Julie Hardin is the first lateral partner to join Reed Smith’s new Houston office since the firm announced the initial group of 12 partners in February. Hardin, who was previously a partner at Fulbright & Jaworski, will practice in the firm’s life sciences health industry and energy and natural resources groups.
The 1999 graduate of The University of Texas School of Law is a trial lawyer with experience representing Fortune 100 companies and small-cap entrepreneurs, including businesses in the medical device, pharmaceutical and energy industries.
Carol Loepere, chair of Reed Smith’s life sciences health industry practice group, noted in a statement that Hardin has built a strong reputation as a go-to litigator in complex energy matters.
In addition to her trial practice, Ms. Hardin frequently serves as lead counsel assisting clients, particularly investment firms, in evaluating the litigation risks presented by proposed acquisitions and advising on strategies to mitigate and prevent potential litigation.
Prior to her time at Fulbright & Jaworski, Hardin was a briefing attorney for Justice Deborah Hankinson.
Reed Smith’s Houston office has expanded in the past month to 21 lawyers. The office now has 13 partners from the local offices of seven firms.