Jonathan Wilkerson

Jonathan embarked on his educational journey at Abilene Christian University, earning a Bachelor of Science with highest honors from the Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Department in 2004. During his time at ACU, he showcased his academic and leadership skills, standing out as student body president, a Jack Pope Fellow, SGA Treasurer, and many other leadership positions. Jonathan also played a pivotal role in various student organizations, demonstrating his commitment to campus life.

His outstanding achievements were recognized with several prestigious awards, including the University Scholar Award, the Trustee Award, the Young American Award, and the National Eagle Scout Scholarship. Notably, Jonathan’s dedication to environmental research earned him the coveted internship position at the Texas A&M University Agricultural Research & Extension Center during a summer program. His multifaceted contributions to academia, leadership, and campus life exemplify his commitment to excellence and passion for making a positive impact.

Following his undergraduate achievements, Jonathan pursued legal studies at Texas Tech University School of Law, where he attained his J.D. with highest honors. His academic excellence was further underscored by his role as Editor-in-Chief for the Texas Tech Law Review, showcasing his dedication to legal scholarship.

In 2009, Jonathan graduated at the top of his class with a perfect 4.0 GPA, a testament to his exceptional academic abilities and commitment to the field of law. During his time at law school, he embarked on a unique opportunity, serving as an Ambassadorial Scholar for the Rotary Foundation in England. This experience allowed him to broaden his perspectives and delve into the intricacies of international law at Newcastle University Law School.

Actively engaged in the legal community, Jonathan was a valuable member of several organizations, including the Texas State Moot Court Team. His commitment to excellence was recognized through various scholarships, including the Texas Tech Regents Scholarship, West Texas Legal Legends Scholarship, Phi Delta Phi Balfour Scholarship, and the Helen Hodges Scholarship. Jonathan’s multifaceted experiences at Texas Tech University School of Law underscore his exceptional legal acumen and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge.

In the midst of his legal education, Jonathan took on a role as a judicial intern for The Honorable Robert A. Junell, District Judge for the Western District of Texas, in 2007. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of the judiciary and complemented his academic pursuits.

Following the successful completion of his J.D., Jonathan further honed his legal skills as a law clerk to The Honorable Fortunato P. Benavides at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit from 2009 to 2010. This prestigious appointment underscored his commitment to the legal profession and provided him with a unique perspective on appellate matters.

Subsequently, Jonathan brought his expertise to the esteemed law firm of Vinson & Elkins, where he practiced for several years. His tenure at this preeminent firm allowed him to contribute to complex legal matters and expand his professional experiences.

In a remarkably short yet highly successful timeframe, Jonathan garnered extensive experience across all facets of litigation practice. His proficiency spans from drafting pleadings and managing discovery processes to authoring and presenting motions, conducting depositions, and providing valuable support in pre-trial, trial, and post-trial responsibilities.

His current practice in various lawsuits and arbitration proceedings touch on a wide range of issues, including representing clients in various antitrust matters as well as litigation involving the sports and entertainment industry. He has been actively involved in representing whistleblowers in qui tam actions under the False Claims Act as well as representing a medical practice group in breach of contract & DTPA claims.

He has also distinguished himself through his extensive pro bono experience. Wilkerson successfully represented a federal inmate’s motion for reduction based on the 2014 drug guideline amendment and coordinated the filing of her clemency petition with the Clemency Project 2014 to the Department of Justice. His involvement was featured in detail on NPR’s “All Things Considered”. He further drafted an amicus curiae brief on behalf of a nonprofit civil rights organization involving a First Amendment issue and assisted with a multi-state child custody issue. For his efforts, he was honored with the Texas Civil Rights Project Kristi Couvillon Pro Bono Award in 2011.

Jonathan has shared his insights with the publication of several white papers and articles such as:

“U.S. Supreme Court to Review ‘Exceptional’ Case under 35 U.S.C. Section 285,” V&E IP Insights E-communication, October 2, 2013 (co-author)

“An Emerging Corporate Strategy: Forum-Selection Provisions for Intra-Corporate Disputes,” Securities Litigation Insights, Winter 2011 (co-author with Jennifer B. Poppe)

“Max’s Taxes: A Tax-Based Analysis of Pet Trusts,” 43 University of Richmond Law Review 1219, 2009 (co-author with Gerry W. Beyer)

“Does Contemporary International Law Recognize a Right To Intervene Militarily in Another State on Account of Serious Human Rights Violations?” 23 Texas Transnational Law Quarterly 11, 2009