Hartford – September 11, 2026 -- Shipman & Goodwin LLP has expanded into Dallas, Texas, adding restructuring partners Rachael L. Smiley and Megan F. Clontz to its Workout, Restructure and Bankruptcy Practice Group.
Firm Adds Dallas Office to Strengthen National Bankruptcy Practice
The move follows Shipman's recent expansion into Boston and gives the firm a physical presence in one of the busiest U.S. jurisdictions for bankruptcy filings. The Northeast-based full-service firm now operates offices throughout the region plus Dallas.
Two Partners Join From Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC
Smiley and Clontz arrive from Dallas-based Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC, where they represented debtors, secured and unsecured creditors, and other stakeholders in Chapter 11 proceedings, related litigation, and out-of-court workouts. Smiley will serve as Partner-in-Charge of the new Dallas office and brings nearly 20 years of experience across Chapter 11 reorganization work. Clontz focuses on business reorganizations, restructurings, and debtor and creditor rights litigation across Chapters 7, 11, and 13, as well as non-bankruptcy insolvency matters.
Leadership Cites Growing Distressed-Asset Activity as Driver
"Bringing Rachael and Megan on board, and establishing our presence in Dallas, reflects our firm's ongoing commitment to strategic, thoughtful growth," said Leander A. Dolphin, Shipman's Managing Partner. Eric S. Goldstein, Chair of the firm's Workout, Restructure and Bankruptcy Practice Group, said the hires enhance the practice's depth as distressed-asset activity continues to grow nationally.