Skadden is pleased to announce that Michelle Scheffler has joined the firm as a litigation partner in our Houston office. Ms. Scheffler’s practice focuses on advising major oil and gas companies, publicly traded and privately owned independents, and private equity investors at trial and in other complex disputes in the energy sector. She has extensive experience leading matters related to mass and class action royalty litigation, leasing conflicts, operating agreements and title disputes, among other areas of controversy, and regularly represents clients in high-stakes lawsuits in state and federal courts nationwide.
Ms. Scheffler previously served as co-chair of the Oil and Gas Practice Group at another law firm. She has represented energy clients in landmark disputes across the country, including securing a take-nothing judgment in North Dakota state court against the state land board in a lease-interpretation case impacting all oil and gas producers in North Dakota with state leases. In addition to advising clients in the oil and gas industry, she also has led trials and appellate cases related to corporate disputes, business torts and property rights.
“Michelle’s deep knowledge of the energy sector and reputation as a ‘go-to’ trial lawyer make her an excellent addition to our Houston office and global Litigation Group,” said Noelle Reed, head of Skadden’s Houston office and its litigation team. “Michelle has led some of the highest-profile energy disputes in the country, and her business-oriented approach to litigation is an ideal fit for the firm and our clients.”
Ms. Scheffler said, “Skadden’s robust and diverse work across the energy sector, along with its leading Litigation Group, attracted me to the firm. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in Houston and across the globe to help clients address their most challenging legal issues.”
Eric Otness, head of Skadden’s Corporate Group in Houston, stated, “As the energy sector continues to undergo extraordinary changes resulting from energy transition, regulatory factors and consolidation, Michelle’s experience will further enhance our capabilities and ensure we are well positioned to serve our clients as they face an evolving landscape.”
Ms. Scheffler earned her B.S. from the University of Houston, summa cum laude, and her J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center, magna cum laude. Selected to the Order of the Barons, she also served as the notes and comments editor for the Houston Law Review. Recognized as a leading litigator in her field, Ms. Scheffler is ranked in Chambers USA, The Legal 500 and Texas Super Lawyers.