News Summary
Jeff Oldham, a highly regarded appellate lawyer, has joined the Austin law firm Jackson Walker as the firmwide chair of the appellate practice. His addition follows the arrival of former Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht, marking a significant strengthening of the firm’s appellate capabilities. With extensive experience, including serving as General Counsel for Governor Greg Abbott, Oldham is set to enhance Jackson Walker’s reputation as a leading legal entity in Texas. The firm aims to continue delivering exceptional results in appellate law under Oldham’s leadership.
Texas Welcomes Acclaimed Lawyer to Enhance Legal Team
Jeff Oldham has officially joined Jackson Walker, one of Texas’s largest law firms, as a partner in their Austin and Houston offices. He will lead the firmwide appellate practice, further strengthening the legal team’s capabilities. Oldham’s addition comes on the heels of the hiring of former Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht, who previously served as chair of the appellate group before returning to the bench on Houston’s First Court of Appeals.
Oldham is widely recognized as one of Texas’s leading appellate lawyers. He graduated first in his class from the Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law and has extensive experience in the field, having successfully argued cases before both the U.S. Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of Texas. His legal background also includes clerking for Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist at the United States Supreme Court and providing strategic legal counsel as the General Counsel to Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
Background on Jackson Walker and Its Leadership Changes
Oldham’s appointment follows a notable change in leadership within the appellate section of Jackson Walker. Former chair Justice Jennifer Caughey led the group from 2019 to 2025, and her departure, along with Hecht’s transition, has opened the door for new leadership that promises to elevate the firm’s appellate initiatives.
Jackson Walker, founded in 1887, is a powerhouse in the Texas legal landscape, boasting over 500 attorneys and earning recognition as an “elite law firm” by industry peers. The firm’s trial group comprises approximately 30% of its total attorneys, marking it as one of the largest in the Southwest.
Oldham’s Expertise and Commitment
The move to Jackson Walker is seen as a strategic enhancement to the firm’s appellate section. Oldham’s recognized legal prowess and extensive experience in appellate courts across the nation are expected to boost the firm’s already impressive standing. C. Wade Cooper, the firmwide Managing Partner, expressed excitement over Oldham’s inclusion, highlighting his exceptional background as a significant asset for the firm.
Additionally, W. Ross Forbes, Jr., the chair of the Trial & Appellate Litigation section, acknowledged Oldham’s noteworthy reputation within the legal community, reinforcing the positive impact he is expected to have at Jackson Walker.
Personal Background of Jeff Oldham
Oldham holds a B.S.B.A. summa cum laude from the University of Tulsa and a J.D. magna cum laude, Order of the Coif, from Northwestern University, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence. His legal journey is marked by high-profile cases and strategic litigation management, underscoring his commitment to delivering top-tier legal services.
As Oldham transitions into his new role, he emphasizes the collaborative nature of Jackson Walker and its longstanding roots in Texas. His newfound position is poised to play a critical role in shaping the firm’s future direction, particularly in enhancing its appellate practice.
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