Jones Walker Expands Leadership with Election of 12 New Partners

On January 8, 2026, Jones Walker LLP officially announced a significant advancement in its firm leadership by electing 12 new partners and securing the reelection of Richard Cortizas and Rivers Lelong to its board of directors for another four-year term starting January 1. This strategic move highlights the firm’s commitment to cultivating legal talent and enhancing its operational capabilities across various practice areas.

Jones Walker’s managing partner, Bill Hines, expressed enthusiasm about the newly elected partners, stating, "These individuals bring substantial experience that enhances our practice areas and teams throughout the firm. Their dedication to excellence and client value is truly commendable. Additionally, I look forward to continuing our important work with Richard and Rivers on the firm’s board, where their leadership continues to guide us strategically."

New Partners at Jones Walker

Among the newly elected partners, the firm celebrates a diverse array of talents and backgrounds:

- Tiffany Dupree: Functioning within the Labor & Employment Practice Group, Tiffany specializes in regulatory matters and commercial complexities, specifically regarding OSHA compliance and contractual negotiations.
- Lauren Rose: Based in the Miami office as part of the Maritime Practice Group, Lauren is a former prosecutor who handles litigation for the world’s largest cruise lines and excels in appellate matters across state and federal levels.
- T. Gregory Schafer: Within the New Orleans office, Greg represents clients in toxic tort cases and has considerable experience in healthcare liability disputes, serving as lead counsel in numerous trials.
- Giles Detwiler (Det) Beal, IV: He advises on corporate transactions, specializing in startups and working with entrepreneurs across various industries, including healthcare and technology.
- Shawn J. Daray: Co-leading the clean energy sector at the firm, Shawn’s work focuses on federal tax matters related to economic development, benefiting clients in oil, gas, and energy sectors.
- Katherine Herbert: Concentrating on mergers and acquisitions, Katie assists clients in navigating complex corporate matters affecting public and private companies.
- Sara B. Kuebel: Sara’s expertise in maritime litigation supports her dynamic role as an advisor in various disputes, alongside her teaching role at LSU Law.
- Robert A. Mahtook, III: Robbie’s impressive framework for real estate transactions emphasizes renewable energy and infrastructure projects, promoting sustainable developments.
- Zachary T. Montgomery: Zach focuses on private equity and mergers, providing guidance on strategic corporate transactions.
- Samantha A. Oppenheim: With a focus on bankruptcy and restructuring, Samantha’s practice involves representing parties in mass tort Chapter 11 cases nationwide.
- Bradley E. Sands: Engaged with the construction team, Brad offers legal advice throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring compliance and successful contractual outcomes.
- Lauren V. Tarver-Tatman: Serving as bond counsel, Lauren specializes in public finance procedures related to municipal bond issues.

Overall, these promotions illustrate Jones Walker’s strategic approach to fostering talent and leadership within its ranks. The firm, recognized as one of the 140 largest law firms in the United States, boasts a well-established presence with offices across several states, providing comprehensive legal services to a wide range of clients, from multinational corporations to emerging enterprises.

Whether serving clients in labor, maritime, environmental law, or corporate mergers, the newly elected partners of Jones Walker are set to enhance the firm’s capabilities, ensuring that it delivers exceptional legal services while navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape. As the firm continues to grow in stature and expertise, the unwavering commitment to client success remains its core mission, solidifying its position as a leader in the legal sector.