The Sidley Austin law firm is bringing aboard a new partner to fill a Houston legal job, according to a press release.

Cliff W. Vrielink will join the firm’s East Texas offices after having left his partner responsibilities with Vinson & Elkins.

Sidley management committee member Larry A. Barden credited Vrielink’s strong record, credentials and experience.

“Cliff is one of the leading private equity lawyers for energy-related transactions and investments,” said Barden, who serves as a liaison to the firm’s Houston office. “His substantial experience in representing private equity firms, energy-related companies, investment banks and other institutions in mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and investments in all sectors of the energy industry will complement and enhance both our global energy and M&A practices.”

Vrielink’s experience includes representing public and private clients within the energy industry. His experience also has touched on working legal issues for industries like steel, chemical, shipping and manufacturing.

The Houston office, which opened in February and likely required legal recruiting for its employees, is the firm’s 18th office. It originally had seven attorneys and Vrielink will be the firm’s 20th.