Hugh Tucker, a Baker Botts partner who chairs the firm’s oil and gas practice, is expected to move to Shearman & Sterling as the New York firm prepares to open an office in Houston, according to five sources familiar with Tucker’s practice.

Shearman & Sterling also reportedly plans to open an office in Austin, a move that fits with the overall trend that has seen firms based outside of Texas putting down roots in the state to do energy work. Earlier this month, White & Case opened an office in Houston by hiring lawyers from more than one large Texas firm.

Hugh Tucker