Paul Hastings Strengthens Texas Litigation and Energy Practice with Strategic Hiring Moves

Paul Hastings LLP has expanded its Houston presence by adding trial lawyer Craig Stanfield as a partner in its litigation practice. Stanfield, who previously served at King & Spalding, brings extensive experience representing companies across industries such as manufacturing, automotive, energy, aviation, financial services, computer software, and chemicals. His practice focuses on high-stakes cases in both federal and state courts, with a particular emphasis on Texas jurisdictions. ([paulhastings.com](https://www.paulhastings.com/news/paul-hastings-boosts-premier-litigation-offering-with-houston-partner?utm_source=openai))

Stanfield’s move to Paul Hastings aligns with the firm’s strategic growth in Texas. In March 2024, the firm significantly bolstered its finance capabilities by bringing on an eight-partner, 25-lawyer team from Vinson & Elkins in Dallas and Houston, marking the largest single practice group move in Texas history. ([paulhastings.com](https://www.paulhastings.com/news/paul-hastings-boosts-premier-litigation-offering-with-houston-partner?utm_source=openai))

In June 2025, Paul Hastings further enhanced its energy and infrastructure platform by welcoming Christopher Richardson as a partner in Houston. Richardson, who previously served as CEO of 8 Rivers Capital and led the Energy & Infrastructure Project Development and Finance section for the Americas at White & Case, brings over 20 years of experience in energy and infrastructure transactions. ([paulhastings.com](https://www.paulhastings.com/news/paul-hastings-further-enhances-premier-global-energy-and-infrastructure?utm_source=openai))

These strategic hires underscore Paul Hastings’ commitment to expanding its presence in Texas and strengthening its capabilities in key practice areas, particularly in litigation and energy sectors. ([paulhastings.com](https://www.paulhastings.com/news/paul-hastings-boosts-premier-litigation-offering-with-houston-partner?utm_source=openai))