Womble Bond Dickinson announced today that Wilka Toppins has joined the firm’s Houston office as a partner in the Corporate and Securities Group and member of the Global Business Team. Toppins has over 30 years of experience counseling global business clients on international and cross-border transactions, general corporate and commercial matters, corporate immigration, and labor and employment law. Toppins comes to the firm from Baker Donelson in Houston.

“The international marketplace is complex, challenging, and increasingly vital to businesses operating within the United States,” said Corporate Practice Group Leader Jamie Francis. “Wilka’s extensive experience advising national and multinational clients on corporate and commercial transactions adds immediate depth and specialization to our growing Global Business Team.”

Jeff Whittle, Houston Office Managing Partner, adds: “As we see business and legal priorities shift on a truly global scale, attorneys like Wilka are key to evolving with the needs of our clients. She will be particularly instrumental as we continue to capitalize on and provide support for client opportunities in Houston, Mexico, and other Latin American countries.”

Her arrival marks the latest in a string of strategic additions as the firm continues to deepen its growing Global Business bench, including Alan Enslen, Josh Mullen, John Scannapieco, and José Luis Vittor.

“My practice is unique in that it extends to six continents, so I was particularly drawn to Womble’s commitment to cross-border collaboration,” said Toppins. “I am excited to expand the footprint of the firm’s Global Business Team and look forward to contributing to its ongoing success – both within Houston and around the world.”

Before entering private practice, Toppins worked for several prominent companies, including Exxon, where she handled litigation matters in federal and state courts, and SBC Communication, where she focused on business transactions, mergers, and acquisitions.