PEC retains counsel to investigate former law firm

Press release from the PEC Feb. 20, 2009

MEDIA CONTACT: Anne Harvey, (830) 868-4933; Austin line, (512) 219-2602

Johnson City, Tx -- Pedernales Electric Cooperative has retained Jimmy Williamson, principal of Houston law firm Williamson & Rusnak, to spearhead an investigation of the Cooperative’s former legal partner, Clark, Thomas & Winters. Williamson will probe Clark, Thomas & Winters on issues revealed by the Navigant Consulting investigation report made public in December 2008.

The investigation will focus, among other things, on questionable payments made by Clark, Thomas & Winters while the firm served as counsel for PEC. Williamson’s firm also will develop and recommend possible actions the Cooperative can take to protect its members’ interests.

“We conducted a thorough search to find the right representative to lead this investigation,” said PEC Interim General Counsel Luis A. Garcia. “Williamson’s experience in complex commercial litigation convinced us he was the best choice for the job. We look forward to working with him to secure PEC a favorable resolution of this matter."

Williamson’s firm has more than 30 years of experience in the area of legal negligence and malpractice. The firm practices throughout Texas and also has handled cases in New York, Florida, Louisiana and California. Williamson has been a member of the State Bar of Texas since 1978 and has been named a Texas Super Lawyer for the last five years.

“In taking this action, PEC is upholding its fiduciary responsibility to the membership,” said PEC General Manager Juan Garza. “I am satisfied this is a strong choice for the Cooperative at this time, and we welcome the experience and expertise Mr. Williamson will bring to the table.”