Corporate attorney Paul Tobias, known for his work with technology and growth companies, has joined Vinson & Elkins as a partner in the firm’s Austin office.
Tobias represents technology companies in all phases of their growth, from start-up and venture financing, to acquisitions and public offerings and public company governance.
He previously practiced at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, where he was the founding partner of the firm’s Austin office.
“Paul is, without a doubt, one of the most respected corporate lawyers in Texas,” says V&E chairman Mark Kelly. “We are focused on expanding V&E’s technology practice as well as our presence in Austin, and adding Paul to the team provides immediate opportunities that will benefit clients throughout the firm.”
Tobias comes to V&E on the heels of five new Texas-based intellectual property partners who joined the firm in June, including Craig Tyler, who is also formerly of Wilson Sonsini.
Tobias and Tyler worked closely together at their previous firm, assisting technology clients with their corporate and IP needs.
“I’m excited to join this terrific group of lawyers,” says Tobias. “I’ve sat across the table from many of my new colleagues over the years, so I know first-hand the excellent work they do for clients, and I look forward to maintaining the momentum they’ve created with the firm’s technology practice in Austin.”
Through his work with growth companies, Tobias has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, representing acquirers and targets.
Recently, he advised global vacation rental marketplace HomeAway in its acquisition by travel company Expedia for approximately USD3.9 billion. His experience also includes numerous public offerings on behalf of issuers and underwriters, including the Bazaarvoice, HomeAway, RealPage and Solarwinds IPOs.
“V&E has played a major role in the growth of some of Texas’ great tech companies,” says Keith Fullenweider, head of V&E’s corporate department. “Paul has long been a trusted adviser to many of the leading entrepreneurs and innovators in the tech sector, and we’re very excited about his arrival at the firm.”
“Paul has deep ties in Austin and the Silicon Valley, and his experience will be invaluable as we continue to bolster our global technology practice to better serve our clients,” says Milam Newby, head of V&E’s Austin office.
V&E’s technology team works with innovative technology companies as well as many of the most active venture funds,
