“Jason is a tremendous addition to our global energy team,” said Kyri Evagora, global chair of Reed Smith’s Energy & Natural Resources Industry Group. “His deep experience advising oil and gas operators on disputes arising from horizontal development, joint operating agreements, royalty litigation, and related issues aligns perfectly with the needs of our energy clients. Jason’s arrival comes at a time of increasing legal complexity across the energy sector, as companies navigate evolving operational, commercial, and regulatory challenges.”

Newman represents and advises energy companies on a wide range of litigation, arbitration, and commercial matters related to oil and gas development. His practice focuses on disputes arising from lease termination claims, royalty litigation, joint operating and joint development agreements, midstream agreements, surface use issues, and title disputes, as well as litigation involving infrastructure, such as railcars used to transport crude oil. 

In addition to litigation and alternative dispute resolution, Newman advises upstream oil and gas operators on transactional matters, including asset sales, oil and gas lease negotiations, and risk mitigation strategies related to title and operational issues. His experience spans major energy jurisdictions, including Texas, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

“Houston remains a critical hub for the global energy industry, and Jason’s arrival further strengthens the depth of our energy bench in this market,” said Chris Watt, managing partner of Reed Smith’s Houston office. “His reputation among upstream operators and his experience handling complex energy disputes make him an outstanding addition to our team and a strong asset for our clients.” 

“I’m excited to join Reed Smith and contribute to the firm’s strong energy practice,” said Newman. “The firm’s global platform, collaborative culture, and deep industry focus create a powerful environment for serving energy clients. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to continue helping clients navigate the complex legal and business issues facing the upstream oil and gas industry."

Newman joins Reed Smith from Baker Botts, where he spent his entire legal career, first as an associate and later as a partner.

He earned his J.D., summa cum laude, as valedictorian of his class at South Texas College of Law and his B.A. from Hardin-Simmons University.