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Risk-reward equation was used in building oil well in Gulf of Mexico, BP worker testifies
photo: AP, Reuters
By: David Hilzenrath, Joel Achenbach
AP. Washington Post
August 27, 2010
Cocales said he was weighing engineering risks associated with alternative approaches, and he thought less risk was associated with the course BP took. At the time, he said, he thought the "worst-case scenario" was that BP would have to do remediation work on the well, not that safety would be jeopardized, he testified Friday.
Philip Hilder assists firm client Brett Cocales at Coast Guard and Interior Department hearing, August 27, 2010.
Legal Tactics Emerging at Oil Hearings
photo:yahoo news, AP
By: Ben Casselman, Russle Gold
Wall Street Journal
August 29, 2010
HOUSTON-For five days last week, federal investigators grilled witnesses to answer key questions about the disastrous explosion of the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig: Why did it happen? How can we make sure it never happens again? But in their questions to witnesses, lawyers for the companies under scrutiny, focused on testimony that might answer another question: Who will pay?
Attorney Philip Hilder assists firm client Brett Cocales during his testimony to the Coast Guard and Interior Department
BP engineer defends decision on cement job
photo: yahoo news, Reuters
By: Tom Fowler and Brett Clayton
Houston Chronicle
April 27, 2010
A BP drilling engineer said Friday he doesn't believe a much scrutinized decision about the Macondo well's cement job posed a threat to the safety of the crew aboard the Deepwater Horizon rig. Under questioning by his lawyer, Philip Hilder, Cocales also countered an assertion during testimony earlier in the week by Halliburton cementer Jesse Gagliano, who said he recommended 21 centralizers. Cocales said that figure was used in a computer model of cementing plans because there were already six centralizers on the rig and BP could only get another 15 out to the rig in short order. Hilder also asked Cocales about a comment he made in one of his e-mails about the "risk/reward" balance. "It is a term that refers to economics?" Hilder asked. No, Cocales said. "It's a term I've used for years, saying what are the pros and cons of a decision."
Philip Hilder talks to abc13 news about Clemens arraignment
August 29, 2010/abc13 news
Officials at the federal courthouse in Washington, D.C., say that seven-time Cy Young winner Roger Clemens will be arraigned on Monday afternoon on criminal charges.The former pitcher will appear before U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton for allegedly lying to Congress about his use of steroids. Philip Hilder talks to abc13 news about the case.
Clemens faces feds' favorite tactic
By: David Barron
Houston Chronicle
August 19, 2010
In the wake of an indictment for perjury Thursday, Roger Clemens must defend himself against a statute that one prominent defense attorney says prosecutors are employing in the same fashion that they once used tax evasion, the crime that put Al Capone behind bars in the 1930s. Clemens is almost certain to testify, according to Houston attorney Philip Hilder."It will come down to his credibility," Hilder said.
U.S. Supreme Court sides with Enron ex-CEO Jeff Skilling
740 KTRH Radio/Fox June 25, 2010
Philip Hilder was asked to appear on News Radio to provide legal commentary regarding the U.S. Supreme Courts decision regarding ex-Enron CEO Skilling
Philip Hilder speaks to ABC13 High court sides with ex-Enron CEO Skilling
June 24, 2010
WASHINGTON -- The Supreme Court on Thursday sharply curtailed prosecutors' use of an anti-fraud law that was central in convicting politicians and corporate executives in many of the nation's most prominent corruption cases. The ex-CEO of disgraced energy giant Enron and a Canadian media mogul, both in prison, are among the figures who could benefit from the ruling.
Philip Hilder speaks to FOX26 News: Supreme Court Reduces Enron
CEO's Sentence
June 24, 2010
Ford Atkinson
HOUSTON - The U.S. Supreme Court handed Enron CEO Jeff Skilling a legal victory Thursday.Ruling prosecutors erred when they used the "honest services" law to help convict him.The high court, however, did not overturn Skilling's conviction for his role in the Enron scandal because prosecutors used additional laws to win the conviction
James Rytting speaks to Fox26 News regarding an appellate case
May 20, 2010
Fort Bend County killer may be executed tonight
By: Allan Turner
Houston Chronicle
April 27, 2010
In rejecting Bustamante's 11th hour appeal, the state court asserted that he had failed to adequately establish that he is mentally retarded. James Rytting, one of Bustamante's attorneys said he will seek the Supreme Courts intervention on Bustamante's behalf but acknowledged that the best shot at saving his client had been instate court.
Inmate 'who liked to kill' set for execution Tuesday
By Allan Turner
Houston Chronicle April 26, 2010
This morning the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals rejected an appeal based on the assertion that Bustamante is mildly mentally retarded. The killer's attorney Philip Hilder argued that his client has an overall IQ of 71 and should be spared death under the U.S. Supreme Court's 2002 ruling in Atkins vs. Virginia. In that landmark decision the high court held that executing mentally retarded killers violates the Eighth Amendment's ban against cruel and unusual punishment.
Seeks delay from court. A second attorney for Bustamante, James Rytting, said they'll now ask U.S. Supreme Court to intervene. A petition to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles also has been filed, he said. Hilder argued that Bustamante's abusive childhood might have been a factor in his retardation, and offered comments from the killer's former common-law wife that he had been childlike and unable to care for himself. When sad or angered, the woman told a Baylor College of Medicine clinical neuropsychologist, Bustamante would roll into a fetal position and cry. In a terse dismissal of Bustamante's appeal, the state appeals court noted that the lawyers failed to adequately establish mental retardation. "It looks as if the state of Texas is going to execute a mentally retarded man," Rytting.
Casino Jack and the United States of Money
Released May 7, 2010.
The documentary of Washington super lobbyist Jack Abramoff is the story of political corruption, and of the most far-reaching Congressional political scandal in decades. Hilder & Associates, P.C. represented Tom Rodgers, the whistleblower that shed the spotlight on Mr. Abramoff. Mr. Rodgers is featured prominently in the documentary. Casino Jack is directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney.
Former MHMRA Psychologist Leddy Convicted of Fraud
By Paul Knight
April 24, 2010 HairBalls Blog
A former psychologist with the Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County, who evaluated defendants in close to 1,000 criminal cases during his time with the agency, recently pled guilty to Medicaid fraud. Matthew Leddy, the psychologist, received a 30-day jail sentence and was required to pay $228,747.81 in restitution to the state, according to a representative with the Attorney General's office, the agency that prosecuted Leddy. He was also sentenced to 340 hours of community service and had to pay another $10,000 in fines. "I think it was a favorable resolution for all parties," Philip Hilder, (Hilder and Associates, P.C.) Leddy's attorney, tells Hair Balls. "[Leddy] has made restitution and would like to just move on with his life."
CNBC Airs Smartest Guys in the Room
April 1, 2010
ENRON: The Smartest Guys in the Room is the inside story of one of America's greatest business scandals, in which top executives of the country's seventh largest company walked away with more than $1 billion while investors and employees lost everything. The story begins in 1985 when Enron was formed through the merger of Houston Natural Gas and InterNorth, the Omaha, Neb. natural gas company. By 2000, the company had grown into the largest natural gas merchant in North America, eventually branching out into trading other commodities, including water, coal and steel. Meanwhile, Jeff Skilling is named CEO, and the company stock skyrockets.
But when Enron's sleight of hand accounting and unethical trading eventually meet the realities of balance sheets that don't balance and products that don't exist, unwitting employees whose financial futures are anchored to the Enron ship watch in horror as it quickly sinks. Philip H. Hilder, attorney for Enron whistle blower Sharron Watkins, is featured in the film about his client and their experiences.
Read full article
Watch the video
Texas killer gets a pass on death row
By PEGGY O'HARE
Published: Houston Chronicle
A federal district court ruled this week that a Houston man on Texas death row for 20 years for killing his boss during a robbery was not mentally competent to stand trial back in 1990 and ordered his release within 180 days unless the Harris County District Attorney's Office plans to retry him. Lawyers for Aldridge, also known as Salim El-Anwar Shabazz, called the ruling an< "extraordinary development" that is "highly unusual." "It really is amazing after being on death row for 20 years to finally have a court listen and evaluate what should have been considered initially," Aldridge's appellate attorney, Philip Hilder, said Friday. "The heart of the ruling is that Mr. Aldridge was never competent to stand trial."
The Second Annual National Institute on Internal Corporate Investigations and Forum for In-House Counsel
May 5-7, 2010, St. Regis Hotel, Washington, D.C.
Philip H. Hilder moderated the Panel "Proactive vs. Reactive Compliance Programs".
Rulford Garfield Aldridge
On March 17, 2010, death row client, Rulford Garfield Aldridge, had his conviction overturned by the Federal Court because of his initial incompetency to stand trial due to mental illness. The Court granted the Firm's Writ of Habeas Corpus petition and ordered Mr. Aldridge released from custody unless the State of Texas instituted new criminal proceedings. Mr. Aldridge has been on death row for 20 years. Mr. Aldridge, one of the longest serving death row inmates, was sentenced to death in 1990 for capital murder. No prior court had fully explored Mr. Aldridge's mental state and competence to stand trial. Firm attorney James Rytting was able to establish that Mr. Aldridge was never competent to stand trial. Click here to see Memorandum Opinion and Order and Final Judgment.
Federal Bar Association Conference
Philip Hilder was asked to participate in a panel discussion on Healthcare Fraud at the Federal Law Conference 2010, presented by the Hidalgo County Bar Association and the Federal Bar Association, Southern District of Texas, April 8 & 9, 2010, McAllen, Texas.
Enron ex-CEO Jeff Skilling's appeal before U.S. Supreme Court
740 KTRH Radio/Fox March 1, 2010
Philip Hilder was asked to appear on News Radio to provide legal commentary regarding Enron's ex-CEO Jeff Skilling's appeal that was heard before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Murdoch's Losses on Supermarket Coupons Near "Avatar" Earnings
By Linda Sandler, Sarah Rabil and Bob Van Voris
Published: BusinessWeek March 3, 2010
Rupert Murdoch, who may have spent the equivalent of the projected earnings of News Corp.'s hit movie "Avatar" to settle lawsuits against his supermarket-coupon unit, risks losing millions more at a trial over alleged anti-competitive behavior by the same business. Hilder and Associates' client, Robert Emmel, in a taped deposition played at the Valassis trial, stated that News Corp. allegedly offered Eckerd Corp. $4.5 million in guaranteed income over three years to join its "Price Pop" program. Emmel has aided News Corp. competitors with his testimony. Philip Hilder, a lawyer for Emmel, declined to comment.
Interim U.S. attorney for Houston named
By: Mary Flood
Published: February 10, 2010 Houston Chronicle
Interim U.S. Attorney for the Houston Region named. Houston Chronicle February 10, 2010. Angel Moreno, a Laredo based assistant U.S. Attorney, has been named the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas. Philip Hilder, a former Federal prosecutor in Houston, said he went to trial against Moreno in Brownsville on the case of Juan Garza, who was later executed by the Federal government. "Moreno is an excellent selection. He is smart and methodical and will be a good people manager," Hilder said.
Former Willbros executives get prison in bribery case
By: MARY FLOOD
Published: January 29, 2010 Houston Chronicle.
Ex-Willbros Executives Get Prison for Bribery. Nigerian officials were paid six (6) million dollars to win pipeline contract. Page 1, Business Section. U.S. District Judge Sim Lake sentenced client Jim Bob Brown to a year and a day in prison for violating the Foreign Corrupt Practice Act. Firm attorney, Philip H. Hilder, was co-counsel.
Breaking Jack Abramoff
By Jerry Reynolds
Published: January 29, 2010
Indian Country Today ran a story on discredited Washington lobbyist, Jack Abramoff, being exposed by whistleblower Tom Rodgers. Rodgers' attorney, Philip H. Hilder in Houston, noted that even the DOJ had been polarized during the Abramoff years, though he withheld judgment as to whether politics had any bearing on the DOJ's Abramoff investigations. More will be known when the Department finishes its investigation; Hilder said Rodgers hired Hilder because he would need a guide through the legal and political minefield that might lie in wait. Hilder represented Sherron Watkins, the whistleblower in the Enron bankruptcy and corporate corruption case.
The man who blew the whistle on Jack Abramoff tells the story of how he did it
By: Susan Crabtree
Published: January 26, 2010 The Hill
Cover story of The Hill profiles "The Man Who Blew the Whistle on Jack Abramoff Tells the Story on How He Did It." Tom Rodgers was instrumental in shining the light on one of Washington's biggest scandals. Rodgers decided to hire a respected lawyer. Houston attorney Philip Hilder had represented Sherron Watkins, the whistleblower in the Enron case. Hilder cautioned Rodgers to lay low - or face the consequences. "I judge him to be quite credible, but I also know the realities of Washington - that if he would have reared his head, it would have been decapitated," Hilder says.
Documentaries generate buzz at Sundance
By: By RICK WARNER
Published :January 23, 2010
Sundance Film Festival. A client of Hilder & Associates, P.C., is featured in a documentary appearing at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary, Casino Jack and The United States of Money, is a portrait of Washington super lobbyist, Jack Abramoff. The client, Tom Rodgers, was the whistleblower who exposed Abramoff resulting in one of the largest Congressional scandals in history. Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney is the director and screenwriter. The film will be released for general circulation in May.
U.S. attorney jobs filled at a slow pace
By Mary Flood
Published: Jan. 10, 2010, 11:40AM
U.S. Attorney Jobs Filled at Slow Pace. Houston Chronicle, February 10, 2010. "The U.S. Attorney isn't just a figure head, he or she is a decision-maker. The business of law enforcement isn't reaching its full potential here without a Presidentially appointed U.S. Attorney," said Philip Hilder, a defense attorney, former Federal prosecutor and Democrat activist.
A Quiet Hell
By: Chris Vogel
Published December 17, 2009 Houston Press
Houston Press cover story week of December 17, 2009, special report: A Quite Hell. The report cites to lax enforcement by Texas authorities allowing plants along the Houston ship channel to launch tons of toxic gases into the air and face little penalty, even when they exceed pollution limits on a continuous basis. The law firm of Hilder & Associates, P.C. is one of the plaintiffs' counsel that filed a citizen's suit against Chevron Phillips Chemical under the Clean Air Act to hold the company accountable for pollution that they cause.
Imperial Sugar won't discuss its year-long probe of 2008 Port Wentworth refinery disaster
Published: November 11, 2009 Savanna Morning News
In October 2008, Imperial Sugar Co.'s board of directors assigned a committee to investigate last year's deadly inferno at its local plant. More than a year later, Imperial won't say whether the committee has filed a report, reached any conclusions - or even met.
The panel was told to look into the Feb. 7, 2008, explosions and fire that killed 14 people and injured many more at Imperial's Port Wentworth refinery. Philip Hilder, a lawyer for several present or former company officials, said any conclusions the panel reaches are "essentially irrelevant." He noted that investigations by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the U.S. Chemical Safety Board have concluded. Both agencies blamed Imperial for the disaster.
Former Sheriff Gets More Time at Home
KRGV October 28, 2009
Starr County's former sheriff will get more time locked down at home, rather than in a prison cell.
Reymundo Guerra's lawyer, Philip Hilder, tells us Guerra was expected to begin his prison sentence today. The ex-sheriff was sentenced to more than
Former Imperial exec says Imperial quit shutting down local plant for annual upkeep
Published: October 26, 2009 Savanna Morning News
Imperial Sugar Co. quit shutting down its local plant for annual upkeep because it cost too
much, a former Imperial executive says. Graham Graham testified this summer in connection with a federal investigation of the deadly Feb. 7, 2008, inferno at Imperial's Port Wentworth refinery. Maintenance and housekeeping are key issues in legal battles stemming from the disaster, which killed 14 people and hurt many more. Since July 2008, Graham has leveled many accusations against Imperial, which in turn has waged a campaign aimed at discrediting him. Graham said he didn't know when the practice was discontinued, but believed it was "a number of years" before he joined Imperial in late 2007. His attorney, Philip Hilder, said last week the most recent extended shutdown probably was "three or four years" earlier.
Fourth Annual National Institute on Securities Fraud
October 15-16, 2009 Ritz Carlton Washington, D.C.
Philip Hilder co chaired the Fourth National Annual Institute on Securities Fraud held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Washington, D.C. On October 15th, Philip Hider moderated the opening session of the second day of the National Institute on Securities Fraud pertaining to the Foreign Corrupt Practice Act (FCPA). Among the panelist was Mark Mendelsohn, Deputy Chief of US DOJ Fraud Section-Criminal Division, and Rose Romero, SEC Texas Regional Director.
ABC 13 Interview: Jeff Skilling's Appeal to be heard by Supreme Court
Philip Hilder was asked to provide analysis regarding the Supreme Courts decision to hear argument on former Enron Chief Executive Officer Jeff Skilling's appeal. Mr. Hilder represented the Enron whistleblower, Sherron Watkins, in the legal proceedings relating to the Enron collapse
Enron Interview
KTRH Radio Houston October 9, 2009
KTRH Radio Houston interviewed Philip H. Hilder for his analysis to the news that former Enron employees may receive disbursements of $23 million retrieved from executive bonuses distributed shortly before the Enron collapse. KTRH carried the interview live on its morning news show. Mr. Hilder represented Sherron Watkins, the Enron whistleblower, during the collapse.
Autopsy errors one more troubling trend
Published: October 6, 2009, Houston Chronicle
This Houston Chronicle spotlights cases that are problematic in the criminal justice system, particularly the Larry Swearingen case. Mr. Swearingen, represented by Hilder & Associates, P.C., is seeking relive from the death row for a murder conviction based in part on the erroneous testimony of the former Harris County Medical Examiner.
Deadline for ex-sheriff's prison term pushed back
Published: September 28, 2009 The Monitor
Former Starr County Sheriff Reymundo Guerra will have one more month before he must turn himself in to start his prison term. The ex-lawman was supposed to surrender to authorities Monday. But a U.S. district court judge postponed the date because the federal Bureau of Prisons has still not designated the facility where Guerra will serve out his sentence, his attorney Phillip Hilder said. Because he was a law enforcement official, special considerations must be made when deciding where to place him, Hilder said. Putting him in the general population of a prison with violent criminal offenders could make him a target for attacks and endanger his safety. "That's just one of many factors the bureau has to take into account," he said.
Man condemned for drug dealer's slaying set to die
Published: September 16, 2009 AP/ Star Telegram
Convicted killer Stephen Moody was headed to the Texas death chamber Wednesday evening for a lethal injection for the shooting death of a Houston man during a robbery 18 years ago. Moody, 52, asked that no last-minute appeals be filed to try to block his execution, the 17th this year in the nation's busiest death penalty state. "We have to kind of sit on our hands," Moody's lawyer, Philip Hilder, said. "We wouldn't be normally doing that, but it is his wishes."
Standford to be represented by public defense
Published: September 15, 2009 ABC 13
Former federal prosecutor Philip Hilder says. "The problem comes in that the public defender's office won't have the proper resources in which to adequately defend a case like this," said Hilder.
Man condemned for drug dealer's slaying set to die
Published: September 15, 2009 AP, Houston Chronicle
After more than 15 years on Texas death row, Stephen Moody has had
enough. He's ready to die. "I understand the consequence of my crime," Moody, 52, said recently from a tiny visiting cage outside death row. "I made the decision to put myself here ... I don't blame my situation on anybody but myself." "It is his wishes and we have to honor them," his
lawyer, Philip Hilder, said.
Fourth Annual National Institute on Securities Fraud
October 15-16, 2009 Ritz Carlton Washington, D.C.
The end of 2008 and beginning of 2009 saw the financial markets collapse and administration change hands. Ponzi schemes are back, the FCPA is still hot, good old fashioned financial fraud seems unending, and the drumbeat for more prosecutions, stricter enforcement and stiffer penalties has never been louder. In response, the new teams at DOJ and SEC are already demonstrating renewed vigor and gearing up for aggressive enforcement in an effort to restore investor confidence. Gain valuable insights from the very best in the profession: judges, prosecutors, regulators, academics, compliance officers, and defense counsel, including Philip H. Hilder. Find out about what to expect next and how to prepare for these new developments in the ever present, headline-making area of securities fraud. The Fourth Annual National Institute on Securities Fraud will provide an in-depth, cutting-edge, and rewarding educational experience for all practitioners. Mr. Hilder is a member of the planning committee as well as a participant for this event.
Attorneys: Imperial Sugar Fired Key Witness
Published: September 11, 2009 Savanna Morning News
Imperial Sugar Co. fired a key witness shortly before she was due to testify about last year's deadly disaster at its local plant, two lawyers say. The issue surfaced Thursday in Chatham Plaintiffs attorney Brent Savage said Imperial axed deputy counsel Courtney McCaslin in May because she wouldn't fire her lawyer, Philip Hilder. Hilder said McCaslin told him she was ousted because she refused to fire Hilder. She was given a letter that stated that reason for her dismissal, Hilder said, adding that he was "not at liberty" to release it.
"They didn't want her to have independent counsel," he said. Hilder said McCaslin - involved in safety issues at Imperial - hired him last summer. "She said she wanted counsel not from the company," Hilder said. Hilder specializes in whistle-blower cases. He represents former Imperial executive Graham Graham, who testified against the company last summer in a U.S. Senate hearing. Graham also is a witness in the lawsuits and in an action against the company by the U.S.
Stanford executive pleads guilty to charges associated with alleged fraud
Published: August 28, 2009 Irish Times
James Davis, the second-highest ranking executive at the Stanford Financial Group, yesterday
pleaded guilty to charges connected with alleged $7 billion (€4.9 billion) fraud at the group.
Mr Davis (60), who made the plea in a co-operation agreement with authorities, was subdued as he pleaded "guilty, your honor" to three felony counts, including fraud and obstruction. He agreed to forfeit $1 billion. The charges against him carry a maximum prison term of 30 years.
Philip Hilder, who represented Enron whistleblower Sherron Watkins, said the authorities were "hanging a carrot" over Mr. Davis, implying "the more he co-operates, the more time he will get off'". Mr. Davis will not be sentenced until the case against Sir Allen has been tried, according to Mr. Hilder, so the authorities can judge how well he co-operated. Sir Allen has pleaded not guilty to all the allegations against
Interview with Philip Hilder on sentencing of Rey Guerra
Published: August 28, 2009 Action 4 News
Guerra walked out of the Federal Courthouse in McAllen after being sentenced to five years and four months in prison. Philip H. Hilder, Guerra's defense attorney, says Guerra accepted his responsibility and accepted the fact that he crossed the line and he is prepared to pay the price for that. "I think things went extremely well," Hilder told Action 4 News. "The sheriff is satisfied with the sentence given by the court and I'm satisfied as well that justice has been done. "The sentence comes after the 52-year old lawman pleaded guilty back in May to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Texas drug ring members sentenced to prison include sheriff, teacher
Published: August 28, 2009 The Associated Press
A former South Texas sheriff, represented by Philip Hilder, and a Houston elementary school teacher were among 11 people sentenced to prison Thursday for their role in a conspiracy that moved marijuana and cocaine from Mexico, through Houston and as far as Delaware.
Ex-sheriff handed 5 years in prison
Published: August 28, 2009 Express News
Former Starr County Sheriff Reymundo Guerra was sentenced Thursday to five years and four months in federal prison for helping Gulf Cartel operatives move marijuana and cocaine through his remote border county. "The sheriff was satisfied with the sentence," said defense attorney Philip Hilder. "As the judge said, even though he was high-profile, he had a minor role."
Ex-sheriff sentenced to five years for role in drug smuggling plot
Published: August 27, 2009 The Monitor
Reymundo "Rey" Guerra, represented by Philip Hilder, pleaded guilty to one count of drug trafficking conspiracy in May. The 52-year-old lawman - who resigned his post after his arrest - admitted to leaking sensitive law enforcement intelligence and bungling his own department's investigations in exchange for cash payments from one of Miguel Alemán's top narcotics smugglers. Guerra's 64-month sentence falls below the eight to 10 years recommended under federal sentencing guidelines, but Crane justified the departure by noting the minor role the sheriff played in the overall drug trafficking network and his willingness to aid federal investigators after his arrest.
Filling the gap: When the state won't take on a dirty job
Published: August 23, 2009 Houston Chronicle
The Houston Chronicle published this favorable opinion piece concerning Hilder & Associates clients, the Sierra Club and Environment Texas. These clients filed suit against Chevron Phillips Chemical to reduce emissions of air toxics at its Cedar Bayou chemical plant in Baytown. In court filings, the groups claim that since 2003 the plant has illegally released more than a million pounds of toxic, carcinogenic chemicals, including benzene and 1,3-butadiene. Most of the releases occurred during so-called "upsets," which occur during startups, shutdowns, and other non-routine activities.
Groups Sue to Reduce Admissions
Published: August 20, 2009 Houston Chronicle
On behalf of our clients, The Sierra Club and Environmental Texas, Hilder & Associates, P.C., along with the Environmental Defense Law Center, filed suit against Chevron Phillips alleging illegal pollution from "upset" events at its Cedar Bayou chemical plant in Baytown, Texas.
Environmental Groups Sue Chevron Phillips Over Texas Plant
Published: August 19, 2009 CNN Money
Environmental groups filed a federal lawsuit Wednesday against Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC alleging that its Cedar Bayou chemical plant near Houston has repeatedly violated the Clean Air Act. The Sierra Club and Environment Texas claimed the Baytown, Texas, plant has released more than a million pounds of excess air pollutants since 2003. The two sides plan to meet to discuss a settlement, said Philip Hilder, one of the attorneys representing the environmentalists. However, there is no guarantee that an agreement will be reached, Hilder said.
Psychologist's Fraud Arrest May Affect Trials He Testified In
Published: July, 14 2009 Hair Balls Blog
Matthew Leddy, a local psychologist, was arrested late last month for theft and Medicaid fraud, accused of billing for work that he didn't perform, according to articles in the Houston
Chronicle and the Conroe Courier. The articles don't mention, however, that Leddy was working for the Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County and testified in criminal trials. "We maintain that he's innocent of the charges, and we intend to prove that, "Hilder tells Hair Balls. "We think that the government's charges are reckless."
Feds strike at Medicare fraud in Houston Area
Published: July 12, 2009 Houston Chronicle
A Woodlands psychologist, Dr. Matthew Hamilton Leddy, turned himself into Montgomery County authorities the same day, accused of falsely billing for services for 67 patients that were never performed. Leddy, was released on $110,000 bond. His attorney, Philip Hilder of Houston, calls the Medicare fraud charges "outrageous," saying investigators are relying on statements from individuals with psychological problems.
US hard line over risk of flight keeps Stanford hands tied
Published: July 11, 2008 Financial Times FT.com UK
Sir Allen Stanford, who is accused of operating a $7bn Ponzi scheme, has spent the past three weeks handcuffed, shackled and confined to a cell at a detention centre 48 miles north of Houston, Texas. While awaiting trial on charges ranging from securities fraud to bribery, Sir Allen, sporting a bright orange suit, has only been allowed to speak to visitors - including his attorneys - through a protective glass barrier, under the watchful eyes of prison wardens. The court could yet determine conditions that would permit Sir Allen's release, other lawyers said, including restricting his movements to one county and forcing him to wear an electronic monitoring device. But Philip Hilder, who represented Enron whistleblower Sherron Watkins, said: "Unfortunately for him, it's a very high-profile case, and the government has taken a hardline stance.''
Reports: Little or no exit training for Sugar Workers
Published: July 10, 2000 Trading Markets.com
Imperial Sugar Co. failed to show many workers at its local plant how to escape during a fire prior to a 2008 tragedy that killed 14 people and injured many more, federal interview reports indicate. At least 20 of the dead and injured in the Feb. 8 incident suffered severe burns. Information on the lack of escape-route training came during interviews with workers conducted by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration after the explosions and fire at the Port Wentworth refinery. Graham Graham has testified that there was no evacuation plan or working fire alarm at Port Wentworth or at Gramercy when the local refinery blew up. Graham, a former Imperial vice president, is a key witness in lawsuits against the company and the OSHA case. His attorney, Philip Hilder, said Graham has no additional comment.
Psychologist Facing Medicaid Fraud
Published: July 1, 2009 Conroe Courier
A Woodlands psychologist is facing felony charges for Medicaid fraud and aggregate theft, but his attorney calls the allegations "outrageous."
Dr. Matthew Hamilton Leddy, 51, allegedly defrauded Medicaid by billing for unperformed services for more than 60 patients, according to his indictments handed down by a Montgomery County grand jury June 18.The names listed in the indictment are all patients of Leddy, who practices in the Houston metropolitan area, said Phillip Hilder, Leddy's attorney. Hilder denies the allegations by Medicaid and insists on Leddy's innocence.
"The allegations are reckless and irresponsible, and we intend to vigorously fight these outrageous claims," Hilder said.
More Indictments in Stanford Case: ABC interview with Philip Hilder
ABC Aired June 19, 2009
HOUSTON -- Brash Texas billionaire R. Allen Stanford was indicted and jailed Friday on charges his international banking empire was really just a Ponzi scheme built on lies, bluster and bribery. The Justice Department announced charges against Stanford and six others who allegedly helped the tycoon run a $7 billion swindle. At a court hearing in Richmond, Va., a federal judge agreed with prosecutors that Stanford poses a flight risk and ordered him to remain in custody until a future detention hearing in Houston. ABC 13 News interviews attorney Philip Hilder for his expert opinion on the case.
Philip Hilder is named a Top Lawyer for the Houston Area
June 2009
H Magazine has, once again, featured Philip H. Hilder in it Houston Area Top Attorneys issue. This is the seventh year in a row that Mr. Hilder has been recognized as a Houston Area Top Attorney.
Philip Hilder is named a Texas Super Lawyer
May 2009
Based on a statewide selection process, review of his credentials, and the evaluation of his peers, Philip Hilder has been selected as a 2009 Texas Super Lawyer. This is the eighth year in a Mr. Hilder has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer.
National Institute on Internal Corporate Investigators and In-House Counsel
May 6-8, 2009 Ritz Carlton Washington, DC
Philip Hilder gave a speech concerning whistleblowers and subtle retribution following Key Note speaker US Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr.
Who gets tough against companies polluting in Texas? Hint: It's not the state
Published: May 4, 2009 Houston Chronicle
Houston Chronicle Editorial supporting action taken on behalf of our clients Sierra Club and Environmental Texas to reduce emissions at a Shell Oil Co. refinery. Hilder & Associates, P.C. assisted in securing a $6 Million penalty against Shell for violation of the Clean Air Act.
Former Starr sheriff plead guilty
Published: May 1, 2009 The Monitor
Former Starr County Sheriff Reymundo "Rey" Guerra pleaded guilty Friday to one count of drug smuggling conspiracy, a week before his case was set to head to trial. "He feels that he's let down his family, friends and constituents." Guerra's attorney Philip Hilder said Friday. "He's deeply remorseful for that."
Shell agrees to settle TX refinery pollution suit
Published: April 23, 2009 Reuters
"Shell began talks with the (Sierra Club and Texas Environmental Group) as soon as it heard that the lawsuit would be filed in January 2008," said Houston attorney, Philip Hilder. " To Shells credit, they stepped up to the plate and immediately and took responsibility for it", Hilder said.
Attorneys: Whistleblower faked explosion warning
Published: April 20, 2009 AP BusinessWeek
Graham, who lives in Houston, referred questions to his attorney Philip Hilder, who called the accusation "a maneuver by Imperial Sugar to continuously smear Graham Harris Graham."
On the borderline of good and bad
Published: April 3, 2009 Los Angeles Times
Guerra's attorney, Philip Hilder, a former federal prosecutor and one-time area coordinator of the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, contends that the sheriff believed Hinojosa was working for "legitimate Mexican law enforcement."
HMC Analyst Questions Dismissal
Published: March 31, 2009 The Harvard Crimson
Ultimately it was Philip Hilder-the lawyer who had represented the Enron whistleblower Sherron Watkins in Congressional Hearings following the company's collapse-who secured the settlement from Harvard.
Long search looms in fraud claims
Published: March 30, 2009 Financial Times/The Peninsula
"If parties want to obscure the money trail, they can make it quite difficult," said Philip Hilder who's firm, Hilder & Associates, represented Sherron Watkins, the Enron whistleblower.
Retrial for man in wife's slaying starts Monday
Published: March 28, 2009 Houston Chronicle
"A reasonable jury could very well acquit Mr. Fratta of capital murder," said James Rytting, who represented Fratta on appeal
Stanford 'Is Not Madoff'
Published: March 26, 2009 BusinessWeek
The aggressive tack being taken by DeGuerin, attorney to Allen Stanford, is not uncharacteristic. Houston attorney Philip Hilder, former federal prosecutor and criminal defense lawyer, says : "Dick is very aggressive and thorough, and he will make the government work."
Stanford executive claims "improper" raid
Published: March 11, 2009 Financial Times
Lawyers are debating whether the authorities will soon bring any further Stanford-related charges. "I fully anticipate you will be seeing indictments for fraud shortly," said Philip Hilder of Hilder & Associates, P.C.
The Stanford Group
Aired February 19, 2009 ABC Eyewitness News
Fundamentally, banks and brokers must tell you the truth. But Stanford allegedly hasn't cooperated with investigators. "You should be able to trust what your banker tells you," said Philip Hilder, Houston attorney. "The SEC, in this case, says that in investing public was misled."
Commentary: Verdict is still out on innocence as defense
Published: February 2, 2009 Houston Chronicle
"It's a breath of fresh air coming out of the AG's office, a fabulous development," says James Rytting , who represents Swearingen. Rytting said the AG's new stance could help his client who got a stay of execution from Federal Appeals Court last week based on newfound forensic evidence
Texas Death row inmate Larry Swearingen gets 11th-hour reprieve
Published January 26, 2009 The Dallas Morning News
Several criminal pathologists say the prosecutors' original theory-is impossible. "I am extremely relived," said Swearingen's attorney, James Rytting. "It would be a travesty to execute someone under those circumstances."
Commentary: Innocent plea needs court hearing
Published: January 26, 2009 Houston Chronicle
Swearingen's attorney, James Rytting, had presented evidence from several forensic scientists and physicians, including the former Harris County medical examiner whose original testimony helped convict him.
Time is running out for inmate
Published: January 21, 2009 Houston Chronicle
In the waning days before Tuesday's scheduled execution, Swearingen's attorney, James Rytting, is working on a new appeal based on even more forensic evidence that he says proves his client is innocent.
Eighth Circuit Judicial Conference
August 11-15, 2008 Marriot Hotel, Chicago Illinois
Mr. Philip H. Hilder appeared on a panel before a conference of Federal Judges and Practitioners regarding White Collar Crime 101 for the Civil Practitioner.
Panelist: CLE: White Collar Practice for the Business Lawyer and In-house Counsel
July 31-August 1, 2008 South Texas College of Law Houston, Texas
Mr. Philip H. Hilder was invited to be a panelist on the sub-prime markets and theories of liability.
OSHA to fine Imperial Sugar $8.7M in deadly blast
Published: Jul 25, 2008 AP Online
Graham H. Graham, Imperial's Vice President for Operations, is on the witness list and will testify about "dangerous dust conditions that he witnessed" at the Georgia plant before the explosion, according to the lawmaker chairing the hearing. Graham's attorney, Philip Hilder, confirmed that he plans to testify before the Senate, but declined to give details.
Philip Hilder and Mark Zachary of Countrywide on Larry King Live
Aired July 15, 2009
Philip Hilder and client Mark Zachary, former Regional V.P. Countrywide, appeared on Larry King Live to discuss so-called 'liar-loans" and other allegations against Countrywide.
Countrywide whistleblower reports "liar loans"
Aired Tuesday July 1, 2008 Nightly News with Brian Williams
Zachary's attorney, Philip Hilder, says his investigation shows the practices his client alleges were not necessarily confined to the Texas region, but may have been systemic. He dismisses Countrywide's claim that they have investigated Zachary's allegations.
Panelist: The ABA Annual National Institute on White Collar Crime
March 5-7, 2008 Miamu Marriott Biscayne Bay Miami, Florida
Mr. Philip H. Hilder was a panelist on: Security Enforcement: Trends, Frenzies
and Crimes De Jour. The panel addressed developments and trends in criminal securities enforcement including stock options, enforcement investigations, and policies regarding securities enforcement.
Support for the 'Lone Ranger'
Published September 26, 2007 Houston Chronicle
"The role of the whistle blower is critical because it keeps corporations and management in line and accountable to shareholders," said Philip Hilder who represented Menendez early in this case. "Whistle blowers are the first line of defense in discovering frauds. Management in corporations should embrace them."
"The Collapse of Enron": A Famous Case as Told by Philip H. Hilder
Published: Texas Justice
Attorney Philip H. Hilder describes his role and experience with one of the most infamous cases in US History. The Enron collapse. As the attorney for Enron Whistleblower Sherron Watkins, Mr. Hilder gives his unique prospective on the congressional hearings, the media frenzy, and the way American business was changed forever.
Five Questions With Philip Hilder: Lawyer works as a guide through uncertain times.
Published: Moneymakers Section, Houston Chronicle
Corporate employees who know trouble's brewing, think they are innocent and don't trust the company lawyer, often hire their own criminal attorneys, and in Houston, it's often Philip Hilder.
Ex Gas Trade Wants Indictment Thrown Out
Published: February 14, 2006 RedOrbit
Jerry Futch, charged with four counts of reporting false natural gas trades to industry publications in November 2004, plead guilty to one count in June 2005. Over the weekend Futch attorney Philip Hilder, filed papers to dismiss the charge, saying his rights to due process and counsel were violated.
A tale of two Enrons unfolds as trial opens
Published: February 2, 2006 International Herald Tribune
Lawyers watching on Tuesday said that the trial was set to be a pitched battle. "It is going to be extremely difficult for this jury to sit in judgment," said Philip Hilder, a trial attorney representing Sherron Watkins. "Both sides made very compelling cases," Hilder said. "You can tell it is going to be a real slugfest."
Risk-reward equation was used in building oil well in Gulf of
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