneys involved in a very timely manner.”
“The entire team is focused on the client relationship, which is a very obvious strength. The firm’s rigor, diligence, and deliverables are equally impressive across markets,” say sources.
Commentators note: “The team is always highly experienced and very personable, and the personality of the team is friendly and inviting.”
Texas: Austin & Surrounds
Corporate/M&A
What the team is known for
Diverse practice with experience in a range of industries, including telecommunications, energy, healthcare, and technology. Regularly works with investment funds in midmarket transactions, with additional experience handling cross-border deals. Client base is comprised of public and private companies, and various funds.
Strengths
Clients say the team provides “great advice in transactions” and that “it understands what we are negotiating for and gets a good outcome.”
Sources say: “The firm has a good approach to work in that they are efficient and exercise good judgment on the work being done.”
Litigation: General Commercial
What the team is known for
A renowned Texas firm with experience at every stage of local, national, and international litigation. Active across a broad range of sectors, from construction to aviation, and offers notable strength in IP disputes. Regularly represents clients in arbitrations and class actions.
Strengths
Clients say: “They are great lawyers who provide excellent advice and work. They have a really strong reputation and respect from the judges. On a strategic and problem-solving basis, they are also very solid.”
Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds
Litigation: General Commercial
What the team is known for
Strong Texas firm with notable capabilities in a broad range of litigation, including professional liability and contractual disputes. Also handles fraud and breach of fiduciary cases, acting for both claimants and defendants. Represents clients from a variety of sectors, ranging from energy to agriculture and insurance.
Strengths
One source says: “The lawyers have been very easy to work with. They communicate well, highlight the critical parts of long legal documents, and explain everything in detail.”
Clients say: “The team is very cohesive, solutions-oriented, and professional. Their preparation is also second to none.”
Sources reveal: “The team is thorough, well-versed in Texas law and attentive as well as intelligent and resolution-focused.”
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Congratulations to the following attorneys ranked in the 2021 Chambers USA Guide:
Charles Babcock
First Amendment Litigation (USA – Nationwide – Band 1)
Litigation: Trial Lawyers (Texas)
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: Dallas, Fort Worth & Surrounds)
Chambers says: Charles Babcock is a respected litigator with a wealth of trial experience. He offers particular strength in First Amendment litigation. He regularly handles complex libel disputes as part of his broad commercial litigation practice, and is especially well versed in anti-SLAPP law. He is renowned especially for his experience in trials.
“He is an excellent oral advocate. He was thoroughly prepared and explained our legal position in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner. He has unparalleled depth of knowledge and expertise.”
“He is simply the best. He is very responsive, knowledgeable, and experienced.”
“A well-recognized and well-respected lawyer.”
“He’s extremely knowledgeable and a very strong strategizer.”
Barron Bogatto
Healthcare (Texas)
Chambers says: Barron Bogatto provides representation in a range of complex regulatory matters, including reimbursement disputes and broader administrative proceedings.
“He is a preeminent healthcare law attorney in Texas. He really provides a calming leadership and business advice on the current state of telehealth and what he sees as the future shape.”
“He is just completely on top of everything and never misses an issue in our matters – he’s a very impressive healthcare lawyer.”
“Barron Bogatto is the premier attorney in the area of complex Medicare reimbursement disputes.”
Brad Brown
Transportation: Aviation: Litigation (USA – Nationwide)
Chambers says: Brad Brown acts for a number of industry-leading manufacturers, covering both fixed-wing aircraft and rotorcraft.
“A very smart, practical attorney who really knows the ins and outs of the law.”
Stephen Calhoun
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds)
Chambers says: Stephen Calhoun has a growing reputation for his adept handling of complex commercial disputes.
“He can look at a case and find the key issues and pressure points. He is a really smart and thoughtful attorney.”
“He’s well-versed in many areas of law.”
Jennifer Caughey
Litigation: Appellate (Texas)
Chambers says: Jennifer Caughey chairs the firm’s appellate section and offers adept handling of a wide variety of cases before state and federal appellate courts.
“She is an absolutely fantastic advocate.”
Matthew Cavenaugh
Bankruptcy/Restructuring (Texas)
Chambers says: Matthew Cavenaugh routinely represents large companies in the energy and retail sectors in bankruptcy matters. He is particularly well equipped to handle Chapter 11 proceedings.
“Matthew is a very practical and business-oriented guy.”
“He is a very talented lawyer.”
Stephanie Chandler
Corporate/M&A (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Band 1)
Technology: Corporate & Commercial (Texas)
Chambers says: Stephanie Chandler advises a variety of clients, including large publicly traded and privately held companies, startups and venture capital firms. She offers particular experience in the technology sector. Her experience includes M&A, cybersecurity risk management, and technology licensing. She acts for clients in the software, computer services, and energy sectors, among others, including both public and private companies and venture capital investors.
“She is brilliant, responsive and does a very good job.”
“She has a great sense for business needs and will get a deal done. She pushes all the way to the line for her client and finds a way to meet the other party.”
“We’ve had a great experience working with Stephanie Chandler. She’s knowledgeable and responsive. As every deal is a bit different, having her breadth of experience has been helpful in guiding us to the right solution.”
Amanda N. Crouch
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Associates to Watch)
Chambers says: Amanda Crouch has experience assisting a broad range of clients in both trials and appeals.
“She’s incredibly impressive and performs beyond her experience level. She does an excellent job.”
“I was amazed by her quick recall and ability to think on her feet.”
Richard Dahlson
Corporate/M&A (Texas)
Chambers says: Richard Dahlson is noted for his capabilities in complex transactions, including M&A. He regularly handles cross-border deals.
“He is deeply experienced and knowledgeable.”
William Dahlstrom
Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use (Texas – Band 1)
Chambers says: William Dahlstrom offers strength handling the zoning aspects of hotel, mixed-use, and office projects for his developer clients.
“He’s probably one of the best land use lawyers in the state.”
Linda Donohoe
Construction (Texas)
Chambers says: Linda Donohoe handles an array of complex construction issues. A large part of her practice is focused on the energy industry.
“I was struck by her in-depth knowledge not only on the legal terms but also on the nuts and bolts of how a power plant is built and operated.”
“Linda is a smart, professional lawyer who is fluent in the parties’ contractual rights and obligations and her client’s needs.”
Leonard Dougal
Environment (Texas)
Chambers says: Leonard Dougal has a “strong understanding of how to navigate the regulatory environment allowing us to resolve issues expeditiously” in the opinion of clients. He has particular experience handling Clean Water Act and other water related issues for mining and energy industry clients. His practice area experience extends into the environmental issues arising from construction projects.
“He is outstanding and knowledgeable, a well-connected water lawyer.”
Matt Dow
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: Austin & Surrounds)
Chambers says: Managing partner of the Austin office Matt Dow is an experienced trial lawyer who is regularly sought out to handle complex commercial disputes.
“He is cognizant of client time and costs and is very structured in his approach to litigation, mapping plans, and outlines to keep things moving forward.”
“He’s a trusted counsel.”
Jeff Drummond
Healthcare (Texas)
Chambers says: Jeff Drummond is experienced in advising physicians, hospitals and other providers on transactions such as partnership formations and tax-exempt financings. He is also noted for his strength in HIPAA and cybersecurity concerns.
“He is an expert in the field and is able to quickly and efficiently provide us with actionable advice.”
“He is well regarded.”
“He’s an experienced person who has done this work for a long time, and is responsible and able.”
David Folsom
Intellectual Property (Texas)
Chambers says: Former federal judge David Folsom brings his years of experience in the courts to bear in his IP litigation practice.
“David is a fantastic mediator.”
“He really has seen it all.”
Meghan Griffiths
Energy: State Regulatory & Litigation (Electricity) (Texas)
Chambers says: Meghan Griffiths regularly advises clients on ERCOT matters, regulatory proceedings pertaining to project development and administrative proceedings before the PUCT.
“She’s very responsive and has a deep energy knowledge in Texas.”
“A fantastic attorney who really knows the industry inside and out. She understands the communication that is needed with in-house counsel and really gets the work done. She is wonderful.”
Jeff Harvey
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Band 1)
Chambers says: Jeffrey Harvey has a broad litigation practice which includes commercial disputes as well as catastrophic injury and product liability claims.
“He is a great communicator and has a great rapport with us and outside opposing counsel. He is really knowledgeable on the value of cases, has lots of years of experience and is very practical.”
“Jeff Harvey is very practical and attentive. He understands his jurisdiction well and uses his knowledge to reach timely, amicable resolutions.”
Steven R. Jacobs
Corporate/M&A (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Band 1)
Chambers says: Steven Jacobs acts for clients from the healthcare, technology and energy industries in a range of corporate matters. His experience covers deals such as acquisitions and dispositions.
John Jansonius
Labor & Employment (USA, Chambers Global Guide)
Labor & Employment (Texas – Band 1)
Chambers says: John Jansonius provides representation to employers in labor relations matters as well as high-stakes employment litigation. John receives praise for his “strong grasp of Texas employment law.” He provides representation to employers in labor relations matters as well as high-stakes employment litigation. An interviewee describes him as “a very high-quality technician in his legal skills,” and another comments: “He is smart and phenomenally good in the courtroom.”
“He has a really good grasp of the substantive employment law and can boil down complicated issues very quickly. He is someone you just have confidence in – he’s seen everything before and knows how to handle it.”
“He is a very strategic thinker.”
Steve Jenkins
Real Estate (Texas)
Chambers says: Steve Jenkins draws on decades of experience to handle acquisitions, developments, and financing matters on behalf of major institutional clients.
“He’s a trusted adviser, who is highly responsive, and very engaged with the client. I have the highest respect for his legal skills and for the way he manages projects.”
Mary Emma Karam
Healthcare (Texas)
Chambers says: Mary Emma Karam is recognized for her experience representing clients on contractual issues arising from the managed care space, advising both payors and providers on a range of matters.
“She is extremely knowledgeable on provider contract issues. She is a very good negotiator.”
“She is very thoughtful, a critical thinker, absolutely knows the nonprofit world, and her customer service is second to none.”
Kevin Kelley
Real Estate (Texas)
Chambers says: Kevin Kelley handles an array of real estate matters across the country, including transport and residential projects. He offers particular experience on high-profile developments such as corporate headquarters and campuses.
Julia Mann
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Band 1)
Chambers says: Julia Mann is managing partner of the firm’s San Antonio office and possesses wide-ranging commercial disputes experience.
“She is a formidable opponent who also keeps it professional and is easy to work with.”
“She is very responsive and resolution-focused. She serves well in roles that require an intensive thought process.”
William McDonough
Corporate/M&A (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds)
Chambers says: William McDonough handles a range of high-value and complex transactions. He often works on deals in the healthcare space.
Susan Mead
Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use (Texas)
Chambers says: Susan Mead offers vast experience handling zoning and land use matters in Texas. Her client base includes architects and developers working on residential and mixed-use projects.
Alfred Meyerson
Real Estate (Texas)
Chambers says: Alfred Meyerson’s practice covers the acquisition, development, and financing of a range of commercial real estate transactions.
“He’s easy to deal with and really smart.”
Virginia Alverson Mimmack
Healthcare (Texas)
Chambers says: Virginia Mimmack is well versed in advising telemedicine providers, along with physicians and hospitals, on everything from regulatory compliance to M&A and private offerings.
“She is a very fine lawyer.”
“She is extremely knowledgeable and easy to work with.”
Lindsey Moorhead
Environment (Texas)
Chambers says: Lindsey Moorhead acts across a wide array of environmental law matters including enforcement, cleanup, and remediation. Also active in environmental litigation, she has a particularly impressive track record in cases involving CERCLA issues.
“She is very smart and really comes up to speed very quickly on any given issue, technical or legal.”
Michael W. Moran
Construction (Texas)
Chambers says: Michael Moran is a litigation specialist who manages a wide array of construction cases and related commercial litigation. His construction practice also covers design and construction contract negotiations for both public and private projects.
“Mike is the quintessential construction lawyer.”
Edgar “Jed” Morrison
Healthcare (Texas)
Chambers says: Edgar Morrison draws on more than three decades of experience in advising clients on a range of transactional and regulatory concerns.
“He is our go-to attorney. He gathers all the information and elicits great questions while trying to understand a situation or issue.”
“He goes above and beyond with his enthusiasm to not only get the job done but to ensure that his work is of the highest quality possible.”
Michael Nasi
Environment (Texas)
Chambers says: Michael Nasi is a highly regarded environmental practitioner who has experience ranging across, water, air and waste, and endangered species matters, as well as knowledge of site remediation proceedings.
“He has good strategic ability, identifying issues before they crop up.”
“An exceptional environmental attorney.”
Cynthia Brotman Nelson
Leisure & Hospitality (USA – Nationwide)
Chambers says: Cynthia Brotman Nelson chairs the firm’s hospitality industry team. Her clients include REITs, developers, and owners. She acts on a range of cross-border acquisitions, financings, and sales.
“Cynthia is great. She is a very good transactional lawyer who keeps the trains on the tracks.”
Kurt Nondorf
Real Estate (Texas – Band 1)
Chambers says: Kurt Nondorf is regularly called upon to handle complex real estate matters by developer and investor clients.
“He’s excellent: a very practical, very good attorney.”
“He’s just a great mentor and a leader as well.”
Kirk Rasmussen
Energy: State Regulatory & Litigation (Electricity) (Texas)
Chambers says: Kirk Rasmussen handles a broad range of regulatory proceedings including rulemakings and contested case actions. He also manages compliance counseling for significant power sector clients.
“A tremendously valuable advocate; he’s quick and effective.”
“Kirk is hard-working, reliable, smart, and a really good litigator.”
Joshua Romero
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: Austin & Surrounds)
Chambers says: Joshua Romero is noted for his handling of trials and appeals in state and federal courts.
“I have never seen anyone get up to speed on the issues and grasp the subject matter as fast as he does.”
“He’s quick to respond and wants to do the best by his clients.”
Bruce Ruzinsky
Bankruptcy/Restructuring (Texas)
Chambers says: Bruce Ruzinsky works on various chapter bankruptcies and litigation. He counts debtors, landlords, and trustees among his clients.
“If you can’t get along with him, you can’t get along with anyone.”
“Bruce is fair, reasonable, and responsive.”
Robert Soza
Litigation: General Commercial (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Band 1)
Chambers says: Robert Soza has experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants at trial and on appeal in a wide range of disputes.
“Robert Soza is a strong litigator. He is highly organized, resolution-driven, and able to navigate complex matters well.”
Katherine Staton
Transportation: Aviation: Litigation (USA – Nationwide)
Chambers says: Katherine Staton has particular experience acting for airlines and aerospace and defense companies in contractual litigation.
“A strong, experienced litigator who is able to understand complex fact patterns.”
“She’s attentive, hard-working, and understands the intricacies of the industry.”
Patrick Tobin
Corporate/M&A (Texas: San Antonio & Surrounds – Band 1)
Chambers says: Patrick Tobin is regularly called upon to advise on M&A. He acts for clients from a range of industries, including financial services and construction.
“If there is someone on the planet I’d go to for this type of work, it would be him.”
Daniel Vineyard
Environment (Texas)
Chambers says: Daniel Vineyard is noted for his Superfund experience as well as his work on natural resource damages issues.
“He is thoughtful and does quality work.”
“He is a true expert on Superfund statutes.”
Meet JW
Founded in 1887, Jackson Walker has played a vital role in the growth and development of Texas business. With more than 400 attorneys across seven Texas-based offices, the Firm represents Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, major financial institutions, insurance companies, and a wide range of public companies and private businesses around the globe. The Firm is ranked nationally in 27 practice areas in the U.S. News’ “Best Law Firms” rankings, has 14 Chambers-ranked departments and 16 practice areas with Chambers-ranked attorneys, and has been recognized as a BTI Client Service A-Team since 2014.
