Burleson LLP, the largest full-service law firm in the country devoted specifically to the oil and gas sector, announced today that it has opened a new location in Midland, Texas to serve companies with interests in the Permian Basin. Frank Hunold, who has practiced law for more than two decades, will serve as its managing partner.

The Midland location is the fourth office Burleson has established outside of Houston since opening in 2005. The firm also has offices in Pittsburgh, San Antonio, and Denver and collectively employs more than 130 attorneys who counsel clients on a full range of oil and gas matters. In Midland, Burleson will initially occupy temporary space at 201 West Wall Street and has plans to occupy the entire fourth floor of the Midland Tower at 223 West Wall Street in early 2013. Midland Tower is currently being modified by MT223, LLC.

Managing Partner Rick Burleson said that companies operating in the region will benefit from the firm’s broad geographic reach and vast experience in issues related to oil and gas exploration.

“As the only energy law firm with attorneys on the ground in all key producing areas of the United States, we have significant experience in matters impacting the Permian Basin and understand the distinct issues facing companies investing in unconventional energy,” he explained. “This region is playing a critical role in the future of domestic oil and gas production, and the nation’s goal of energy independence.

Hunold, whose background includes working as in-house counsel and with top-tier law firms, added, “Burleson has built a reputation for delivering clients the most seasoned energy-specific legal services team the industry has to offer. Midland companies like to do business with local firms and now Burleson can be counted among the top law firms here in Midland.”

Hunold concentrates his practice in corporate and commercial transactions. He is experienced in mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures; corporate governance; and a broad range of oil and gas agreements.

The Midland office will focus almost exclusively on oil and gas law including title examinations, acquisitions, divestitures, environmental, water issues and litigation.

The Permian Basin, which is located in West Texas and in portions of New Mexico, has grown to become one of the most active oil producing regions in the United States. With the introduction of new technologies that allow exploration and production companies to tap formations that were once inaccessible, the number of rigs drilling in the basin has increased five-fold in three years. More than a quarter of all rigs operating in the United States are now located in the region.

In addition to the Permian Basin, Burleson also represents clients in the Barnett, Bakken, Eagle Ford, Fayetteville, Haynesville, Marcellus, Mississippi Lime, Niobrara, Utica, and Woodford formations.

www.burlesonllp.com