The defense argued that Van Deelen had not adequately pled his claims and pushed for sanctions against him and his attorneys for alleging Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) violations without sufficient factual support.
Van Deelen’s attorney, Mikell A. West of Bandas Law, maintained that the fraud was perpetrated through the bankruptcy court and involved millions in attorney fees funneled to Freeman. However, Kirkland’s attorney, John Hueston of Hueston Hennigan, argued that Van Deelen failed to establish critical RICO elements.
Judge Moses noted the unusual retention of Jackson Walker as local counsel by Kirkland, a national firm with a Houston office. She questioned the necessity of this arrangement, implying a possible connection to Freeman.
Jones resigned from the Southern District of Texas in October. The case, initially filed there, was transferred to the Western District. Judge Moses indicated that future hearings might be conducted in Houston.
Van Deelen is represented by Mikell A. West and Robert W. Clore of Bandas Law Firm PC. Jones is represented by John J. Sparacino, Gary Cruciani, and Patrick Pijls of McKool Smith. Freeman is represented by Tom Kirkendall of the Law Office of Tom Kirkendall. Jackson Walker is represented by Jennifer Elizabeth Brevorka and Rusty Hardin of Rusty Hardin & Associates LLP. Kirkland is represented by John Hueston, Karen Ding, and Michael Todisco of Hueston Hennigan LLP, and David J. Beck and Jacqueline Moore Furlow of Beck Redden LLP.
