Environment
USA Guide 2024 : District of Columbia
Band 2
Contact number
+1 202 639 6500About
Provided by Vinson & Elkins LLP
Vinson & Elkins’ Environmental & Natural Resources (ENR) group has established a strong reputation for securing and then defending key permits for development projects, including contested air, water and wetlands permits for pipelines, power plants and other industrial establishments, water supply and wastewater discharge permits, and critically important approvals for multi-state projects involving National Environment Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, contaminated sites and federal lands, including pipelines and power transmission lines, and natural resource matters including endangered species. Because our lawyers are quite knowledgeable about our clients’ businesses and their industries, the group has a top reputation in providing advice on structuring transactions to minimize or reduce environmental risks.
The firm’s ENR lawyers have a demonstrated track record of success in assisting clients with complex matters that involve multiple stakeholders including federal and state governments, Congressional committees, investigative boards, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private parties. Our ability to guide clients in developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy focused around achieving their business objectives, minimizing and mitigating risks, and developing and implementing a public relations strategy for these types of complex matters is a hallmark of the firm’s ENR practice.
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Chambers Review
Vinson & Elkins provides expert counsel for clients such as manufacturers, trade associations and energy companies on environmental disputes, including toxic torts and contamination matters. The firm is known for overseeing permitting and the full suite of compliance matters for large-scale infrastructure projects, such as pipeline and power transmission projects. The team also advises on climate change regulations and risk management.
Work Highlights
- Vinson & Elkins represented American Water Works Association and National Rural Water Association as intervenors in challenging an EPA rule on cybersecurity audits for public water systems.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"I have confidence in using Vinson & Elkins when I have something that's complex. It is the first phone call I make."
"Vinson & Elkins’ team brings a depth of skill, expertise and intellect that is hard to match. It has highly strategic and capable specialists."
"I have confidence in using Vinson & Elkins when I have something that's complex. It is the first phone call I make."
"Vinson & Elkins’ team brings a depth of skill, expertise and intellect that is hard to match. It has highly strategic and capable specialists."
Notable Practitioners
Ronald Tenpas is a seasoned trial lawyer well known for handling civil and criminal environmental defense work. He frequently represents trade associations in regulatory challenges.
"Ron is thoughtful, smart and creative while also commercially savvy. A pleasure to work with."
"Ron worked for the government for a long time. He's able to give us a lot of insight into the agency."
Michael Wigmore is recommended for his experience in environmental matters pertaining to the natural resources sector. He regularly appears before a host of regulatory bodies.
"Michael is highly effective and smart, with a great practice. I highly recommend him."
Patrick Traylor has notable experience representing clients in environmental enforcement cases. He is particularly well versed in CAA matters.
"Patrick Traylor is knowledgeable, with good connections in the industry."
Ranked Lawyers at
Vinson & Elkins LLP
District of Columbia