Loading...
In a move to address a vacancy in the bustling Houston, Texas, bankruptcy court, a former partner from Weil, Gotshal & Manges has been nominated, following the resignation of a judge last year amidst a scandal involving undisclosed relationships, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Want to know if you’re earning what you deserve? Find out with LawCrossing’s salary surveys.
Background Check Underway for Alfredo Perez
Alfredo Perez, who retired from Weil’s partnership in 2023, is currently undergoing a rigorous background check process as part of his candidacy for a position in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. Sources reveal that he was selected as a potential candidate by the 5th U.S. Circuit Judicial Council.
Extensive Experience in Complex Restructurings
Get JD Journal in Your Mail
Subscribe to our FREE daily news alerts and get the latest updates on the most happening events in the legal, business, and celebrity world. You also get your daily dose of humor and entertainment!!
Perez brings with him a wealth of experience, having previously managed Weil’s Houston office and participated in intricate restructuring cases, including those involving Lehman Brothers, the city of Detroit, and American Airlines.
Filling the Void Left by Judge David Jones
If appointed, Perez would fill the vacancy left by the resignation of former judge David Jones. Jones stepped down amidst revelations of a longstanding undisclosed romantic relationship with a lawyer whose firm frequently appeared before him, creating ethical concerns.
Selection Process and Background Investigation
Bankruptcy court judges are appointed to 14-year terms, with a thorough selection process involving recommendations from a committee and subsequent vetting by the Judicial Council. This process includes an exhaustive background investigation that spans several months.
No Final Decision Yet
Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane of the Southern District of Texas emphasized that while a candidate is progressing through the vetting process, no final decision has been made. He declined to confirm or deny any names at this juncture.
Professional Background and Associations
Perez, a graduate of the University of Chicago Law School, has been actively involved in legal and restructuring associations. He is a Fellow of the American College of Bankruptcy and has previously chaired the Bankruptcy Section of the Houston Bar Association.
Whether you’re a recent law school grad or an experienced attorney, BCG Attorney Search has the job for you.
Expected Role in the Southern District of Texas
It is anticipated that Perez will join the complex case panel in the Southern District of Texas, which assigns large bankruptcy cases to a select few judges. Presently, the panel comprises Christopher Lopez and Marvin Isgur.
Conclusion of Misconduct Complaint
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals initiated a misconduct complaint against Jones, citing probable cause of ethical violation due to the nondisclosure of his relationship. However, the investigation was terminated upon Jones’ resignation. Jones was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.
