Mr. Jeffrey B. Gracer

Jeff fashions solutions to environmental problems by harmonizing business imperatives with legal and regulatory mandates, funding requirements, public policy considerations, and community and stakeholder interests. In addition to his domestic practice, he regularly represents companies based outside of the United States, helping non-US clients understand and navigate the nuances and complexities of the US legal system. Jeff’s clients report that he “communicates well and listens to the client,” that he is “a strong strategic thinker and planner,” and that he “has great insights” and “comes up with innovative solutions.”

Jeff approaches complex environmental problems by stepping back from the law and thinking first about the client’s business objectives. He then designs strategies that meld legal, technical, strategic, financial, and regulatory considerations, working with environmental consultants and other professionals to deliver integrated solutions. His experience includes hazardous substance and toxic tort litigation; environmental permitting and approvals; resolution of federal, state and local regulatory enforcement matters; environmental impact assessments; historic preservation reviews; contaminated site remediation and brownfield redevelopment; and environmental insurance coverage. Increasingly, his practice involves legal and other responses to climate change, including navigating the requirements of state and municipal laws mandating or incentivizing efforts to decarbonize business operations.

Jeff’s clients include public companies, family businesses, governmental and non-profit development agencies, real estate owners and developers, financial institutions, and pension and private equity funds, among others. He also maintains an active pro bono practice working on behalf of environmental non-profits.

Jeff is a former Chair of the Environmental Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association. He founded the Environmental Program at the Vance Center for International Justice at the City Bar, which provides pro bono assistance to environmental organizations around the world. He also co-founded and is President and Chair of the New York City Climate Action Alliance, a non-profit that engages the private sector in efforts to mitigate climate change.

Clerkships

Hon. Myron H. Thompson, Chief Judge, U.S. District Court, M.D. Alabama

Recognition

Leadership in Action Award, New York City Environmental Law Leadership Institute

Environmental Thought Leader, Who’s Who Legal

Chambers and Partners

Best Lawyers in America

New York Super Lawyers

Community

President and Chair, New York City Climate Action Alliance

US Board Member, The Climate Group

Leadership Council Member, Environmental Law Institute

Former Chair, Environmental Law Committee, New York City Bar Association

Founder, Environmental Program, Vance Center for International Justice, New York City Bar Association