Inside bracwell revised final

inside bracewell

Spring 2008

•

In this issue…

happenings in our Firm

Welcome to Inside Bracewell—the place to get the inside scoop on the Firm.

• How Do You Unwind?—pg. 2 • Houston Partners Relive Gridiron Glory Days—pg. 4 • Bracewell Gives Back—pg. 4 • Client Profile: Encore Bank—pg. 5 • Get to Know Our Newly Elected Partners—pg. 6-8 • New York: An Insider’s Guide—pg. 8 • Financial Restructuring Gives Companies a Second Chance—pg. 9 • New York Contributes to Firm Wide Climate Change Initiatives— pg. 10 • New York Grows Private Investment Funds Practice— pg. 10

New York Office Soars How do you establish a successful law firm in the most competitive legal market in the world?

By recruiting the best and the brightest from firms across the country. According to New York Managing Partner Dan Connolly, Bracewell's success in New York is no accident. “The worldclass lawyers we have working in the New York office not only want to practice law at the highest levels, but want to be part of something big. Each has a strong entrepreneurial spirit.”

That spirit has soared. In just three years, the office has grown from four to 47 lawyers

• Northeast Partners Zero in on Clients’ Business Challenges— pg. 10

and now includes 32 staff. The office operates in the heart of mid-town Manhattan, occupying

• New York Office Welcomes Name Partner Back to Active Duty—pg. 11

litigation realm, the office offers a strong commercial litigation practice with a specialty

• Bracewell Cares About Being Green—pg. 12 • Bracewell Helps Create Scholarship Promoting a Diverse Workforce— pg. 12

two floors of the Americas Tower.

Today, the office boasts a robust corporate practice, with specialties in private equity, distressed debt, mergers and acquisitions, energy finance and financial restructuring. In the in international dispute resolution, as well as one of the leading white collar criminal defense practices in the nation. “We have created world-class value propositions for our clients,” Connolly said.

Corporate partner Mark Palmer agreed. “We’re not just an office outpost; our strategy is to bat in the Major Leagues.

We’re in the mix at the high end of the market.”

Palmer, who heads up the office’s corporate practice and private investment funds practice, enjoys the freedom to develop his practice areas. “Lawyers with meaningful practices love that latitude.”

Connolly said that the pioneering spirit has helped cultivate a strong team atmosphere. “We’re building on Bracewell’s great culture. Associates have a tremendous amount of contact with partners. We have strong mentor relationships and great team spirit,” he said.

For New York energy finance partner and Houston transplant Robin Miles, it has been exciting to see the office grow. “Three years have passed extremely fast. It has been great to experience that growth in person. The energy and camaraderie of the office are incredible. I can’t wait to see what we do in the next three years!”

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How Do You Unwind?

We at Bracewell value and encourage a healthy work-life balance. But what do attorneys and staff do once they head out our office doors? A recent survey by Inside Bracewell reveals a variety of ways that attorneys and staff unwind after a hard day’s work. cover! The biggest excitement we get is when the Fort Drum Air Force jets fly over and break the sound barrier, or tip their wings to the kids swimming in the lake or hiking one of the mountains,” she said.

When Dina Dreifuerst, Houston librarian, wants to get away from it all, she grabs the kids and heads to her parents’ lake house on Horseshoe Bay in the Texas Hill Country. “Or some of my girlfriends and I will rent a house in the country for the weekend and just enjoy each others’ company, maybe head to a nearby town to wander around the antique shops.”

Rather than buying a ticket to Sea World in his own city to see Shamu, San Antonio real estate partner Frank Ruttenberg took a five-day sea kayaking trip to the San

Monique Braudrick barreling through the stress.

Juan Islands outside of Seattle. “We missed the orcas but saw bald eagles, seals, starfish and lots of other marine

Enjoy the Great Outdoors A little fresh air goes a long way in forgetting work and big-city stresses, whether exercising or just enjoying the scenery.

Robin Miles, New York energy finance partner, loves to ride his bike long distances, especially in Europe. “I’ve been doing that since I was in college. It’s great exercise, a wonderful way to see the countryside and meet new people.”

Evenings go to the dogs for Karen Bishop, assistant in Washington. “Walking the dogs after work and after they ate started out as a necessity for them. Now I find that the walk is just as much for me. I guess seeing their enthusiasm for walking rubbed off!” she said.

“Walking is a great time to think about everything or nothing and to breathe in cool, clean air in the wide-open outdoors. It’s also a good time to stretch everything that has been sitting behind a desk all day! I love to just watch the antics of two dogs who think I’m the most wonderful human in the world for taking them on this walk. It really helps me unwind and enhances

Frank Maisano, principal of the Strategic Communications group in the Washington, D.C. office, finds ice relaxing. Not in a drink, but in

life.” He said it was such a wonderful trip that he

an arena. Evenings and weekends, Maisano dons

went again this year in search of the elusive orcas.

stripes and skates to referee adult and high

He didn’t see any, but that may have been because

school ice hockey games around the Beltway.

his sights were set on his BlackBerry instead!

“

I love to just watch the antics of two dogs who think I’m the most wonderful human in the world for taking them on this walk. It really helps me unwind and enhances my perspective on life.

— Karen Bishop

“

“It’s a great stress relief for me, because my complete focus has to be on the game,” he said.

“It’s reinvigorating when you are out there.”

Of course, work is not always that far out of his mind. “I wouldn’t say I’ve done lobbying, but I have definitely talked about client work with reporters and potential business partners who have been in a game,” said the Detroit-area native, who picked up the sport in his hometown.

And then there are those days when you’d just like to hit something. Houston trial associate Joe Schreiber likes to go to the boxing gym and hit the bags (until he recently hurt his arm). “I learned to box when I was a boy scout and have been boxing consistently since law school. It’s a great way to work out stress and learn to control anxiety.”

Some of Donna Tomlinson’s colleagues think her method of unwinding sounds more like torture. Every day at 5:30 a.m., the Houston corporate and securities associate is front and

Go to Extremes Some people follow a more vigorous path to

center in Memorial Park ready to start the Navy SEAL Physical Training Course. “I found out

relaxation. Dallas assistant Monique Braudrick

about the program in the spring of 2006 when

unwinds by barrel racing. “I have had a horse

I became interested in doing a boot camp. It

Some like to get away from the big city on

since I was eight years old and could never be

has been my daily workout ever since.”

weekends and vacations. Margaret Symonds,

without one. We are always at a rodeo some-

Houston corporate and securities partner,

where. I compete in barrel racing and my son

my perspective on life.”

Participants tackle a regimen of calisthenics and

unwinds in the summer at her family retreat in

and husband calf rope. When not at a rodeo,

running the Navy SEAL way. “It’s a mental and

the Adirondack Park of upstate New York. “Our

I compete at big barrel races where there can

physical challenge all in one,” Tomlinson said.

home has no electricity, just a land-line telephone

be up to 3,500 contestants for one barrel race.”

“It’s great because for one hour, you can channel

that tends to go out in a big rain storm and

When not competing, Braudrick rides and

all the stress and frustration from daily life into

propane lights and appliances. The only connec-

trains the horses at the family’s ranch in Scurry,

the activity you’re doing. It’s also a bit addictive.

tion to the outside world is an hour’s drive for a

Texas, also home to some cows and dogs. “I

When you realize that you can do things you

newspaper—the New York Post if you’re lucky,

love animals and being outside, so when I leave

never thought you were physically capable of, it

otherwise it’s the Lake Placid local news—and

the office, I head home to the outdoors. It’s a

makes you want to keep challenging yourself.”

satellite radio assuming there is limited cloud

great way to unwind.”

Tomlinson invites others to check out the

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Houston file clerk Doris

single, Kelley Stubbs, said she likes spending time

of musical performance. “Twice

with other singles.

a week, my husband and I go home, put on some oldies music and dance for about two to three hours, especially on Friday after we have come home from whatever restaurant we stopped at. We dance and just enjoy each other.”

numbers, Houston controller Bob Menefee likes to engage the right side of his brain by playing the saxophone and guitar. “I started playing saxophone in my early teens and have pretty much played ever since then. I enjoy music for a lot of reasons, but particularly because I work with numbers a lot.

and the Blowfish.”

platform diving. Symonds left Houston in high school for boarding school to dive and still has a passion for it. In high school, she dove from the five-meter platform and three-meter springboard. These days, when in Houston, she sticks with the three-meter springboard, but during

and nephews. “Rather than just sending gifts with Auntie Kelley.’ No complaints—so far!”

Relish DIY Satisfaction While some become frustrated with do-it-yourself projects, others live for it. Dina Dreifuerst, enjoys home improvement projects. In fact, the night before answering this survey she had assembled an IKEA shelving unit.

Dallas paralegal Janice Scanlan calls herself an

embroidery and quilting. When I decided to

led by the original drummer of the group Hootie

her Adirondack get away. She finds relaxation in

also makes a point to spend time with her nieces

tained myself with drawing, painting, sewing,

Church. “They have an incredibly awesome band

Margaret Symonds is not just a porch sitter at

just so they know we’re thinking of them.” Stubbs

also helps me unwind!”

wedding or party. He also plays at RiverPointe

in Central Park.

those I know will not attend—to group functions

musical process is not only very rewarding, but

Whalum, and has performed at the occasional

New York office, the program is also offered

it’s a mutual need. I also invite singles—even

obsessed crafter. “Through the years I have enter-

rary jazz, including any song recorded by Kirk

program at www.sealpt.com. For folks in the

it’s something they need, but most times I’m sure

Taking time out to be involved in a creative

Menefee enjoys playing pop and contempo-

Frank Ruttenberg being wound up by his BlackBerry.

“Sometimes, it’s something I need, sometimes

on holidays and birthdays, I schedule a ‘Day

After a day wrestling with

Frank Maisano relaxing on the ice.

perfect setting for stress relief. Since she is newly

Braxton enjoys a different kind

make scrapbooks for my children’s high school graduation gifts, I became hopelessly addicted to paper crafting in all its forms. I couldn’t resist purchasing brightly colored papers and all the embellishment to go with them.”

Scanlan saw the potential in everything. “I didn’t throw away scraps of string, stamps or containers that cosmetics or breath mints come

“

I learned to box when I was a boy scout and have been boxing consistently since law school. It’s a great way to work out stress and learn to control anxiety.

—Joe Schreiber

in because I could use them in a scrapbook or make them into a mini-scrapbook. My husband thought I should be committed!” Her scrapbook obsession has branched out into card making and now all of her friends and relatives never get store-bought cards from her. Recently, she discovered polymer clay and has started making jewelry from clay beads. “I am like a kid in kindergarten. The fun never stops!”

“

Looking for Some Stress Relief?

the summer, watch out!

Spend an Evening In “We have a nine- to 10-meter platform on our

There’s nothing like a good book or movie

lake in New York which is really, really fun.” Fun?

to help you escape the stresses of the day. New

Symonds said her best dive is a full-twisting one

York assistant Kelley Stubbs enjoys reading, and

and a half. “It just comes naturally to me.” But

her list of favorite TV shows includes “Grey’s

her favorite dive is a full-twisting two and a half.

Anatomy,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Hot Shots”

Just hearing the word twisting explains why she

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) may have the

and “Private Practice.” Doris Braxton is partial

recently had back surgery and has reduced her

answer. “Just being able to talk to a counselor in

to “CSI” and “Law and Order.”

confidence about life’s stressors can help lessen the

diving workouts from three times a week to one.

Get Lost in Music Whether singing, dancing or playing an

Houston assistant Sharanda Mozart says her favorite way to unwind is to make a date with Turner Classic Movies. “I like to watch the black-

instrument, Bracewell colleagues have found

and-white movies from the 1930s and ‘40s, while

music can indeed soothe the soul. Houston

curled up with my purring kitties. Watching old

assistant Nancy Coons finds her musical outlet

movies helps me relax by taking me back to a

in the world of “somewhat serious” karaoke.

slower time in life.”

“Since a friend introduced me to karaoke five years ago, I have invested time and money to

Mozart’s favorite classic movie find is “Odd

Bracewell’s

burden and uncover ways to cope,” said Benefits Manager Kris Sonneborn, who notes Bracewell attorneys, staff and their families are eligible for five in-person counseling sessions per year at no charge.

The EAP also has other professionals available who can help with financial planning and legal advice. “The EAP can provide a kit on how to prepare a will, as well as answer questions about

enjoy something that always gave me great

Man Out” from 1947, starring James Mason.

pleasure in high school and pre-marriage/pre-

“The story is set in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It’s

children days—vocal performance. Practicing is

about a wounded IRA man facing betrayal on all

fun in itself and performing seems to release

sides when the British put a price on his head. It

endorphins that transpose stress to relaxation.”

is a beautiful, tragic tale, captivatingly filmed

how best to find that work-life balance. It’s just a

and sensitively written.”

click away at www.liveandworkwell.com. Access

Coons said performing has become a creative outlet, and through trying out new venues and

She says the movie fits perfectly with her

styles, she has made new acquaintances and

planned trip to Ireland in May. “I am fascinated

laughed a lot—also very good for those endor-

with Ireland’s history, beauty and people.”

phins. “If you find the right group to sing with

Turn to Family and Friends

and the venue best suited to your tastes, it’s all about camaraderie and fun. Maybe it’s my way of washing that ‘to-do’ list and pile of filing right out of my hair!”

divorce, child support and other legal issues,” Sonneborn said.

Maybe you’d just like to read the latest ideas on

code: bracewell. “The site provides quick, easy-toread articles that can give you some great tips on topics like marriage, parenting issues, coping with change, and nutrition and fitness, just to name a few,” Sonneborn said.

Spending time with like-minded individuals where you can safely vent and be accepted no matter how bad of a day you had provides the

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Houston Partners Relive Gridiron Glory Days Fitting into the category of unwinding to the

yard completion for a score with one second

Bracewell Gives Back to Houston

extreme are Houston partners Charles Still and

remaining in the first half. “It was the first time

Phillip Sampson. They joined a former high school

in seven years that I had thrown a normal-size

classmate to celebrate turning 40 by playing in

football. I was a little rusty since I always toss

the community and legal profession? By giving

a full-pad, full-contact football game for four,

a pee-wee football with my sons,” he said.

back. The Houston Bar Association recently

15-minute quarters.

Still played offensive tackle at St. John’s, but

How do you celebrate 25 years of service to

reached a 25-year milestone and chose to forgo

started as a defensive lineman for the Outcasts.

a ceremonial luncheon or dinner. Instead, the

before Super Bowl Sunday at Delmar Stadium.

“I was going to play offense too, but I injured

HBA, along with attorneys from Bracewell,

The final score of the Last Chance for Glory

my ankle early in the game when a player fell

celebrated the achievement with a Day of

Classic was Outcasts 23, Renegades 8. Players,

into the back of my leg. I played through the

Giving to the community.

fans and sponsors raised more than $20,000

pain, but I had a limited ability to run.”

The game was played on the Friday night

for the Make A Wish Foundation.

Still said it was fun to put the pads back on,

On Saturday, Jan. 12, attorneys from across Houston were on hand to provide free legal

but he may think twice about participating

counsel at 10 locations throughout the Houston

High School in Houston and college at Washington

again if talk about making this an annual

area. The staff at the Houston Volunteer

and Lee, engineered the Outcasts’ win and was

event comes true. For a look at the grit and

Lawyers Program selected the sites for the

named MVP. He threw three touchdown passes

the glory, check out the Web site at

legal clinics based on community need and

and no interceptions, including an exciting 40-

www.lastchanceforglory.com.

support. Attorneys from Bracewell served at

Sampson, who played quarterback at St. John’s

the Northeast Area Ministries (NAM) clinic, along with attorneys from Hewlett Packard and peer firm, Jones Day. “This is the first time the legal community has undertaken a project of this scope. Attorneys provided free legal counsel to an estimated 1,000 people—100 at NAM alone. It was tremendously gratifying,” said Trial Section Head Glenn Ballard.

To certified paralegal Teri Sain, the event was an opportunity to assist people in need. “Many of the individuals who arrived at the clinic were women and children with various issues like adoption and divorce. The advice given by the attorneys may be the voice they needed to assist them out of a difficult situation, for themselves and their children.” Sain, who is also a member of Women Building Community, a foundation which helps women and children in need in Brazoria County, found the experience very rewarding. “It was wonderful to see so many people come together to help others.

It was a powerful teaching tool for me as a Charles Still (number 74) and Phillip Sampson (number 14) helped their former high school teammate, Brad Zucker (center), tackle his 40th birthday in the Last Chance for Glory Charity Football Classic.

mother. My children, who were present, could see the importance and the coming together of a community of people with the desire and interest to help those in need.”

Houston conference services specialist Mary

Bracewell Helps Texas Nonprofit Legal Organizations

Martha Primerano, who greeted and helped direct participants, enjoyed playing a small part in brightening people’s day. “I saw a baby boomer with her elderly mom and a middle-aged mom with her disabled daughter. It touched my

“…You are really making it so much easier for us to defend the rights of Texas.” “Thanks so much for doing this—helping us to help others better.”

These are just a few of the

heart to see family members with limited means

other Texas law firms, coordinated software

doing their best to care for their loved ones. And

training for attorneys and staff. “Each firm

people were so appreciative of the legal help.

organized a training day in a different city

They expressed their thanks many times as they

around Texas. We received a lot of praise for

were leaving.”

these efforts,” Scruggs said.

The TEAJF is in the early stages of another

comments received in a thank-

project for these same nonprofits—ensuring

you note from the Texas Civil

that each organization has a disaster recovery

Rights Project—one of 37 non-

system in place. “We’re currently evaluating

profit legal organizations across

their needs and looking at vendors,” he offered.

Texas that recently received PCs,

BRACEWELL GIVES BACK

of equipment and Bracewell, along with four

laptops, printers and scanners from the Texas Equal Access to Justice Foundation (TEAJF).

Bracewell’s participation in the foundation helped to secure new technology for the organizations, which provide pro bono legal services to low-income Texans.

“Many of these organizations were hindered by

Scruggs, who has worked for Bracewell for 16 years, finds pro bono work gratifying. “What we did makes a difference. These

Andy Edison, Ileana Blanco and Justin Murray. Front row, from left: Mary Martha Primerano, Teri Sain, Peggy Brenner,

scan and share files

Christina Ponig and Daryl Lerner

across networks and

on a paper-based system,” said Information

do their jobs more

Technology Director Kirk Scruggs, who serves

efficiently and

on the Technology committee for the Texas

effectively. What

State Bar and on its subcommittee, the TEAJF.

we do helps

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Al Kimball, Glenn Ballard, Tony Visage, Jarvis Hollingsworth,

organizations can

old technology and some were even operating

The subcommittee donated $800,000 worth

Back row, from left: Chris Tillmanns, Francis Chin, Andy Lopez,

Texans in need.”

Client Profile

Encore Bank At a Glance BUSINESS: Encore Bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Encore Bancshares, Inc. The full-service bank offers a range of business and personal banking products and services, as well as financial planning, wealth management, trust and insurance products through its subsidiaries Linscomb & Williams, Encore Trust and Town & Country Insurance.

HEADQUARTERS: Houston LOCATIONS: 11 private client offices in the Greater Houston market and six private client offices and two loan production offices in southwest Florida. Encore also operates five wealth management offices and three insurance offices in Texas.

FOCUS: Encore builds relationships with professional firms, privately-owned businesses and their owners, corporate executives, affluent individuals and investors.

ESTABLISHED: 1928 (Guardian Savings & Loan); 2000 (renamed Encore Bank) CHAIRMAN & CEO: James S. D’Agostino, Jr. INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING: July 2007 TOTAL ASSETS: $1.4 billion

TOTAL LOANS: $1.1 billion TOTAL DEPOSITS: $1.0 billion

TOTAL EQUITY: $157 million

ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT: $2.8 billion

Bracewell is fortunate to work with many of the nation’s most prominent financial service companies. Among them is Encore Bank. Corporate partners Will Luedke and Charlotte Rasche, along with associates Shanna Kuzdahl and Brandon Wing, work with Encore on SEC reporting, mergers and acquisitions and general regulatory matters. Other attorneys throughout the Firm regularly advise Encore on a variety of matters.

Those attorneys include trial partner Bryan Dumesnil; tax partners Mickey Davis, Joe Hull, Bridget O’Toole Purdie and Scott Sanders; and labor partner Jay Aldis. Energy finance partners Bill Hayes and Dale Smith have begun representing Encore in lending transactions. Inside Bracewell takes a look at this special relationship.

When Jim D’Agostino became chairman of Houston-based Guardian Savings & Loan at

The strategic plan also included acquiring an investment management and financial planning firm—Linscomb & Williams, a trust company— National Fiduciary Services which became Encore

Encore serves as corporate trustee for many of

Trust, and an insurance agency—Town & Country

Bracewell’s clients. Tax and wealth management

Insurance in 2004 and 2005.

partner Bridget O’Toole Purdie recalls a recent case. “A client’s ex-husband died in a plane crash.

“

We have a lot in common: what has made us successful over the years is what has made Bracewell successful, unmatched personal service to our clients.

— Jim D’Agostino

“

interesting projects, including the initial capital

financial services organization like no other.

raising and three subsequent private placements; the sale of the 24 out-of-state branches; the

in the purchase of Guardian, which included

insurance, trust and wealth management acquisi-

one Houston location and 24 branch offices in

tions and the conversion of Encore’s charter to

Atlanta, Boston, Kansas City and St. Louis. To

a national bank. “It was in connection with the

accomplish his goal, he assembled a team of

IPO,” notes Luedke, Encore’s client relationship

experts, including making a call to his friend,

manager, “that the Firm had an opportunity to

Bracewell partner Bob Clarke. “We met for lunch

provide a full range of services. In addition to

and he told me his game plan. He said he really

the securities registrations work and preparation

needed to have counsel that knows something

of the prospectus, Bracewell attorneys assisted

about the banking business,” Clarke recalled.

He died without a will and had three minor children. The client came to us needing help with the myriad of issues his unexpected death created. Because the children were minors, they couldn’t inherit their father’s estate outright, so we needed to establish trusts for their benefit.

We needed to have a corporate trustee appointed to manage the trusts and we reached out to Encore,” Purdie said.

Purdie recommended a number of trust companies for the client to interview, but she chose Encore. “Many of the clients I make referrals for seem to choose Encore. Encore respects and cares about their clients. Their trust professionals have been in the business for many, many years, and they understand the trust business.”

Likewise, Bracewell assists Encore clients with

Encore has engaged the Firm in a number of

the end of 1999, he had a vision to create a

In 2000, D’Agostino led a group of investors

Bracewell Clients Benefit from Encore Relationship

the legal aspects of estate and tax planning.

Bracewell’s wealth management practice group strives to develop sophisticated planning strategies to protect their wealth and pass it on to their loved ones in the most tax efficient manner. “We help clients coordinate retirement plan and life insurance beneficiary designations, and design and implement annual gift programs and other strategies to transfer wealth in the most tax-efficient manner,” Purdie added.

with Encore’s stock incentive, 401(k) and severance plans; helped navigate the complex compensation

Golf legend Arnold Palmer serves

Bracewell helped D’Agostino and the other

rules applicable to publicly-traded companies;

investors with the strategic plan to raise capital,

remodeled Encore’s corporate governance; and

change the bank’s name to Encore Bank, sell all

drafted a variety of employment and other

of the 24 out-of-state branch offices and initiate

compensation arrangements.

as spokesperson for Encore Bank.

“We are honored to be associated with a real American icon. His ‘go for the green’ attitude and his utmost integrity are qualities that you will find at Encore Bank,” said chairman and CEO Jim D’Agostino.

a strategy to provide superior customer service in a private banking environment to professional

“Encore’s growth has been steady and consistent

firms, privately-owned businesses, investors and

in strategic places in Houston and Florida. Jim is a

affluent individuals who have a net worth of

sophisticated banker and did great job of putting

$500,000 to $20 million. By 2003, Encore had

together a team. We have tried to be responsive

opened nine private client offices in Houston

and prompt,” Clarke said. D’Agostino agrees,

and southwest Florida—the two areas identified

saying “without the dedication of Bracewell’s

by management as attractive growth markets.

attorneys like Will and Charlotte, Encore wouldn’t

Encore now has 17 private client offices, with

be where we are today. Will and Charlotte provide

eight having opened in the last three and a

a high level of ‘anytime, anywhere service’ that

half years.

has contributed to Encore’s continued success.”

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Get to Know Our Newly Elected Partners Earlier this year, Bracewell elected 13 attorneys in six cities as new partners. To find out more about them, Inside Bracewell invited them to complete an e-mail questionnaire. Here’s what they had to say.

Skip McBride deserves “special mention. He has

Brad Benoit Houston, Trial How did you celebrate? Kelly and I had other plans the weekend the announcement was made, so it was pretty much business as usual that weekend. We have since had a very nice celebration dinner with my extended family.

What did your family and friends say? Mainly the standard congratulations, but when Kelly told my four-year-old son, Riley, that Daddy made partner, he shouted "Yea!" That was probably the best congratulations I received.

My nineteen-month-old daughter, Reese, was unavailable for comment.

taught me a lot about life and the law. He has been a great example to me and he has given me valuable opportunities to excel in my career.

The idea of having Skip as a mentor was a big factor in deciding to come to Bracewell, and I have not been disappointed.

—Brad Benoit

“

he recruited me to Bracewell and was my supervisor for the last five years); Jim Flegle (former partner); Steve Benesh, Gayle Boone, Janice Davis, Chris Rentzel, Sam Stricklin, Justice James A. Baker, R. Lynne Stover-Rhodes (my high school speech/ debate coach), Richard Ellis (my pastor) and my parents.

Mason Griffin Dallas, Energy, Finance, Infrastructure and Real Estate How did you celebrate? My wife and I had a celebratory dinner out at one of my favorite restaurants, and some close friends and family came over for BBQ and peach cobbler the next

Most peculiar legal career experience? Probably

night.

being in trial during 9/11. I remember hearing on the way out of the office that morning that

What did your family and friends say? Lots of

a plane hit the World Trade Center, and I was

congratulations and one prank call from a friend

thinking a small commuter plane that would

posing as a partner saying it was all a mistake.

have caused relatively little damage. I thought so little of it at the time that I didn't even listen

Most peculiar legal career experience? I was

to the radio on the way to the courthouse. When

once stuck in Cleveland for the record 24-hour

someone got a report on a BlackBerry that a

snowfall for the city. The client and I were

tower had collapsed, we were thinking the roof

trapped in an airport hotel for two extra nights,

on a floor or two must have given way, not the

living off of the mini-bar and whatever food we

entire building. Eventually, we came to under-

could find in the lobby convenience store.

stand the magnitude of what was happening, and the judge suspended the trial and sent everyone home. The next day, two people who

Interesting tidbit: I was accepted to stunt man

Tricia DeLeon

school at 17, but my mom wouldn't let me go.

Dallas, Trial

Book(s)? “Rome and Jerusalem: The Clash of

bitter and personal dispute I have worked on

How did you celebrate? I had a nice dinner

Ancient Civilizations”

decided there were more important things in

with my husband. This is just as much a victory

life to them and the jurors, and they settled.

Mentors? Bill Millard and Brock Bailey have

for him because he is incredibly supportive of

been wonderful mentors, teachers and friends.

were involved in probably the most contentious,

Book(s)? While I have trouble finding time to do any pleasure reading, I am currently trying to

me. I'm still celebrating with friends, family and co-workers.

catch up on the Harry Potter series. Harry Potter

What did your family and friends say? My dad

is not really in my typical interest area, but I was

called and asked me if I could spot him a five

tired of hearing so much about something with-

for some gas money! Some associates in the

out knowing anything about it myself.

office have referred to me as “Mrs. DeLeon”

Mentors? Many people who I have worked with here at the firm have helped me develop as a person and a lawyer. I should probably also

or “ma’am.” It has been a blessing to receive so many kind phone calls, letters and e-mails from folks congratulating me.

mention my older brother, Brent. He graduated

Most peculiar legal career experience? I

from UT Law the year before I started there, so

deposed a witness in a small town outside of

he answered many questions, gave sage counsel,

Bend, Oregon. Plaintiff’s counsel forgot to

and most importantly, helped me through post-

reserve a spot at the one motel in town, so we

exam anxiety. Otherwise, I have numerous family

took the deposition at a diner.

members and church friends who I consider my most valuable mentors, but I have gone on long

Interesting tidbit: I was a radio/ TV/film major

enough.

in college and once worked as a sports-reporter for WOAC-TV in Canton, Ohio. I quickly realized that I did not know enough (or care enough) about baseball to have a future in that career.

Book(s)? “The Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren

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Shelby Kelley Washington, D.C., Trial How did you celebrate? Thanks to Dee Martin and Jason Hutt’s thoughtful gifts, Happy Hour started in my office. It continued at a local establishment. Later, I went to dinner with friends.

Most peculiar legal career experience? During an ICC arbitration, the Bracewell team in our

Mentors? There are too many to name, but

“court attire” and laden with briefcases and

here are a few: Mike Dinnin (he was one of my

laptops had to constantly traipse by all of the

moot court coaches while I was in law school;

Brazilian sun worshipers lounging by the infinity

pool at the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro.

It was quite a juxtaposition.

Book(s)? “Absurdistan,” by Gary Shentygarnt Mentors? In true Bracewell fashion, many partners across offices and sections have mentored me over the years. I guess that makes me a group project. I couldn’t have gotten here without each and everyone of them.

the “bestIn retrospect, advice that I

how to do this job. Cle Dade and the other

received was from a very wise litigator whose motto was “anticipate, anticipate, anticipate!

—Shelby Kelley

to do the rest of this job.

corporate partners at the firm spent the time and provided me guidance on how to practice law. The staff spent the time to show me how

“

Michael Noe Austin, Intellectual Property What did your family and friends say? Family:

Kurt Mayr

Does this mean you don’t have to work so much? Friends: It’s about time!

Connecticut, Financial Restructuring Group

Book(s)? “Blue Like Jazz” by Donald Miller and

How did you celebrate? The moment that I’ll

“Sex God” by Rob Bell.

remember is walking through the door at home to be greeted by my wife and see our 15-monthold daughter and all of her stuffed animals

Mentors? Certainly our IP section partners and

lined up like fans prepared to greet a celebrity

Morgan Meyer

with a sign that said “Congratulations Partner

Dallas, Trial

Papi!” Then we went out for a great dinner.

What did you do to celebrate becoming partner?

What did your family and friends say? After “congratulations” I was invariably asked whether I had Rudy’s vote.

the Austin partners. Also, many friends that I have met through my church who have become invaluable spiritual and business mentors.

Went to dinner with my wife....sort of. We sat down and then received a call from the babysitter that my two year-old had become sick. So, after our 10 minutes out on the town, we promptly left

Most unique legal career experience? The year

and went home to do laundry and administer

that an “expedited” litigation caused me to bill

medicine the rest of the night.

2,000 hours by the end of June!

What book(s) are you currently reading? “John Interesting tidbit: I am an avid gardener who

Adams” by David McCullough

loves to work the land.

Interesting tidbit: I’m the 5th out of 6 kids.

Book(s) “Routers & Jigs” and “A Guide to Woodworking”

What did your family and friends say when you told them the news? There has to be

Mentors? I have had the honor and good

some mistake.

fortune to have worked directly with partners of the highest caliber from my first days as a green associate at Cleary Gottlieb until now

Stephanie Song Houston, Energy, Finance, Infrastructure and Real Estate What did your family and friends say when

at Bracewell. In addition to being among the

you told them the news? “Congratulations,

smartest lawyers, my mentors have all been

we need to celebrate. When are you buying

hard working and tenacious advocates who

us dinner?”

also, fortunately for me, are great human What is the most peculiar thing you’ve experi-

beings and friends. A part of each of them

enced in your legal career? A partner at a large

can be found in what I do every day.

Houston firm refused to talk to me or even take Anything else you’d like to share? Thank you to

my calls because I was only an associate. I think

everybody at this firm for continuing to invest in

I’ll give him a call.

our office and financial restructuring practice.

Interesting tidbit: I tried out for the Broadway

Scott Miller

musical “Miss Saigon.” I can’t sing, so I’m not

Houston, Corporate and Securities

sure why I did it other than it’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

Most peculiar legal career experience?

Negotiating with a seller over an additional

What book(s) are you currently reading? “Knuffle

$41.67 a month on his lucrative consulting

Bunny” (about 20 times at night to my 15-month-

contract, which was in addition to the over

old) and “What to Expect: the Toddler Years.”

$100 million he was already receiving in the sale of his company.

What type of mentors have you had that you think helped get you here? My mentors have

Interesting tidbit: Bracewell is the only law firm

been partners at the Firm who didn’t mind taking

I interviewed with in person; the only other

the time to sit down and explain what goes on.

interview was by phone.

Also, successful women—at the Firm and at other companies, including clients—who manage to

John McCrory

Book(s)? “The Greatest Generation,” but mostly

Houston, Corporate and Securities

juggle a happy family and a successful career

a rotation of “The Fat Cat on the Mat” and

without feeling like a failure at both.

What book(s) are you currently reading? “iWoz:

“Custard the Dragon.”

Computer Geek to Cult Icon: How I Invented the

Mentors? When you show up here knowing

Personal Computer, Co-Founded Apple, and Had

nothing, you need all the guidance you can get.

Fun Doing It” by Steve Wozniak and Gina Smith.

The staff and other attorneys have to teach you

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Judy Brasher has “been my assistant

Jay Sonnenberg New York, Energy, Finance, Infrastructure and Real Estate

since the day I arrived at Bracewell. I appreciate her and all that she constantly does for me.

—Tricia DeLeon

“

How did you celebrate? I had several celebratory pints with co-workers at the Perfect Pint Pub

New

and then had a relaxing dinner with my fiancé at a restaurant in my neighborhood.

What did your family and friends say? My dad had the best reaction—he was overwhelmed and nearly speechless. I also received numerous e-mails, texts, etc. from friends and family with profound messages like “WHOA” and “WOOOHOOO.” Most peculiar legal career experience? Once I took on a pro bono case where I represented a musician that had been kicked out of a band.

She was seeking reimbursement for studio

Richard Whiteley Houston, Trial

expenses. I received a long, manically-written letter from one of the band members enclosing

How did you celebrate? Went to Kenealley’s

a check for $500 and stating: “By my calculation

Irish Pub to have a beer (or two) on Friday

you spent about 10 hours on this case, which is

and went to Mark’s for dinner on Saturday

probably worth about $3,000, so HAHA loser!”

to celebrate with my wife and friends.

He cc’d Patrick Oxford.

What did your family and friends say? My

Interesting tidbit: I occasionally write under a

19-month-old daughter, Katie, wanted to color

pseudonym for a music Web site.

and play with her dolls. My wife said congratulations, but that she was still in charge at the

Book(s)? I just finished “Then We Came to

house. My parents asked, with a grin, if the

the End” by Joshua Ferris and “The Yiddish

firm had recently lowered its standards.

Policemen’s Union” by Michael Chabon and am about to start reading “The Brief Wondrous

Most peculiar legal career experience? In a

Life of Oscar Wao” by Junot Diaz.

deposition involving several parties, the lawyer for the plaintiff marked the Texas Rules of Civil

Mentors? There have been at least four partners

Procedure as an exhibit and presented it to the

at Bracewell who were terrific mentors through-

corporate representative of one of the defen-

out my career. My parents, relatives, friends and

dants. The lawyer defending the deposition

several law school professors have also been

had made numerous improper objections. I was

invaluable and supportive.

representing another defendant and was not defending the deposition. After handing the deponent the rule book as an exhibit, the attorney asked if the deponent had ever seen his lawyer reading the rules. When the deponent answered no, the lawyer recessed the deposition “so that his lawyer could learn the rules regarding how to properly object.”

What is an interesting tidbit of information that few people know about you? I was a substitute teacher during college.

Book(s)? “The Sun Also Rises” (Ernest Hemingway)

Jeffrey Wasserman

and “North Dallas Forty” (Peter Gent).

New York, Trial

Mentors? My most influential mentors outside the firm were my parents. I learned how to

What did your family and friends say when you

practice law from John Barr, Phillip Sampson

told them the news? Apparently, my not yet

and Glenn Ballard. All of them were very

two-year-old son ran around the house yelling

influential in helping me become a good trial

“Partner.” By the time I got home, he stopped

lawyer and a partner at the firm.

saying it and I’ve never actually heard him say it.

Anything else you’d like to share? I would like to What book(s) are you currently reading?

thank my wife, Laura, for supporting my career

“The Ethical Assassin” by David Liss. I bought it

and being an integral part of reaching my goal

after reading two of his previous books, which

of being a partner. I owe a great deal of thanks

were excellent: “A Conspiracy of Paper” and “A

to my clients for trusting me with their cases.

Spectacle of Corruption.” This one is not as good.

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“Whether it’s nature, books, visual and performing arts, cafes, stationery, clothes or intellectual stimulation, New York has it all.

”

Spotlight on Bracewell’s New York Office

Financial Restructuring Gives Companies a Second Chance When a company faces bankruptcy, the stakes are high. A failed bankruptcy means liquidation and poor recoveries for creditors, but a successful financial restructuring gives the company a new chance and creditors can realize significant gains.

That’s what Connecticut Managing Partner Greg Nye finds rewarding about his work with Bracewell’s Financial Restructuring Group.

York

But getting to that point of success means enduring complex negotiations with the company and its creditors and navigating through the bankruptcy code and the bankruptcy courts.

“Rewriting the public debt instruments of a Times Square

An Insider’s Guide

large company can be very complicated,” he said.

“And interpreting new, cutting edge laws can be difficult. There is certainly nothing boring about what we do.”

Bracewell represents many of the world’s

“New York is the financial and cultural capital of the world. It’s an incredibly exciting environment to live and work in,” said New York Managing Partner Dan Connolly.

As a native New Yorker, it may seem only natural that Connolly would rave about the Big Apple.

But other New York attorneys and staff have equally glowing things to say about Connolly’s corporate and cultural Mecca.

For energy finance partner Robin Miles, the city represents convenience. “I live in Manhattan, and the subways make it so easy getting to and from work. And on the weekends, nothing beats a bicycle ride around Central Park.”

Assistant Kelley Stubbs loves the excitement of the city. “My favorite haunt is the Italian restaurant, Tony’s DiNapoli. When we lost the Twin Towers, I promised myself I would visit more of

with joggers, bicyclists, rollerbladers and

largest hedge and private equity funds, alterna-

strollers.”

tive investment managers, institutional investors, Wall Street proprietary and trading desks, banks

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

and other financial services vehicles in out-of-

“Unsurpassable! The bookshop there is worth a

court restructurings, in-court proceedings, dis-

visit all on its own.”

tressed mergers and acquisitions transactions and

The Neue Gallery of German and Austrian Art “It houses a lovely Viennese cafe as well as outstanding works of art.”

chapter 11 cases over the past 25 years.

the early 1900s. It was a favorite of Churchill’s and is now, apparently, a favorite of model Kate Moss!”

second lien lender groups, private placement noteholder groups, chapter 11 committees and

Rizzoli Bookstore, (on 57th between 5th and

Square on his way to the theater. “It’s often

6th) offers a wide range of newly published books of the highest quality.

interesting piece of America.” For a

land and water. When not on the clock, Connolly sets sail from his home in City Island and has even hosted Bracewell gatherings from there.

Although based in the Connecticut office, financial restructuring associate William de la Mare, who hails from the United Kingdom, has lived and worked in New York over the years and offers an Englishman’s guide to the City’s best offerings: Central Park “Outstanding, particularly on weekends when the roads are closed to cars and the park fills

attorneys increased the Firm’s representation of

stationery company.”

Miles still enjoys walking through Times

Connolly splits his time between

Connecticut offices. The world-class restructuring

“An outstanding and longstanding English

unusual books, often first editions.

to watch the sunset.”

practice with the opening of the New York and

ad hoc public bondholder committees, first and

little ballroom dancing at the Rainbow Room.”

Hudson River and is a great place

Bracewell added to its financial restructuring

Smythson’s (on 57th, at 5th Avenue),

Avenue at 82nd Street) offers wonderfully

family and dog. “It’s right on the

exit lenders, asset purchasers and other constituen-

Street), “A very famous and old London perfumery that has served the Royal Court since

the Empire State Building. I’d also love to do a

the 79th Street Boat Basin with his

committees, bank syndicates, debtors, DIP and cies in many of the largest restructurings and

Crawford Doyle Booksellers, (on Madison

great burger and beer, Miles walks to

have represented official and ad hoc creditors’

Penhaligon’s (on Madison Avenue, at 71st

New York’s attractions, but still haven’t visited

crowded and very touristy, but is still an

market-leading bankruptcy litigation. Attorneys

other investors throughout the United States and around the world. “We now represent creditors in bankruptcy, including distressed debt investors like hedge funds,” Nye said.

Nye explained that Bracewell’s competitive edge comes from the ability to draw from experts in a variety of specialties. “What we do involves many

The Lincoln Center for the New York City Ballet,

disciplines, including bankruptcy litigation, public

the Metropolitan Opera and the Philharmonic

debt instruments, financial law, securities law,

“Simply brilliant.”

environmental law and labor and relations. We may have a core group of 25 lawyers, but we

For the clothes hound, de la Mare recommends Barney’s New York to procure a few designer duds and take in a great lunch, coffee or

pull expertise from across the Firm to offer a very sophisticated practice that better meets our clients’ needs.”

cocktail. Another favorite is the Ralph Lauren Mansion on Madison. “Also make sure to check out the windows at Bergdorf Goodman. They

White Collar Practice Grows in Dallas

tend to be wonderful,” he said.

And for the intellectual, de la Mare encourages checking out the goings-on at 92nd Street Y, which attracts the world’s best and brightest for evening lectures. “Top thinkers, from novelists to scientists to architects, turn up there to give talks on their work.”

“Whether it’s nature, books, visual and performing arts, cafes, stationery, clothes or intellectual stimulation, New York has it all.”

From left: White collar criminal defense partners Marc Mukasey, Jeff Ansley, Bill McMurrey and Jon Halpern pose at the recent reception held in Dallas to welcome Ansley and McMurrey to the Firm.

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Spotlight on Bracewell’s New York Office

New York Contributes to Firm Wide Climate Change Initiatives On Sept. 14, 2007, New York State Attorney

Already in Congress, there are 50-plus proposals

While Bracewell’s New York office is spear-

General Andrew Cuomo issued subpoenas to

to regulate GHG emissions—from a carbon tax to

heading the regulatory investigation by the

five utility companies seeking information and

caps on emissions. And on the state level, there

Attorney General’s office, attorneys are pulling

documents relating to internal analyses of their

are a host of additional bill proposals. “No one

expertise from across the Firm. “Scott Segal

climate change risks and also their disclosures of

knows which bills will pass, but it’s clear the issue

from our Government Relations and Advocacy

those risks to investors.

is not going away,” Warkol relates.

practice in Washington D.C. understands the

Four days later, a group of institutional investors, environmental advocates and state pension fund managers petitioned the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission to clarify when and how publicly traded companies must disclose how climate change could affect their financial condition or operating performance.

Climate change is front and center and has captivated the attention of investors, business owners and lawmakers. The New York office and the entire Firm are helping clients navigate these ever-shifting waters and are currently representing one of the energy companies

proposed bills in Congress and current regulatory

“

Our goal is to protect our clients from scrutiny, ensuring integrity, consistency and defensibility of the company.

— Craig Warkol

“

under investigation.

In the case of an energy client, the State of New “Companies are caught in the cross-hairs of shifting legislation. They need guidance about what they should disclose to investors regarding their carbon profile and how future greenhouse gas (GHG) legislation could affect future business plans,” said Bracewell New York white collar criminal defense counsel Craig Warkol.

York is investigating whether the company, in

processes, and Kevin Ewing from our Environmental Strategies Group in D.C. understands the science behind climate change and can offer strategies to help minimize corporate exposure due to environmental risks,” he said. “The work is a great example of integrated environmental strategies marketing (and executing) that combines white collar, environmental and government relations and strategy at their best.”

Warkol explains that a public company must disclose information material to shareholders’ investment decisions. “Uncertainties about climate change and legislative trends make corporate disclosure and corporate climate-change strategy very challenging for many companies.

proposing the creation of new coal-fired power

“Our message to companies—understand the

plants, evaluated or quantified the possible effects

legal uncertainties, know your carbon profile and

of future GHG regulations and their impact on

know what you are saying about carbon and the

the company. The State is operating under the

climate. Our goal is to protect our clients from

Martin Act, a 1915 New York securities law, which

scrutiny, ensuring integrity, consistency and

imposes civil and criminal penalties for improper

defensibility of the company,” Warkol concluded.

disclosures to investors.

New York Grows Private Investment Funds Practice When Bracewell’s Private Investment Funds

of complex corporate, finance and restructuring

group was called in to negotiate the purchase

transaction including:

of distressed airline, World Airlines, there were

• Securities trading and capital structure arbitrage

a lot of balls to juggle. “The deal took a great deal of creative energy,” said New York corporate

• Acquisitions, investments and dispositions

partner Mark Palmer. “It’s not easy acquiring a distressed publicly traded company that is delin-

• Lending and leveraged finance

quent in SEC reporting and has other problems.

• Structured finance and derivatives

The deal started hostile, turned friendly and • Portfolio company representations

closed during the credit meltdown. We relied on experts from across Bracewell including mergers

• Energy infrastructure and project investment

and acquisitions, securities and financial restruc-

“As credit and equity markets turn, there is

turing. It was a gratifying case.”

The Private Investment Funds practice provides transactional and advisory legal services tailored to the unique requirements of the world’s leading private equity and hedge funds and alternative investment vehicles. The Firm added to its leading edge in the industry with the addition of the New York office, which specializes in special situations investment. “Bracewell has been a leader

a significant upside for the Firm from our client in energy infrastructure investment for years,

base becoming more involved in special situations

and now with the addition of the New York

investments. Bracewell attorneys are representing

office, we are one of the top firms in special

the largest and most well-known funds on their

situations, a growing area of investment,”

most interesting transactions. Coupled with our

Palmer related.

leadership in the energy infrastructure investment,

In addition to special situations investment, the group regularly handles virtually every type

we are poised for continued growth and leadership in this practice area,” Palmer concluded.

Northeast Partners Zero in on Clients’ Business Challenges After the New York office opened in 2005,

the Northeast platform to maximize marketing

Financial Restructuring Group number one in

the Washington and New York offices joined

opportunities for the Firm.” In addition to

the world.”

together for informal networking meetings.

Managing Partner Mark Evans, Chairman Patrick

Over the last year, this Northeast relationship

Oxford and Name Partner Rudy Giuliani, nearly

has been strengthened with the participation

40 partners were in attendance for the half-day

of the Connecticut office and formal meeting

meeting and cocktail receptions with New York

agendas focused on the business challenges

associates.

faced by our clients and the interdisciplinary services Bracewell should market to them.

“The Northeast partnership is about exploring

“The Washington office’s growth plan has been boosted by our Northeast connections, and for that matter by selling our strengths throughout the Firm to lateral candidates,” said Washington Managing Partner Mike Pate. In fact, Carol Elder Bruce, a prominent Washington litigator who

what we can do together,” said Connecticut

recently joined the Firm as a white collar partner,

“The partnership capitalizes on our collective

Managing Partner Greg Nye. “We work very

was attracted to Bracewell’s white collar strengths

strength,” said New York Managing Partner Dan

closely with the New York and D.C. offices as

throughout the Northeast and Texas.

Connolly. “Bracewell & Giuliani is made up of

important components of our firm-wide restruc-

extremely bright, capable folks, and we’re using

turing efforts. Our goal is to make Bracewell’s

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New York Office Welcomes Name Partner Back to Active Duty Name Partner Rudolph Giuliani has

Rudolph Giuliani

bankruptcy and white-collar criminal defense

presidential campaign. A longtime active

returned to practice law in the New York

practices. Giuliani not only looks forward to

participant in local, state and national politics,

office after a hard-fought campaign in the

further growing the New York office, but has

Oxford served as chairman of the campaign

2008 presidential election. Giuliani is pleased

his sights set on arguing before an appellate

committees for Texas’ two U.S. Senators, as well

to be back in the private sector after his bid

court. The last time Giuliani went head to head

as three other office holders who served Texas

to serve the public. “In litigation, you argue

with the U.S. Supreme Court was in a 1983 bank

statewide. Oxford was active in both of President

rational positions—you structure some kind

robbery case. He distinctly recalls winning by

George W. Bush’s gubernatorial campaigns and

of settlement. It’s one of the last places

a tally of 8-1. “I would like to argue appeals

both of his presidential campaigns. Mark Evans,

where you can actually have a truly logical

again. If there’s a good one around, let me know.”

who has been with the Firm since 1977 and has

argument,” he said.

Since 2005, Giuliani has played a key role in

Bracewell also welcomes back full time former Managing Partner and now the Firm’s first

the efforts of the New York office to expand

Chairman, Patrick Oxford. Oxford served as

and enhance the Firm’s corporate, broker/dealer,

National Campaign Chairman for Giuliani’s

Bracewell Celebrates a Long Tradition of Public Service Rudolph Giuliani and Patrick Oxford follow in a long line of Bracewell attorneys who have heeded the call of public service. Dozens of the Firm’s current attorneys have held elected office and been appointed to senior local, state and federal government positions.

This tradition of public service began in 1947,

Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals by President George H.W. Bush.

On the state and local levels, the Firm has several standouts including former Harris County District Attorney Carol Vance, who joined the Firm

12 years of service in the Texas legislature. He

tenure on the Texas Board of Criminal Justice.

Founding Name Partner Bert Tunks also garnered public recognition. He was appointed to district judge of the 113th District Court in 1957, later serving as Chief Justice of the First Court of Appeals.

And Fentress Bracewell served a distinguished, 15-year tenure as chairman of the Port of Houston.

On the National Scene In addition, alumnus Antonio O. Garza Jr. left the Firm to serve the government when he was named U.S. Ambassador to Mexico by President Bush in 2002. During the Reagan and early

lenders in complex commercial finance transactions, is now the Firm’s Managing Partner.

Bracewell’s Public Service At a Glance 1947 Searcy Bracewell begins 12 years of service in the Texas State Legislature.

as a partner in 1979. Vance later helped found the Carol Vance Unit in 1997 during his six-year

for two years and the Texas Senate for 10 years.

and international commercial banks and other

Locally Active

when founding partner Searcy Bracewell began served in the Texas House of Representatives

over 30 years of experience representing national

In addition, Bracewell attorneys have a long history of serving local bar associations. Both Austin Managing Partner Steve Benesh and Houston Trial Section Head Glenn Ballard recently

1957 Bert Tunks is appointed district judge of the 113th District Court, later serving as chief justice of the First Court of Civil Appeals.

concluded two-year terms as presidents of the

1968

Austin Bar Association and the Houston Bar

Fentress Bracewell is appointed Houston Port

Association, respectively.

Commissioner. He served as chairman of the Port

“Bracewell values the strong professional and personal relationships that began here—relation-

of Houston from 1970 to 1985.

ships that often last for decades and span the

1979

globe,” said Managing Partner Mark Evans.

Former Harris County District Attorney Carol

In an effort to stay connected to our extended

Vance joins the Firm as partner.

President George H.W. Bush years, partner Bob

Bracewell family, the Firm has dedicated a portion

Clarke served as Comptroller of the Currency

of the Web site to alumni at http://www.

1985

after his appointment in 1985. And in 1991,

bracewellgiuliani.com/alumni/.

Partner Bob Clarke is named Comptroller of

partner Harold DeMoss was named to the

the Currency by President Ronald Reagan.

1991 Partner Harold DeMoss is named to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals by President George H.W. Bush.

2002 Antonio O. Garza Jr. is named U.S. Ambassador to Mexico by President George W. Bush.

2007 Mike Tankersley is named the country’s first inspector general of the Export-Import Bank of the United States.

The Houston Bracewell office has lent its talents to the Houston Bar Association (HBA) seven times over. From left, Bill Wilde (1982-1983), The Honorable Eugene Cook (1989-1990), Glenn Ballard (2006-2007), Al Kimball (1983-1984) and Kelly Frels (1994-1995) all served as president of the HBA. Not shown, J.S. Bracewell (1939) and Harry Patterson (1967-1968), both deceased.

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Bracewell Cares About Being Green As residents of the planet celebrate Earth Day on April 22, 2008, Inside Bracewell checks in

Bracewell Helps Create Scholarship Promoting a Diverse Workforce

with the Firm’s offices to see what commitments they have

BRACEWELL

Cares

made to make our world a better place to live. “It is important that we, as a Firm, take specific steps

to conserve energy and resources,” said Director of Operations Donna Manlove.

Several Bracewell offices have adopted eco-friendly practices that fit in well with the American Bar Association’s Climate Challenge, which encourages law offices to take specific steps to conserve energy and resources, as well as reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.

In Houston Attorneys and staff have desk-size bins to recycle newspaper and white paper. Shredded confidential documents are also recycled. The office buys recycled paper and continues to test new energy-saving, environmentally-friendly

Several years ago, when Bracewell summer

not only committed to matching the Princeton

associate (2007 and 2008) Ashlie Alaman set

Review’s two scholarships, but helped me with

her sights on law school, an Austin attorney

the legwork.” Alaman and Bracewell staff got

gave her a good tip—attend an LSAT prepara-

the word out to the financial aide offices for all

Confidential material is stored in secured bins,

tory review course. He also gave her the $1,300

Texas colleges and universities, pre-law societies,

shredded on site and recycled.

needed to fund the course.

campus minority student organizations and

products.

In Austin Austin recycles soda cans, paper and newspaper.

In Washington, D.C.

Now, a second-year law student at The

Inroads, which helps develop and place talented minority youth in business and industry.

The D.C. office has been recycling waste

University of Texas at Austin, Alaman is helping

paper, newspaper, glass and soda cans since

to give the same opportunity to other students

1987. The office building management also uses

through the Thurgood Marshall Legal Society

legal community as a whole has always been

energy-efficient lights and eco-friendly cleaning

(TMLS) at UT and the generosity of Bracewell

a passion of mine. Since we already recruit so

products. Light bulbs are crushed and recycled.

and the Princeton Review. During the TMLS

heavily from The University of Texas, this was a

Many of the attorney and staff offices are outfit-

annual banquet in March, eight racially and

good match,” related Cunningham. “Bracewell

ted with motion sensors, so when there is not

ethnically diverse students were awarded the

has an active part in this program—we created

activity for a specific period of time, the lights

LSAT Preparation Diversity Scholarship which

it, are implementing it and can see the effects

turn off. New this year, the Bracewell office has

will provide full funding for the Princeton

of it down the road.”

begun using biodegradable paper plates, bowls,

Review LSAT Prep course. Six of the eight

utensils and coffee cups, as well as corn-based

recipients pictured above, from left, are

clear cold beverage cups and lids in all of our

Houston environmental associate Francis Chin,

coffee bars and in the main kitchen. The office

Cassandra Garcia, Ahmed Zidan, Claudia Tejada,

also eliminated the use of five-gallon bottled

Sean Nixon, Lauren Johnson, Jordan Woody,

water in favor of filtered water. Doing their part

San Antonio trial associate Kristen Elizondo.

for the environment also means that more than half of the Firm’s staff use some form of mass transit—Metro rail, Metro buses, MARC train or VRE train.

Alaman worked closely with Bracewell Houston

“Increasing diversity at the Firm and in the

Bracewell not only matched the Princeton Review’s commitment, but surpassed it—sponsoring four additional scholarships for a total of eight. “Bracewell surpassed my expectations.

It reflects well on their commitment to the community and gives me a sense of pride in the company,” said Alaman, who will be returning

associate Kim Cunningham to develop the schol-

to the Firm this summer for a second summer

arship program and was deeply impressed by

clerkship.

Bracewell’s commitment as a sponsor. “Bracewell

In London The Bracewell office has encouraged the building to place recycling bins in all the kitchens and

Bright Future

has installed water coolers as opposed to using plastic water bottles. The office buys paper that is PEFC (Pan European Forestry Commission) accredited and recycles used paper. In addition, attorneys and staff use “green” taxis with reduced carbon emissions and unleaded petrol.

Living in a Green House Being eco-friendly is not just a work initiative; it’s a way of life for Houston trial partner Andy Edison. He and his wife, Donna, have broken ground on their new “green” home in the Heights. Their home will incorporate eco-friendly features from the energy-efficient roofing to the recycled flooring. “Caring about the environment has always been a concern,” Donna recently told a television reporter doing a story on how eco-friendly home construction has become more commonplace and more affordable. The Edison’s look forward to moving into

Washington Office Administrator Connie Burke, Human Resources Coordinator Aryn Blanton, and ERG associate Tracy Davis visited Brightwood Elementary School to deliver playground equipment purchased via fundraising efforts by the DC Office.

Here, Burke and Davis (right) pose with Brightwood first-graders, who were excited to receive the equipment and offered Bracewell an energetic “Thank You!”

their “healthy” home in Fall 2008.

inside bracewell

Executive Editor: Brenda Cialone Executive Board: Helen Lilienstern, Will Luedke, Jennifer Weston Managing Editor: Toni Brown Texas

IN SID E BRACEWELL | S P R I N G 2 0 0 8 | PAGE 12

New York

Washington, DC

Connecticut

Dubai

Kazakhstan

London