Overview
Steptoe’s White-Collar Criminal Defense Group has been named a Law360 White-Collar Group of the Year. This marks the third time since 2012 the group has been recognized with the award. In a profile published February 4, the editors highlight some of the group’s successes over the past year including a landmark acquittal for David Rainey, the highest ranking BP executive charged in the fatal 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster.
“Everyone pitched in for the three years we represented Dave, gained a deep understanding of the facts. And the case was so much more than the four days we had in trial. It was a real lawyer's case. There were real legal issues, constitutional issues we litigated successfully. I think it really showcased our team,” says practice head Brian Heberlig.
Steptoe's white-collar practice has defended government officials and corporate executives such as former WorldCom CEO Bernie Ebbers, ex-Enron Chief Accounting Officer Richard Causey and former Tyco general counsel Mark Belnick. Even with all that experience, Mr. Heberlig says they felt a rare weight with Rainey's case.
“This one was unique and, frankly, a lot of pressure,” Mr. Heberlig says. “He was a client who we felt strongly was completely innocent of any wrongdoing. And yet when the federal government turns its sights on you, it can be scary — and juries are unpredictable. Going to trial in any case is a risk.”
The full profile can be read at Law360 (subscription required).
