A View from the Bench – Episode 1 – Introductions

January 23, 2024

Washington, D.C. partner George Hazel and Houston partner Gregg Costa, both former federal judges, reflect on the similarities in their paths to the federal bench – both began practicing at law firms, became federal prosecutors, and were appointed judges at age 39 – and describe what it takes to be a successful trial lawyer and a successful law clerk.  They also discuss some interesting cases from their early careers and the adjustment to once again being in private practice.

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HOSTS:

Gregg Costa is co-chair of the firm’s Trials Practice Group.  Gregg offers clients a unique perspective as a former federal trial and appellate judge. His broad experience—having handled complex civil and criminal matters, at trial and on appeal, as advocate and judge—allows him to offer invaluable skills and strategic insights for both trials and investigations.

George Hazel is a partner in the Washington office of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher and a member of the firm’s Litigation and White Collar Defense and Investigations Practice Groups.  A former federal trial judge and criminal prosecutor, Mr. Hazel brings a broad range of trial experience, having presided over approximately 50 jury trials in federal court and handled 20 jury trials and 30 bench trials as an attorney in federal and state court.  Since his return to private practice, Lawdragon  has named him one of the “500 Leading Global Litigators” of 2024.