Rafael P. Saplala

Rafael P. Saplala is an associate in the Restructuring Practice Group at Haynes Boone. Rafael supports the firm's restructuring teams across a range of matters, including Chapter 11 debtor and creditor representations, in- and out-of-court workouts, and bankruptcy litigation. He assists with legal research, the drafting of motions, pleadings, and memoranda, and the day-to-day work that keeps a case moving forward.

Rafael brings careful attention to detail and a strong commitment to meeting client needs to each matter he works on. He understands that restructuring is often a difficult time for a client, and he focuses on producing thorough, accurate work that helps the team respond quickly and effectively. He values clear communication with colleagues and clients and is dedicated to continuing to grow as a restructuring attorney.

Rafael is active in the Texas bankruptcy community. He was named the American College of Bankruptcy's Distinguished Law Student for the Fifth Circuit in 2026, and he authored "Fresh Start or Head Start: Post-Petition 401(K) Contributions in Chapter 13," published in the Texas State Bar Bankruptcy Law Section's Fall/Winter 2025 Newsletter.

Prior to joining Haynes Boone, Rafael was honored to serve as a term clerk for the Honorable Mark X. Mullin of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas in Fort Worth. Rafael earned his J.D., cum laude, from Texas A&M University School of Law, where he was a member of the Order of the Barristers and served as a Note & Comment Editor of the Texas A&M Law Review. He was also part of the first-place teams at the Duberstein Moot Court Competition and the Elliot Cup in 2025. He received his B.A., summa cum laude, from Fordham University.