Austin, October 20, 2022 - Baker Botts L.LP., a leading international law firm, is pleased to announce Partner Derek McDonald and Senior Associate Maddy Dwertman have been named to The American Lawyer’s list of “Trailblazers South.” In its second year, the list spotlights “agents of change,” noting individuals who have moved the needle in the legal industry.

The publication highlights McDonald and Dwertman’s pro bono advocacy focused on protecting and expanding the rights of individuals who identify as transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC).  The pair has partnered with Lambda Legal (and others) on multiple impact litigation cases challenging laws that bar trans people from correcting the gender marker on their birth certificates, as well as unlawful state actions involving the investigation of gender-affirming medical care for trans adolescents in Texas as child abuse.

McDonald and Dwertman, along with senior associate Brandt Roessler, were also integral in the creation of Baker Botts’ Pride In Action initiative, which comprises a diverse group of the firm's highly engaged lawyers, paralegals and administrative staff who have committed thousands of hours to pro bono matters in pursuit of justice and equality for LGBTQ+ people.

To view the full Trailblazers South list, including Derek McDonald and Maddy Dwertman’s profile, click here.

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Baker Botts is an international law firm whose lawyers practice throughout a network of offices around the globe. Based on our experience and knowledge of our clients' industries, we are recognized as a leading firm in the energy, technology and life sciences sectors. Since 1840, we have provided creative and effective legal solutions for our clients while demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to excellence. For more information, please visit bakerbotts.com.