John's practice includes all aspects of environmental law and counseling with particular emphasis on permitting, compliance, and enforcement in the areas of air, water and solid waste. John also works on the siting and permitting of renewable energy projects; specifically wind and solar projects. He is resident in the Richmond, Virginia office of Troutman Sanders and serves as a member of the firm's Governmental Law practice group.
With an extensive background in state regulatory agency activities, he has represented clients before all of the state environmental agencies and boards, and he maintains a significant legislative and lobbying practice representing clients in regard to issues impacting business and industry.
Representative Experience
Handled numerous municipal solid waste facility construction projects for national solid waste companies including siting negotiations with local officials, local government land use approvals and requirements, state and federal permitting and compliance.
Handled air permitting and other state permitting functions for a major heavy duty truck manufacturing facility in Southwest Virginia, which allowed the facility to double its production capacity.
Performed facility-wide environmental compliance audit for a major manufacturing facility.
Responsible for numerous multi-description state permitting actions for an assortment of local and national companies ranging from power plant facilities to water supply projects.
Represents interests to create the first ridgetop commercial wind farm in Virginia.
Handles state and local permitting for the first wind turbine to be located in Virginia waters.
Other Distinctions
Recognized as one of America's Leading Lawyers for Environmental Law by Chambers USA (2005-2011).
Named to the Top Rated Lawyers Guide to Energy/Environmental/Natural Resources Law (2012).
Member, Commission on Climate Change, appointed by Governor Tim Kaine.
Achieved Martindale-Hubbell's highest rating for legal ability and ethical standards.
Named to Virginia Business magazine's Legal Elite in environmental law (2003) and legislative and regulatory law (2004).
Named as a Virginia Super Lawyer in Environmental Law (2006).
Work Experience
Partner, Troutman Sanders LLP, (1999-Present)
Commonwealth of Virginia, Secretary of Natural Resources (1986-1990)
Commonwealth of Virginia, Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Resources (1986)
Commonwealth of Virginia, Assistant Attorney General (1982-1986)
Memberships
· American Bar Association (Natural Resources, Energy and Environmental Law Sections)
· Virginia Bar Association (Member, Environmental Law Committee)
· Virginia State Bar (Member, Environmental Law Section)
· Richmond Bar Association (Member, Environmental Law Committee)
· Virginia Business Higher Education Council (2005-present)
· Board of Visitors, Longwood University (2005-present)
· President, Hull Springs Farm Foundation