Chambers
USA has this
to say about the energy and natural resources team at Jones Walker: "This
large, respected firm has deep roots in the energy sector and fields an
experienced team of specialist oil and gas and public utilities lawyers."
This is particularly true in the field of energy regulation; with decades of
experience representing clients on compliance matters, we have not only developed
extensive relationships with national and multinational energy companies, we
also have a history of working cooperatively with federal and state government
agencies and officials to promote industry goals while protecting vital
resources and quality of life.
Our team includes former government regulators, general counsels, and assistant
general counsels for a number of agencies, including the Louisiana Department
of Natural Resources, Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Coast Guard, Louisiana Mineral and
Energy Board, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as well as elected officials,
including a former governor of the state of Mississippi and a member of the
Mississippi state legislature. One of our partners served as president of the
Alabama Public Service Commission and as president of the National Association
of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.
We regularly represent clients in applying for and obtaining permits for
projects involving nuclear energy, pipeline expansion projects, and water use,
including permits for Class III wells for the creation of subsurface
hydrocarbon storage caverns, as well as "bona fide prospective
purchaser" letters, "comfort" letters, lien waivers, and other
approvals and agreements from regulatory agencies. We also provide advice on
transferring environmental permits and zoning and land use issues, as well as
compliance with Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, Occupational Safety and Health
Act, U.S. Coast Guard, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and
Enforcement, and other agency and statutory requirements.
Before disputes with government agencies arise, we conduct regulatory audits
that can identify environmental, safety, financial reporting, and other issues,
provide oversight on technical reports, and help clients develop proactive
remedial strategies. When regulatory and law enforcement agencies launch
investigation or administrative, civil, or criminal actions against energy
companies, we work with clients to protect their interests and respond
appropriately. While we are not afraid to take a dispute to trial, we often
find that a nuanced, negotiation-driven approach can achieve client objectives
without sacrificing positive working relationships between business and
government.
When litigation or administrative appeals are required, we provide strong
representation of energy companies in defending against compliance orders and
penalty assessments.
