Dallas, TX, May 16, 2011 – Winstead PC continues on its aggressive hiring path with the addition of Shareholder John T. Mitchell, an attorney who also brings to the firm extensive experience in oil and gas transactional matters and asset–based lending. Mitchell will work out of Winstead's Dallas office and is the eighth attorney to join Winstead's energy and environmental practice group since January 2011. He brings more than 30 years of experience representing clients in both the oil and gas industry and in asset–based lending and was previously a partner with K&L Gates LLP.

Mitchell's unique experience covers oil and gas related transactions as well as commercial asset-based lending transactions. Mitchell has represented both buyers and sellers of oil and gas properties in Texas, New Mexico, the Gulf Region, the Rockies and the North Sea and has also represented exploration and production companies in negotiating and documenting joint ventures, exploration and participation agreements, operating agreement matters, gas gathering and sales agreements and other operational matters. His work in the asset-based lending area includes representing senior lenders in leveraged buyouts and assisting secured creditors with workouts and restructurings.

Mitchell joins Winstead's strong team of energy and environmental attorneys working in Austin, The Woodlands, Houston, Fort Worth, Dallas and Washington D.C., representing local and national clients. His extensive background in oil and gas transactions and financial transactions and workouts greatly compliments the firm's highly accomplished energy and environmental team.

Since graduating from the University of Texas and receiving his J.D. from Harvard Law School, Mitchell has excelled in his legal career and contributed to his community and his profession. He is active in the State Bar of Texas and the Dallas Bar Association.

Winstead is among the largest business law firms in Texas. Winstead attorneys and consultants serve as trusted advisors to mid-market and large businesses, providing a core range of legal services that are critical to their operation and success. From its well-known reputation in real estate and financial services to its corporate and high-stakes litigation practice, Winstead delivers practical knowledge and responsive service. And it's all backed by a get-it-done attitude. Winstead has offices in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and The Woodlands, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina and Washington, D.C. For detailed information about Winstead, visit www.winstead.com.