Robert L. Paddock represents companies and individuals in trials and arbitration proceedings. He has particular expertise in the energy sector representing landowners, operators, midstream companies, service providers and chemical refineries. He also represents clients in disputes involving real estate, construction, corporate governance, joint ventures, partnerships, fraud transfers, real estate, and other commercial entities.
Robert conducts jury and bench trials in state and federal courts, and arbitration proceedings in bankruptcy courts. Many of his cases have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Law 360, Texas Law Book, and other publications. Robert is recognized by his peers as both a “Rising Star” and “Super Lawyer.”
Selected Experience
- In a dispute over the calculation of gathering rates under a gas gathering agreement, winning a take-nothing award after a three-week arbitration in which the plaintiff sought damages of more than $200 million.
- Secured an arbitration award of over $9 million in an arbitration proceeding involving claims of breach of fiduciary duty and breach of non-compete agreement.
- Obtained summary judgment of over $2 million for a client in a lawsuit involving a crude oil purchase contract.
- Defended loan servicing company and major financial institution in a trial involving alleged misapplication of loan proceeds.
- Secured temporary injunction and ultimately a judgment against a defendant who misappropriated $2.5 million that was supposed to be used to acquire mineral interests.
- In connection with Lehman Brothers, Inc. bankruptcy, defended a client against debtor’s claim to subordinate more than $40 million of his compensation; after a bankruptcy court trial, the court denied the subordination and allowed the claim.
- Represented an exploration and production company in litigation involving the interpretation and operation of a turnkey drilling contract.
- Extensive experience representing operators and non-operators in resolving joint operating agreement disputes.
- Secured summary judgment in favor of a major energy company in its enforcement of its rights under a gas pipeline balancing agreement.
- Won substantial jury verdict for a client in case involving misrepresentations in a private placement memorandum submitted by a worldwide marketer of sporting goods.
- As part of a massive Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding, represented numerous energy companies seeking recovery of claims against the debtor.
- Represented numerous owners of commercial and industrial properties in construction litigation cases against contractors, engineers, architects, and sub-contractors.
- Represented both landlords and tenants in litigation involving commercial lease enforcement issues.
- Represented a Chapter 11 Plan Administrator to pursue preference claims. Through our efforts we collected significant funds for the post-confirmation estate.
Thought Leadership
- “Navigating Energy Disputes: The key to U.S. Oil and Gas Growth” – May 15, 2019 –webinar with BDO.
- “The New Midstream Market: Changes in the Competitive Landscape” – October 24, 2018 presenter on litigation topics.
- “Privilege issues for In-House counsel” – February 21, 2018 presenter to in-house litigation department.
- “When Does a Defendant Prevail Under a Prevailing Party Provision?,” Texas Lawyer, September 3, 2014.
- “A Pain Free Guide to State Court Injunctions,” Advanced Business Litigation Seminar, University of Houston School of Law, September 10, 2004, September 24, 2004.
- “Utilizing E-Mail as Business Records Under the Texas Rules of Evidence,” 19 The Review of Litigation 61, 2000.
- “Attorney Liability for Opinions Letters,” note, 38 S. Tex. L. Rev. 325, 1997.