Biography

Hugh Tanner is a highly regarded lead trial attorney focused on complex commercial litigation, primarily within the oil and gas sector. Hugh also guides clients through federal grand jury inquiries and challenging internal investigations.

As an excellent legal strategist and negotiator, Hugh excels in dispute resolution and counseling clients in contentious litigation, including “bet the company” lawsuits. He offers clients more than 30 years of experience managing lawsuits within state and federal jurisdictions and arbitration settings. His extensive involvement in oil and gas litigation includes regularly representing oilfield services companies and other entities within the industry. Notably, Hugh played a pivotal role as lead trial counsel for the world’s largest oilfield services corporation during the extensive Deepwater Horizon legal proceedings, securing a complete dismissal for the client at the close of the plaintiffs’ case.

Hugh’s litigation experience includes a diverse range of cases including breach of contract, product liability, business torts, partnership and joint venture disputes, wrongful death and personal injury claims, construction litigation, securities disputes, common law and statutory fraud cases, trade secrets conflicts, bankruptcy-related matters, and international disputes. His appellate experience includes presenting arguments before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and before the Texas appellate courts. Beyond litigation, Hugh counsels corporate boards and management, advising on issues of risk management, disputes, litigation strategies, and corporate governance.

Hugh has been recognized as an Acritas Star Lawyer, a BTI Client Service All-Star, a Law360 Environmental MVP, and among The Best Lawyers in America. Lawdragon has also recognized him among their 500 Leading Lawyers in America, and the Houston Business Journal listed him as part of Who’s Who in Energy.

Prior to joining Jackson Walker, Hugh served as chair of the oil and gas litigation practice for an international law firm, and as a member of that firm’s executive committee.

Outside of his legal career, Hugh has a deep passion for youth baseball and softball. He has served on the Little League International Board of Directors for more than 10 years, and as Chairman since 2018.

Education

B.B.A., University of Mississippi
J.D., University of Mississippi School of Law

Bar Admissions

Texas